Best California Adventure Rides Ranked: What to Ride First
California Adventure is home to rides like Grizzly River Run, where you’ll not only face the rapids but spot hidden bear-shaped rock formations that deepen the ride’s backstory.
For experiences that combine intense thrills with environmental storytelling, these California Adventure rides are a must:
- Incredicoaster: High-speed thrills with big drops at Pixar Pier.
- Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT!: Action-packed free-fall ride in Avengers Campus.
- Radiator Springs Racers: High-speed race through Cars Land.
- Soarin’ Around the World: Scenic flight over iconic global landmarks.
- Toy Story Midway Mania!: Interactive, family-friendly game ride at Pixar Pier.
Perfect for all ages, these rides range from thrilling coasters to immersive experiences.
For the true park strategist (like you), it’s essential to know not just the thrills but the hidden touches that define each ride. Continue reading to learn more about the ride mechanics, theming, and secrets that make California Adventure unforgettable…
Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT!
Step inside Taneleer Tivan’s towering fortress and join Rocket on a wild mission to rescue the Guardians of the Galaxy, who are held captive in electrified glass cases. Brace yourself for heart-pounding drops, stunning effects, and Star-Lord’s classic tunes as you unleash intergalactic chaos across six thrilling storylines!
| 🎉 Year Opened | 2017 |
| 📍 Section | Avengers Campus |
| 🤞 Rider Height | 40″ (102 cm) or Taller |
| 🎢 Ride Type | Big Drops, Thrill Rides, Dark, Loud, Scary |
| 👨👩👧 Best For | Teens, Adults |
Insider Tip: In the queue, keep an eye out for the Tower of Terror bellhop hat hidden among the Collector’s artifacts, paying homage to the ride’s predecessor. There’s also a cameo by Howard the Duck in one of the display cases! These Easter eggs are a fun nod to both Disney history and the Marvel universe.
Incredicoaster
The Incredibles are racing to stop Baby Jack-Jack’s teleporting chaos on the thrilling Incredicoaster at Pixar Pier! With enclosed tunnels, special effects, and a dynamic score by Michael Giacchino, this reimagined ride packs an action-filled punch.
| 🎉 Year Opened | 2018 |
| 📍 Section | Pixar Pier |
| 🤞 Rider Height | 48″ (122 cm) or Taller |
| 🎢 Ride Type | Big Drops, Thrill Rides, Loud |
| 👨👩👧 Best For | Teens, Adults |
Insider Tip: Look out for a hidden nod to Jack-Jack during your Incredicoaster ride! As you launch, keep an eye on the cookie scent that fills the air in the tunnels—it’s an homage to Jack-Jack’s love for cookies in The Incredibles. This sensory detail enhances the experience and is easily missed if you’re not paying attention!
Jumpin’ Jellyfish
Ascend a towering 40-foot kelp bed on the whimsical Jumpin’ Jellyfish, enjoying sweeping views of Paradise Bay before gracefully gliding down. Keep in mind, this parachute-style ride may close early for World of Color performances, so check the schedule!
| 🎉 Year Opened | 2001 |
| 📍 Section | Paradise Gardens Park |
| 🤞 Rider Height | 40″ (102 cm) or Taller |
| 🎢 Ride Type | Small Drops |
| 👨👩👧 Best For | Preschoolers, Kids, Tweens |
Insider Tip: Jumpin’ Jellyfish provides fantastic aerial views of Pixar Pier and the surrounding areas during the gentle ascent and descent. It’s an ideal ride for younger guests who want a taste of a drop ride without the intensity, and the line often moves quickly due to its higher capacity.
Grizzly River Run
Brace yourself for an epic whitewater adventure as you plummet down Grizzly Peak on a wild raft ride through caverns, geysers, and roaring rapids. Legend has it that the great bear Oo-soo’-ma-te watches over the mountain, and if you’re lucky, you might hear his spirit as you careen through the currents—prepare to get soaked!
| 🎉 Year Opened | 2001 |
| 📍 Section | Grizzly Peak |
| 🤞 Rider Height | 42″ (107 cm) or Taller |
| 🎢 Ride Type | Small Drops, Thrill Rides Water Rides, Spinning |
| 👨👩👧 Best For | Kids, Tweens, Teens, Adults |
Insider Tip: In the Grizzly River Run queue, look out for the rock formations that resemble a bear’s face, symbolizing Grizzly Peak’s legend. This design is a key part of the ride’s storytelling and often goes unnoticed by guests rushing through the line.
