Three Disney rides that may freak you out

Those of us who were raised in Florida have experienced Disney World at least two dozen times in our lifetime, thanks to close proximity to the theme parks as well as amazing Florida resident deals year-round. And those of us who have ventured on every single ride at the Magic Kingdom, Epcot Center, Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom, and Typhoon Lagoon too many times, have clear favorites and priorities when returning to Disney’s famed attractions. Additionally, we all have one ride…or two…or three that give us butterflies from the very thought of being subjected to bespoke torture. Below are three rides I avoid like the plague.

Snow White's Scary Adventures at Magic Kingdom: I don’t think I ever got over the wicked witch’s vicious antics in Snow White’s Scary Adventures. From ages three to seven, I was too young to decipher between fiction and reality, and mistakenly thought the witch cardboard cut-outs were going to come after me. Though I laugh at this now, I would avoid this ride for kids that are prone to fearing monsters under the bed and in the closet.

Mission: SPACE at Epcot: Mission Space at Epcot simulates a genuine launch into space, including the harsh feelings your body must endure. Nevertheless, the ride is pure agony for those prone to claustrophobia. The severely tight space, which includes a screen close to your face, and limited mobility of your legs and arms while having your insides bounced around is more than most can bare. The anxiety/nausea/entrapment combo are enough to put me over the edge. Naturally, teenagers love it!

Mad Tea Party at Magic Kingdom: I think that I was around 19 years old when spinning around incessantly stopped being fun. Still, I pushed myself to the limits on the Mad Hatter’s tea cups until age 25, when I finally took the bold “No” approach to this ride. This is one ride that kids absolutely love, and it rarely has a long wait. As a parent or guardian, it’s best to let the kids do this one alone and enjoy from the sidelines.

All official Disney World hotels offer free transportation to the theme parks.

- Paul Rubio