Rides You Absolutely Cannot Miss at Disney California Adventure Park
I just spent a full week at Disneyland Resort, and if there’s one thing I can tell you — Disney California Adventure Park is not the park to skip. It’s packed with rides that surprised me in the best ways, from heart-racing coasters to nostalgic storybook adventures.
What I loved most is how different it feels from Disneyland next door. You’ve got Pixar Pier glowing at night, Cars Land looking like it’s straight out of the movie, and some of the most unique rides Disney has ever designed. Honestly, I left wishing I had more time there.
If you’re planning a trip to Los Angeles, make sure Disney California Adventure Park is on your list. To help you decide what’s worth lining up for, here are the 12 best rides you absolutely can’t miss.
1) Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT!
This is the ride that gets your heart racing and your stomach dropping — literally. With randomized drop sequences, you never know if you’re shooting up or plummeting down next. Add in classic rock anthems and Rocket’s chaotic banter, and you’ve got a Marvel ride that’s both thrilling and hilarious.
I did not have time to pose...
I’ll admit — I went in expecting one giant, terrifying drop and nothing else. But the moment Rocket takes over and the storyline kicks in, you’re pulled into a full-on adventure with multiple smaller drops instead of one huge fall.
As someone who’s usually terrified of drop rides, I was surprised by how fun (and manageable) it felt. Trust me, it’s not nearly as scary as it looks from the outside.
🎟️ Klook Tip: When booking your Disney California Adventure tickets on Klook, add the Lightning Lane Multi Pass — it’s the easiest way to skip the queue and guarantee you get on this must-do ride without the long wait.
2) Incredicoaster
Credit: Disneyland Resort
California Adventure’s biggest coaster launches you from 0 to 55 mph in just a few seconds — and that’s only the start. The Incredicoaster combines loops, drops, and high-speed turns with a playful “Incredibles” storyline. It’s the longest coaster at any Disney park, so thrill-seekers will want to ride more than once.
This ended up being my absolute favorite ride of the day! I recommend doing it twice if you can: once during the day to soak in the scenery, and again at night when the whole pier lights up. It feels like two completely different rides.
3) Radiator Springs Racers
The laidback Radiator Springs is the star of this show! Credits: @thedisneytravelguy on Instagram
Step into “Cars Land” and buckle up for the park’s most immersive ride. You’ll cruise through Radiator Springs before speeding off in a head-to-head race. The animatronics and scenery are some of Disney’s best, making it just as fun for kids as it is for adults.
💡 Klook Tip: Radiator Springs Racers is extremely popular. Lines can easily hit two hours, and it’s not included in the standard Lightning Lane Multi Pass — you’ll need to purchase an Individual Lightning Lane if you want to skip the queue.
4) Goofy’s Sky School
Don’t underestimate this wild mouse-style coaster — it may look small, but Goofy’s Sky School packs in plenty of sharp turns, sudden drops, and laugh-out-loud moments. Inspired by Goofy’s attempt to teach flying, the ride zig-zags high above the ground, making you feel like you’re about to fly right off the track (in the best way possible).
I was surprised at how much fun this one was. It’s not a massive thrill ride like the Incredicoaster, but the combination of tight turns and Goofy’s silly theming makes it a must-try, especially if you enjoy coasters with a bit of humor.
5) Soarin’ Around the World
If you’ve ever dreamed of flying, this is as close as it gets. You’ll glide over the Great Wall of China, the Taj Mahal, and other landmarks, complete with wind in your hair and scents in the air. It’s peaceful, breathtaking, and one of Disney’s most beautiful rides.
6) Web Slingers: A Spider-Man Adventure
Get ready to sling webs just like Spidey himself. Using motion-tracking tech, you’ll throw webs with your hands to capture rogue Spider-Bots in a fast-paced interactive ride. It’s a workout, but it’s also one of the coolest new attractions at the park.
This one was a lot of fun! I’ve tried plenty of shooting-style rides before, but never one where your hands are the actual weapons. There’s something so satisfying about flicking your wrist and seeing webs shoot across the screen — it really makes you feel like Spider-Man.
7) Pixar Pal-A-Round (Swinging & Non-Swinging)
This giant Ferris wheel is an iconic part of the park’s skyline. You can choose the calm non-swinging gondolas or the swinging ones that slide back and forth (spoiler: they’re much scarier than they look!). Either way, the views of Pixar Pier and beyond are unbeatable.
8) Toy Story Midway Mania
Grab your 3D glasses and get competitive — this ride turns you into part of a giant carnival game hosted by Woody and Buzz. Pull the string to shoot rings, darts, and baseballs at digital targets as your cart spins between mini-games. It’s ridiculously fun and surprisingly addictive.
9) Grizzly River Run
When the California sun gets hot, this water raft ride is the perfect way to cool off. You’ll spin, splash, and probably get soaked while rushing down whitewater rapids. It’s especially fun with a group since no one escapes dry.
10) The Little Mermaid – Ariel’s Undersea Adventure
Step into a clamshell and ride through the story of The Little Mermaid. With colorful animatronics, music from the film, and air-conditioning (yes, that matters on hot days), it’s a relaxing and nostalgic ride for all ages.
Since The Little Mermaid is one of my favorite Disney movies, this ride felt extra special — almost like stepping straight into the film. It’s not a thrill ride by any means, but the music and familiar scenes make it a heartwarming, nostalgic experience that’s worth doing at least once.
11) Luigi’s Rollickin’ Roadsters
This Cars Land ride is all about dancing cars. Luigi’s fleet of roadsters spin and glide across the track in a synchronized dance set to Italian music. It’s quirky, charming, and different every time since the cars follow randomized patterns.
Book Your Disney California Adventure Park Tickets on Klook
Ready to experience all these rides for yourself? Skip the stress of long ticket lines at the gate by booking your Disney California Adventure Park tickets in advance with Klook.
Not only will you lock in your entry hassle-free, but you’ll also enjoy instant confirmation and flexible options to fit your travel plans!
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