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6. Pixar Pal-A-Round

Image: DisneyOkay, this selection is cheesy, but let’s be honest. We’re all tourists at heart. And what’s better for a tourist than a spin on a Ferris wheel? Heck, I spent $50 riding one in Pigeon Forge the other day, and it didn’t have Pixar characters on it! It also lacked the gorgeous backdrop of the Happiest Place on Earth. The ride formerly known as Mickey’s Fun Wheel has more style as the wienie at Pixar Pier, and it has more charm, too.

5. Grizzly River Run

DCA doesn’t have a lot in the way of bragging rights over Walt Disney World attractions. To my mind, they have exactly four rides that approach or match similar ones in Orlando. Out of those attractions, only one is undeniably superior in the eyes of most people.

At Disney’s Animal Kingdom, an inferior raft ride called Kali River Rapids is a disappointment. At DCA, Grizzly River Run is an energetic aquatic adventure that will soak your clothes and leave you hanging on for dear life. It’s not the best Disney raft ride in the world, but it IS the best one in North America.

4. Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: Breakout!

Image: DisneyHere is where the conversation grows divisive. To some diehards, the mere mention of Mission: Breakout! induces rage. They see the replacement of Twilight Zone Tower of Terror as an unforgivable transgression. I respect that opinion, but I’ve grown to appreciate Disney’s perspective on the subject.

Tower of Terror didn’t originate at DCA, and it never matched the park theme. This gate is evolving into a hub for all things Marvel and Pixar. The presence of a Guardians of the Galaxy ride works better with this change. Also, the new iteration of the drop tower concept turns the premise on its head.

On Guardians of the Galaxy, a story drives the action, which is true of Tower of Terror, too. The difference is that Guardians has a story that continues throughout the bounces, one that complements the action projected in front of you. It’s a stylish update that improves the ride experience. As I’ve said before, I still favor the classic, Tower of Terror, but I love dancing to Hit Me with Your Best Shot during Guardians, also. The rides have their own distinct personalities at this point, and each one is fantastic.

3. Soarin’ Around the World

Come at me, haters. Yes, I’ve seen the criticisms that the 3-D effects in the second version of Soarin’ are lacking. To these people, I say that Disney has spoiled you. All the rides are so good that you’re trying to find blemishes on something that’s nearly perfect.

Soarin’ Around the World lifts you up and thrusts you into the air. While you’re relishing in the sensation of wingless flight, the IMAX display dazzles you with dizzying landmarks from across the globe. You’ll see the Eiffel Tower, the Great Wall of China, and a mischievous whale. It’s as immersive a ride as there is in the world, and I love everything about it. The Soarin’ franchise embodies Disney Imagineering at its finest.

 
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