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46 Magical Virtual Disney Rides and Attractions Across the World

Chris Hassan's image
Chris Hassan
Chris Hassan's image

Chris Hassan

Social Media & Brand Manager

255 Published Articles

Countries Visited: 27U.S. States Visited: 26

Chris holds a B.S. in Hospitality and Tourism Management and managed social media for all Marriott properties in South America, making him a perfect fit for UP and its social media channels. He has a ...
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If you want to experience some of the best Disney rides from home, we have the ultimate list for you!

That means that from the comfort of your own couch, or wherever you are reading this right now, you can experience some of the most sought-after Disney rides from 12 parks worldwide- no Genie+ required!

This is a great way to start planning your next trip. So, grab your virtual passport, strap in, and let’s go park hopping!

Disneyland Paris (Paris, France)

Disneyland Paris (formerly known as Euro Disney Resort) is located in Chessy, France — just 20 miles (32 km) east of Paris — and is home to 2 theme parks, multiple resorts, and plenty of shopping and dining.

With plenty of thrill rides, guests are sure to get their adrenaline fix while at the parks. If you want to scope out the rides before arriving in the park, here are some of the best options to experience the thrill from home.

Disneyland Park

Big Thunder Mountain Railroad

All aboard one of Disney’s most popular rides, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad!

Plummet through the darkness along a dynamite-littered track as you take the train deep into the heart of a legendary gold mine.

The big dips and sharp turns don’t get lost in the virtual version… hold on!

Indiana Jones and the Temple of Peril

Strap into your rickety rail cart and start exploring the remnants of a previous expedition gone wrong.

Meandering through lush undergrowth and mysterious statues, your cart’s spiraling out of control through the cursed ruins.

Soon the thought of finding that missing expedition is gone as your most important task now is getting out safely — enjoy the ride!

It’s a Small World

The It’s a Small World ride is a classic no matter which park you experience it in. Set sail, sing along while you float down the Seven Seaways Waterway, and explore all 7 continents in less than 10 minutes.

The intricate details of the hand-crafted dolls telling stories of cultures all around the globe are just as impressive via YouTube as they are in person… well, almost!

One thing is the same as the actual ride: you will likely have the song stuck in your head for hours after you are done!

If you want to experience It’s a Small World in all the parks at once, check out this neat compilation via the Disney Parks YouTube Channel.

Star Wars Hyperspace Mountain

Fans of the original Space Mountain will recognize many parts of this roller coaster as it was previously known as Space Mountain: Mission 2.

In 2015, the indoor/outdoor roller coaster received a refresh and was rethemed as Star Wars Hyperspace Mountain to help celebrate the 25th anniversary of the park.

Although many parts of the ride are quite dark, you can still experience the thrill as the stars blow past you on this awesome steel coaster.

Walt Disney Studios Park

Ratatouille: The Adventure

Fans of EPCOT at Walt Disney World in Orlando can now ride the highly anticipated Ratatouille ride in Florida, but guests at Disneyland Paris have been enjoying it for years.

In this fun ride, you will shrink to the size of Remy and scurry through the famous Gusteau’s restaurant kitchen as you are being chased by angry Chef Skinner.

Disneyland Resort (Anaheim, California)

Dating back to its opening in 1955, Disneyland has long been the premier destination for theme park lovers on the west coast of the U.S. and across the world as it continues to grow.

Consisting of 2 parks, Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park, Disneyland is just 26 miles from Los Angeles and offers some of the most innovative and exciting rides in the world.

Here are some of the best Disneyland attractions you can experience from home.

Disneyland Park

Jungle Cruise

If you are looking for a friendly, informative, and pun-filled cruise, look no further than Jungle Cruise.

Head off on an adventure where you will explore the Mekong River, African Congo, Nile River, and the Amazon with your trusty skipper, who is never short on jokes.

Matterhorn Bobsleds

Bundle up and slide into your bobsled as you hurtle down a snow-capped mountain.

Not only will you make your way through narrow passageways, caves, and jagged cliffs, but you will also need to avoid the Abominable Snowman!

This is a great thrill ride in person, but the 4K video does a good job of passing along the excitement!

Peter Pan’s Flight

With a little bit of pixie dust, you will find yourself flying over London on an enchanted ship on your way to Neverland with Peter Pan.

