It's A Small World is an absolute classic! This gentle mill boat ride at Disneyland in Fantasyland, features hundreds of animatronic dolls from around the world singing the iconic song- It's a Small World (After All). Good luck getting that tune out of your head! We love coming here during hot days because of the air conditioning! It's a nice cool break from the park's thrill rides and sometimes unbearable heatwaves! The duration of the ride is between 12-15 minutes. That's just enough time to cool off. And wait times are generally between 15-30 minutes. One of our favorite times of the year to visit Disneyland is during the holiday season- the attraction is transformed with holiday lights and music during Christmas! It's definitely a sight to behold! read more

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I know this ride gets a lot of flack for its ear worm of a song, but there's just something eternally charming about it. Even if I didn't have 3 young kids, I would still make this a must visit ride on every trip to the park (case in point I did just that before I had kids). Beyond it being a cute ride, it's also a good 15ish minutes long from start to finish so it's a great ride to just get off your feet and relax a bit during a long day at Disneyland. Years ago there was a big deal about how Disney was going to add classic Disney characters throughout the park but I have to say, I think they did a good job with it. It doesn't really distract from the ride in my opinion and, instead, it becomes a bit of a Where's Waldo to find all of the characters scattered throughout the ride. Now, because this is a very kid friendly ride, the line gets incredibly long however, the ride has so many boats that the line moves at a decent speed. Don't let all the cut backs scare you away. read more

Its A Small World - Amusement Parks Near Me - Anaheim, California

As a kid, I thought this ride was really long. I remember it feeling as if we were on the ride for at least half an hour! As a mom, this ride feels way shorter! Still, even through the years I have enjoyed this ride! I like that they incorporated some familiar faces in the various scenes! I think it's really cute. I also appreciate the fact that this ride can accommodate all ages! Even BABIES! So my toddler has the option to sit next to me, or sit on my lap. Very chill and family friendly ride! read more

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One of the best rides to relax and get some AC on a warm day. Did you know that they have Disney movie Easter eggs in the ride that you can spot? Which ones have you see read more

A classic ride at the park. It's a slow moving journey on a boat through scenes of every countries inhabitants. Some updates need to be made, especially to the ceiling. It was last on our list, but we were glad to have had the time for this tour. read more

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This ride opened at Disneyland on May 28, 1966 and is based on the song of the same name by the Sherman Brothers. This is a slow boat ride that goes through different countries and cultures. The ride moves with slow-moving boats and has themes about global unity and peace. Because it's such a slow ride I can actually take pictures. The ride has a catchy tune and lasts about 14 minutes. There are tons of recognizable characters throughout. It's not the most exciting ride and I usually get sleepy while on the ride because it's so slow moving. read more

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It's a Small World is such an underrated ride, I don't get why more people aren't obsessed with it. I love it because it's slow, relaxing and not too short of a ride. It is perfect for when you need to rest tired feet, get your adrenaline back down from all the thrill rides or to cool off in the air conditioning during the summer months. I usually already enjoy the normal version of It's a Small World, the little boat ride that takes you around the world. When it is in the holiday layout though, it is literally a whole different game, it definitely brings on the holiday spirits. The attention to detail is WILD, there is so much to look at. All the animatronics are dressed in winter gear and the whole place becomes a winter wonderland. The main holiday featured is Christmas but as you ride through, Hanukah, New Year's and Lunar New Year is also included. I'm all about inclusion and diversity. Aside from the soundtrack of "It's a Small World", during the holidays it also includes "Jingle Bells", "Deck the Halls" and "Joy to the World". Every year, when Disney brings out the holiday vibes, riding It's a Small World to kick off the season is an absolute must. p.s. if you haven't ridden the normal version, do that too! It's also great! read more

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One of the classic attractions in Fantasyland you can't miss. The history of this ride is fascinating and always a treat to watch old footage of Walt Disney sharing how it was created for the 1964-1965 New York World's Fair, then moved to Disneyland in Anaheim after the fair ended in 1966. The facade's styling, the many countries represented, and Mary Blair's artistic style are still amazing to see. The music will get stuck in your head for the rest of the day. Throughout the day, the animated clock show on the facade runs every 15 minutes--a treat for the whole family. The 15-minute attraction is a great place to relax, escape the heat, or take a quick nap. Queue lines move fast, but during peak season times, you'll wait 30-50 minutes. Lightning Lanes options are available. On average, the wait is usually between 15 and 20 minutes. During the holidays after Halloween, It's a Small World transforms into a festive experience, with Christmas songs blending with the original music and holiday decorations. Say it with me... It's a small world after all. read more

