Numbers 18-15

#18: Space Mountain, Disneyland

While there are several attractions that began in Disneyland and were then transported to Disney World, there are far fewer that went in the opposite direction. One such attraction, however, is one of the most iconic experiences in multiple Disney parks around the world. Space Mountain has been a part of Tomorrowland in Disneyland since 1977, but its history goes back even further. Walt Disney originally conceived the idea of a space-themed rollercoaster following the success of the Matterhorn Bobsleds. However, a number of factors including lack of available space, Walt's death, and the focus on building Disney World led to the project's postponement. Disney finally revived the Space Mountain project and opened the first at the Magic Kingdom in 1975.

Despite having the same name and theming, there are some major differences between the Disney World and Disneyland versions of the attraction. First and foremost is their size. Having less space, the Disneyland version only features one track (as opposed to the two in Florida) and the show building is also much smaller. Whereas at Disney World Guests ride in single file, the rockets in Disneyland allow Guests to sit two-by-two. Disneyland’s Space Mountain also offers Guests a much smoother ride (thanks to its 2005 refurbishment) as well as onboard audio, which greatly enhances the ride experience.

Even before its extensive renovations in 2005, Space Mountain was one of Disneyland’s most popular attractions. However, when it reopened for Disneyland’s 50th Anniversary, the attraction featured an array of new effects and a brand new musical score composed by Academy Award winner Michael Giacchino. The attraction had always relied on pitch-blackness to give the illusion of travelling through space, but new projectors and lighting effects allowed to even more greatly immerse Guests into this theming and give the impression you are travelling much faster than you actually are. In addition, the musical score through onboard audio adds even more excitement that Disney World’s version can’t match.

Space Mountain is an attraction that is synonymous with Disney; it is truly a classic and is found in Disney parks around the world. What is so great about the Disneyland version of the attraction is that it has been continually improved upon and “plussed” over the years. Combining its striking exterior appearance that marks Tomorrowland skyline with the thrill of space travel, Space Mountain’s immersive theming makes it more than just a rollercoaster and worthy of the #18 spot in the top fifty rankings.

#17: Expedition Everest, Animal Kingdom

This next attraction follows in the footsteps of those coasters that came before it, like Matterhorn, Big Thunder Mountain, and Space Mountain. It is fitting that this rollercoaster is also a mountain, but on a scale that had never been seen before. Expedition Everest takes what was achieved with these previous rollercoasters and brings them to entirely new level, but not just in terms of thrills. Expedition Everest may be one of the most immersive rollercoasters ever built and this is largely due to a creative storyline and a tremendous amount of research that give the ride unparalleled authenticity.

Expedition Everest’s striking appearance dominates the skyline of Animal Kingdom. In fact, at 199 feet, it is the tallest of the mountains at Disney World. It is listed in Guinness World Records as the most expensive rollercoaster in the world with a total cost reported to be $100 million over six years of planning and construction. While its scale is certainly impressive, what makes this attraction truly special is its attention to detail. This starts with a queue that may be one of the most immersive ever designed by Disney Imagineers. Guests start at the office of Himalayan Escapes travel agency, progressing to a replica temple, a room with equipment for the expedition (much of which actually scaled Everest), and finishing in the Yeti Museum. In fact, there are about 8,000 artifacts brought back by Imagineers from a trip to Nepal that are housed in this museum.

This tremendous theming continues into the actual attraction itself. Riding in old, rusty steam trains, Guests pass groves of tea and bamboo trees, ascend through a temple with murals of the mysterious yeti, and make their way all the way to the snowcapped peak of the mountain before careening downwards through caverns and caves and finally coming in contact with the yeti itself. At 22-feet tall, the yeti is the largest and most complex audio-animatronic figure ever built by Imagineers. Even though it is not functioning in full A-mode, it is impressive nonetheless.

Expedition Everest proves that it is possible for rollercoasters to have detailed theming and storylines while still being high on thrills. In fact, it is really all this attention to detail that make the attraction what it is. Just like Animal Kingdom as a park completely immerses Guests into exotic lands, Expedition Everest does the same for all Guests who experience the attraction. From the moment they set foot in the queue and throughout the entire ride, Guests are transported to the Himalayas. As a result, Expedition Everest finds itself at #17 on the top fifty countdown.

#16: Jungle Cruise, Magic Kingdom

An opening day attraction at both Disneyland and the Magic Kingdom, the Jungle Cruise is an attraction that Walt Disney himself had a major role in creating. Sources of inspiration for the attraction include a 1955 True-Life Adventure about a pride of lions and the film “The African Queen.” The original plan was to use real animals, but logistically this presented too many problems and it was thought that the animals would have been sleeping during much of the day. Walt wanted to make Guests feel as though they were really travelling through the world’s jungles and seeing real animals. Interestingly enough, the original spiel had no jokes and sounded much like the narration of a nature documentary. It stayed this way until 1962 when a more lighthearted and comedic spiel was introduced. This revision helped the Jungle Cruise become the attraction it is today.

While the attraction is similar at both Disneyland and Magic Kingdom, a slight edge is given to Florida’s version thanks to being slightly longer with the inclusion of the temple scene. One of the greatest strengths of the Jungle Cruise is its storytelling and its ability to immerse Guests in that story. This begins as Guests make their way through the queue, set in a Depression-era British outpost on the Amazon River operated by The Jungle Navigation Co. This level of immersion continues throughout the attraction with lush plant life that replicates the jungle settings of Asia, Africa, and South America. The animatronic figures are also extremely life-like, considering it was one of the first attractions to utilize Audio Animatronic figures and on a scale much larger than any others at the time.

The real appeal of the Jungle Cruise, however, is the pun-filled comedy of the Skippers. This is one attraction where the Cast Members play a significant role in the Guests’ enjoyment of the experience. The jokes might be corny, but they really make the attraction what it is. In fact, one might argue that it is the Skippers and their delivery of the spiel, not the actual ride itself, that keeps Guests coming back. It is a spiel filled with memorable lines and moments, not the least of which is seeing the backside of water.

