Dumbo the Flying Elephant
The Dumbo the Flying Elephant attraction in Magic Kingdom’s Storybook Circus is a beloved Disney experience that allows visitors to soar through the skies with the iconic big-eared character.
As guests step into the Big Top and board their very own flying elephant, they are transported into the world of the circus, where anything is possible. From the joyful melodies of circus music to the exhilarating sensation of soaring through the skies, Dumbo the Flying Elephant captures the magic and wonder of childhood dreams coming true.
With its timeless appeal and heartwarming story, Dumbo the Flying Elephant continues to enchant generations of guests, reminding them that with a little faith and belief in themselves, they too can reach new heights and soar to unimaginable heights of happiness and joy.
Opened: October 1, 1971
Length: 90 minutes
Type: Spinner
Ride Restraints: None
Height Requirement: None
Suitable for: All ages
When to visit: Anytime standby, Early Theme Park Entry, or anytime with Genie+
Single Rider Lane: No
On-Ride Photos: No
Lightning Lane available: Yes, included with Genie+
Eligible for Early Entry: Yes
Eligible for Extended Evening Hours: Yes
Backstory
Dumbo the Flying Elephant at Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom is steeped in the whimsy and nostalgia of the beloved 1941 animated film, “Dumbo.” In the world of Disney, Dumbo represents the enduring spirit of courage, resilience, and the triumph of the underdog. As one of the original attractions when the Magic Kingdom opened its gates in 1971, Dumbo quickly became an iconic symbol of childhood wonder and imagination.
The concept for Dumbo the Flying Elephant was inspired by the memorable scene in the film where Dumbo discovers his ability to fly with the help of a magical feather. Walt Disney himself recognized the appeal of Dumbo’s uplifting story and envisioned an attraction that would allow guests to experience the joy and freedom of flight alongside the endearing little elephant.
Originally situated in Fantasyland’s central hub, Dumbo the Flying Elephant underwent a transformation as part of the Fantasyland Expansion project. It was relocated to the newly themed Storybook Circus area, where it was expanded to include two carousel platforms, effectively doubling its capacity. This relocation allowed Imagineers to enhance the ride experience with vibrant colors, immersive theming, and interactive elements that bring the world of Dumbo to life in a whole new way.
Special Considerations
The attraction offers wheelchair accessibility with designated boarding areas and ramps, allowing guests using wheelchairs or electric conveyance vehicles (ECVs) to remain in their mobility devices throughout the boarding process and ride experience. Additionally, an interactive queue provides entertainment and activities for guests while they wait to board, including an air-conditioned play area for children, fostering a comfortable and enjoyable experience for guests of all ages.
To further enhance accessibility, Dumbo the Flying Elephant utilizes a pager system to notify families when it’s their turn to ride, allowing them to explore the queue area or take a break while waiting. Disney Cast Members are available to assist guests with mobility needs, offering transfer assistance and ensuring a smooth boarding process.
The attraction’s seating arrangements accommodate varying mobility levels, with each Dumbo vehicle accommodating up to two guests.
All in the Details
One of the unique features of the Dumbo attraction is its interactive queue, which is considered one of the best on property. Kids can play in a circus-themed playground while they wait for their turn to ride, which is signaled by a pager designed like a circus ticket that lights up and plays a message from Timothy Q. Mouse. The ride itself is a gentle experience that allows riders of all ages to control the up and down motion of their elephant with a joystick.
Aside from the ride, Storybook Circus also features the Big Top Souvenirs shop, which offers a wide selection of merchandise for kids and adults, including Dumbo-themed items. Visitors can also take photos with the stationary Dumbo located between the two carousels.
Interesting facts about the attraction include that it was one of the original rides when Magic Kingdom opened in 1971 and was designed to represent the pink elephants that Dumbo and Timothy hallucinated after accidentally drinking champagne in the film.
The dual carousels turn in opposite directions and meet in the middle plaza before traveling out toward the park together, and visitors can activate a light show by pulling a rope while climbing up to the nets.
The ride is also especially beautiful at night, with fountains and a multicolored light show that is the most advanced Dumbo show found in Disney parks.
Don’t forget to look down at the ground. You’ll find bear and monkey footprints, wagon tracks and peanut shells – a clear indicator that the circus was in town.
Tips
Here are some tips for riding Dumbo the Flying Elephant:
Consider using Genie+ to save time: Dumbo is a popular attraction and can have long lines, so consider using Genie+ to make a reservation or Lightning Lane access to skip the standby line.
Visit early or late: If you prefer to wait in the standby line, consider riding early in the morning or later in the evening when lines tend to be shorter.
Take advantage of the interactive queue: Dumbo has an interactive queue with a circus-themed playground for kids to play in while you wait. If you’re not using Genie+, take advantage of this to keep the kids entertained and make the wait more enjoyable.
Be mindful of seat restrictions: Dumbo cars seat two guests or maybe one adult and two small children, and some guests may find the seating restrictive. If you have any concerns, let a Cast Member know.
Check for pager and circus playtime: If the wait is long, you’ll be given a pager designed to look like a circus ticket to allow your kids to play in an air-conditioned play area while you wait. If your kids would like to play anyway, simply talk to a Cast Member.