Silly Symphony Swings
Soar into the sky on Silly Symphony Swings, where you’ll twirl, tilt, and fly to the thrilling beats of the “William Tell Overture,” inspired by Mickey Mouse’s classic cartoon The Band Concert. This exhilarating ride lifts you higher and higher for breathtaking park views, but be sure to check showtimes as it may close early for World of Color performances!
| 🎉 Year Opened | 2010 |
| 📍 Section | Paradise Gardens Park |
| 🤞 Rider Height | 40″ (102 cm) or Taller |
| 🎢 Ride Type | Spinning |
| 👨👩👧 Best For | Kids, Tweens, Teens, Adults |
Insider Tip: Silly Symphony Swings features “The William Tell Overture” from the 1935 short The Band Concert. As you wait in line, notice how the ride mimics scenes from the cartoon, including Mickey conducting a wild orchestra as a storm intensifies. Many guests overlook these charming details while focusing on the ride.
Pixar Pal-A-Round – Swinging
Get ready to soar 150 feet in the air on Pixar Pal-A-Round, where panoramic views meet an extra thrill as your gondola sways and slides! One of only two Ferris wheels in the U.S. with both fixed and sliding gondolas, this unique ride features your favorite Disney and Pixar characters for an unforgettable experience.
| 🎉 Year Opened | 2001 |
| 📍 Section | Pixar Pier |
| 🤞 Rider Height | Any Height |
| 🎢 Ride Type | Small Drops |
| 👨👩👧 Best For | All Ages |
Insider Tip: When riding the Pixar Pal-A-Round – Swinging, keep an eye out for the colorful character silhouettes visible along the ride’s track. These playful designs feature beloved Pixar characters and enhance the ride’s whimsical atmosphere. Additionally, for a smoother experience, consider riding during parades or shows when lines tend to be shorter, allowing for quicker access to the attraction.
Monsters, Inc. Mike & Sulley to the Rescue!
Race through Monstropolis with Mike and Sulley to return Boo home before time runs out in a wild taxi cab chase! Download the Play Disney Parks app to unlock digital achievements as you experience the excitement of Monsters, Inc. Mike & Sulley to the Rescue!
| 🎉 Year Opened | 2006 |
| 📍 Section | Hollywood Land |
| 🤞 Rider Height | Any Height |
| 🎢 Ride Type | Slow Rides, Dark, Loud |
| 👨👩👧 Best For | Preschoolers, Kids, Tweens |
Insider Tip: Look closely for the hidden “Easter Egg” featuring the iconic Pizza Planet truck in the ride queue of Monsters, Inc. Mike & Sulley to the Rescue! This beloved vehicle makes a cameo in the background, adding a fun detail for keen-eyed fans of Pixar films. Be sure to keep an eye out as you wait in line—it’s a delightful nod to another classic Disney story!
Goofy’s Sky School
Soar through the sky on Goofy’s Sky School, a zany roller coaster that takes you 3 stories high and zips along 1,200 feet of wild track twists and turns. Inspired by classic Goofy cartoons, this ride is perfect for young pilots ready for their first flight!
| 🎉 Year Opened | 2011 |
| 📍 Section | Paradise Gardens Park |
| 🤞 Rider Height | 42″ (107 cm) or Taller |
| 🎢 Ride Type | Small Drops, Thrill Rides, Loud |
| 👨👩👧 Best For | Kids, Tweens, Adults |
Insider Tip: When riding Goofy’s Sky School, keep an eye out for the “Goofy’s Sky School” sign in the queue area, which features a playful nod to the attraction’s backstory with a picture of Goofy himself. This hidden detail adds a charming touch to the experience, reflecting Goofy’s clumsy personality. Be sure to appreciate the whimsical artwork as you wait in line, enhancing your connection to the ride’s theme.
Luigi’s Rollickin’ Roadsters
Get ready for a thrilling spin as Luigi’s lively roadsters whisk you away in a spirited dance, weaving and twirling to classic Italian tunes like “The Tire-antella” and “Mambo Italiano.” Each 1950s-inspired Frizzante car has its own unique moves and personality, making this a high-energy ride you won’t forget!
| 🎉 Year Opened | 2016 |
| 📍 Section | Cars Land |
| 🤞 Rider Height | 32″ (81 cm) or Taller |
| 🎢 Ride Type | Thrill Rides, Spinning, Loud |
| 👨👩👧 Best For | Kids, Tweens, Teens, Adults |
Insider Tip: Look closely at the dance floor of Luigi’s Rollickin’ Roadsters, as it features tiles that represent different Italian cities. Additionally, each car’s movement is synchronized to the upbeat music, creating a unique experience with every ride. If you’re a fan of classic Disney tunes, keep an ear out for the catchy tracks that enhance the fun, making it a lively ride for guests of all ages!