With exception of its spiel, the Jungle Cruise has changed very little since it first opened and yet it remains an extremely popular attraction. It is an attraction that is appreciated on different levels by different Guests. While kids enjoy seeing the animals that appear incredibly real, adults will appreciate the dry sense of humor of the Skippers, while still others come for the nostalgia of one of Disney’s most storied and classic attractions. Really, it is all of these reasons combined that make the Jungle Cruise so special and place it at #16 in the top fifty countdown.

#15: Disney's Aladdin: A Musical Spectacular, Disney’s California Adventure

Disney is known for producing incredible stage shows and we have seen several thus far throughout the top fifty countdown. This next attraction, however, is unmatched when it comes to these theatrical productions and that is why it is the highest ranking show on this list. Disney’s Aladdin: A Musical Spectacular is on a scale that no other Disney theme park show can match. While there are several shows in Disney parks that one could consider Broadway-caliber, Aladdin by far comes the closest to replicating the look and feel of a Broadway production.

The Broadway-style feel of the show starts as soon as Guests enter into the 2,000-seat Hyperion Theater. With its multiple balconies, it has the look and feel of a theater you would expect to see in New York. Added to this are beautiful sets, high –energy choreography and action that spills out into the aisles, an actual flying magic carpet, and (of course) memorable music from the movie. In addition to well-known songs such as “One Jump Ahead,” “Friend Like Me,” and “A Whole New World,” Alan Menken also composed and wrote lyrics for an entirely new song just for this production called “To Be Free.” All of these different aspects help to make Aladdin a major production, and its 45-minute run time also make it one of the longest stage shows at any Disney park.

What also makes this Aladdin musical so special is an extremely talented Cast. While the vocal talents of Aladdin and Jasmine are showcased in several songs, the character who really steals the show is Genie. It is this character that really helps make the show what it is and keeps Guests coming back again and again. The reason for this is that the Genie ad libs much of his dialogue depending on current events in popular culture and the news. This means that you could even see the show twice in the same day and experience the Genie doing or saying something totally different. No matter what the Genie is doing, he is absolutely hilarious and brings a tremendous amount of energy to the show.

Aladdin: A Musical Spectacular is one of the must-see attractions for any Guest visiting Disney’s California Adventure. In fact, even after seeing it once, you will want to see it again because it is such a high-quality performance. Combining beautiful visuals with detailed costumes and sets, memorable music, popular characters, and plenty of lighthearted and comedic moments, this show is a little bit of Broadway in southern California. For these reasons, Aladdin: A Musical Spectacular is the highest-rated show on the countdown and worthy of the #15 spot in the top fifty rankings.

Numbers 22-19

#22: The American Adventure, Epcot

When World Showcase was being designed, Imagineers knew that something special was going to be needed for the host pavilion. The attraction that they decided upon was the culmination of a line of attractions that began back at the Illinois pavilion at the 1964 World’s Fair, advanced through Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln at Disneyland, and was further refined with the Hall of Presidents at Magic Kingdom. The American Adventure took aspects from all these previous shows and brought them to an entirely new level.

The experience of this attraction starts even before Guests are seated in the theater, beginning with the beautiful colonial-style architecture of the building’s exterior, the open rotunda where Guests wait for the show with walls adorned by colorful painting depicting different eras of American history, and then entering into the theater by passing through the Corridor of Flags featuring a display of numerous flags that played integral roles throughout American history. All of this serves as a set-up to the actual show itself, helping to immerse Guests into American history.

The show itself is probably one of the most effective uses of Audio Animatronic figures found at any Disney attraction. These animatronic figures are integrated seamlessly throughout the course of the show, their striking appearance and mannerisms helping to bring American history to life. The real success of the show lies in its ability to combine these animatronic figures with moving music, beautiful imagery, and detailed backgrounds and set pieces. It is a show on a scale that Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln and the Hall of Presidents cannot come close to matching.

While the animatronic figures receive much of the attention (and rightfully so) the show’s music really helps to tie everything together and strike an emotional chord with the audience. The music helps Guests experience the highs and lows of American history and the show’s finale of “Golden Dream,” along with its stirring imagery, will give almost anyone goose bumps and make them proud to be an American. While condensing the whole of American history into a thirty-minute show is no easy task, the American Adventure does it brilliantly and makes it worthy of the #22 spot in the top fifty countdown.

#21: Peter Pan's Flight, Magic Kingdom

One of the most popular attractions at the Magic Kingdom is actually not a thrill ride. In fact, it is an attraction that has been part of the park since it first opened in 1971. Presenting a different spin on a classic dark ride, Peter Pan’s Flight is often marked by long lines and is one of the most beloved rides in Fantasyland.

Like many of the attractions in Magic Kingdom’s Fantasyland, Peter Pan’s Flight originated in Disneyland, where it was an opening day attraction in 1955. The original intent of the Disneyland attraction was for Guests to fly through the ride as if they were Peter Pan. However, Guests did not quite grasp this concept and were left wondering why Peter Pan was not in the attraction. The Magic Kingdom version of the ride expanded on the original Disneyland attraction. While the overall theme and format of the ride was consistent with the original, the Magic Kingdom’s version would feature its characters, including Peter Pan, as Audio Animatronic figures.

The success of Peter Pan’s Flight is that it is such a unique ride system for a dark ride. Rather than travelling in vehicles that ride along a track in the floor, here Guests are transported in pirate ships suspended from a track overhead to give the allusion that they are flying. The attraction also makes very effective use of forced perspective and scale to make Guests feel as though they are much higher up than they actually are. While Disneyland holds an advantage when it comes to the exterior facades, the Magic Kingdom’s version of the attraction improved upon several aspects of the original Peter Pan’s Flight. Not only was it the first to have animatronic figures, but all the sets are on a much larger scale, including a 48-foot replica of Captain Hook’s ship.