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What a family friendly ride for all ages. Guests can be any height which is nice. This is a slow, boat ride and can be loud. It is located in Fantasyland. This is a great ride and I enjoy it especially during the holidays. They decorate this ride up on special event nights. For instance, I love how this is a rainbow ride during Pride Nite! The song will definitely be stuck in your head for days after riding this! If you are at Disneyland, I recommend this one for sure. read more

While the continuous singing gets a little annoying, this is a must-ride nostalgic, classic ride. Definitely a pleasant, relaxing break from walking all day in the park. My favorite sections are the Asia and Pacific Islander areas. read more

Its A Small World - Outside of It's A Small World at night, holiday themed. - Amusement Parks Near Me - Anaheim, California

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I love It's a Small World, especially during the holiday season. The song gets stuck in your head like an ear worm but is is great. You can't help but smile when you hear the music and see all the decor and bright colors. One of my favorite parts is seeing the outside all lit up. Who wouldn't love a musical water journey through the world? Great chance to just sit, enjoy, and relax as well. read more

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Its a small world after all is a classic. A must ride for sure! Very kid friendly if you have little kids you definitely have to go once. read more

It's A Small World is a staple and classic ride. It's one we end up going to every time we head to Disneyland. L O C A T I O N It's a Small World is located towards the back and right past Fantasyland right near in front of Toon Town and side of Fantasyland Theater. L I N E The line for It's a Small World can get long when the ride breaks down. But it's a high load ride so it typically is easy to get on this ride in 5-15 minutes. There's a lot of people per boat but it does take a bit to get on and off the ride even though there's no seat belts. The lines are also outside, so make sure you wear sunscreen or a hat, if lines are long. E X P E R I E N C E It's a slow boat ride a la Pirates of the Caribbean without the two drops. Instead of a yo ho yo ho...you get the It's a Small World song in many languages. You go through each continent and animatronic dolls dance and sing. Now if you do not want to be singing the song, then enjoy the respite from the heat of Southern California. There is a little bit of time outside before you go into the building, so again make sure you have shade or sunscreen on. They have over the years updated the ride with new characters which is nice! I always look for the one Filipina doll when I go. She's a little hidden but she's there. O V E R A L L Now if you have something against dancing dolls and a repetitive song, then I would say, don't go here. Otherwise, sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride. read more

What's not to love about a slow moving boat in an air conditioned indoor environment with gentle singing? A perfect time out on a hot afternoon, and usually the wait isn't all that long. ProTip: This is also an excellent area to watch the fireworks show. :) read more

Its A Small World - Amusement Parks Near Me - Anaheim, California

I'm so happy that Disneyland brought their "It's a Small World" ride! It was one of my favorite rides as a kid. Thankfully, I was able to take my little one on this same ride so she can experience it for herself. Obviously, the ride is much different than the one I went on in the early 1990s. The colors are more vibrant, the animatronics are much more lively, and the music had different beats and flairs from different cultures. It's a Small World is a must see ride when at Disneyland! read more

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One of my favorite rides ever. You can sit down and relax plus sing throughout the entire ride. Nice air conditioning throughout the ride. It's so beautiful of the different cultures represented in the ride. I love it. Give the ride a try when you are in the park. read more

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It's a small world ride is great for all ages. On my visit it was not Christmas themed yet. The line was not too long, about 15 minutes and it went quickly. You do have to step down into boats and up onto the ledge after. I would say it can be difficult for those with mobility issues. No drops and no splashes on this ride. It's nice and cool on warmer days and since the ride is indoors it can be a nice ride to get warm on cooler rainy days like other Disney indoor rides. This ride depicts children in beautiful colorful outfits from all over the world singing along to a song that may seem repetitive but it's part of the original nostalgic feel that the Walt Disney and the Sherman brothers ( they write the song) set for children and their families to enjoy for decades. read more

Its A Small World - Small world at the back of fantasyland - Amusement Parks Near Me - Anaheim, California

This is an iconic ride, which is probably the most recognized ride in the park! It satisfies the inner child in all of us, and of course the children are amazed at the colorful characters from different continents and the clothing that makes each of the countries standout. I have to admit, that on a hot day, this is the perfect place to hangout and enjoy the super air conditioning. read more