Soarin’ Over California
Soarin’ Over California returns to take you on a breathtaking aerial journey, soaring over iconic landmarks like Yosemite, the Golden Gate Bridge, and Malibu at dusk. With stunning IMAX visuals, majestic music by Jerry Goldsmith, and the thrill of flight, this timeless adventure is more epic than ever!
| 🎉 Year Opened | 2001 |
| 📍 Section | Grizzly Peak |
| 🤞 Rider Height | 40″ (102 cm) or Taller |
| 🎢 Ride Type | Small Drops, Dark, Loud |
| 👨👩👧 Best For | Kids, Tweens, Teens, Adults |
Insider Tip: If you’re looking to enhance your experience on Soarin’ Over California, pay attention to the scents released during the ride. The fresh orange grove and ocean breeze are unforgettable, adding to the immersion. To enjoy the ride with shorter wait times, consider visiting during the late morning or early afternoon, when many guests are occupied with lunch.
Soarin’ Around the World
Get ready to soar over iconic global landmarks as you’re lifted into the air inside an 80-foot projection dome, gliding past breathtaking views from the Swiss Alps to the Eiffel Tower. With a mesmerizing soundtrack and stunning IMAX visuals, this unforgettable aerial adventure will have your heart racing and your spirits soaring!
| 🎉 Year Opened | 2016 |
| 📍 Section | Grizzly Peak |
| 🤞 Rider Height | 40″ (102 cm) or Taller |
| 🎢 Ride Type | Small Drops, Slow Rides, Dark, Loud |
| 👨👩👧 Best For | Kids, Tweens, Teens, Adults |
Insider Tip: Look closely during the scene set in the Matterhorn; you’ll spot the iconic Disneyland mountain in the distance as you soar over California! This nod to Disney’s history is a fun detail that enhances the experience for fans. Additionally, consider riding in the evening when the park lights are twinkling, as the illuminated landscapes add a magical touch to your journey around the world.
Pixar Pal-A-Round – Non-Swinging
Soar 150 feet high on the Pixar Pal-A-Round for stunning views of Disney California Adventure, with each gondola featuring beloved Pixar characters like Woody, Buzz, and Dory. As one of only two Ferris wheels in the U.S. with fixed and sliding gondolas, this unique ride offers an exhilarating experience you won’t want to miss!
| 🎉 Year Opened | 2001 |
| 📍 Section | Pixar Pier |
| 🤞 Rider Height | Any Height |
| 🎢 Ride Type | Slow Rides |
| 👨👩👧 Best For | All Ages |
Insider Tip: When riding the Pixar Pal-A-Round – Non-Swinging, look for the iconic “Ducky and Bunny” figures on the gondolas. These characters from “Toy Story 4” are a fun nod to fans. Also, if you want to avoid long waits, try riding early in the morning or during parades, as many guests tend to flock to other attractions at those times. This can give you a more relaxed experience while enjoying the stunning views.
Golden Zephyr
Blast off in a sleek galactic gondola and soar through the skies on a vintage sci-fi adventure, complete with gold trim, underbelly strobes, and quadruple stabilizer fins. As you spin around the ornate red tower, let your imagination whisk you to thrilling worlds beyond the stars!
| 🎉 Year Opened | 2001 |
| 📍 Section | Paradise Gardens Park |
| 🤞 Rider Height | 40″ (102 cm) or Taller |
| 🎢 Ride Type | Spinning |
| 👨👩👧 Best For | Preschoolers, Kids, Tweens, Teens |
Insider Tip: As you board Golden Zephyr, notice the themed gondola designs—each one reflects the ride’s vintage charm. While you’re waiting, check out the nearby landscaping, which features lush greenery and colorful flowers that enhance the atmosphere, making for great photo backdrops before your flight!
Luigi’s Joy to the Whirl
Join Luigi and his roadsters for a festive holiday dance as they cruise to tunes crooned by Luigi himself, making your holiday season wheel-y fun! Remember, theme park reservations and valid admission are required, and offerings may be limited or subject to change.
| 🎉 Year Opened | 2016 |
| 📍 Section | Cars Land |
| 🤞 Rider Height | 32″ (81 cm) or Taller |
| 🎢 Ride Type | Thrill Rides, Spinning, Loud |
| 👨👩👧 Best For | Kids, Tweens, Teens, Adults |
Insider Tip: Look closely at the ride’s queue area for unique decorations and references to classic Italian films, which enhance the themed experience. The ride features charming music that plays throughout, contributing to the lively atmosphere. To avoid longer waits, consider riding early in the day or during character meet-and-greets when the lines are typically shorter, allowing you to enjoy more attractions.
