Disney World Water Rides: Ranked From Mild to Wild

WHICH DISNEY WORLD WATER RIDES SHOULD BE ON YOUR MUST-DO LIST?

When that Florida sun is blazing, finding ways to cool off at Disney World is a must—and Disney World water rides are the perfect solution! After countless trips with my family, we’ve made a habit of seeking out the best ways to beat the heat, and water rides have always been our go-to adventure.

The water rides at Disney World are more than just a fun way to cool down—they add a splash of adventure to your day and are some of the most underrated attractions in the parks!

In this guide, I’ll share:

• Water rides in Each Disney World park
• Tips to Stay (Mostly) Dry on Water Rides
• Other Clever Ways to Stay Cool During Your Visit

So, if you’re ready to make a splash and explore Disney’s wettest, wildest attractions, let’s dive in! I’ve got all the details to help you plan a magical, refreshing day.

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Ranking Disney World Water Rides

When it comes to Disney World water rides, these first picks are perfect for staying cool and having fun.

Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach offer a great way to take a break from the main parks while still packing in plenty of Disney magic. These water parks have something for everyone, from laid-back floating to big, splashy thrills.

Mild – Castaway Creek

If you’re looking for a low-key way to cool off, Castaway Creek at Typhoon Lagoon is a must-try. This lazy river winds through 2,000 feet of beautiful rainforest scenery, giving you a chance to relax and enjoy the tropical vibes.

What I love about Castaway Creek is how easy it is to join the fun. With five different landings, you can grab an inner tube and float for as long as you want before hopping out at your next stop. It’s the perfect way to cool off when the Florida heat starts to feel like a little too much.

Families with little ones will appreciate the baby float tubes, which are free to use and allowed in the river as long as a parent is supervising. It’s a simple but magical way to enjoy some family time while staying cool.

Castaway Creek is one of those rides that feels like a mini escape. Just sit back, relax, and let the current do the work!

Wild – Crush ‘n’ Gusher

If you’re craving a water ride with a bit more excitement, Crush ‘n’ Gusher at Typhoon Lagoon is calling your name!

This 400-foot-long water coaster is packed with twists, turns, and sudden drops that’ll keep your adrenaline pumping from start to finish. Set in a quirky, abandoned fruit-processing plant, the ride even has a fun backstory to match the thrills.

One of the coolest parts? You can grab a raft with a friend (or go solo!) and take on the sharp turns and steep plunges together. By the time you splash down into Hideaway Bay, you’ll be laughing and ready to go again.

If you’re up for a ride that mixes water park fun with roller coaster vibes, Crush ‘n’ Gusher is definitely a must-try!

TRAVELISTA TIP: Crush ‘n’ Cusher has an elevator available for guests with disabilities! Making it a great water ride for everyone in the family!

Wild – Summit Plummet

If you’re all about chasing thrills, Summit Plummet at Disney’s Blizzard Beach is the water ride you can’t miss. This is the ultimate test for adrenaline junkies!

Sitting high atop Mount Gushmore, this 12-story slide is the centerpiece of Blizzard Beach—and for good reason. The nearly vertical drop is intense, giving you that free-fall feeling as you race to the bottom.

What makes it even cooler? Summit Plummet isn’t just the tallest water slide at Disney World—it’s one of the tallest and fastest water slides in the world. Yep, you’re plummeting down at speeds that’ll leave you breathless and grinning ear to ear by the time you hit the bottom.

If you’re up for the challenge, Summit Plummet is waiting. Just be ready to say, “That was wild!” when it’s all over.

TRAVELISTA TIP: Before you visit the water parks at Disney World be sure to check their calendar. It is not unusual for one of the two parks to be closed for refurbishment for several months at a time.

Best Disney World Water Rides – Magic Kingdom

If you’re skipping the water parks or just don’t have time for them on this trip, don’t worry—there are still plenty of fantastic Disney World water rides right inside the theme parks!

Mild – Jungle Cruise

Over in Adventureland at Magic Kingdom, Jungle Cruise is a classic ride that’s been entertaining families for decades. This 10-minute riverboat adventure takes you through lush landscapes inspired by the Amazon, complete with playful animatronics and some of the corniest jokes you’ll ever hear.

Your skipper, who’s equal parts guide and stand-up comedian, will have you either laughing out loud or rolling your eyes—but that’s half the fun! As you cruise, be on the lookout for mischievous hippos, boats gone missing, and, of course, the famous backside of water. (It’s a thing—you’ll see!)

I’ll be honest, Jungle Cruise isn’t my personal favorite, but I can see why it’s such a hit. It’s lighthearted, great for all ages, and perfect for cooling off while still soaking up some Disney magic.

