Disney World is known for its magical rides and unforgettable attractions, but let’s face it—not every ride is a fan favorite. In fact, there’s one ride that many Disney fans secretly avoid, even though it’s often hyped as a “must-do.” Why does this ride get so much hate, and what should you do instead? We’re breaking it all down so you can make the most of your Disney vacation.
The Ride Disney Fans Secretly Hate: Astro Orbiter
At first glance, Astro Orbiter seems like a fun, family-friendly ride. Sitting high above Tomorrowland, its retro space theme and spinning rockets look like a unique adventure. But for many fans, the reality doesn’t live up to the hype. Here’s why:
- Long Waits for a Short Ride
Despite its relatively low popularity, Astro Orbiter often has frustratingly long wait times. Why? The ride has a low capacity, and the elevator-only access slows things down even more. - Awkward Boarding Process
Guests often find boarding the rockets tricky, especially for adults or taller riders. Squeezing into the small cockpit can feel uncomfortable, and it’s not always worth the effort. - Underwhelming Experience
The ride itself is essentially a higher, faster version of Dumbo the Flying Elephant. While the views of Tomorrowland can be nice, the spinning motion and lack of immersive storytelling leave many guests underwhelmed.
What to Do Instead
If Astro Orbiter doesn’t sound like your kind of ride, don’t worry—Tomorrowland and the rest of Magic Kingdom have plenty of better options. Here are a few alternatives:
- PeopleMover
- Perfect for stunning views of Tomorrowland, including a unique glimpse inside Space Mountain.
- No tight spaces or dizzying spinning, just a relaxing ride with fun narration.
- Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin
- A great interactive attraction where you can compete to rack up points as a galactic space ranger.
- Fun for the whole family, and it’s right next door to Astro Orbiter.
- Space Mountain
- If you’re looking for thrills, Space Mountain is the crown jewel of Tomorrowland. This indoor roller coaster delivers excitement and immersion that Astro Orbiter simply can’t match.
- Pro Tip: Use Genie+ or rope drop to avoid the long lines.
- Dumbo the Flying Elephant
- For younger kids who love the spinning ride concept, Dumbo offers a much smoother and more iconic experience. Plus, the play area in the queue is a lifesaver for parents with little ones.
Why Fans Keep Skipping Astro Orbiter
Even with its location at the heart of Tomorrowland, Astro Orbiter just doesn’t measure up to other Disney attractions. Most fans agree that its long wait times, cramped seating, and lackluster experience make it a one-and-done ride. Instead of spending valuable park time here, you can enjoy better views, thrills, and storytelling elsewhere.
Who Might Still Enjoy Astro Orbiter?
While it’s not for everyone, there are a few groups who might still want to give Astro Orbiter a try:
- First-Time Guests: If you’re trying to experience as many attractions as possible, it’s worth riding once for the views.
- Fans of Heights: The elevated position gives a unique perspective of the park, especially at night.
- Younger Kids: Some little ones enjoy the novelty of “flying” a rocket, even if the ride is a bit bumpy.
