“It’s a Small World” is one of the most iconic and beloved attractions in Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World. Known for its catchy tune, vibrant visuals, and celebration of global unity, this classic boat ride has been a staple of the Disney parks since it was first created for the 1964 New York World’s Fair. Its enduring popularity makes it a must-do for guests of all ages. With its timeless message of peace and harmony, “It’s a Small World” offers a charming and immersive experience that transports guests around the globe, reminding them that, indeed, it’s a small world after all.
Here’s a detailed review of “It’s a Small World”, from its history and ride experience to tips on how to enjoy it during your visit to Magic Kingdom.
History and Origins of “It’s a Small World”
The origins of “It’s a Small World” are deeply rooted in Disney history. The ride was originally created by Walt Disney and his team of Imagineers for the 1964 New York World’s Fair, where it was part of the UNICEF pavilion sponsored by Pepsi-Cola. The theme of the pavilion was “Peace Through Understanding,” and “It’s a Small World” was designed to reflect global unity and celebrate the world’s children.
After the success of the attraction at the World’s Fair, it was moved to Disneyland in California in 1966, where it has remained a beloved ride ever since. The Magic Kingdom version of the ride opened with the park in 1971, and it retains many of the elements that made it a classic, from its infectious theme song (composed by the Sherman Brothers) to its colorful, childlike design.
Ride Experience
“It’s a Small World” is a gentle, slow-moving boat ride that takes guests through a series of elaborate, whimsical scenes representing various countries and regions of the world. The ride vehicles are flat-bottomed boats that glide along a canal, moving at a leisurely pace so guests can take in the vibrant visuals and the song that plays throughout the experience. The ride is approximately 10 minutes long, making it one of the longer rides in the park.
The attraction features hundreds of audio-animatronic dolls dressed in traditional clothing from cultures around the world, all singing the ride’s famous theme song in various languages. The dolls are arranged in different settings that represent the regions they are from, including Europe, Asia, Africa, South America, and Oceania. Each scene is brightly colored, with playful designs, intricate set pieces, and lighting that adds to the dreamlike atmosphere.
The famous song, written by Richard and Robert Sherman, plays in different languages throughout the ride, with each verse reflecting the theme of global unity. While the song is repetitive, its simplicity and cheerful tone make it one of the most memorable aspects of the ride. Guests are often singing along by the end of the journey.
Key Highlights of the Ride:
- Vibrant and Detailed Set Design: Each scene is carefully crafted to represent the cultures and traditions of various countries. From the white and gold architecture of the European castles to the lush jungles of South America, the attention to detail is impressive.
- Animatronic Characters: The dolls are the heart of the ride, and they are designed with a childlike, endearing charm. Their synchronized movements and joyful expressions add to the whimsical nature of the experience.
- The Grand Finale: The ride culminates in a dazzling white-and-gold finale, where children from all the regions come together to sing in harmony. This section represents unity and peace, with the children dressed in white and gold costumes symbolizing the coming together of the world’s cultures.
Theming and Design
The overall design of “It’s a Small World” is a testament to Disney’s ability to create immersive, visually captivating environments. The color palette for the ride is bold and vibrant, with each section showcasing the unique colors, architecture, and design elements of the cultures it represents. The transition from one region to the next is seamless, creating a sense of fluidity as the boat travels through different parts of the world.
The facade of the ride, located in Fantasyland, is just as iconic as the ride itself. The exterior features a large, stylized clock tower surrounded by colorful, geometric patterns that represent different landmarks from around the world. Every 15 minutes, the clock springs to life with a musical display of dancing dolls, which is a fun and charming touch for guests waiting in line.
The interior of the ride is full of whimsical details, with moving parts, dancing dolls, and shimmering lights that make the experience feel like a vibrant celebration of the world’s cultures. The use of light and color is especially notable, with scenes often bathed in warm hues or cool blues to create different moods and atmospheres.
Accessibility and Wait Times
“It’s a Small World” is a very accessible ride, making it ideal for guests of all ages and abilities. There are no height requirements, so even the youngest guests can enjoy the experience. The slow pace of the boat ride and gentle nature of the attraction ensure that everyone can participate. The ride is also wheelchair accessible, and Cast Members are always available to assist guests with boarding the boats.
In terms of wait times, “It’s a Small World” typically has moderate lines, but thanks to its high capacity, the queue tends to move quickly. The boats can accommodate a large number of guests at once, helping to keep the line manageable even during busier times of the day. To avoid longer waits, visiting the ride earlier in the day or during the evening hours is a good strategy. Additionally, the ride is part of Genie+, so guests can use the Lightning Lane option to reserve a time to ride.
Who Will Enjoy This Ride?
“It’s a Small World” is designed for guests of all ages, making it a perfect attraction for families. Young children will love the colorful scenes, friendly animatronic characters, and the cheerful music. Adults often appreciate the nostalgia of the ride, especially if they grew up with Walt Disney’s vision of global unity and harmony.
For fans of Disney’s classic rides, “It’s a Small World” is a must-do, as it embodies the optimism and imagination that Walt Disney himself championed. The ride is also ideal for those looking for a gentle, relaxing experience in between more thrilling attractions like Space Mountain or Big Thunder Mountain Railroad.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Timeless Appeal: “It’s a Small World” is one of the most iconic Disney rides, and its message of peace and global unity resonates with guests of all ages.
- Beautiful Design: The ride’s vibrant and colorful design, coupled with its intricate animatronics, makes it visually stunning and immersive.
- Family-Friendly: With no height restrictions and a gentle pace, it’s the perfect ride for young children, families, and guests looking for a break from more intense attractions.
- High Capacity: The ride’s ability to accommodate large numbers of guests ensures that wait times are typically shorter, even during busier periods.
Cons:
- Repetitive Song: While the theme song is iconic, its repetitive nature can be polarizing for some guests. By the end of the ride, some guests might find it stuck in their heads (for better or worse).
- No Thrills: For thrill-seekers, “It’s a Small World” may feel too slow or simplistic compared to other attractions in Magic Kingdom.
Tips for Visiting
- Ride During Off-Peak Times: The queue moves quickly, but to avoid longer waits, consider riding early in the morning or late in the evening when crowds are lighter.
- Take in the Details: The ride’s scenes are full of small, intricate details that celebrate the diversity of the world’s cultures. Take your time to notice the different designs and hidden gems in each room.
- Prepare for the Song: While the music is a big part of the ride’s charm, it’s helpful to be prepared for the repetitive nature of the song. If you’re prone to earworms, be ready to have it stuck in your head for a while!
Final Thoughts
“It’s a Small World” is a timeless Disney attraction that continues to enchant guests with its charming design, joyful music, and message of unity. For many visitors, it embodies the magic of Disney’s storytelling, providing a gentle, whimsical journey through a world of diverse cultures and traditions. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or the hundredth, “It’s a Small World” remains a must-see ride that captures the essence of Walt Disney’s vision for a better, more peaceful world.