Mild – Pirates of the Caribbean

Pirates of the Caribbean isn’t just a ride—it’s a Disney classic that inspired an entire movie franchise. While it’s not the splashiest attraction on this list, the small drop and a little misty surprise make it a refreshing break during your day at Magic Kingdom.

As you sail through the 17th-century Caribbean, you’ll find yourself in the middle of a pirate adventure, complete with rowdy buccaneers pillaging coastal towns and singing their iconic tune, “Yo Ho, Yo Ho, A Pirate’s Life for Me!” Keep an eye out for Captain Jack Sparrow—you never know where he’ll pop up!

This ride has that perfect mix of nostalgia and Disney magic, with the sights, sounds, and even smells (yes, really!) that keep me coming back for more. It’s a favorite in my family, and we almost always make time to ride it more than once during our Magic Kingdom days.

Wild – Tiana’s Bayou Adventure

Tiana’s Bayou Adventure has quickly become a favorite for my family, and it’s easy to see why. Anytime we’re at Magic Kingdom, this ride is a must-do—twice if we can swing it! Fair warning, though: you will get wet on this one, so plan accordingly.

Right in the heart of Frontierland, this reimagined log flume ride pulls you into Tiana’s world with vibrant scenes, catchy music, and fun nods to The Princess and the Frog. As you float along the southern bayou, you’ll meet familiar characters and take in the lively atmosphere before the real thrills begin.

One of the things we love most about Tiana’s Bayou Adventure is how it balances storytelling with excitement. There are three smaller drops sprinkled throughout the ride to keep things interesting, but the real showstopper is the five-story plunge at the end.

And don’t miss the view at the top of the climb! Right before you take that big drop, you’ll get an incredible glimpse of Cinderella’s Castle—it’s one of those magical moments that makes Disney so special.

Between the charming story, the fun splashes, and the big thrills, Tiana’s Bayou Adventure is always a highlight of our Magic Kingdom days.

TRAVELISTA TIP: Tiana’s Bayou Adventure opened in June 2024! It is a complete retheming of the beloved Splash Mountain. While the story line may be different, the ride itself still offers up the same splash!

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Mild – “It’s a Small World”

I know, I know—the song might get stuck in your head for days, but can you really say you’ve done Disney World if you skip “It’s a Small World”?

For my family, this ride is a must-do because of its incredible history. It was originally created for the 1964-65 New York World’s Fair and was personally overseen by Walt Disney himself. After wowing visitors there, the attraction was shipped to Disneyland in California, and in 1971, a replica opened at Walt Disney World as one of its opening day attractions.

There’s just something magical about floating through this little piece of Disney history. As you glide down the Seven Seaways Waterway, you’ll pass by colorful scenes and famous landmarks from countries all over the globe. My family likes to turn it into a game, trying to see how many countries we can name along the way!

Sure, the song might play on repeat, but honestly, that’s part of the charm. It’s classic Disney nostalgia, and for us, it’s a tradition we never skip.

Mild – Casey Jr. Splash ‘n’ Soak Station

If you’re visiting Magic Kingdom with little ones, you’ve got to check out Casey Jr. Splash ‘n’ Soak Station. It’s the perfect spot to cool off and let the kids burn off some energy while you take a breather.

This adorable water play area, inspired by the classic Disney movie Dumbo, is a favorite in my family—especially for my daughter. On those sweltering Florida afternoons, watching her giggle and dash through the fountains or get soaked by the circus animals is one of those simple, joyful moments that makes Disney so special.

If you’re planning to stop here, make sure to pack swimsuits or a change of clothes for your little ones, plus some water shoes to keep it comfortable. It’s a fun and refreshing break that your kids will talk about long after your trip is over!

TRAVELISTA TIP: One of the things I love about this splash pad area is that there are bathrooms located right outside of it. It is perfect for changing into swimsuits or changing out of soaking clothes so that you don’t have to spend the rest of your day wet!

Best Disney World Water Rides – EPCOT

EPCOT might have a reputation as more of an adult park, but there’s plenty of family fun to enjoy here too. Along with its nightlife and cultural experiences, EPCOT has some fantastic family-friendly attractions—including a water ride or two!

Mild – Journey of Water Inspired by Moana

One of the newest and most exciting additions to EPCOT is Journey of Water Inspired by Moana. I had the chance to preview this attraction before it opened to the public, and it’s such a creative and fun experience.

This interactive attraction blends entertainment with education, letting you explore the water cycle in a way that’s both engaging and hands-on. It’s also a great way to cool off in the Florida heat, especially with its small splash pad area. Just a heads-up—you might leave a little wetter than expected, so pack a change of clothes if you plan to explore it all!

If you’ve got a Moana fan in your family, this is definitely a must-see during your EPCOT day.