When it comes to Magic Kingdom attractions, Peter Pan’s Flight consistently has one of the longest waits. While its two-to-three person pirate ships certainly hurt its efficiency in the number of Guests its able to carry, one cannot overlook the incredible popularity that the attraction has had over the years. Combining well known characters, story, and music all with a unique ride system, Peter Pan’s Flight continues to deliver one of the most fun experiences in all of Fantasyland. It is one of Disney’s most classic attractions and it continues to entertain Guests of all ages. Thus, Peter Pan’s Flight comes in at #21 in the top fifty rankings.

#20: Festival of the Lion King, Animal Kingdom

What makes this next attraction so interesting is that it was never originally intended to be included in the park and it was thrown together at basically the last minute utilizing floats from an old Disneyland parade. Another interesting aspect of this particular show is that it is not meant to be a retelling or condensed version of the movie, rather a revue that highlights some of the story’s best musical moments. Yet, despite all of this, Festival of the Lion King has gone onto become one of the most popular shows in all of Disney World.

The show’s great success lies in two main areas, the first being its music. Showcasing many of the beloved songs created by Elton John and Tim Rice, Festival of the Lion King moves from one musical number to the next and is really driven by the talent of the four main performers. Each of these performers has a Swahili name: Kiume, Nakawa, Kibibi, and Zawadi. They are not meant to represent any specific character from The Lion King and the order in which the songs are performed does not follow the sequence they are presented in the movie. All of this, however, helps to make the show interesting and unique, featuring songs the audience is familiar with presented in a new way.

The second area where Festival of the Lion King excels is with its visuals. This starts with the beautifully-detailed, bright, and colorful costumes worn by the Cast. Greatly inspired by African culture and dress, these costumes add a sense of authenticity to the show. Added to this are puppeteers, stilt-walkers, fire-twirlers, acrobats, and aerial gymnasts whose performances give the show a great amount of variety and energy. All the while, the action takes place in a theater-in-the-round, which helps to make Guests feel more a part of the story and put them all closer to the action taking place on stage.

Festival of the Lion King has become one of the must-see attractions at Animal Kingdom. This is not only because it is based upon the highly popular movie with memorable characters and music, but also because of how the show presents all these to Guests. There is surprisingly little dialogue throughout the course of the show; it is a story that is driven by its combination of music and visuals, which it does so successfully. While several other shows around Animal Kingdom have come and gone, Festival of the Lion King has remained largely unchanged. It is the type of show that, even if you have seen it multiple times, you will want to keep coming back again and again. Thus, Festival of the Lion King ranks #20 in the top fifty countdown.

#19: Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, Magic Kingdom

We crack the top twenty with an attraction that has a world-wide presence, one which has become one of the most visually iconic attractions in any Disney park, and one which has a long and storied history. Big Thunder Mountain Railroad was designed by Imagineer Tony Baxter. The concept came from Baxter's work on the Western River Expedition, a western-themed pavilion at the Magic Kingdom, designed to look like an enormous plateau and contain many rides, including a runaway mine train roller coaster. However, because the pavilion as a whole was deemed too expensive, Baxter proposed building just the mine train as a separate attraction.

Every Disney attraction has a story and Big Thunder Mountain is more than just a runaway mine train. In the late 1800s, gold was discovered on Big Thunder Mountain. Overnight, the small mining town of Tumbleweed became a thriving mining town. Mining was prosperous and a line of mine trains was set up to transport the ore. Unknown to the settlers, the Mountain was a sacred spot to local Native Americans and was cursed. Before long, the settlers' destruction of the mountain caused a great tragedy, a flash flood hit the mines, and the town was abandoned.

Big Thunder Mountain’s success lies in immersing Guests into this story. This is evident especially in the intricate detail of the rockwork, fashioned after Arizona’s Monument Valley. Special care was taken by the Imagineers to make it appear that the rocks were there originally and the track was built around them rather than the other way around. The Magic Kingdom’s version of the attraction is also the perfect example of how Imagineers can successfully “plus” an already good attraction. After a lengthy refurbishment, Big Thunder Mountain recently reopened with a much more highly-themed queue with a variety of interactive elements that help to immerse Guests better into the attraction’s backstory.

While the Magic Kingdom’s Big Thunder Mountain may not have been the original, with Disneyland’s opening a year earlier in 1979, the larger park allowed for Imagineers to do more. While the track layouts are almost identical, the Magic Kingdom’s takes up 2.5 acres, which is approximately twenty-five percent larger than its Disneyland counterpart. The success of Big Thunder Mountain in both Disneyland and Magic Kingdom went on to inspire the attractions in both Tokyo and Paris. Likewise, the influence of Big Thunder Mountain’s detailed rockwork and runaway mine train theming can clearly be seen in other attractions like Expedition Everest at Animal Kingdom and Grizzly Gulch in Hong Kong. Combining a storied history with immersive theming and a fun and thrilling ride experience, Big Thunder Mountain ranks #19 in the top fifty countdown.

Numbers 26-23

#26: Matterhorn Bobsleds, Disneyland

This next attraction is another with a long and storied history as well as one of Disneyland’s most popular rides. During the construction of the Disneyland, dirt from the excavation of Sleeping Beauty Castle's moat was piled in an area between Fantasyland and Tomorrowland. When the park opened, the area was dubbed Holiday Hill and was dotted with benches and pathways to encourage its use as a picnic area. After the opening of the Disneyland Skyway in 1956, Walt conceived the idea of a toboggan ride on the mountain with real snow, which would also act as a decorative overlay to disguise the central pylon of the Skyway. Use of the Matterhorn both in style and name grew from Walt's extended vacation in Switzerland while filming “Third Man on the Mountain.” He was impressed by the beauty of the real Matterhorn and merged it with his toboggan ride concept. The Matterhorn finally made its debut on June 14, 1959. Built by Arrow Development and Disney Imagineering, it was the first tubular steel roller coaster in the world.

Interestingly enough, when the attraction first opened the interior of the mountain was just an open space through which the bobsleds traveled. In 1978, the Matterhorn received a major refurbishment. The Imagineers' biggest task was to break up the hollow interior space into a number of small, icy caves and tunnels with far more immersive theming. Another major addition was the Abominable Snowman, named "Harold" by the Imagineers. The creature exists as three Audio Animatronic figures that roar at the bobsledders throughout the ride; the first is visible from both tracks at the point where they divide to take separate paths while the other two are visible only from their respective tracks.

