Disneyland Paris, also known as Euro Disney, opened its gates on April 12, 1992. It’s the only Disney Park in Europe. And like every Disney park, it has several unique features that set it apart from other parks around the world. Because no two Disney parks are the same. This ensures that every new park that you visit is memorable and offers something new to do!
From exclusive rides to special events, here are some things that are unique to Disneyland Paris.
Things you can only do at Disneyland Paris
Crush’s Coaster
This is a thrilling rollercoaster ride that takes you on an underwater adventure inspired by the movie “Finding Nemo”. You’ll spin, dip, and swirl through a colorful coral reef and encounter characters like Crush the turtle and Bruce the shark. The ride is located in the Walt Disney Studios Park and is a must-do for thrill-seekers. Unfortunately it was under refurbishment during my recent trip there in mid-March. Because I can only experience this at Disneyland Paris, I will have to come back and experience it!
La Tanière du Dragon
This attraction is unique to Disneyland Paris and takes you on a journey through a dragon’s lair. You’ll wind your way through dark corridors and encounter the dragon himself, who breathes smoke and sparks. The attraction is located in Sleeping Beauty Castle and is a fun and slightly spooky experience. The entrance is located to the left side of the front of the castle.
Mickey and the Magician
This show is exclusive to Disneyland Paris and features Mickey Mouse as a magician’s apprentice. The show combines music, magic, and Disney characters to create a dazzling performance. You’ll see characters like Cinderella, Elsa, and Genie as they help Mickey master his magic.
Disneyland Paris’ architecture
The architecture at Disneyland Paris is unique and combines elements of classic Disney style with European design. Sleeping Beauty’s Castle, for example, is inspired by the Neuschwanstein Castle in Germany and features intricate details and stunning stained glass windows. But don’t get this castle confused with Sleeping Beauty’s Castle at Disneyland in Anaheim. Every park has a castle unique to the property. There are no two castles that are the same! The park also has areas that are inspired by different European countries, like Main Street USA, which is modeled after a quaint French town.
Star Wars Hyperspace Mountain
Don’t expect this to be like the Hyperspace Mountain at Disneyland Anaheim. Because Hyperspace in Anaheim is just an overlay to the Space Mountain ride. But Hyperspace Mountain at Disneyland Paris is a thrilling space-themed roller coaster ride that takes guests on an immersive journey through the Star Wars universe. The ride has over-the-shoulder restraints so you know it’s intense! The ride’s track is designed to simulate a high-speed chase through space, complete with corkscrew twists, a 360 flip, and drops. With its combination of thrilling speed and immersive theming, Star Wars Hyperspace Mountain is a must-ride attraction for Star Wars fans and thrill-seekers alike.
Phantom Manor
Phantom Manor is a popular attraction at Disneyland Paris that is essentially this park’s version of the Haunted Mansion. “What makes Haunted Mansion so special across Disney Parks is that each one is located in a different land.” (10 Fun Facts in Celebration of Disneyland Paris’ 30th Anniversary) This version is set in the Old West and features a range of eerie scenes and special effects. Guests board a “doom buggy” and travel through the manor, encountering ghostly apparitions, creaking doors, and a haunted ballroom. The attraction is known for its intricate details and immersive theming, making it a must-visit for fans of spooky experiences and Disney parks alike. And honestly, it was kind of on the creepier side!
The Curious Labyrinth
The Curious Labyrinth is a popular attraction at Disneyland Paris, located in the Fantasyland section of the park. It is based on the story of Alice in Wonderland and invites guests to navigate a maze of hedges to reach the center of the labyrinth, where they can meet the Queen of Hearts. The labyrinth is filled with interactive features such as a talking doorknob, a maze of mirrors, and a Cheshire Cat who disappears and reappears. The Curious Labyrinth offers a fun and challenging experience for guests of all ages, and is a must-see attraction for fans of the Alice in Wonderland story. And at the top of this little castle pictured above close to the end of the maze is a slide! This is truly something that you can only do at Disneyland Paris.
Disney Illuminations
This nighttime spectacular is a breathtaking display of fireworks, projections, and music. The show takes place in front of Sleeping Beauty Castle and features scenes from classic Disney movies like The Little Mermaid, Beauty and the Beast, and The Lion King. The show is a perfect way to end a day at Disneyland Paris.
Avengers Assemble: Flight Force
Flight Force is an exhilarating attraction located in the Avengers Campus at Disneyland Paris. The ride takes guests on a thrilling journey where they become recruits of the Avengers, boarding a high-tech aircraft and soaring through the skies. Flight Force is a must-see attraction for Marvel fans and theme park enthusiasts alike. It was an incredible ride and truly for those who love roller coasters.
Exclusive merchandise
Disneyland Paris has its own unique merchandise that you can’t find at any other Disney Park. Loungefly backpacks or wallets and Spirit Jerseys, for example, are popular items that have exclusive renditions just for Disneyland Paris. The park also has special merchandise for holidays like Halloween and Christmas, which are worth checking out. However, I did notice during my recent visit that Disneyland Paris really caters more to kids merchandise. The only place that I found truly great adult merchandise was Avengers Campus. And if you want to know what Loungefly’s to bring to Disneyland Paris to match all of these amazing, exclusive attractions, check out “The Best Loungefly’s for Disneyland Paris.”
In conclusion, Disneyland Paris has several unique features that make it a must-visit for Disney fans. From exclusive rides and shows to special merchandise and architecture, there’s something for everyone at this magical park. So next time you’re in Europe, be sure to add Disneyland Paris to your itinerary and experience the magic for yourself! And be sure to check out all the things you can do during your first visit to Paris so that you are completely ready for adventure.