Mild – Frozen Ever After

If you have Frozen fans in your family, Frozen Ever After at EPCOT is a must-do. It’s easily one of the most popular attractions in the park, especially for kids who can’t get enough of Elsa, Anna, and Olaf!

This charming ride takes you on a journey through Arendelle aboard an ancient Nordic vessel. From the moment you step into the queue, the theming pulls you right into the Frozen story. Once you board the boat, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported into the movie, with stunning scenes and all your favorite characters along the way.

What makes Frozen Ever After even more unique is the ride experience itself. There’s a small drop, similar to Pirates of the Caribbean, but you’ll also encounter a fun backward plunge that adds a little extra excitement. It’s the perfect mix of mild thrills and magical storytelling.

Frozen Ever After is always on our must-do list when we visit EPCOT, and I think you’ll love it too!

Mild – Gran Fiesta Tour

Gran Fiesta Tour is one of EPCOT’s hidden gems and my personal favorite water ride in the park—I can’t get enough of it! Tucked away inside the Mayan Pyramid at the Mexico pavilion, it’s easy to miss if you’re not looking for it, but trust me, it’s worth the stop.

Once you set sail, the ride takes you on a relaxing journey through some of Mexico’s most scenic spots. Keep an eye out for Donald Duck along the way—he’s always up to something and adds a fun twist to this charming attraction.

Gran Fiesta Tour is one of those rides that’s perfect for cooling off, taking a break, and soaking up some Disney magic. It’s a must-do for me every time we visit EPCOT!

TRAVELISTA TIP: Before you board your boat, take some time to explore the pavilion. The Mexican market inside is full of authentic food and shopping.

Mild – Living with the Land

Living with the Land offers a unique spin on a Disney World water ride. Tucked inside the Land Pavilion at EPCOT, this relaxing boat ride is part entertainment, part education—and completely fascinating.

The journey starts with a tour through the history of farming. You’ll see how agriculture has evolved over time. Then, you’ll float into Disney’s impressive greenhouses. You’ll get an up-close look at how their horticulturalists use cutting-edge techniques to grow food sustainably.

From vertical gardens to floating plants, the greenhouses showcase some truly creative ways to help feed our planet. It’s such a cool mix of Disney magic and real-world science.

If you’re looking for a laid-back water ride with a little extra inspiration, Living with the Land is one to add to your list!

TRAVELISTA TIP: After your boat ride, make sure to check out Sunshine Seasons or the Garden Grille. You can enjoy a meal made up of the produce and fish found in the greenhouses.

Mild – The Seas with Nemo and Friends

Okay, I’ll admit it—The Seas with Nemo and Friends isn’t technically a Disney World water ride, but hear me out. There’s one feature that makes it a must-include on this list.

The first time my family rode this attraction, we were enjoying the underwater adventure with Nemo, Dory, and their friends when we realized something incredible—the ride actually leads you into a full-blown aquarium! Somehow, we had planned our trip without knowing Disney World had an aquarium, and it completely blew us away.

While the ride itself is a gentle and colorful journey under the sea, the real highlight is what comes next. The saltwater aquarium you get to explore afterward is home to all kinds of marine life. It’s such a cool bonus to this family-friendly attraction.

So, while it may not technically qualify as a water ride, The Seas with Nemo and Friends earns its spot on this list for the magical underwater world waiting at the end.

TRAVELISTA TIP: There is a self-guided scavenger hunt in the aquarium! Solve clues and collect stickers as you learn about all the creatures that call the aquarium home!

Best Disney World Water Rides – Animal Kingdom

When most people hear “Animal Kingdom,” they tend to think, “Oh, it’s just a zoo.” But let me tell you, it’s so much more than that! Animal Kingdom is home to some truly amazing attractions, including a few fantastic water rides.

Mild – Na’vi River Journey

Tucked deep in the heart of Pandora at Animal Kingdom, Na’vi River Journey is one of the most beautiful and relaxing Disney World water rides you’ll find. The entire land, inspired by James Cameron’s Avatar, is breathtaking, with its floating mountains, glowing plants, and otherworldly atmosphere.

On this ride, you’ll board a boat for a peaceful journey through Pandora’s bioluminescent rainforest. I’m always in awe of the vibrant plants and glowing creatures that surround you as you drift along the river. The highlight for me? Rounding the corner to meet the Na’vi Shaman of Songs, a stunning animatronic that feels larger than life and absolutely magical.

Na’vi River Journey is the perfect blend of storytelling and serene exploration, making it a must-do when you’re visiting Animal Kingdom

Wild – Kali River Rapids

Last but certainly not least, Kali River Rapids earns its spot as the wildest water ride on this list—and it just so happens to be my daughter’s absolute favorite! Fair warning: if you’re hopping on this one, you should expect to get soaked.