This classic story will have you soaring past Big Ben and swooping into Pirate’s Cove while Peter battles Captain Hook.

Will you and the children make it back to London? Watch and find out!

Space Mountain

You don’t need to worry about getting a Genie+ reservation to experience the world-famous Space Mountain — the thrill is just a click away.

While watching the video isn’t quite the same as plummeting through the darkness on this classic roller coaster, it will certainly help scratch the itch until you can ride again.

If you want some behind-the-scenes action, check out what it’s like to ride Space Mountain at Disney World with the lights on here!

Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance

One of the most anticipated rides in the history of theme parks is just a click away.

Join the Resistance as you battle against the First Order in this impressive “Star Wars” ride. This video will take you on a front-row POV on this trackless ride at Disneyland as you get help from Rey and BB-8, battling your way past legions of stormtroopers.

Disney California Adventure Park

Grizzly River Run

Strap in as you and your 7 friends board a whitewater raft and start drifting down what seems like a lazy river.

But hold on — this California river is full of drops, waterfalls, and geysers. If you were on this ride in person, you would probably get wet, but you don’t have to worry about that here.

You will still want to keep your head on a swivel to watch out for waterfalls, so be sure to strap on your VR headset and enjoy this ride in 360 degrees!

Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT!

This tower may look terrifyingly familiar to some, but it is now the home to Rocket and the Guardians of the Galaxy.

Help save Star-Lord, Groot, and the rest of the crew, who are held captive in electrified glass cases that dangle perilously over an abyss.

If you are a fan of the classic rock from the movies, you will surely enjoy the ride’s playlist, courtesy of Star-Lord’s awesome mixtapes.

Incredicoaster

Head over to the Pixar Pier and help the Incredibles as they try to catch Jack-Jack causing trouble throughout the neighborhood.

This fun roller coaster is full of big drops and tunnels that are easy to enjoy, thanks to this 360-degree video. If you have VR goggles, strap them on and prepare for a wild ride!

Radiator Springs Racers

Buckle up as you race through Cars Land and arrive in charming Radiator Springs.

This fun ride makes you the star, and all your favorite characters, including Lightning McQueen, come out to help you prepare for the big race.

You will zoom around high-banked turns and cruise down straightaways past spectacular red rock formations before crossing the finish line. This one will be fun for the whole family!

Soarin’ Over California

Conquer your fear of heights as you glide over California’s beautiful state.

As the clouds part over San Francisco, you’ll find yourself with a thrilling perspective of the iconic Golden Gate Bridge. The IMAX tour continues as you fly over Yosemite National Park, Napa Valley, Lake Tahoe, Palm Springs, and San Diego Bay, returning at dusk over Malibu before returning to Disneyland Park.

Be sure to turn up the volume and embrace the ride!

Hong Kong Disneyland Resort (Lantau Island, Hong Kong)

Hong Kong Disneyland opened in 2005 on reclaimed land in Penny’s Bay in Hong Kong. The park only has a capacity for 34,000 visitors per day, the smallest of any Disney park, but it offers plenty of entertainment.

Ant-Man and The Wasp: Nano Battle!

Shrink down and fight alongside Ant-Man and The Wasp as they try to help Iron Man defend against thousands of Swarmbots.

Guests ride along, shooting the bots hoping to protect S.H.I.E.L.D.’s secret research.

This ride style may be familiar to Disney fans, so it should be fun whether you are in person or watching from home.

Iron Man Experience

The Iron Man Experience is one ride that we don’t have stateside.

Guests are welcome to tour Stark Industries and get an all-access look at the groundbreaking technologies that will help shape the future.

Put on some 3D glasses and board an Expo Edition Iron Wing for a wild flight over Hong Kong. While the virtual experience may not be as thrilling as the real thing, it gives you a great look at one of the few rides that are difficult to experience in person.

Mystic Manor

Mystic Manor is a trackless ride that takes you through an eclectic art collection in an old manor house and museum.

As you go through the labyrinth of rooms, a curious little monkey opens a mysterious box, and some mystical music dust starts bringing objects to life. You must make your way out before it is too late!

RC Racer

Fans of “Toy Story” are sure to love this ride. Climb aboard your favorite RC Racer as you zoom up and down the track.