Despite being an older attraction, the Matterhorn still provides a fun and exciting ride. In addition to its animatronic figures, the attraction features beautiful, ice-filled caverns, waterfalls, and splash-down pools. The fact that the attraction features two separate tracks also adds to the Matterhorn’s re-rideability. There are also other fun elements related to the Matterhorn itself separate from the attraction, including the basketball court that was constructed in the mountain’s interior and the mountain climbing that takes place there as well.

While the ride may be a little jostling and jerky, the Matterhorn is still a must-do attraction when going to Disneyland. Added to this is the attraction’s uniqueness, being the only Matterhorn attraction found at any Disney park. That being said, the Matterhorn has inspired numerous other attractions, such as Space Mountain, Big Thunder Mountain, and Expedition Everest. Thanks to its long and storied history, immersive theming, and its fun and exciting ride experience the Matterhorn Bobsleds rank #26 on the top fifty countdown.

#25: Walt Disney's Carousel of Progress, Magic Kingdom

We have now reached the half-way point in the rankings as we move from one Disney classic to another. Created by both Walt Disney and WED Enterprises as the main feature of the General Electric Pavilion for the 1964 New York World's Fair, this attraction was the moved to Tomorrowland at Disneyland where it remained from 1967 until 1973. It was replaced in Disneyland by America Sings in 1974 and reopened in its present home in the Magic Kingdom in 1975. Since then, the Carousel of Progress has gone on to become the longest-running stage show with the most performances in the history of American theater.

The basic plot of the Carousel of Progress has remained largely unchanged since it debuted at the 1964 New York World's Fair. The circular center stage is divided into six scenes and surrounded by six audience sections which revolve from one scene to the next. While the first and last scenes involve the loading and unloading of Guests, the middle four depict an Audio Animatronic family appreciating the technological advances of the 20th century. Each of the four scenes is also set around a holiday associated with one of the four seasons of the year.

In addition to its Cast of animatronic figures, one of the things that Carousel of Progress is best known for is its music. Walt Disney asked songwriters Richard and Robert Sherman to create a song that could serve as a bridge between the "acts" in the show. When Walt explained to the brothers what the show was about, they created a song with his enthusiasm in mind and entitled it "There's a Great Big Beautiful Tomorrow". The Sherman Brothers later stated that they believed the song was Walt's "theme song," because he was so optimistic and excited about the future and technology itself. The song has gone on to become one of the most iconic pieces of music featured in any Disney park.

Experiencing Carousel of Progress is a right-of-passage for any child that visits Disney World. The attraction is a “classic” in every sense of the word. There are few attractions throughout any of the Disney parks that have such an important history and heritage and it is truly one of the few attractions at Magic Kingdom that Walt himself had a hand in designing. While the animatronic family has undergone a few changes over the years, the main theme remains the same. Combining a sense of nostalgia for the past with the advancements and progress made over the years, the theme of Carousel of Progress is one that Walt himself was extremely passionate about. Thanks to its tremendous history and legacy, Carousel of Progress comes in at #25 on the top fifty countdown.

#24: Mickey's PhilharMagic, Magic Kingdom

While this attraction was built much more recently than the previous two, it is still grounded deeply in Disney heritage. Mickey's PhilharMagic is located in Fantasyland and is actually the fourth attraction to utilize its show building. The theatre originally hosted the Mickey Mouse Revue. Later, it was the home to the 3-D film “Magic Journeys” after it left Epcot's Journey into Imagination pavilion and most recently it was home to the stage presentation The Legend of the Lion King. It is an attraction firmly rooted in Disney’s past. In many ways it is harkening back to the original Mickey Mouse Revue, whose basic premise was a musical concert in which Mickey Mouse conducted an orchestra made up of various animatronic Disney characters playing well-known Disney songs.

It can also be said that PhilharMagic draws inspiration from Disney’s “Fantasia.” When Walt was in the process of creating Fantasia he wanted to completely immerse viewers into the film in a way that went beyond just merely watching it on the screen. What Walt envisioned was a complete sensory experience that would include not only state-of-the-art sound (later dubbed Fanatsound) but also ushers in the theaters going up and down the aisles spraying different scents, blowing bubbles, etc. Unfortunately, due to costs, theaters were very reluctant to go along with Walt’s vision. Mickey’s PhilharMagic, therefore, is probably the closest thing to realizing Walt’s original dream for Fantasia.

While the show features a variety of effects, such as lighting, bubbles, water, and scents, the main aspect that drives the storyline is the music. PhilharMagic allows Guests to relive some of the most memorable moments and songs from a number of classic Disney movies. With songs like “Be Our Guest,” “Part of Your World,” “I Just Can’t Wait to be King,” and “A Whole New World,” PhilharMagic’s 150-foot wide screen presents these moments to Guests in a way they have never experienced before. The show is like a Disney highlight reel, but the storyline of Donald chasing after the illusive sorcerer’s hat does an effective job in tying everything together as we move from one scene/song to the next.

Mickey’s PhilharMagic showcases some of the best of Disney animation and music. Rather than merely watching the film on screen, this show completely immerses Guests into these moments. It is really the type of experience that Walt set out to create when he first was designing Disneyland; attractions that went beyond what Guests were able to experience when they saw one of his movie’s in theaters. Featuring some of the most iconic characters and songs from several beloved Disney movies, Mickey’s PhilharMagic has become a must-do Fantasyland attraction and as such ranks #24 on the top fifty countdown.

#23: Finding Nemo-The Musical, Animal Kingdom

Sometimes an attraction that you think couldn’t possibly work ends up surprising you. That is certainly the case with this next attraction. When Disney first announced it would be turning Finding Nemo into a musical stage production for Animal Kingdom, many people questioned how effectively this could be done considering the movie featured no music at all. Finding Nemo: The Musical replaced the popular Tarzan Rocks, which had run at Animal Kingdom from 1999 through 2006. When it premiered in January 2007 the show received rave reviews and has since become one of the most popular stage shows in all of Disney World.

