When I visited Disneyland for the first time, one of my questions was how the parks and rides were different from each other. I wrote up a blog post about the general differences between the two parks, but now I want to take a closer look at the attractions that are on both coasts. I started this Disney World vs. Disneyland series, and today I’ll be tackling a ride that is one of my favorites – Splash Mountain.
The Ride
This log flume ride is about so much more than just the “big drop” at the end. While that part certainly is ton of fun, and can get you wet, there’s lots to see and enjoy before you even get to that part. Your log travels through a dark ride first with scenes featuring Br’er Rabbit from Song of the South – and some catchy songs, too! In Magic Kingdom in Disney World it is located in Frontierland, and at Disneyland you’ll find it in Critter Country.
Main Differences
- In Disney World you sit side by side someone on the ride. In Disneyland the seats are single file.
- The Disneyland version has a song/scene that isn’t in Disney World in which a possum sings a rather dark song including the lyrics “What can poor Brer Rabbit do / To keep from becoming rabbit stew?”
- There are a couple more scenes in the Disney World version, making it a longer ride overall. The added scenes also make the storyline easier to follow and give it a more cohesive feel.
- Disney World has a much longer queue area.
- I’ve heard people say that you get more wet on the Disneyland version, though that wasn’t our experience (I’d say it was about the same to what we’re used to in Disney World).
- As you ascend to the final lift, the vultures are at the very top of the lift in Disney World, watching you and taunting you. In Disneyland they only appear at the bottom right before you go up.
My Winner
Walt Disney World has the better version of Splash Mountain thanks to the two major differences. The seating of the vehicles is not only more comfortable and allows you to sit next to your companion, it also means the ride loads more quickly so the wait time is less. The other thing is that the story is just better in Disney World. It makes more sense and is more enjoyable. I liked both versions but Splash Mountain at Disney World is definitely one of my top 3 favorite rides there!
What are your thoughts on Splash Mountain?
Ahh where was this in November!!:) I just went to Disney world for the first time and I kept asking my husband, “so what’s the difference?” I’m super sad I didn’t go on splash mountain now while we were there!
Aww Julie I should have written this for you sooner! 😉
It’s been years since I’ve been to Disney World, but I remember Splash Mountain being one of my favorite rides!
It’s definitely one of my favorites too!
Growing up in southern CA I went to Disneyland frequently. I’ve always wished that Splash Mountain had side by side seating like Disney World. Although, it’s fun either way!
I agree it’s a great ride at both parks, but I do prefer the side by side seating!
I definitely agree that WDW’s version is better! It’s one of my favorite rides there, and although I still like it at Disneyland, it’s just not the same.
I know what you mean Caitlin! I enjoyed it at both parks but this was one area where WDW had the edge.
I can’t handle the drop at the end! My dad took me when I was little, and just told me it was a little log ride .I’m pretty sure he scared me for life 😉
That sounds like what my dad would do! Before I was born he took my sister to Disney World and told her Space Mountain was just a little ride, didn’t mention it was an indoor dark roller coaster or anything. She was pretty scarred for life from that!
I love this idea for a post series. Please do The Haunted Mansion next! It’m my all time favourite ride!
Tori, I would love to do the Haunted Mansion – but because I visited Disneyland in early September it was closed to put on the overlay! I guess that means I’ll just have to take another trip to Disneyland so I can experience the Haunted Mansion… 😉
This is so cool! I love world so much better than land, even though I’m currently living in CA. This makes me want to go back!
Aww Chrissa, I hope you get the chance to go back and visit WDW soon! I loved California too but World will always have my heart <3
I also prefer the side by side… however my kids all say Disneyland is better. Guess its personal preference 🙂
Ah that’s interesting that you’re kids like Disneyland better! Maybe the novelty of sitting one behind the other? I’ve also heard the drop is a little steeper/faster in land but I couldn’t tell much of a difference myself.
I’ve never been on this one because the one time we’ve been to Disneyworld, it was down! So sad, because water rides are my favorite!
Aww that’s a shame Rachel! I hope you get the chance to go back someday because I bet you would love it!
Interesting comparison!! I’ve only been to Disneyland but definitely want to see Disney World at some point too! Splash Mountain is such a fun ride 🙂
Oh yes, if you get the chance to go to Disney World you’ll have the opposite experience of me in comparing the rides that are the same. It’s really fascinating!
Fabulous ride at both parks! Our family loves all things Disney so we have the best time at both of them!
I agree Rebekah, I have a great time on Splash Mountain no matter where it is!
Splash Mountain is one of my favorites in Disneyland, and the big reason I’m so excited to ride it in Disney World is that Nick and I can sit next to each other!
Aww, you’ll have such a good time on it!
I’ve never been to Disney world but it would be a cool place to visit! I would like to see the differences between the rides too!! I like the idea of being able to sit next to someone
I do too, it’s nice being able to sit next to someone.
I think I like the Disneyland one better. I like the single row. Though, to be honest, I wish the Disneyland one were longer.
I know what you mean. I love how long the Disney World one is, even though it doesn’t feel that long at all!
This is a super fun and informative read! I adore Disneyland and haven’t been to Disneyworld, but I am hoping to this year. This post was a great way to discover differences between the two parks. Thanks!
Thanks Aarika! I hope you get the chance to go to Disney World, it’s an amazing experience!
I love Splash Mountain, all though I never fail to be nervous before the big drop at the end in WDW! 🙂
Haha, I know what you mean – there was one time where the boats got stuck and stopped for about 10 minutes and we were right before the big drop. It definitely made me nervous!