Ride up and down the 88-foot (27 m) half-pipe and feel like you are one of Andy’s toys playing in the backyard!

The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh

Winnie the Pooh is a lovable character, no matter where you are.

Hop into a honey pot and get lost in the pages of one of your favorite childhood books. Bounce along with Tigger in the Hundred Acre Wood and stay out of the rain with the help of Eeyore, Roo, Kanga, Rabbit, and Owl.

This is a fun and cute ride for all ages, online or in-person!

Toy Soldier Parachute Drop

This is another must-watch for “Toy Story” fans.

Guests become recruits for the toy soldier army as you hear the familiar voice of Sarge yelling out orders.

You will be high above Toy Story Land as you practice parachute drills. Strap in and hold on, soldier!

Shanghai Disneyland (Shanghai, China)

Shanghai Disneyland has long been considered one of Disney’s most well-balanced parks since its opening. With a great mix of shows, rides, and family attractions, it has something for everyone.

There are some great unique experiences that you will only find at this park. Let’s look at some of the best virtual rides on the internet.

Pirates of the Caribbean Battle of the Sunken Treasure

Set sail with Captain Jack Sparrow as you search the seas for Davy Jones’ sunken treasure.

This ride is fun, but beware of pirates, mermaids, and even the savage Kraken!

One of the most popular rides at the park for a good reason; take a look at this virtual cruise in 4K to see if it is enough to get you to start planning your next trip to China!

Roaring Rapids

Board your raft with fellow volunteers as you head up Roaring Mountain in search of the source of the mysterious sounds that come billowing out.

Hold on as the water turns into rapids as you are heading straight towards the dark caves. The sounds get louder as you approach, and you soon realize an enraged monster is causing the mountain roars.

Guests usually get wet on this ride, but you can avoid that and still get the thrill, thanks to this YouTube video.

TRON Lightcycle Power Run

Fans of adrenaline-pumping music, lights, and 3D graphics will love TRON Lightcycle Power Run. This ride is so popular in Shanghai that Disney replicated it in Magic Kingdom in Orlando.

Race for survival as you are other riders are “digitized” and enter the high-tech universe. Dip and dive in on your motorcycle through this incredible digital universe as you try to beat other opponents in your quest to capture the 8 Energy Gates.

Voyage to the Crystal Grotto

Board this charming little ship as you journey into a cavern full of Disney magic.

Music, light, and wonder will encompass you as you sail through incredible sculpture gardens honoring timeless Disney films like “Tangled,” “The Little Mermaid,” “Beauty and the Beast,” “Aladdin,” “Mulan,” and more.

After your cruise, you will surely be full of that special Disney awe.

Woody’s Roundup

Although it is certainly not the wildest ride, a trip (even a virtual one) to Shanghai Disneyland wouldn’t be complete for a “Toy Story” fan without a ride on Woody’s Roundup.

It’s time to have a party in the old Western town that Andy set up in his backyard. You will join Woody and Jessie for a good old-fashioned square dance as you spin back and forth on this fun family ride.

Even if you prefer the adrenaline of some of the other rides, you will undoubtedly be impressed with the details that make you feel like you are part of Andy’s toy collection.

Tokyo Disney Resort (Tokyo, Japan)

Tokyo Disney Resort was the first Disney property built outside of the U.S. in 1983, and it has proven to be quite popular. It’s the third most visited park behind Walt Disney World in Orlando and Disneyland in California.

There are 2 parks, Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea, and both are just a short drive or train ride from downtown Tokyo. While Disneyland has the iconic look and feel of Magic Kingdom (and many of the famous attractions Disney fans love), DisneySea is just as popular.

Tokyo Disneyland

Splash Mountain

One of Disney’s most popular rides worldwide is Splash Mountain, and that holds true in Tokyo as well.

While quite similar to the version at Walt Disney World, the Tokyo Disneyland version has some subtle differences — can you spot them?

Monsters, Inc. Ride & Go Seek

Get on one of the most popular rides at the park as you play hide and seek with flashlights, tagging alongside Boo, Mike, and Sulley.

Make your way through Monstropolis on a smooth tram and try to find as many monsters as possible.

This an enjoyable ride for the family, even virtually, as you interact with your favorite characters from the film.

