The Ultimate Guide to Fantasyland: Must-Do Rides, Things to Skip, and the Best Snacks!

Visiting Fantasyland at Disneyland is like stepping into a fairytale. It’s the heart of the park, filled with magic, nostalgia, and beloved Disney characters. If you only have an hour or two to explore this enchanting land, you’ll want to make the most of your time. In this guide, I’ll cover the must-do attractions, what to skip, and the best snacks you absolutely have to try!

What is Fantasyland?

Fantasyland is the original part of Disneyland that brings classic Disney fairytales to life. It was one of the lands present on opening day in 1955, and since then, it has remained one of the most magical places in the park. The area is designed to make guests feel like they are walking through a medieval European village, complete with a fairytale castle and charming storybook architecture.

Fantasyland is home to some of the oldest rides in the park, many of which are still fan favorites today. It’s also the perfect place for families with small children to experience gentle, whimsical attractions that capture the spirit of Disney magic.

The Attractions of Fantasyland

Here is a complete list of rides and attractions you’ll find in Fantasyland:

  • Peter Pan’s Flight
  • Mad Tea Party (Teacups)
  • Dumbo the Flying Elephant
  • Snow White’s Enchanted Wish
  • Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride
  • Alice in Wonderland
  • King Arthur Carrousel
  • Pinocchio’s Daring Journey
  • Storybook Land Canal Boats
  • Casey Jr. Circus Train
  • It’s a Small World
  • Matterhorn Bobsleds
  • Sleeping Beauty Castle Walkthrough

It’s important to note that most Fantasyland attractions do not offer Lightning Lane. The only exceptions are Matterhorn Bobsleds and It’s a Small World, which allow you to skip the standard queue if you have Genie+.

Must-Do Rides in Fantasyland

If you have limited time in Fantasyland, these are the attractions you must experience:

Peter Pan’s Flight

This is the ultimate Fantasyland classic. It has been in Disneyland since opening day and is still one of the most popular rides in the park. The attraction takes you on a magical journey through scenes from Peter Pan, where you’ll soar over London and Neverland in a flying pirate ship. The ride is filled with stunning visuals and nostalgic charm, making it a must-do for visitors of all ages.

Best time to ride: Right after the fireworks! Many guests leave the park or head to another area, which makes the line shorter.

Mad Tea Party (Teacups)

No visit to Fantasyland is complete without spinning on the colorful teacups! This attraction is inspired by Alice in Wonderland and allows you to control how fast you spin. It’s a whimsical, fun experience that is great for families and groups of friends.

Pro Tip: Ride this one at night for extra magic! The lanterns light up, making for a beautiful experience.

Dumbo the Flying Elephant

This is another iconic ride that has been a Fantasyland favorite for decades. Climb aboard your very own flying elephant and soar above Fantasyland. This gentle ride is especially great for little ones, but adults will appreciate the nostalgic charm as well.

Snow White’s Enchanted Wish

Formerly known as Snow White’s Scary Adventures, this ride was recently reimagined with new effects and a more uplifting storyline. It follows the story of Snow White as she escapes the Evil Queen and finds her happy ending. The new updates make it a beautiful and enjoyable attraction for all ages.

Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride

If you want something a little quirky and unexpected, Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride is a must. Based on The Wind in the Willows, this ride takes you on a chaotic journey through London as Mr. Toad speeds through town. It’s fast-paced, wacky, and has a cult following among Disney fans.

Rides You Might Want to Skip

While all Fantasyland rides have their charm, some attractions may not be worth your time if you’re on a tight schedule. Here are a couple you might consider skipping:

Storybook Land Canal Boats

This ride takes you on a slow boat tour past miniature versions of famous Disney locations. While it’s a peaceful and scenic ride, the queue is located under a tree where birds frequently cause issues (yes, you know what I mean). The wait time can also be long, making it less worth it unless you’re a huge fan of miniatures.

Alice in Wonderland

This is a great ride with fun visuals, but it has a tendency to break down frequently. When this happens, the line gets extremely long, and waiting for a short ride isn’t always the best use of time.

A Hidden Gem: Sleeping Beauty Castle Walkthrough

A lot of guests don’t realize that you can actually go inside Sleeping Beauty Castle! The Sleeping Beauty Castle Walkthrough is a self-guided tour that takes you through scenes from Sleeping Beauty. The attraction uses storybook-style dioramas and special effects to tell the tale.

How to get there: Look for the entrance on the left side of the castle (if you’re facing it from Main Street, U.S.A.). It’s usually not crowded, making it a perfect way to escape the sun and enjoy a quiet moment inside the castle of your dreams.

Best Snacks in Fantasyland

Exploring Fantasyland can work up an appetite! Here are some of the best snacks you should try while you’re here:

Maurice’s Treats & Garlic Pretzel Bread

Maurice’s Treats, located near the Fantasyland Theater, offers delicious twists and pretzels. The Garlic Pretzel Bread is a must-try—it’s warm, buttery, and full of flavor!

Churros

You can find churro carts throughout Disneyland, but grabbing one while in Fantasyland is a perfect way to snack as you explore.

Pickle

If you need a refreshing snack, don’t underestimate the Disneyland pickle! It’s crisp, tangy, and perfect on a hot day.

Gaston’s Tavern (Red Rose Taverne)

Inspired by Beauty and the Beast, Red Rose Taverne serves up delicious grey stuff, a cookies-and-cream mousse that is absolutely worth trying.

Matterhorn Macaroon

This coconut macaroon is shaped like the Matterhorn Mountain and has a delicious drizzle of white chocolate. It’s a must-try treat for coconut lovers!

Final Thoughts

Fantasyland is one of the most magical areas in Disneyland, filled with classic attractions, whimsical experiences, and delicious snacks. Whether you’re visiting for a few hours or spending the whole day exploring, this guide will help you make the most of your time.

What are your favorite things to do in Fantasyland? Let me know on my disney questions form!

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