This whitewater adventure takes you through the heart of Asia at Animal Kingdom, and the excitement starts as soon as your raft begins to spin down the river. Along the way, you might glide under a waterfall (or two!) before the big finale: a thrilling 20-foot plunge that ends with a giant splash. Let’s just say no one leaves this ride dry!

Kali River Rapids is a must-do for thrill-seekers and anyone looking to cool off on a hot day at Disney. Just pack a poncho or embrace the fun—you’ll definitely be making some unforgettable memories either way!

How to Stay Dry on Water Rides at Disney World

Love the thrill of a water ride but hate the idea of walking around soaked afterward? I get it! Here are a few tried-and-true tips I use to stay mostly dry when riding Disney World water attractions:

✔️ Wear a rain poncho. Throwing on a poncho before hopping on Tiana’s Bayou Adventure or Kali River Rapids is a game-changer. It’s the easiest way to enjoy the ride without worrying about getting drenched. I always pack a few ponchos for our Disney trips—they’re lightweight, easy to carry, and worth every penny.

✔️ Use the lockers. Got a backpack, camera, or anything that really can’t get wet? Rent a locker to keep your stuff safe and dry. You’ll find lockers available in each Disney World park, and they’re a lifesaver when it comes to protecting your valuables.

✔️ Bring a change of clothes. If being wet all day just isn’t your thing, pack a quick change of clothes in your park bag. Don’t forget a wet bag to stash those damp items until you can get back to your hotel. It’s an easy way to stay comfortable without skipping the water ride fun.

✔️ Wear quick-drying clothes and shoes. Opt for moisture-wicking shirts and shorts that dry quickly—you’ll thank me later! And don’t forget about your feet. I swear by my Crocs sandals for the parks, especially on water ride days. They’re comfy, practical, and dry super fast.

Other Ways to Stay Cool at Disney World

Water rides are an awesome way to beat the Florida heat, but they’re not the only option! Here are some of my favorite ways to stay cool while enjoying your Disney World adventure:

Relax at Themed Pools: Disney resorts have some of the most incredible pools! Mid-day breaks for a swim are a lifesaver, especially during the hotter months. Each pool has its own unique theme that adds an extra touch of magic to your day.

TRAVELISTA TIP: Check out my Guide to the Campsites at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort to check out their amazing pool with 67′ corkscrew water slide!

Find Indoor Attractions: Escape the heat by checking out some indoor attractions and shows. My personal favorites? Carousel of Progress and Spaceship Earth. They’re perfect for cooling off while enjoying a little Disney history and fun.

Enjoy Frozen Treats: From iconic Dole Whip to Mickey-shaped ice cream bars, Disney is full of frozen treats that are as refreshing as they are delicious. They’re my go-to when I need a quick cool-down!

Cooling Stations and Misting Areas: Keep an eye out for cooling stations and misting areas throughout the parks. They’re great for a quick burst of cool air or a refreshing mist on those extra-hot days.

Wear Cooling Accessories: Cooling towels are an absolute game-changer! Everyone in my family carries one, and they make a huge difference on hot park days. We also love portable misting fans for a little extra relief.

Stay Hydrated: Staying hydrated is so important! You can grab free cups of ice water from any quick-service restaurant, but I always recommend bringing a reusable water bottle.

TRAVELISTA TIP: There are water bottle refill stations throughout the parks so you can make sure your water bottle stays full for a full park day!

Dress Appropriately: Light, breathable clothing and a good sun hat are must-haves. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself later!

Which Disney World Park Has the Most Water Rides?

If cooling off is your goal, Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach should be at the top of your Disney World itinerary. These two parks aren’t just dedicated water parks—they’re packed with a huge variety of attractions that will keep the whole family happy.

Whether you’re up for thrilling water slides, want to relax on a lazy river, or are ready to dive into a wave pool, these parks have it all. They’re the ultimate way to escape the Florida heat while making a splash and enjoying the most water rides Disney World has to offer.

If you’re looking for a fun and refreshing break from the theme parks, Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach are a must-visit!

Purchase Your Disney World Tickets Here

If you’re dreaming of cooling off on Disney’s top water rides, it’s time to make a plan that lets you enjoy every splash without the stress.

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Final Thoughts: Best Disney World Water Rides

There’s no shortage of ways to make magical memories at Disney World, but enjoying the water rides is definitely one of my favorites! Whether you’re up for the excitement of a big splash or just want to relax on a peaceful boat ride, Disney World’s water attractions have something for everyone.

So grab your poncho, pack a change of clothes, and get ready to make a splash on your next visit!

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