Its A Small World - Frontage - Amusement Parks Near Me - Anaheim, California

It's a Small World is pure Disney magic: colorful, joyful, and heartwarming. As you glide into this timeless ride's whimsical white-and-gold entryway with its charming clock tower, you leave the fun but frenetic energy of Disneyland and enter a calm oasis. The boat ride is gentle and perfect for all ages, gliding through beautifully-designed animatronic scenes that celebrate cultures from around the world: twirling can-can dancers in France, samba dancers in Brazil, dancing children and pandas in China, alpine yodelers in Switzerland, and kangaroos bouncing through Australia. The best part? Delightful for little ones and nostalgic for grown-ups, the ride's message of unity and kindness never gets old. Whether it's your first time or your hundredth, It's A Small World still gives you that classic Disney feeling of wonder and joy. PRO TIP 1: if you're looking for a cool break from summer heat and/or Disneyland's massive crowds, this indoor, air-conditioned attraction provides welcome relief. PRO TIP 2: wait times for this ride are often 5-20 minutes, which is a lot faster than many other rides. WARNING: you'll be humming the song for the rest of the day! read more

This was such a cool ride during the holidays. They light up the whole outside and they also redo the Indian and make the whole thing Christmas theme. They even change the song from "it's a small world" and they do a mash up with jingle bells. It's a very cool ride. The wait can get long though, up to an hour. read more

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Leave it Disneyland... The Happiest Place on Earth... To bring us ALL together. To UNITE us despite our differences. And to remind us that... It's a small world after all It's a small world after all It's a small world after all It's a small, small world. You just started singing that out loud didn't you? Don't worry, I won't tell anyone ;) Yes indeed, it's a small, small world that each of us call our home... It's a little place known as Earth... Maybe you've heard of it?? And in a world that has 195 recognized countries with over 7,000 distinct known languages, we as humans still have the ability to communicate, to interact and to share an emotional connection with one another no matter where we originate from. And despite our differences in Culture, Ethnicity, Heritage, and/or Religious backgrounds... Communication amongst us is the key to our survival as a race, the Human Race. Because even if we can't physically understand what one human is trying to communicate to another human that lives half way across the globe let's say due to a language barrier.... We can all recognize a smile, recognize when a fellow human is sad or even a simple wave of the hand to either greet them or wish them farewell. --------------------- Well, would you believe me if I told you that this 10 minute ride has been a Disneyland staple attraction for almost 60 years where you will be welcomed, greeted and sung to by the children of the world. This ride takes you through a journey that is represented by all 7 continents and gives you a small taste of the many cultures that make up the human Population. The ride was designed by Walt Disney himself to promote peace and unity to all and if you have an open mind and an open heart, I think you will agree that it accomplishes that. The line to get on is never super crazy, but if it does stack up, don't fret as the line moves pretty quickly. Located in Fantasyland, this is a ride for all ages, all heights and for every Disneyland guest to enjoy. With that being said.... Remember that a smile can change someone's day. A simple wave can spark up a good conversation. And simply being kind to someone that's not like you can be the start of a lifelong friendship. Because in the end, it truly is... a small world...After All. read more

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No trip to Disneyland is complete without taking a trip to Its a Small World, especially if it is your first time!!! They did pack the 3 of us into 1 row and it was TIGHT and my child being tall.now, he was extremely uncomfortable the entire ride. In any event, my husband loved this and its been awhile since I visited during Christmas and I loved the decor!!! Not to mention until January 7th - it is BEAUTIFUL and lit up for the holidays!!! Check it out at night!!! So beautiful during the holiday season only! read more

Small world is a classic! Fun for people of all ages, a very tame ride with lots of repetitive singing and tons of stimuli. Always fun to ride a boat and experience a good ol' traditional Disney ride. read more

The only reason I come to this ride it and ride it on purpose, is to take a nap in an air conditioned room. Song gets repetitive after a really short amount of time. It's a cute ride, and I like what it represents but after the first time riding it, it gets really repetitive and a little boring. read more

