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In a world of constant innovation and change, there’s something really nostalgic about experiencing a classic Disney attraction that has stood the test of time.
While Disney World continues to evolve with new technologies and experiences, many original attractions still operate today. Let’s hop aboard the nostalgia train and explore the best old rides you can still enjoy at the Most Magical Place on Earth in 2025.
Prince Charming Regal Carrousel: The Undisputed Champion of Age
When it comes to Disney World longevity, nothing comes close to Prince Charming Regal Carrousel. This magnificent merry-go-round isn’t just old by Disney standards—it’s practically ancient! Originally built in 1917 by the Philadelphia Toboggan Company as “The Liberty Carousel,” this grand dame was entertaining guests at Belle Isle Park in Michigan and later Olympic Park in New Jersey long before Walt Disney even dreamed up his Florida project.
Disney acquired this centenarian carousel and installed it for Magic Kingdom’s opening day in 1971, making it not just one of Disney World’s original attractions but technically the oldest ride on property by a country mile. Over 100 years old and still spinning strong—talk about reliable transportation!
The ride also comes with a really charming (pun intended) backstory: after marrying Cinderella, Prince Charming built wooden horses as a jousting training area. When townspeople became interested, he created a second, friendlier device for them to ride. It’s the royal equivalent of “my training equipment became so popular I had to open a gym.”
Pirates of the Caribbean: The Ride That Spawned a Film Empire
“Yo ho, yo ho, a pirate’s life for me!” Long before Johnny Depp was running around as Captain Jack Sparrow, Pirates of the Caribbean was delighting guests with its atmospheric boat ride through pirate-infested waters. This slow-moving adventure through scenes of pirate raids, from bombarding fortresses to post-victory celebrations, remains one of Magic Kingdom’s most beloved attractions.
What makes Pirates special is its incredible attention to detail; each ride reveals something new you might have missed before.
The attraction later inspired the blockbuster film franchise, and in a full-circle moment, animatronic figures of Captain Jack Sparrow were added to the ride. It’s perhaps the only instance where a movie based on a ride led to the ride being updated to include the movie—Disney’s version of corporate inception.
Haunted Mansion: Where 999 Happy Haunts Reside
“Welcome, foolish mortals!” The Haunted Mansion has been delivering delightfully macabre experiences since Magic Kingdom’s opening day. This slow-moving dark ride through a ghost-filled estate is the perfect balance between spooky and humorous, making it appropriate for most ages.
The attraction’s blend of practical effects, optical illusions, and Audio-Animatronics continues to impress even in our CGI-saturated world. From the stretching room to the ballroom’s dancing ghosts (created using the century-old Pepper’s Ghost illusion), the Haunted Mansion proves that sometimes old-school tricks are the most effective.
Even the queue has interactive elements like a musical crypt, making the wait part of the experience. After all, in the Haunted Mansion, waiting is just another opportunity for the spirits to size you up.
“it’s a small world”: The Earworm That Never Dies
Love it or hate it (and you’ll probably do both simultaneously), “it’s a small world” remains one of Disney’s most iconic attractions. This calm boat ride featuring hundreds of audio-animatronic children singing the famously catchy theme song in multiple languages has been a staple of Magic Kingdom since opening day.
The ride actually debuted at the 1964 World’s Fair before making its way to Disneyland and eventually Disney World. Its message of global unity and peace, combined with Mary Blair’s distinctive artistic style, has made it a must-do for generations of Disney guests.
Fair warning: the song will be stuck in your head for approximately 72 hours after riding. Consider it a souvenir that doesn’t take up luggage space.
Tomorrowland Transit Authority PeopleMover: The Leisurely Futuristic Tour
For those seeking a more relaxed experience, the Tomorrowland Transit Authority PeopleMover offers a peaceful 10-minute journey above Tomorrowland. This opening-day attraction provides not only a restful break for tired feet but also behind-the-scenes glimpses of other Tomorrowland attractions.
The PeopleMover is especially magical at sunset when you can see the park transform from day to night from up high. It’s one of those rare attractions where the line moves quickly, the experience is incredible, and you can actually catch your breath while still technically riding an attraction. It’s the perfect “I need a break but don’t want to admit it” ride.
Jungle Cruise: Where the Backside of Water Awaits
The Jungle Cruise has been taking guests on pun-filled expeditions through exotic rivers since Magic Kingdom opened its gates. This boat ride, led by skippers armed with hilariously corny jokes, navigates past audio-animatronic wildlife and elaborate scenes.
What makes Jungle Cruise special is that no two rides are exactly the same. The attraction has become increasingly popular in recent years. Apparently, dad jokes are timeless when delivered on a boat in a pith helmet.
The Magic Kingdom Railroad: All Aboard for Nostalgia
The Walt Disney World Railroad travels across Magic Kingdom, providing both transportation and entertainment. This authentic steam-powered train offers a scenic tour of the park with stops in Main Street, U.S.A., Frontierland, and Fantasyland.
The railroad is particularly appealing in the afternoon when you need a break from walking but still want to experience the magic. Just be aware that the railroad is scheduled for a temporary closure at some point in 2025, so check the refurbishment calendar before planning your trip around this classic experience.
Rides That Won’t Make It to 2026
While celebrating these classics, it’s worth noting that some longtime favorites are sadly nearing the end of their run. Big Thunder Mountain Railroad closed in January 2025 and will remain shuttered until 2026, when it will reopen “with a little bit of new magic”. Additionally, Liberty Square Riverboat and Tom Sawyer Island are slated for permanent closure in the second half of 2025.
If you’re planning a 2025 visit, you’ll also find Astro Orbiter closed until summer and the Hall of Presidents closed for its traditional post-inauguration update. Over at Animal Kingdom, 2025 represents your last chance to experience DINOSAUR before it permanently closes to make way for a new Indiana Jones attraction.
The Magic of Disney’s Classics
In an era of increasingly complex and technologically advanced rides, these classics remind us that great storytelling, imaginative theming, and simple joy never go out of style. While Walt himself passed away before Magic Kingdom opened, many of these rides reflect his direct influence and creative philosophy.
So on your next Disney World visit, take a break from the newest, fastest, and most advanced attractions to experience these pieces of Disney history. They’ve been putting smiles on faces for over 50 years—and with proper care and maintenance, they’ll continue to do so for generations to come.
