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“it’s a small world”

Get ready for a magical tour around the world on the Happiest Cruise That Ever Sailed!
Location:Magic Kingdom
Fantasyland
Type of Attraction:Indoor boat ride
Height Restrictions:None
Typical Wait Time:5-20 minutes
Is It Scary?Nothing scary here!

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Magical Moments
Hidden Mickeys & Other Secrets
Did You Know…?
Touring Tips
Photo Gallery

“it’s a small world” is one of the most famous (and oldest) of all of the Walt Disney World attractions. Inspired by the friendship and innocence of children everywhere, “it’s a small world” is a slow moving boat ride that takes you on a magical tour across the globe. Along the way you’ll see visit many countries, each represented by groups of festive children (and a few animals!) singing the familiar theme song in their own native language.

The brilliant colors and dazzling designs change from scene to scene, reflecting the styles and traditions of each country. The last scene, (a one of a kind carnival decorated in pure white), brings all the children of the world together for a truly magical send-off!

Magical Moments

  • Don’t make the mistake of thinking that “it’s a small world” is corny and juvenile. It’s a magical journey that takes you across the globe celebrating the innocence and friendship that’s in the hearts of children throughout the world (and what’s so corny about that?).
  • Much of the fun in “it’s a small world” is in trying to figure out what part of the world you’re in. As the ride proceeds you’ll find yourself in more exotic locations such as India, Asia and a tropical rain forest.
  • Listen to how the famous theme song changes as you visit the different countries. You’ll even hear the words sung in many different languages.
  • The graphics and colors throughout the attraction are the unique design of Mary Blair and are a wonder to behold. Take a moment to appreciate the use of color and shape and how they work together in the varying scenes.
  • One of the most stunning effects is the rotating sun which you’ll see about halfway through the ride.
  • Keep an eye out for the friendly hippo with the glowing eyes.
  • The Taj Mahal scene is particularly enchanting, especially the reflecting pool in front.
  • The final room is pure magic, a fanciful carnival in pure white highlighted by hundreds of dazzling lights. It’s here that all the children of the world gather for one last celebration. Take a close look and you’ll even see that their clothing has been redesigned in shades of white!
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Hidden Mickeys & Other Secrets

  • Look at the vines above the giraffe’s head to find some purple leaves in a familiar shape.
  • In the South Pacific scene look for the clown holding the “Help” sign. His hairdo is a little odd, don’t you think?
  • As you exit, you’ll find a Mickey-shaped purple flower on the right hand wall.
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Did You Know...?

  • The distinctive design of the attraction is the creation of famed Disney artist Mary Blair, whose unique and whimsical style can also be seen in the films Alice in Wonderland, Peter Pan and The Three Caballeros, as well as in the immense mural in the Grand Canyon Concourse at the Contemporary Hotel.
  • There are 289 Animatronic dolls on hand to welcome you, all dressed in costumes from their native land.
  • The doll’s dresses were designed by Imagineer Alice Davis!
  • The theme song was composed by Richard M. Sherman and Robert B. Sherman, who also co-wrote many songs for a variety of Disney films, most notably The Jungle Book.
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Touring Tips

  • If you’d like to sit up front just ask! Cast members will usually be more than happy to honor your request.
  • If you’re touring with small children, it’s best to have them sit on the outside of the rows so they have an unobstructed view, particularly if you’re towards the rear of the boat.
  • Wait times fluctuate throughout the day, and can be influenced by the nearby Hall of Presidents and Mickey’s PhilharMagic which regularly release large crowds. If the line wait exceeds 20 or 30 minutes you can usually try again later to find a shorter wait time.
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Photo Gallery

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