aventuro Back to map A
Amusement parks

"it's a small world"

4.3 · 1,081 reviews
Whimsical, rhythmic, and nostalgic.
"it's a small world", Magic Kingdom Park, 1180 Seven Seas Drive, Orlando, FL 32836, United States
Interesting facts
1

The iconic theme song was specifically written to be simple enough to be translated into many languages and played simultaneously in different rooms.

2

Mary Blair, the legendary Disney artist, was responsible for the distinctive color palette and geometric aesthetic of the ride's sets.

3

The attraction was originally designed by Walt Disney for the UNICEF pavilion at the 1964 New York World's Fair.

4

There are no 'villains' in this attraction, as it was designed to promote themes of global peace and harmony.

5

The ride's facade features a large clock tower that puts on a short musical parade every 15 minutes.

6

The animatronic figures are designed with a uniform, stylized appearance to emphasize their symbolic representation of children.

7

The water used in the flume is recycled and filtered through a specialized system throughout the day.

Overview

it's a small world is a classic water-based boat ride located in Fantasyland at Magic Kingdom Park. The attraction features over 300 audio-animatronic dolls dressed in traditional costumes from around the globe. Riders travel through stylized rooms representing different continents, accompanied by the repetitive theme song composed by the Sherman Brothers. Originally created for the 1964 New York World's Fair, the ride was later moved and installed at Walt Disney World. It features a decorative, geometric facade inspired by Mary Blair's artistic designs. The ride system uses a flume channel that transports small boats through indoor scenes. It is one of the few original attractions that has remained a staple of the Magic Kingdom since its opening.

Photo spot

The colorful, geometric clock tower facade at the entrance during the transition between the hour and the next 15-minute mark.

Insider tips

Visit during the afternoon heat, as the entire ride is located indoors in air-conditioned comfort.

The ride queue is mostly covered, providing good protection from direct sun during peak hours.

Check the My Disney Experience app for current wait times, as they fluctuate significantly throughout the day.

What to avoid

Do not skip the queue thinking the line moves fast enough; wait times can grow long mid-day.

Etiquette

Remain seated with limbs inside the boat at all times; do not stand up or lean over the water.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
15-20 minutes
Best time to visit
Early morning or late evening to minimize standby wait times.
Address
"it's a small world", Magic Kingdom Park, 1180 Seven Seas Drive, Orlando, FL 32836, United States
28.421, -81.582
Get directions
Details
Ride TypeWater-based dark ride
AccessibilityWheelchair and ECV accessible via transfer

Frequently asked

Plan for about 15-20 minutes to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Early morning or late evening to minimize standby wait times..

The colorful, geometric clock tower facade at the entrance during the transition between the hour and the next 15-minute mark.

Close by you'll find Magic Kingdom Park, Walt Disney World® Resort, Space Mountain.