Haunted Mansion

Are you afraid of the dark? What about 999 ghosts, goblins, and ghouls desperately looking for someone to make it an even 1,000?

This fun and spooky ride is a must-visit for many Disney fans, and now you can enjoy it from the safety of your home in 4K!

Sit down, dim the lights, and try not to scream!

Tokyo DisneySea

Soaring: Fantastic Flight

Soaring has finally touched down in Tokyo. Debuting in July 2019, this version of Soarin’ (from EPCOT) is proving to be just as popular.

Strap in and feel what it is like to fly above our beautiful Earth as you are transported worldwide from a perspective like never before.

This video puts you right into the clouds to start flying immediately.

Tower of Terror

As terrifying as the other Towers of Terror rides worldwide, the Tokyo DisneySea version is a fan favorite.

Transport back to 1912 New York as the Preservation Society is finishing up the restoration of this famous hotel and giving tours to the public. But the mysterious disappearance of the hotel’s owner in 1899 seems to be causing trouble, especially when the elevator reaches the top floor!

What do you think? Is this as scary as the original? Better?

Journey to the Center of the Earth

Unique to DisneySea and one of the most exciting rides at the park, Journey to the Center of the Earth is certainly worth checking out — even online.

Head deep into an active volcano on exploration, but hold on as things go awry and you find yourself plunging even deeper.

This thrill ride is certainly entertaining — enjoy it now without the long waits!

Raging Spirits

If you love thrilling roller coasters, this ride is for you.

This outdoor thrill ride is happy to take you upside down and 360 degrees around. Don’t worry about themes on this one. It’s all about speed and drops.

Raging Spirits is known for its long queues, so take advantage of the fact that you can see it from the comfort and safety of your home without motion sickness!

Walt Disney World (Orlando, Florida)

Walt Disney World in Orlando is the crown jewel of the Disney Parks family.

The massive property covers 25,000 acres and is home to 4 theme parks, 2 water parks, 27 resort hotels, multiple golf courses, and more shopping and dining options than you can pack into a single vacation.

Welcoming an average of 58 million guests per year (yes, you read that correctly), Walt Disney World is the most visited vacation resort in the world. Let’s look at some of the rides that make it so popular.

Hot Tip:

Planning a family vacation to Walt Disney World can be stressful! We offer tips to help make your next trip to see Mickey stress-free!

Magic Kingdom

Mad Tea Party

If you like getting dizzy, this is the ride for you!

One of the most classic Magic Kingdom rides is the Mad Tea Party, a must-do for many guests. Inspired by “Alice in Wonderland,” it is loved by many, but this spinning ride is certainly not for everyone.

Ready to go for a twirl? Click play!

Seven Dwarfs Mine Train

One of the most popular rides in the park, the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train is known for its hairpin turns… and long waits. Fortunately, you don’t need to worry about the latter part when riding virtually.

Strap into this rustic mine train and make your way through the creaking tracks as you come across your favorite dwarfs as they are whistling and singing while they work.

This is a great family ride and almost as fun when watching from home!

Splash Mountain

It doesn’t get more iconic than Splash Mountain. The winding river, the small drops, the music … all getting you ready for the big splash at the end in front of all the passers-by.

Splash Mountain is currently being reimagined as “Tiana’s Bayou Adventure,” with theming from “The Princess and the Frog,” so until the renovation is complete, this 4K video is the next best thing.

Fortunately, in this version, you don’t have to wear a poncho!

EPCOT

Frozen Ever After

EPCOT has improved its rides lately, but one of the most popular rides in all the parks continues to be Frozen Ever After, based on the super-popular film.

This boat ride will take you towards Arendelle through a frozen willow forest and eventually to the North Mountain, where Queen Elsa’s enchanting ice palace awaits.

Fans of the movies will be happy to know that there are appearances from all your favorite characters, including Elsa, Anna, Olaf, and more.

Mission: Space

Have you ever wondered what it’s like to be an astronaut? Well, now you can get a feel for it thanks to this NASA-inspired simulation.

Chose your mission: travel to Mars or just a gentle orbit around Earth. Both will require you to go through cadet training, so prepare for an epic blastoff into space.

Strap in and enjoy some of the most spectacular views of our planet.

Test Track

This is a fun ride for the car lover — or anyone who likes a fun ride.