Inside Out Emotional Whirlwind
Step into Headquarters from Inside Out and join Riley’s emotions Joy, Sadness, Fear, Disgust, and Anger on an exhilarating ride aboard vibrant Memory Movers. Soar through glowing recollections, circling in unison as you create your own unforgettable, joyful memory!
| 🎉 Year Opened | 2019 |
| 📍 Section | Pixar Pier |
| 🤞 Rider Height | Any Height |
| 🎢 Ride Type | Spinning |
| 👨👩👧 Best For | – |
Insider Tip: When riding Inside Out Emotional Whirlwind, pay attention to the “memory orbs” scattered throughout the queue and ride. Each orb features different colors and designs that represent various emotions from the film. These small details are a fun nod to the movie’s themes and provide an immersive experience, making your wait and ride more enjoyable as you spot them!
Red Car Trolley
Hop aboard the Red Car Trolleys for a nostalgic ride with four convenient stops, including Buena Vista Street and Hollywood Boulevard. Modeled after the historic Pacific Electric Railway, these trolleys transport you through Disney California Adventure with the charm of early Los Angeles.
| 🎉 Year Opened | 2012 |
| 📍 Section | Multiple Disneyland Resort |
| 🤞 Rider Height | Any Height |
| 🎢 Ride Type | Slow Rides, Loud |
| 👨👩👧 Best For | All Ages |
Insider Tip: When riding the Red Car Trolley, pay attention to the charming conductor’s narration. They often share fun facts about Disney California Adventure and the trolley’s history. This adds an engaging layer to your ride, as you learn more about the park’s design and the significance of various locations you pass by. It’s a delightful way to enhance your park experience!
Toy Story Midway Mania!
Step into Andy’s world and take aim as you spin through his room, blasting virtual darts, baseballs, and more in a fast-paced carnival of Toy Story fun. Compete for high scores, hit secret targets for bonus points, and may the best toy win!
| 🎉 Year Opened | 2008 |
| 📍 Section | Pixar Pier |
| 🤞 Rider Height | Any Height |
| 🎢 Ride Type | Dark, Loud |
| 👨👩👧 Best For | All Ages |
Insider Tip: When riding Toy Story Midway Mania!, keep an eye on the spinning targets. Some targets, like the red ones, offer higher point values than others. Also, if you manage to hit the “Bonus Balloon” target, you’ll trigger extra points in your score! Many guests report that focusing on these specific targets can significantly boost your final score, so aim carefully!
WEB SLINGERS: A Spider-Man Adventure
Join Spider-Man on a thrilling mission to stop his runaway Spider-Bots before they unleash chaos across Avengers Campus! Hop aboard a WEB Slinger vehicle, use your web-slinging skills, and save the day in this action-packed adventure, perfect for all ages!
| 🎉 Year Opened | 2021 |
| 📍 Section | Avengers Campus |
| 🤞 Rider Height | Any Height |
| 🎢 Ride Type | Spinning, Dark, Loud |
| 👨👩👧 Best For | All Ages |
Insider Tip: When riding WEB SLINGERS: A Spider-Man Adventure, keep an eye out for the iconic Spider-Bots in the queue area. These small, interactive figures are designed to mimic the Spider-Bots from the Marvel universe, adding an extra layer of immersion. Additionally, after the ride, check the exit area for photo opportunities with Spider-Man himself, which is often less crowded than other character meet-and-greets in the park.
Mater’s Jingle Jamboree
Hop aboard a jolly tractor ride through Mater’s holiday-themed junkyard, where you’ll spin to festive tunes with hilarious tow-inspired lyrics. Remember, park reservations and valid admission are required, and offerings may change or be limited without notice.
| 🎉 Year Opened | 2012 |
| 📍 Section | Cars Land |
| 🤞 Rider Height | 32″ (81 cm) or Taller |
| 🎢 Ride Type | Spinning |
| 👨👩👧 Best For | All Ages |
Insider Tip: At Mater’s Jingle Jamboree, pay attention to the background music during the ride. The festive tunes are a mix of classic holiday songs and original Mater songs, creating a lively atmosphere. Additionally, the queue area features fun nods to the “Cars” movies, including hidden references to characters and locations that fans will enjoy spotting while waiting in line!