Finding Nemo: The Musical is a production that is truly Broadway caliber. This is partially due to the fact that the show’s songs were written by Tony Award-winning “Avenue Q” composer Robert Lopez and his wife, Kristen Anderson-Lopez. Combine this with energetic choreography, intricate puppets, and beautiful sets and you have the recipe for a successful show. Another element contributing to the show’s popularity is that it presents a new spin on the Finding Nemo story, rather than just being a complete rehashing of the movie. With its original songs, Finding Nemo: The Musical, offers something new to Guests who may have seen the movie before.

One of the show’s greatest assets is a passionate Cast of actors that really bring the puppets and the music to life. The songs might not be as well-known as those featured in other Disney shows, but the vocal skills of the actors really make these songs stand out. Interestingly enough, most of the songs in the show are based on lines in the film, including "(In The) Big Blue World", "Fish Are Friends, Not Food", "Just Keep Swimming", and "Go With the Flow." What is even more impressive is that the actors can sing these songs while also bringing their puppets to life. Meanwhile, all this acting is being done with the backdrop of a beautiful underwater environment that really helps to immerse Guests into this world.

At forty minutes in length, Finding Nemo: The Musical is considerably shorter than the movie, and yet it does not feel rushed by any means. In fact, the addition of music to the storyline might actually make it stronger. The show’s music helps convey to the audience a variety of different emotions and develop its characters in ways that could not be done in the movie. Overall, this makes Finding Nemo: The Musical an extremely successful adaptation from screen to stage and worthy of the #23 spot in the top fifty rankings.

Numbers 30-27

#30: Mission: SPACE, Epcot

There was much outcry when the beloved Horizons closed in 1999. The attraction, which had opened in October 1983, was an Epcot classic which truly embodied the mission and purpose of Future World. Any attraction taking its place was going to have big shoes to fill and Disney promised an experience unlike any other ever experienced at a theme park. Mission Space truly delivers on that count with one of the most technologically advanced ride systems ever created. Next to actually going into space, Mission Space is probably the closest you will ever come to experiencing the thrill and intensity of space travel.

In order to create as authentic an experience as possible, Disney worked very closely with NASA in the development of this project and it is safe to say that they were successful. In terms of intensity, no other Disney attraction comes close, exposing Guests to 2.5 G’s (more than twice the force of gravity on the earth’s surface). The attraction’s multiple-armed centrifuge achieves the illusion of acceleration and weightlessness by spinning and tilting the sealed capsules in which the Guests ride. The attraction was so successful in its illusion of space travel that a less-intense variation of the ride had to be introduced in order to allow more Guests to experience the attraction.

In addition to its striking realism, Mission Space is a very entertaining attraction while still in keeping with the overall feel of Future World. The interactive elements of the attraction, assigning roles and tasks to each of the Guests inside the capsule to perform at various moments throughout the ride, makes Guests feel more a part of the attraction. Interestingly enough, the futuristic X-2 vehicle actually uses several technologies in development today that could actually be seen in future space travel, including aerospike engines, solid hydrogen fuel, an aerobrake and carbon nanotubes.

When Mission Space opened in October 2003 it was truly a state-of-the-art attraction. Even today, ten years later, it remains one of Disney’s most unique and technologically advanced ride systems. Despite the attraction’s intensity, it continues to remain popular among Epcot Guests and the attraction’s less-intense side now enables it to be enjoyed by the entire family (not just the thrill seekers). It may not be Horizons, but Mission Space has carved out its niche at Epcot that still holds true to the spirit of Future World. As such, Mission Space ranks #30 on the top fifty countdown.

#29: Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage, Disneyland

This next attraction is proof that even though an attraction may be gone, it is never truly forgotten. Disneyland’s original Submarine Voyage debuted in 1959 as a part of the new Tomorrowland and was a mainstay at the park until 1998. Even soon after the attraction closed, rumors circulated about a potential replacement. In 2001 the idea was floated to re-theme the submarines around the Disney animated film “Atlantis.” However, when the film underperformed at the box office the idea was shelved. The rumors of a revived submarine attraction became even stronger after the huge success of “Finding Nemo.” Finally, in 2005, the Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage was officially announced and the attraction opened in 2007 to huge crowds.

The new attraction combines the charming undersea voyage of the original submarines with the whimsical setting and characters of Finding Nemo. Guests board one of eight research submarines and set out in search of an active underwater volcano. Through their portholes, Guests see a spectacular underwater environment of coral reefs and ancient ruins. The sub then travels through a waterfall and enters the hidden show building, where Guests find themselves moving through underwater caverns. The captain announces that, due to an amazing new marine technology called "sonar hydrophones" (an homage to the original attraction), they can actually hear the fish talk. Guests then encounter a plethora of characters from the movie as they go in search of Nemo (who is once again lost).

The new attraction actually reused the eight submarines from the original Submarine Voyage. Even all these years later, the attraction’s ride system remains unique among Disney attractions, giving Guests the sensation of travelling deep beneath the ocean’s surface. Boarding through a hatch, descending down a set of spiral stairs, and viewing the attraction through one of forty round portholes, the Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage is very much like the original attraction, creating an authentic submarine experience, while making it relevant to today’s generation with the addition of Finding Nemo characters. In some ways the attraction’s storyline is similar to The Seas with Nemo and Friends at Epcot, but it features several additional scenes that help to flesh out the story.

The Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage is a modern classic, an attraction that very much pays homage to the original Submarine Voyage while still showcasing advancements in technology that have been made since the original first opened. The attraction is certainly one of the most unique to be found at any Disney park. Because it is a ride system that is so uncommon, that is part of what makes the ride so much fun. In addition, incorporating the theming of Finding Nemo helps make the attraction even more entertaining, with its combination of memorable characters and lighthearted moments. Thus, the Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage finds itself at #29 in the top fifty rankings.