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A staple classic that can't be missed. This ride has been around since the beginning and holds so much nostalgia for so many! The line is usually within 30 minutes or under, give or take busy holiday times. You'll hop in a boat and be whisked away into a world of song and whimsy. The song is catchy, and I promise you'll be singing it long after you exit the ride. The animatronics are older, but they still have a great look to them. Sit back and enjoy a vintage ride that will throw you back to olden Disney times. Overall: A Nostalgia for the win on this one! read more

Always a great ride at Disneyland! Especially at Xmas time. Perfect to relax on after eating and to rest a bit if you have been walking awhile. The song will get stuck in your head. But it's worth it. read more

This to me, this is peak Disney. And a song to be stuck in your head all day and weeks to follow. This was the one ride that I wanted to do while in the park and one that I knew we would be able to get on rather quickly at any point in the day. We were on this ride in no time after getting in line and we went on our way through the ride. I remember doing this ride in Disney World and was hoping to have the same experience. Somehow, it was better. I really enjoyed my time in here riding along in the boat. My friends that were with me made sure to check out the hidden Disney characters throughout the ride. There are so many and they are all uniquely hidden throughout the ride. Every where you looked there was another character. Characters from Disney classics all the way up to the newer movies we have come to love. I saw so many characters that it was so hard to count the total number I did see. By the end of the ride I was humming the song and refreshed to go back out into the park. Honestly, this is a ride that I could do multiple in a visit and not get tired of it. There is so much to see and each time I am sure I will see something new or get a different perspective of where I had already looked. read more

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We were at Disneyland right before they closed down It's a Small World. We are so glad we did. It gives me all kinds of good childhood memories. They did not change a thing about this ride. It was different because they had it in a Christmas theme which I love even more! read more

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I don't really know. It broke down while I was in line, before I got to ride it. The sound track that played during the 45 minutes we were inn line sounded fun. "Its a small world ..." read more

It's a world of laughter A world of tears It's a world of hopes And a world of fears There's so much that we share That it's time we're aware It's a small world after all It's a small world after all It's a small world after all It's a small world after all It's a small, small world There is just one moon And one golden sun And a smile means Friendship to everyone Though the mountains divide And the oceans are wide It's a small world after all It's a small world after all It's a small world after all It's a small world after all It's a small, small world LOL IS THE SONG STUCK IN YOUR HEAD YET!!! read more

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A classic ride in Disneyland! I usually don't go on this ride unless I want to escape the summer heat or sit down for a while. The song will replay over and over again in your head for the rest of the day. However, it's a must during the holidays. The outdoor light display is truly magical and the entire inside is fully decorated as well. read more

Its A Small World - Light display for the holidays 2024 - Amusement Parks Near Me - Anaheim, California

So Its a small world is another iconic ride that is really Walt Disney's ode to celebrating all the cultures of the world and bringing Peace on earth. We got to go while the Christmas (or should I say Holiday decorations are up). Too bad Disney took any reference to The Prince of Peace - Jesus, out of the Christmas carols that were played. I digress. It is nice to have a calm ride to go on and chill before hanging out with the crowds again. I can't help but wonder if the makers of Tianna's Bayou were attempting ( but failing completely) to do something similar. read more

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It's a Small World is such a classic ride in Disneyland! From my very first visit in 1987 to my most recent visit the other day, I always make time to enjoy It's a Small World every time I visit the Magic Kingdom. Not only that, on a warm summer day it's a great reprieve from the sun and warm weather. They really crank the AC in there! lol Although the line always seems long, it did keep moving at a good pace. Once you are seated in your boat, off you go! I have noticed over the years that they do add new little touches and some more modern characters in there. (Just off the top of my head, for example, I saw Finding Nemo characters in there) The song will burrow its way into your mind and be stuck there for a bit too. lol I know some people that don't care for it, but I enjoy the heck out of it! It is an absolute classic and if I am lucky enough to get to visit Disneyland again someday, I will be in line to experience It's a Small World again!! 5 stars. read more

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Could have sworn that I've already written a review for It's a Small World, but I guess I left a review for their holiday version (the first time I went after ages). An iconic ride at Disneyland and a MUST since it is one of the longer rides with so, so much to look at. We've never had to wait too long in the queue, but if there is a long line, make sure you have sunblock and some shade if it's summertime because the direct sunlight is brutal. Once you depart on your little boats you make a journey visiting all the continents around the world with various countries represented for each one. Everything is very cute and happy, since "It's a Small World, after all". The song is sung throughout the ride in diverse languages and dialects. Lots to look at in the details of each area and it's neat to see familiar Disney faces in their regions of origin, including under the sea with Ariel! My favorites are definitely the geese and other cute animals you can see throughout the world and Stitch too! I believe that this is the only place in the park where you can listen to the safety instructions in French, German, and Japanese as it's only in English and Spanish on other rides. I'm hoping they add Mandarin and Cantonese one day to represent Disneyland Shanghai and HK! Lovely ride overall. read more

