Does your dad enjoy action or sci-fi movies? Is he a history buff? Does he go on and on about nature and the great outdoors? Whatever he’s into, Walt Disney World has attractions that will put a smile on his face. In fact, as the father of two boys, I can’t think of anywhere I would rather go on vacation with my family than Walt Disney World.
The Best Disney Attractions for Dads
With that in mind then, here are the Top Ten Disney Attractions for Dads (organized by each park):
The American Adventure at EPCOT
Many dads are history buffs, as am I, and this attraction was tailor-made for us. The American Adventure presents a multi-media tour through some highlights, as well as low points, of American history. The show features 35 audio-animatronic figures, including hosts Ben Franklin and Mark Twain, and a climactic, inspirational film montage that will leave a tear in your eye. As an added bonus, you get to sit in a dark, air-conditioned theatre for 30 minutes, something any Disney-exhausted dad will truly appreciate.
Living with the Land at EPCOT
This is another attraction in which Dad gets to sit and unwind for an extended period of time (EPCOT has a lot of those). This relaxing boat ride presents life-size dioramas of various ecosystems and then takes you through working greenhouses that utilize both traditional and alternative methods of agriculture. In fact, much of the food produced here is used in Walt Disney World restaurants. (You can learn much more about this on “Behind the Seeds,” a backstage walking tour of the attraction.)
Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind at EPCOT
Join Star-Lord, Groot, and the rest of this band of merry misfits on a chase through space. The cars on this indoor coaster rotate 360 degrees to put you right in the middle of all the action.
Photo by Dom Tabon
Not only is Cosmic Rewind the first coaster at EPCOT, but it is also the only Marvel-themed ride in all of Walt Disney World (Universal owns the theme park rights for most Marvel characters in Orlando).
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad at Magic Kingdom
This here “wildest ride in the wilderness” may not be Walt Disney World’s most intense coaster, but it has plenty of twists and turns, hills and drops. And the awesome theming throughout, from the abandoned mine to the old west town to the rickety track, is a big part of the fun. Big Thunder also provides spectacular views of the Magic Kingdom, especially at night when the park is illuminated.
Pirates of the Caribbean at Magic Kingdom
Ahoy mateys! Climb aboard for a rousing high-seas adventure featuring a cast of salty swashbucklers, including Captain Jack Sparrow and his nemesis, Barbossa. Cruise through a pirate ship attack, a burning village, and other scenes of merry mayhem. And just try not singing along to “Yo Ho, Yo Ho (A Pirate’s Life for Me),” the catchiest tune this side of “it’s a small world.”
Jungle Cruise at Magic Kingdom
Embark on a journey down the Amazon, Congo, Nile, and Mekong Rivers. Encounter dangerous wildlife, a waterfall, shipwrecks, an ancient temple and more, all within 10 minutes (although Dad will appreciate the Skipper’s groan-inducing jokes more than the cool animatronics.)
Pro Tip: Ride Jungle Cruise in early morning or late afternoon/evening to dodge the glaring midday sun.
Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance at Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Join the Resistance as they battle the First Order on what is generally considered the best attraction in all of Disney World. Rise combines a walk-through, role-playing experience with a dark ride through a star cruiser. While it doesn’t feature any of the OG Star Wars characters I grew up with (see Star Tours below), there are enough stormtroopers, snow walkers, droids, light sabers, and laser blasts to please any Jedi.
Star Tours – The Adventures Continue at Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Often overlooked in favor of the attractions in Galaxy’s Edge, this first-ever Star Wars attraction in Walt Disney World holds a special place in my heart, because it features characters from the original trilogy, most prominently R2D2 and C3PO, who serve as your pilot. A motion simulator ride, Star Tours includes scenes and characters from throughout the franchise, allowing for multiple story variations. It was recently updated to include the most current properties, including The Mandalorian and yes, Baby Yoda (aka Grogu).
Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular at Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Chances are your dad is a fan of the Indiana Jones franchise (who isn’t?), and will therefore totally enjoy this action-packed, and humorous, stage show. The Stunt Spectacular goes behind the scenes to show you the making of three scenes from the original Raiders of the Lost Ark, including the iconic temple scene. Expect lots of close calls, chases, fight, explosions, and other action film staples.
Kilimanjaro Safaris at Disney’s Animal Kingdom
As a dad, I have enjoyed taking the kids to the zoo dozens of times, just like my dad before me. Kilimanjaro Safaris is like a great day at the zoo, all rolled up into one attraction. Journey through the African Savanna on a jungle-ready jeep (actually a converted flatbed truck), where you will meet hippopotami, lions, giraffes, elephants and many other free-roaming animals, some of whom may roam right past your ride vehicle. Hint: you will see a lot more animals sitting on the left side of the jeep.