#28: The Hall of Presidents, Magic Kingdom

The Hall of Presidents has a long history that goes beyond just being an opening day attraction at the Magic Kingdom on October 1, 1971. For the 1964 New York World’s Fair, Walt Disney Imagineers created a show for the Illinois pavilion entitled “Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln” that featured one of the most advanced Audio Animatronic figures ever created at the time. This World’s Fair exhibit was so successful that a version of the show was created for Disneyland while the Fair was still going on in 1965. At Magic Kingdom, it was decided that Liberty Square would replace New Orleans Square found at Disneyland. This new land would be the perfect location for an attraction that would take Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln to an entirely new level.

This attraction has a degree of majesty and dignity not found in many other Disney attractions. It starts with the exterior of the attraction which is representative of Independence Hall in Philadelphia, continues into the preshow area featuring paintings and memorabilia of numerous presidents, and is most prevalent throughout the course of the actual show itself. From the beautiful artwork throughout the movie, to the stirring quotes from some of our greatest leaders, to the dramatic oratory of Morgan Freeman, the show is extremely moving experience.

There are few experiences in Disney World compare to when the stage full of 43 animatronic presidents is revealed. Each so lifelike in appearance, every detail has been carefully considered, from their hair to their clothing. Two animatronic figures in particular put on truly amazing performances. George Washington and Abraham Lincoln are undoubtedly two of the most influential figures in American history and they are brought to life for Guests at The Hall of Presidents. The movement of these figures is so smooth and the mannerisms so lifelike that it is no surprise that they are two of the most advanced Audio Animatronics at any Disney attraction.

The Hall of Presidents is an attraction whose primary focus is to educate Guests about the history of our nation and its presidents. At the same time, however, it does so in a unique and entertaining way that brings that history to life. When Abraham Lincoln and George Washington are speaking one cannot but help to think that they are real. In addition to this tremendous technology, there are many emotional moments throughout the course of the show that will truly give you goose bumps; you will certainly leave this attraction feeling proud to be an American. For these reasons, The Hall of Presidents ranks #28 in the top fifty rankings.

#27: Mickey and the Magical Map, Disneyland

From a classic show with a long and storied history to a brand new show, this next attraction debuted in May 2013 and has already been receiving rave reviews. Mickey and the Magical Map combines classic Disney songs and characters with groundbreaking technology all encompassed in an original storyline featuring Mickey Mouse as the main character as well as appearances by Yensid, the sorcerer from Fantasia’s Sorcerer’s Apprentice. Disneyland’s Fantasyland Theater has a long history, featuring a variety of shows ranging from Dick Tracy to Beauty and the Beast to The Wiggles. Mickey and the Magical Map is the latest show to occupy this space.

Rather than highlighting one particular Disney animated film, the storyline of Mickey and the Magical Map features Mickey jumping from one story to another through an enchanted map. This enables the show to feature both classic Disney films like “The Jungle Book” and “The Little Mermaid” in addition to modern favorites such as “Princess and the Frog” and “Tangled.” The beauty of this show is that it is tremendously easy for scenes to be switched out over time (to keep up with new Disney films being released) while still preserving the main storyline of the show.

Mickey and the Magical Map is a show that presents some of the most classic moments and songs from many of your favorite Disney movies, but with a new twist. Several of the songs are given more upbeat arrangements and orchestration that give them a slightly different feel. There are also other songs are juxtaposed with each other, such as a song medley first featuring Pocahontas, joined by Mulan, and ultimately Rapunzel and Flynn Rider. The vocal talents of the Cast are truly amazing and added to this is the upbeat choreography of the dancers that really gives the show a high-energy feel.

Adding to all of this is the state-of-the-art technology of the actual map itself. Providing beautiful visuals throughout the course of the show, the map is more than just a backdrop and some of the transitions from screen to live-action are so seamless that you won’t be able to figure how it happens. Combining this technology with classic Disney storytelling, music, and characters, Mickey and the Magical Map has everything you would want and it is the type of show you can watch over and over again. Therefore, Mickey and the Magical map comes in at #27 on the top fifty countdown.

Numbers 34-31

#34: Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular, Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Indiana Jones is easily one of the most beloved and recognizable movie characters of all time. Created by George Lucas, the Indiana Jones movies are filled with tremendous action sequences, thrills, suspense, and daring stunts that often leave you wondering how they were done. This is precisely the premise of the Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular and what makes it the perfect fit in Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

The relationship between Lucasfilm and Disney dates back to well before Disney’s purchase of the company in 2012. In fact, both Indiana Jones and Star Wars had a very large presence at the Disney-MGM Studios in the park’s early years. Opening on August 25, 1989, just three months after the park first opened, the Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular has changed very little since its debut. With a plot revolving heavily around exciting stunts, pyrotechnics, and other special effects, the Epic Stunt Spectacular provides Guests with non-stop action and allows them to see how some of their favorite scenes from “Raiders of the Lost Ark” were produced.

The success and longevity of this show fall heavily upon the timelessness and popularity of Indiana Jones. If it were just a generic stunt show it would not draw in nearly the numbers that it continues to do today. That being said, the show also has some other appealing qualities. Holding true to the movies, the show also features its share of lighthearted and funny moments that help to break up the action, not the least of which involve the extras that are selected from the audience. This is another unique aspect of the show which allows Guests to not merely see how movies are made, but to be a first-hand participant in the moviemaking process.

While many other shows at Disney’s Hollywood Studios have come and gone, the Epic Stunt Spectacular continues to be popular. It is the type of show that is equally action-packed and entertaining so that it keeps you wanting to come back to see it again even though the stunts remain largely the same. With its beautiful sets reminiscent of the movies, popular characters, and a touch of comedy, the Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular is worthy of the number #34 spot on the top fifty countdown.

#33: Grizzly River Run, Disney’s California Adventure

This next attraction is actually the longest, tallest, and fastest river rapids attraction in the world. In typical Disney fashion, however, this is not enough without having an immersive theme and story. While the thrills make the ride fun, the attraction’s overall beauty is really what makes it special. While it might be very similar to Kali River Rapids at Animal Kingdom, Kali cannot match Grizzly River Run in terms of sheer majesty, with Grizzly Peak serving as one of the icons of California Adventure.