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This beloved ride at Disneyland is one of those rides that some people love and other people find annoying. Growing up, my mother loved this ride and would always sing the "It's a Small World" song. It's a Small World is a boat ride through many different countries. While going through each country, hundreds of audio-animatronic dolls sing "Its a Small World" over and over again in their own language (a song written by the Sherman Brothers). These dolls are dressed in traditional costumes from many cultures around the world. It's a Small World debuted at the 1964 New York World's Fair and opened at Disneyland in 1966. It's a Small World is a longtime favorite for many Disneyland regulars. I go to Disneyland often and this is a ride that I will only occasionally go on. I enjoy it, but I will skip it to make time for the more bigger thrill rides. My favorite part of It's a Small World is the flying magic carpets and the people singing underwater. Over the years, they have added audio-animatronic dolls of Disney characters from some of the newer movies to the ride. Disneyland decorates It's a Small World during the Christmas holiday season and the ride becomes "It's a Small World Holiday". read more

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With all the times I've been to Disneyland I barely remember how this ride goes. The pop culture of it makes me feel like I know what to expect. In September, the ride was closed so I didn't get to experience the regular small world ride. In December, I got to ride it but it was the holiday decoration and songs. The wait was only 20minutes but when I say the ride was longer than other rides, it is LONGER. We got on with other people with the 4 of us. Gotta make sure the kids don't try to touch the water because the boat and walls will hurt them! The dolls were creepy! I can't help but notice some child play looking dolls! The song is soooo repetitive and it's the festive dogs so it was actually not as bad as the original song. I was ready to leave after the third room but each time you think your done, the ride keeps going! It's a fun ride for the kids, so much to see and point at. The ceiling might take you out of the magic, some ceiling boards are looking a bit rough. During summer, I bet the cool area and long ride makes it a great resting ride. But in winter, it's really festive and colorful! read more

I've always heard people talking about this iconic old ride; I was finally able to ride on it recently. This ride is located in Magic Kingdom, Walt Disney World Resort. This one opened in 1971 and one of many throughout the world. It's a 12-15 persons on a boat; 4 rows and 4 riders per row. The theme song "It's a small world" by Sherman Brothers played in the background. There were hundreds of animatronics dressed up as different cultures throughout the world. Even though the ride was cheesy and out of date, I really enjoyed it. I liked the meaning of it and how it promotes world peace; regardless of our background, color, beliefs, and differences, we should all get along or at least respect each other. The characters were cute and somewhat creepy; overly cheerful, but I do watch a lot of horror movies so it's just my mind lol. I think everyone should ride it at least once and I'm glad I did! read more

This is a reminder to my future self: don't go on this ride. I went on this ride for the first time in a very long time and came to this conclusion: It's a long ride after all. It's a long, long ride. It's loud, it's repetitive, it's annoying, and it's oh, so very long. 15 minutes to be precise. 15 MINUTES! read more

This ride never gets old no matter how many times I've been on it. The holiday overlay makes it even better with all the festive decorations and music. My kid absolutely loves it and asks to go on it multiple times every visit. The animatronics and different countries are so detailed and the song definitely gets stuck in your head. Still one of the most iconic Disney attractions and honestly a must-do every visit. This ride never gets old no matter how many times I've been on it. The holiday overlay makes it even better with all the festive decorations and music. My kid absolutely loves it and asks to go on it multiple times every visit. The animatronics and different countries are so detailed and the song definitely gets stuck in your head. Still one of the most iconic Disney attractions and honestly a must-do every visit. read more

If this was a review on the song, then I would do negative stars if I was able! The artwork of Mary Blair is iconic, and thus saves the rating (3 stars)! I do find myself trying this attraction every once in awhile as a Magic Key holder, and I do love the exterior and interior of the ride. If only I could remember to bring my AirPods to drown out that dreadful song. During the holiday time at the Disneyland Resort, this attraction will change and is definitely worth a visit! read more