7. Indiana Jones Adventure – Disneyland

The Indiana Jones franchise wasn’t a Disney property way back when they built this ride. That’s what makes it so impressive. Imagineers lovingly crafted an adventure and storyline worthy of Indiana Jones. Hmm, maybe they should have done Kingdom of the Crystal Skull’s script.

Anyway, you will feel like you’re trapped in a temple that even Indiana Jones himself cannot safely navigate. You even find Indy trapped at one point, which is bad news on several levels. Dark rides work the best when the theming feels natural and organic. From the moment you enter the Temple, you’ll believe that you’re on an archaeological adventure.

6. Mr. Toad's Wild Ride – Disneyland

Disneyland is representing so far! Of course, that’s both good and bad. Yes, they have some great dark rides, but the fact that most of them are toward the top of the list is indicative that many of them have been surpassed in recent years. Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride is a great example. Unquestionably a theme park classic, it’s actually been gone from Magic Kingdom for roughly 20 years (!). So, while the trip through Toad Hall is still a colorful adventure, it’s lost a bit of luster over the years.

Then again, a lot of people (including me) love the dated classic, deeming it timeless more than tired. As is true with Peter Pan’s Flight, the rich color palette blends masterfully with the extreme darkness. You can see anything and then bam! Ridiculous looking lawyer out of nowhere! Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride is awesome. Don’t ever let anybody tell you differently.

5. Toy Story Midway Mania – Disney’s Hollywood Studios

When you think of dark rides, Toy Story Midway Mania isn’t necessarily the first attraction that springs to mind, which is unfortunate. It’s one of the smartest ones yet made. Several interactive dark rides cleverly re-imagine the premise as a game, and the Toy Story iteration is probably the best of them, at least at Disney theme parks.

You get to see your favorite characters from the film franchise in a different light. They introduce you to carnival games like shooting balloons and the ring toss. It’s joyously fun to the point that Disney has copied it at three different parks and added an extra track at Hollywood Studios. The demand for this ride speaks to its quality, and the fact that it ranks only fifth on this list speaks volumes about the overall depth of Disney dark rides.

4. Haunted Mansion - Disneyland

Oh, foolish mortals. You really do have one of the greatest rides ever. The Haunted Mansion is the alpha and omega of themed horror attractions, maintaining that status for roughly half a century and counting. It’s a ride that serves two masters, offering humor and horror so that everyone exits their Doombuggy feeling satisfied.

During this ten-minute adventure through a land of 999 haunts, you’ll see a killer bride, the world’s weirdest dinner party, and a cemetery full of dancing, singing ghosts. My favorite is the Viking opera singer who hits the high notes better due to the entrails wrapped around her throat. That’s the sort of attention to detail that…well, it makes you wonder what sort of sicko could come up with such a thing. But I love it anyway.