Disneyland is full of classic rides and attraction with stories that span generations; your kids (and you!) might need a refresher on some of the movies that inspired these favorites. With new attractions coming all the time, you’ll also want to stay up on newer releases as well, to get the most from your visit. We break down some key movies and why you’ll want to brush up before your next trip!

Snow White

Snow White’s Scary Adventures is a Disneyland Classic complete with an Evil Queen who can be seen peeking out from the castle window outside the ride. Don’t touch her golden apple or you’ll fall under her evil spell!

Alice in Wonderland

Another delightful ride in Fantasyland, this retells the classic movie, riding in a Caterpillar and going down a rabbit hole. Right next door is the Mad Tea Party, this creates a whole area devoted to this classic movie!

Guardians of the Galaxy

This ride replaced the Tower of Terror in Disneyland in 2019 and the whole ride got an upgrade! This ride is much more fun then terrifying and the cue is truly extraordinary!

Cars

Radiator Springs Racers is typically the longest line at California Adventure. The town of Radiator Springs comes to life and this is one of the most magically themed areas in any of the Disney parks!

Star Wars (especially the most recent movies)

Galaxy’s Edge is just filled with all kinds of Easter Eggs that you can only catch if you’re familiar with the characters and themes from the movies. However, even without familiarity this land is incredibly well themed and will be enjoyable for everyone in your party!

Dumbo

With the recent new release of this Disney classic, there’s renewed interest for kids in this favorite ride that shouldn’t be missed!

Pirates of the Caribbean

A classic ride where the attraction inspired the movie and then the movie inspired updates in the attraction! In our opinion the Disneyland version far surpasses the Disney World version (can we say that?!)!

Peter Pan

A classic dark ride, young and old alike love this ride and it means even more with a refresher before you travel!

Sleeping Beauty

The castle at Disneyland has a walk through exhibit showing the story of Sleeping Beauty. It’s fun for all ages and a chance to get inside the castle and the story!

The Sword in the Stone

This recommendation isn’t based on a ride, but rather on the experience of trying to pull the sword out of the actual stone found by Prince Charming’s Royal Carousel.

Winnie the Pooh

Another Disney classic ride. This ride replaced the Country Bear Jamboree in Disneyland, so watch for a special nod to that attraction hidden at the top of the ride right before you exit!

Monsters Inc

A California Adventure only ride, this is fun for the whole family. Take a spin through Monstropolis and the story of Monsters Inc.

Indiana Jones

An adventurous jeep ride, the Indiana Jones Adventure ride, includes aspects of both Temple of Doom and Raiders of the Lost Ark. Sure to be a thrill for those older members of your group!

Tarzan

Swiss Family Robinson treehouse transformed into Tarzan’s Treehouse. A walkthrough experience the whole family will love! Keep an eye out for this familiar character who appears in more than one Disney classic!

Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride

This used to be a tough movie to find, but thanks to Disney+ everyone can now enjoy the adventures of Mr. J. Thaddeus Toad and be ready to ride along on your next trip to Disneyland!