Head to the Chevrolet Design Center and create a virtual concept car that you’ll then get to take out for a spin on the test track. You will experience big curves, inclement weather, and high speeds.

Hopefully, your creation is up to the challenge!

Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway

The most anticipated ride opening of 2020 just may have been Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway.

The newest of all Hollywood Studios rides, this trackless ride replaced The Great Movie Ride in the Grauman’s Chinese Theatre in the center of Hollywood Studios, and the reviews have been good.

Zip away with Mickey and Minnie as you are transported into the cartoon short with them on a wild train ride. This is the first-ever ride that features Mickey Mouse and his friends — enjoy!

Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run

Talking about popular rides, new “Star Wars” rides are probably the most anticipated attractions of the past decade, if not ever at Walt Disney World.

Make your way through Galaxy’s Edge before boarding the Millenium Falcon as you embark on a thrilling, interactive journey into hyperspace.

There is danger at every turn as you battle through the galaxy. Get ready to punch it!

Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith

Fast roller coasters and loud music? Sign us up!

This awesome thrill ride shoots you through the streets of Los Angeles and into the music studio where Aerosmith works on a recording session.

Jump in their limo and explore the city at break-neck speeds!

Slinky Dog Dash

“Toy Story” fans rejoice! The ride of your dreams is here, and you don’t have to worry about securing a Genie+ Lightning Lane reservation!

Head into Andy’s backyard, where he has assembled his Mega Coaster Play Kit and Slinky Dog, ready to take you on a wild ride.

This incredibly fun ride is perfect for the entire family, whether in person or online.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Avatar Flight of Passage

One of the world’s most visually stunning and exciting rides can be found at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Avatar Flight of Passage consistently generates hours-long lines, with guests coming off the ride saying it was worth every minute. Impressive, no?

On this 3D ride, you climb on the back of a mountain banshee and fly through Pandora as if you were a Na’vi hunter.

While it would be impossible to experience how incredible this ride is from your computer truly, you can get a pretty good idea of how special it is without the help of Genie+.

Expedition Everest – Legend of the Forbidden Mountain

If you are looking for a good old-fashioned roller coaster but with that special Disney touch, look no further than Expedition Everest.

Hold on as you careen through the Himalayan peaks on old train tracks as mystic Yeti chases after you.

Big drops, darkness, drops in reverse, this ride has it all.

Kilimanjaro Safari

One of the exceptional parts of Animal Kingdom is that there are — wait for it — a lot of animals on the property!

You can go on an open-air safari that covers over 100 acres of land, home to 34 species of animals. With everything from open plains to rocky wetlands, you will be amazed at how many beautiful animals live in the park — and how close you can get to them.

Whether it’s a stunning giraffe, a regal lion, or one of the rhinos or elephants, there is plenty to see on this 18-minute tour.

Final Thoughts

pixar pier entrance family lamp 16x9 1
Image Credit: Disney

If you want the thrill of Disney from the comfort of your home, we’ve got you covered.

Fortunately, thanks to technology, we can experience some of the world’s most incredible rides and scratch that ever-present “Disney itch” from wherever we are.

With options in 4K and even with 360-degree cameras, you can start planning exactly which rides you want to reserve when you visit the park.

Until then, make sure your phone is fully charged so that you don’t run out of battery at the end of Splash Mountain!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best virtual Disney ride?

There are Disney parks across the entire world, and each one has rides that are unique to the location. We have put together the best virtual rides in 4K and 360-degree video so that you can experience them from home.

How can I experience Disney from home?

If you are missing out on that magical Disney theme park culture, you aren’t alone. While you could probably try to make your own version of a Dole Whip at home, it might be easier to go on a virtual ride instead. We have put together some of the best rides online — they are just a click away!

Is Splash Mountain scary?

Splash Mountain (soon to be reimagined as “Tiana’s Bayou Adventure”) is a classic water ride with a big drop at the end. While the theme is upbeat and cheery, it is a thrill ride that can be scary to some. To get a better idea, watch the virtual version first.

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About Chris Hassan

Chris holds a B.S. in Hospitality and Tourism Management and managed social media for all Marriott properties in South America, making him a perfect fit for UP and its social media channels. He has a passion for making content catered toward family travelers.

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