Jessie’s Critter Carousel
Saddle up for Jessie’s Critter Carousel, where you can ride a fun desert critter straight out of Woody’s Roundup in an adventure inspired by Toy Story 2! Be sure to check the schedule, as the carousel may close early on World of Color performance nights.
| 🎉 Year Opened | 2019 |
| 📍 Section | Pixar Pier |
| 🤞 Rider Height | Any Height |
| 🎢 Ride Type | Slow Rides, Spinning |
| 👨👩👧 Best For | Preschoolers, Kids, Tweens |
Insider Tip: Keep an eye out for the critters that feature unique names inspired by the “Toy Story” universe. For instance, you’ll find a few characters that reference minor characters from the films, such as “Dolly” and “Mr. Potato Head.” This attention to detail enhances the ride’s connection to the beloved franchise, making each ride a fun scavenger hunt for fans!
The Little Mermaid – Ariel’s Undersea Adventure
Climb aboard your clam-mobile and dive into a musical journey through The Little Mermaid, where you’ll sing along with Ariel, Sebastian, and the gang, but watch out for Ursula’s massive, tentacled presence! Glide past Ariel’s treasure-filled grotto, sneak through an eel-infested lair, and celebrate unforgettable songs like “Under the Sea” and “Kiss the Girl”—all without getting wet!
| 🎉 Year Opened | 2011 |
| 📍 Section | Paradise Gardens Park |
| 🤞 Rider Height | Any Height |
| 🎢 Ride Type | Slow Rides, Dark, Loud |
| 👨👩👧 Best For | All Ages |
Insider Tip: Keep an eye out for the “dinglehopper” in the queue. This whimsical nod to the film, where Ariel uses the fork to comb her hair, is hidden among the decorations. Also, if you ride near the end of the day, the line often shortens as guests begin to leave the park, giving you a chance to experience the attraction with a shorter wait.
Radiator Springs Racers
Buckle up for a high-speed race through Radiator Springs, where you’ll zip past iconic red-rock formations, dodge friendly competition, and get cheered on by Mater, Lightning McQueen, and the rest of the crew. With thrilling turns, stunning scenery, and a racing makeover from Luigi or Ramone, this is one ride where every racer feels like a winner!
| 🎉 Year Opened | 2012 |
| 📍 Section | Cars Land |
| 🤞 Rider Height | 40″ (102 cm) or Taller |
| 🎢 Ride Type | Small Drops, Thrill Rides, Dark, Loud |
| 👨👩👧 Best For | Kids, Tweens, Teens, Adults |
Insider Tip: Look closely at the ride’s exterior as you approach Radiator Springs Racers—there’s a hidden tribute to “A113,” a nod to the classroom number at CalArts that inspired many Pixar filmmakers. This number can be found on a license plate on one of the cars in the queue area. Keep an eye out for this fun Easter egg as you wait to race through the iconic landscape!
Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree
Climb aboard a rambunctious tractor as it spins and twirls you through a thrilling square dance in Mater’s junkyard, with his lively tunes setting the pace. Don’t forget to visit Mater in his shed, where he’s crafting music from his quirky, improvised jukebox made of auto parts!
| 🎉 Year Opened | 2012 |
| 📍 Section | Cars Land |
| 🤞 Rider Height | 32″ (81 cm) or Taller |
| 🎢 Ride Type | Thrill Rides |
| 👨👩👧 Best For | All Ages |
Insider Tip: Look closely at the signage around Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree for hidden references to classic Pixar films. The decorations and signs often include subtle nods to characters and locations from the Pixar universe, making the queue an engaging experience for fans. Keep an eye out for playful details that celebrate both Mater’s character and the broader Pixar lore while you wait.
FAQ
How many rides are in California Adventure?
California Adventure features 34 attractions, including thrill rides like Incredicoaster and Radiator Springs Racers, along with family-friendly options such as Inside Out Emotional Whirlwind and Jessie’s Critter Carousel.
What is the number one ride at California Adventure?
Radiator Springs Racers is often considered the number one ride at California Adventure, offering a mix of storytelling, excitement, and incredible visuals in Cars Land.
Is California Adventure worth it for adults?
Yes, California Adventure is great for adults with attractions like Incredicoaster and Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT! For a more laid-back experience, adults can enjoy wine at the Sonoma Terrace or craft cocktails at Lamplight Lounge, all while taking in live entertainment and the vibrant atmosphere of Pixar Pier.
Is there enough to do at California Adventure for a day?
Yes, California Adventure offers plenty for a full day, from thrilling rides like Radiator Springs Racers to shows like Frozen – Live at the Hyperion. You can also explore unique areas like Pixar Pier and enjoy dining at places like Carthay Circle.