Paying tribute to California’s National Parks, Grizzly Peak has a look and feel reminiscent of Yosemite. The backstory for the attraction is that a German emigrant by the name of Jakob Probst discovered gold at Grizzly Peak in the mid-1800s and later sold his claim for millions to the Eureka Gold & Timber Company. The Company was a successful business throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries, extracting gold from the mountain and shipping it to San Francisco. While the mining company closed down in 1950, all the structures remain and are now home to the Grizzly River Rafting Company.

The ride itself highlights the beauty of the area, with Guests making their way through mountain caverns and mine shafts, past trees, waterfalls, and geysers. This is definitely one of the best-themed, most detailed, and immersive attractions at California Adventure. Even the queue is well-themed as Guests pass a series of cliffs that reveal the fossilized remains of some of California’s Ice Age inhabitants. While there are plenty of rapids and drops, Guests on Grizzly River Run do not get quite as wet as those on Kali River Rapids, which also makes the ride more enjoyable.

While much of California Adventure has undergone drastic changes in the recent years, Grizzly River Run has remained largely the same. This is a testament to the design of the attraction that combines classic Disney storytelling and theming with the excitement and thrills of a river rapids attraction. This attraction is also the perfect example of how Disney has improved upon ride technology over the years, as it is longer, taller, and faster than its sister attraction Kali River Rapids. For all these reasons, Grizzly River Run ranks #33 on the top fifty countdown.

#32: Tomorrowland Transit Authority Peoplemover, Magic Kingdom

The Tomorrowland Transit Authority Peoplemover might seem more like a mode of transportation than a theme park attraction, but that is exactly what it was deigned to be. It is also for this reason why the attraction ranks so high on the top fifty list. Formerly known as the WEDWay PeopleMover until 1994 and the Tomorrowland Transit Authority until 2010, this is an attraction with a long and storied history.

The concept of the Peoplemover dates all the way back to the 1964 New York World’s Fair where it was used for the Ford Magic Skyway, an attraction designed by Disney. Walt Disney truly saw this as a futuristic mode of transportation and even included it in the plans for his Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow. The Peoplemover then found a home in Disneyland’s Tomorrowland in 1967. Unlike the Magic Kingdom version, however, Disneyland’s original Peoplemover had vehicles pushed by rotating tires embedded in the track 90 feet apart. The Peoplemover opened at Magic Kingdom on July 1, 1975 and utilized magnets, rather than tires, to propel the vehicles forward.

While the narration has changed several times over the years to reflect the changing theming of Tomorrowland, the ride itself remains the same. While not providing much in terms of thrills, the attraction still offers many admirable qualities, such as being a calm and relaxing escape from the Magic Kingdom crowds, offering scenic views of Tomorrowland, and even a glimpse into Space Mountain all while seldom having much of a wait. For these reasons, the Peoplemover is an attraction that is fun and can be enjoyed by the entire family and that is a huge reason for its longevity. Thanks to its long and storied history, this classic tour of Tomorrowland comes in at #32 in the top fifty rankings.

#31: Under the Sea: Journey of the Little Mermaid, Magic Kingdom

This next attraction is also one of the most recent additions to any Disney park. When the plans for expanding Fantasyland at the Magic Kingdom were announced, a Little Mermaid attraction was promoted as one of the highlights of this new area of the park. While many aspects of the plans changed over time, the Little Mermaid attraction remained untouched. In the mold of the classic Fantasyland dark rides, Under the Sea places Guests right into the middle of the story of The Little Mermaid, experiencing some of the most memorable moments from the movie.

The new Fantasyland is based heavily upon intricate detail and theming that help to create a completely immersive environment that makes Guests feel as if they have stepped into the middle of some of their favorite classic Disney movies. In such a beautifully-themed land, Under the Sea is certainly the crown jewel. Featuring Prince Eric’s castle and the surrounding cliffs, the exterior of the attraction is certainly one of the most stunning and picturesque to be found at Magic Kingdom. The queue is an attraction unto itself as Guests meander through caverns and past waterfalls. The queue also features an interactive scavenger hunt where Guests search for various items amid washed-up relics and treasure.

The ride itself, nearly identical to the one opened at California Adventure a year earlier, is a classic omnimover attraction. The storyline of the ride follows closely to that of the movie and is driven by the movie’s memorable music. While the attraction is reminiscent of the early Fantasyland dark rides, it also shows how much technology has improved over time. The attraction features some impressive Audio Animatronic figures, such as massive Ursula animatronic, in addition to lighting and projection effects that simulate the look and feel of being submerged under water. Another element adding to this is the use of slight temperature changes to give the illusion of being under water.

Under the Sea tells a classic story featuring some of the most beloved Disney characters and memorable music. Immersing Guests into the middle of the story, this is the type of attraction Walt Disney envisioned when he first conceived the idea of constructing theme parks. Combining classic storytelling with new technology, Under the Sea: Journey of the Little Mermaid is one of the most beautiful, detailed, and well themed attractions at Magic Kingdom and a great addition with new Fantasyland. For these reasons, the attraction is #31 in the top 50 rankings.

Numbers 38-35

#38: Mr. Toad's Wild Ride, Disneyland

When Magic Kingdom’s version of Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride closed on September 7, 1998 there was much outcry over the loss of this classic and beloved attraction. Fortunately for all the fans of Mr. Toad, Guests can still experience the craziness and zaniness of this attraction at Disneyland in California. Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride has a long and storied history and was an opening day attraction at both the Magic Kingdom in 1971 and Disneyland in 1955.

To be honest, few Guests visiting the parks today have ever seen “The Adventures of Ichabod and Mr. Toad,” a film that was released in 1959, and fewer still probably know that this film was based on the story “The Wind in the Willows,” which was published in 1908. The popularity of J. Thaddeus Toad is very much due to the theme park attractions. “The Adventures of Ichabod and Mr. Toad” was not a popular success like some of Walt Disney’s other early animated films and yet thousands upon thousands of Guests have ridden the attraction in both Disneyland and at the Magic Kingdom before it closed.

Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride is the quintessential example of classic Disney dark ride. This was the type of attraction that was commonplace in early Fantasyland and was the basis of what Walt was setting out to do in his parks. With attractions like Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride, Snow White’s Scary Adventure, Pinocchio’s Daring Journey, and Peter Pan’s Flight, Walt wanted to put Guests right into the middle of these classic stories and bring his movies to life in a three-dimensional setting that would immerse Guests and make them a part of the story. Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride does this very successfully thanks in large part to the wild and crazy nature of the attraction and a lighthearted and whimsical feel that make it entertaining for the entire family.

Mr. Toad may no longer be a part of the Magic Kingdom, but his legacy continues to endure at Disneyland. The fact that this attraction has been around since opening day is a testament to the ride’s design, storyline, and characters. While the technology is far from groundbreaking, this attraction continues to entertain Guests and keeps them coming back again and again. It is without a doubt one of the most classic of all Disney attractions. Thus, Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride ranks #38 on the top fifty countdown.

#37: Turtle Talk with Crush, Epcot

Moving from old technology to the state-of-the-art, Turtle Talk with Crush is a great example of how far attractions have come since Walt Disney first opened Disneyland. Walt sought to immerse Guests into the stories of his movies, but there is no way that he ever would have thought it possible for Guests to actually be able to converse with one of the characters from those movies. When it opened at Epcot’s Seas pavilion in 2004, Turtle Talk with Crush was one of the most unique and technologically advanced experiences ever put into a theme park. Although similar experiences have now been created in Disney parks around the world, Epcot’s Turtle Talk with Crush continues to amaze Guests of all ages.

From the technological side, Turtle Talk with Crush is a modern marvel as Crush is brought to life in real-time and seamlessly swims across the screen conversing and interacting with the audience. While the technology is groundbreaking, the major appeal of the attraction is its interactive nature. Turtle Talk with Crush really brought interactivity to a whole new level, making audiences a part of the show like never before. Really, it is the audience (and especially the kids) that make the show what it is. It is Crush’s job to play off of what the audience gives him and, because of this, every show is going to be different.

This is one reason why Turtle Talk with Crush is one of the highest rated shows in Epcot, its tremendous re-watchability keeping Guests coming back again and again. Not only is it amazing to see how little kids react when they realize that Crush is actually talking to them, but it is also extremely entertaining to hear some of the questions that these kids come up with. While you do get the common questions like “What do you eat?” or “How long can you hold your breath?” the show becomes all the funnier when you get the completely random questions. Added to this is the more intimate setting of Turtle Talk, with kids sitting on the floor close-up to the screen, that really makes everyone in the theater feel as though they are a part of the show rather than just watching the show. For all of these reasons, Turtle Talk with Crush comes in at #37 in the top fifty rankings.

#36: Beauty and the Beast: Live on Stage, Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Beauty and the Beast is one of the most beloved Disney animated movies of all time as well as the first animated film ever to be nominated for the Academy Award for best picture. It is a movie that is a classic in every sense, from a storyline that runs a whole gamut of emotions that allow it to be appreciated just as much by adults as children, a plethora of memorable characters, and amazing music with truly unforgettable songs. Therefore, it is not surprising that this memorable story has a large presence at Disney parks around the world.

What many people may not realize is that Beauty and the Beast: Live on Stage premiered at the Disney-MGM Studios on the same day that the movie was released in 1991. This stage show highlights some of the best moments from the movie and is driven by the movie’s music. Featuring beautiful sets, high-energy choreography, and memorable songs like “Belle,” “Be Our Guest,” and “Beauty and the Beast,” the show has almost a Broadway-caliber feel.

Beauty and the Beast: Live on Stage is an attraction that is very much like the movie it is based upon; it is a show that has withstood the test of time and remains as endearing to Guests today as it did back in 1991. The show, despite relocating multiple times, has changed very little from when it first debuted (just a slight change in the order of songs) and is currently the longest-running live stage show at Disney World. For many Guests visiting Disney World, Beauty and the Beast is the pinnacle of Disney animation. For our generation, it is one of the films that helped define our childhood. Beauty and the Beast: Live on Stage continues to keep the film’s legacy alive and comes in at #36 on the top fifty countdown.

#35: It's a Small World, Disneyland

When it comes to Disney heritage, there is probably no attraction that has more significance and history than It’s a Small World. Created by WED Enterprises for the 1964 New York World's Fair, It’s a Small World was one of four attractions which were used by Disney to test concepts and ride systems and then moved and re-built at Disneyland after the World's Fair closed in 1966. Amazingly, Disney was given only 11 months to create and build the ride.

While all the versions of It’s a Small World found at Disney parks around the world are relatively similar, there are several reasons why I prefer Disneyland’s version to that of Disney World’s. In addition to being the original, the first and foremost reason is the attraction’s magnificent exterior. With a facade of stylized turrets, towers, and minarets reminiscent of world landmarks (such as the Eiffel Tower and the Leaning Tower of Pisa), Disneyland’s It’s a Small World is one of the most iconic sights in the entire park and a commanding presence in Fantasyland. The facade was designed by Imagineer Rolly Crump who was inspired by Mary Blair's styling inside the attraction.

Another appealing aspect of Disneyland’s version is actually a recent addition. When I first heard that Disney characters were being added into this classic attraction I was very worried, but after seeing it in person I realized my fears were unfounded. Closed from January to November of 2008, the attraction’s refurbishment added 36 new characters in their native land, such as Pinocchio and in Italy, Mulan and Mushu in China, etc. What makes this so successful is that the new characters were done in Mary Blair’s original style and, for the most part, blend in with the existing dolls extremely well without drawing too much attention to themselves.

It’s a Small World is one of Disney’s most storied and iconic attractions. With a message that emphasizes world unity and harmony all set to the Sherman Brother’s cheerful and catchy song, It’s a Small World continues to delight Guests of all ages. It’s a Small World has a degree of nostalgia and history not matched by many other attractions, a project that Walt Disney himself had such a major role in creating. Thus, It’s a Small World finds a place at #35 in the top fifty rankings.