2. Journey to the Center of the Earth, Tokyo DisneySea

Across the park from Aquatopia is Journey to the Center of the Earth, an elaborate ride themed after Jules Verne's famous work. Originally opening in 2001, the ride uses the same technology as Test Track at Epcot and Radiator Springs Racers at Disney's California Adventure – a kind of slot-car style high-speed thrill ride.

The difference from those two attractions, however, is its theme. While Test Track is highly futuristic and Radiator Springs Racers is tied into the Cars universe, Journey to the Center of the Earth tells a more mythological story, combining elements of realism with the fantasy and science-fiction Verne was known for. The result is a beautiful and thrilling ride that seems more like an update of the classic Disney style than a groundbreaking new work.

With the opening of Pandora: the Land of Avatar at Disney's Animal Kingdom, that park's focus will grow to include works of fantasy, as it was originally intended. It would be a shame if this stopped just with Avatar, and Journey to the Center of the Earth would fit in wonderfully in a broadened Animal Kingdom. Its finale, featuring a giant lava monster that lives in our planet's core, would be as thrilling a moment as any you'd find at Disney's largest park. 

1. Mystic Manor, Hong Kong Disneyland

There's a playfulness and originality present in Mystic Manor that seems to have gone missing from Disney's newest American repertoire. Even though the newest rides at Walt Disney World are, indeed, wonderful, most don't have a sense of wonder and wide-eyed optimism. Mystic Manor, opened at Hong Kong Disneyland in 2013, absolutely does.

Serving as that park's version of the Haunted Mansion, Mystic Manor invites guests into the home of Lord Mystic, a world traveller and member of the Society of Explorers and Adventurers. Mystic's home is full of odd collectibles and artifacts – which all come to life and lead guests on their own adventure when Mystic's pet Albert opens a magical music box.

The ride uses Disney's trackless ride system the same way a choreographer uses a dancer: Each ride cycle features four separate vehicles making the journey together, dancing, spinning, and playing all at once. The result is something special – a sort of spiritual successor to Epcot's long-departed Journey into Imagination, a ride equal in whimsy and creative ingenuity.

Mystic Manor is wonderful, and would be a perfect fit at Walt Disney World's crown jewel: the Magic Kingdom.

Although, to be fair, I'd feel pretty bad about stealing this one. It's just that good.

What about you? Have any favorite Disney rides you wish you could bring to Orlando?