Splash Mountain at Disney's Magic Kingdom, Walt Disney World Resort, Orlando, Florida, United States - Theme Park Review | Condé Nast Traveler

"Set the scene for us. What's this ride all about? Float along on this lighthearted log ride as Br’er Rabbit sets off on a journey to find his “laughing place.” But oh, don’t mind the five-story drop into a thorny briar patch. The centerpiece of Frontierland at the Magic Kingdom, Splash Mountain is based on the animated scenes from Disney’s controversial 1946 film Song of the South . The ride features more than 100 audio animatronic frogs, possums, and other critters, and three songs that will surely get stuck in your head for a zip-a-dee-doo-dah day. What makes it a must-do? They don’t call it Splash Mountain for nothing. Combine the 50-foot final drop with the 950,000 gallons of water flowing through the ride and, yeah, you’re gonna get wet—especially if you’re placed at the front of the boat. If you can bear to look out instead of down at the crest of the final drop, you’ll be treated to a fantastic view of Cinderella Castle and Space Mountain off in the distance. That sounds cool. Does it get crowded? This is one of the most popular attractions at the Magic Kingdom and it’s not uncommon for wait times to hit 60 minutes, especially on nice days. Get a FastPass+ reservation if you can. If you’re on standby, hit the ride first thing in the morning or, if you can brave the chill, wait until evening, when the lines are shorter." - Valerie Marino