Planning a trip to Disney California Adventure and trying to figure out what the best rides at Disney California Adventure are? Whether you’re putting together your itinerary or wondering which attractions to prioritize, you’ve landed in the right place!
California Adventure (or DCA, as many fans call it) is home to some of Disney’s most thrilling, immersive, and just plain fun rides—and I’ve ranked my favorites from best to… still pretty great. You’ll find helpful details on each ride’s height requirements, average duration, and tips for avoiding long lines.
Let’s dive into the best rides at California Adventure and help you make the most of your park day!
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1. Radiator Springs Racers
Height Requirement: 40″
Ride Time: 4 minutes
This is hands-down my favorite ride at DCA. Radiator Springs Racers is incredibly popular, and for good reason. As you wind your way through the queue, take in all the clever signage and details—Disney really nailed the feeling of being in Radiator Springs.
The ride itself is a perfect mix of storytelling and thrills. You’ll meet Mater, Lightning McQueen, and other Cars characters before zooming off on a high-speed race that reaches up to 60mph. It’s exhilarating but smooth, and honestly, it never gets old.
Line Tip: Get to this ride at rope drop and head straight there. You’ll likely only wait 30–40 minutes early in the day. If you want to ride again later, try the single rider line—it’s usually much faster!
2. Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: Breakout!
Height Requirement: 40″
Ride Time: 2 minutes
This ride is such a blast—literally! Replacing the Tower of Terror, Guardians keeps the drop tower concept but makes it fun and upbeat with rock music and Marvel characters. The energy is high, and every ride experience can be slightly different depending on the music track.
Pro Tip: This one gets long lines fast. Use Genie+ if you have it, or make it your first ride of the day if you’re not heading to Radiator Springs first.
3. Incredicoaster
Height Requirement: 48″
Ride Time: 2.5 minutes
If you love coasters, the Incredicoaster is a must! The retheme featuring The Incredibles added a fun story overlay and music, which makes the ride feel a lot more immersive. It’s fast, includes a loop, and has some great visuals. Even if you’re a bit coaster-shy, the theming helps take the edge off.
Line Tip: Try the single rider line to save time if you’re okay riding solo.
4. WEB SLINGERS: A Spider-Man Adventure
Height Requirement: None
Ride Time: 3 minutes
This interactive ride is great for all ages. You get to sling webs like Spider-Man in a 3D virtual game-style adventure. The tech is impressive—you don’t need a controller, just your own movements.
Queue Tip: The queue is packed with Easter eggs for Marvel fans. And keep your eyes up—you might even spot Spider-Man flying overhead outside!
5. Soarin’ Around the World
Height Requirement: 40″
Ride Time: 5 minutes
Soarin’ is one of those rides that really takes you away. You’ll be lifted into the air and glide over iconic landscapes, with scent and wind effects to make it feel even more real. I personally miss Soarin’ Over California (the orange groves were my favorite), but the global version is still magical.
Motion Sickness Note: If heights bother you, ask for the lower row—it helps a lot!
6. Toy Story Midway Mania
Height Requirement: None
Ride Time: 8 minutes
This ride is pure fun and totally interactive. You’ll compete in carnival-style games featuring Toy Story characters by “shooting” targets with your blaster. My husband loves this ride—he’s super competitive, and we always joke about who wins.
Line Tip: The wait can get long and much of it is outside. Head here early if it’s a priority for you.
7. Grizzly River Run
Height Requirement: 42″
Ride Time: 6 minutes
Love water rides? You’ll love this whitewater rafting adventure. But take it from me—bring a poncho! My daughter got absolutely drenched once and was not a fan. Still, it’s fun, especially on a hot day.
Weather Tip: Lines are shorter when it’s cooler outside. Use Genie+ or go when the sun’s out and others are trying to cool off.
8. The Little Mermaid – Ariel’s Undersea Adventure
Height Requirement: None
Ride Time: 7 minutes
A calm, classic dark ride that retells Ariel’s story with great animatronics and music. It’s perfect for little ones, but honestly, I think adults enjoy it too—it’s such a nice break from the more intense rides.
Bonus: The line here is almost always short!
9. Monsters, Inc. Mike & Sulley to the Rescue!
Height Requirement: None
Ride Time: 3 minutes
This one’s only at Disneyland Resort, which makes it a fun must-do. It’s especially great for younger kids, but fans of the movie will enjoy it, too. You’ll ride through the story of Boo and her monster friends.
Timing Tip: Check the app for shorter waits throughout the day and hop in line when it’s low.
10. Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree
Height Requirement: 32″
Ride Time: 3 minutes
This ride is surprisingly fun! It’s a whip-style ride with Mater’s music playing, and younger kids love it. When my son was five, he wanted to go again and again.
Line Info: The line moves pretty quickly thanks to double loading areas.
Honorable Mentions
These rides are cute and charming but didn’t quite make my top 10:
- Inside Out Emotional Whirlwind
- Silly Symphony Swings
- Golden Zephyr
- Goofy’s Sky School
- Jessie’s Critter Carousel
- Jumpin’ Jellyfish
- Luigi’s Rollickin’ Roadsters
- Mickey’s PhilharMagic
- Pixar Pal-A-Round
They’re especially fun for little ones or if you want that boardwalk vibe!
Best Rides for Kids Under 5
Yes, there are plenty of rides little ones can enjoy at DCA!
Some great picks include:
- The Little Mermaid
- Toy Story Midway Mania
- Monsters, Inc.
- Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree
- Many rides on Pixar Pier
- Web Slingers (great with help!)
- Even Radiator Springs Racers (if they hit the height mark)
While Disneyland might be better overall for toddlers (hello, Fantasyland!), California Adventure still has lots for the little ones.
Pro Tips for Planning Rides at Disney California Adventure
I hope this list helps you figure out your must-do rides at California Adventure! Whether you’re planning your first visit or your fiftieth, have the best time at Disneyland, the Happiest Place on Earth.
Don’t forget:
- Some rides get spooky overlays during Halloween!
- Genie+ can save tons of time.
- Arrive early if you want to knock out popular rides like Radiator Springs and Guardians.
Looking for discounted Disney tickets or Disney hotel tips? I recommend checking out Get Away Today and David’s Vacation Club Rentals—they can save you a lot!
Join the Community!
Got questions or want more Disney tips? Come hang out in my Disney Facebook Group or the Family Travel Community. I post travel deals, helpful tips, and it’s a great place to get advice from other Disney fans.
