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it’s a small world

“it’s a small world” takes guests on a gentle boat journey through various scenes representing different regions of the world, with animatronic dolls dressed in traditional costumes from each culture.

As you travel through the scenes, you are serenaded by the iconic song “It’s a Small World” which plays in the background. The song, written by the Sherman Brothers, features lyrics that emphasize the common bonds shared by people around the world.

Each scene features colorful and whimsical depictions of different cultures, landmarks, and landscapes, highlighting the diversity of the world’s people while celebrating the idea of harmony and understanding.

The attraction’s simple yet powerful message of unity and peace has resonated with audiences for decades, making it a timeless favorite among Disney fans of all ages.

Opened: 1971

Length: 10 minutes and 30 seconds

Type: Slow-moving boat ride

Ride Restraints: None; boat with bench seats

Height Requirement: None

Suitable for: All ages

When to visit: First 2 or last 2 hours, Early Theme Park Entry, 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

The backstory of “it’s a small world” at Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom is rooted in the universal themes of unity, diversity, and global friendship. Originally created for the 1964 New York World’s Fair by Disney legend Mary Blair, the attraction quickly became a beloved classic and was later brought to Disneyland and other Disney parks around the world.

As guests enter the charming facade of the attraction, they are greeted by the iconic clock tower adorned with whimsical characters representing different cultures from around the world. The facade sets the stage for the journey ahead, inviting guests to embark on a musical boat ride through the continents, where they will encounter a vibrant celebration of diversity and harmony.

Once on board their boat, guests are transported on a leisurely voyage through colorful scenes depicting children and animals from various countries, dressed in traditional attire and singing the iconic song “it’s a small world.” Each scene represents a different region of the world, showcasing the unique cultures, landscapes, and landmarks that make our planet so rich and diverse.

From bustling cities to tranquil countryside, guests witness a joyful tapestry of cultures coming together in harmony. Along the way, they encounter iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, Taj Mahal, and Great Wall of China, all rendered in Mary Blair’s distinctive artistic style.

The attraction’s timeless message of peace, love, and understanding resonates with guests of all ages, reminding them of the importance of embracing diversity and celebrating the bonds that unite us as a global community. As guests disembark from their boats, they are left with a sense of wonder and appreciation for the beauty and richness of our world.

“It’s a small world” continues to be a beloved favorite at Magic Kingdom, captivating generations of guests with its timeless message of unity and friendship. Through its whimsical scenes and infectious song, the attraction inspires guests to embrace the spirit of togetherness and carry it with them long after their journey ends.

Special Considerations

Guests can purchase Genie+ for Lightning Lane access to the attraction, and a few boats have wheelchair access. The ride is continuous loading, with each boat holding up to 20 people. 

Be sure to check out the personalized “Goodbye” message at the end of the ride, which IR readers can pick up from your MagicBand.

It’s All in the Details

The attraction was originally designed by Walt Disney for the Pepsi-Cola Company to benefit UNICEF at the 1964-65 New York World’s Fair. After its success at the fair, it made its way to Disneyland and became one of the original attractions when Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom opened on October 1, 1971.

The famous “It’s a Small World” theme song was created by Academy Award-winning composers Richard M. Sherman and Robert B. Sherman, who were asked by Walt Disney to create a simple yet catchy piece that could be sung in many different languages. It was recorded by performers from various countries and spliced together to represent 25 different countries.

The iconic song “It’s a Small World” is sung by 289 dolls in five different languages, including:

  • English
  • Italian
  • Japanese
  • Spanish
  • Swedish

The major themes of each room you pass through include:

  • Europe
  • Asia
  • Africa
  • Central/South America
  • South Pacific Islands
  • The Finale
  • The Goodbye Scene

The attraction also features a Hidden Mickey in the African scene and was created by Walt Disney Imagineer artist Mary Blair, with costumes designed by Disney Legend Alice Davis.

In addition to its popularity at Magic Kingdom, “it’s a small world” can be found at all four theme parks.

While waiting in the pre-show area, you can hear international songs like:

  • “Ach Du Lieber Augustin”
  • “Alouette”
  • “Chiapanecas”
  • “Estaba La Pájara Pinta”
  • “Funiculì–Funiculà”
  • “Hava Nagila”
  • “Irish Washerwoman”
  • “London Bridge”

A clown figure in a hot air balloon in the “Finale” scene was the only frowning figure in the attraction and was removed during the latest renovation of the ride.

Finally, the attraction provides a great respite from the heat during hot days at the park.

Tips:

Use Genie+/Lightning Lane: “it’s a small world” is a very popular attraction, especially during peak hours. Consider purchasing Genie+ or individual Lightning Lane access to save time waiting in the standby line.

Best time to ride: The ride usually has shorter wait times earlier in the morning and closer to park closing time. Try to avoid riding during peak hours (11 am to 2 pm) when the lines are the longest.

Seat selection: If you have a preference for where you sit, you can request it to the Cast Member loading your boat, although they may not be able to accommodate your request if the boat is already filled up.

Be mindful of the boats: Remember that the boats are continuously loaded and unloaded, so wait for the Cast Member’s instruction before stepping on or off the boat.

Stay until the end: The goodbye scene at the end of the ride is personalized with your name if you have a MagicBand. Also, you’ll be able to see the clock tower and the outside of the attraction, which is a great opportunity to take pictures.

Consider the weather: If it’s a hot day, the cool air inside the attraction can be refreshing. Conversely, if it’s raining, the ride can be a great place to take shelter for a few minutes.

“it’s a small world” is a classic and charming attraction that is worth experiencing at least once.