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Space Mountain: Height Requirement & Other Fun Facts

Learn all of the fun facts and height requirement for Space Mountain at Walt Disney World.

Wondering what the Space Mountain height requirement is? We’ve got you covered with the details.

the Space Mountain sign at Magic Kingdom in Disney World. An overlay reads, "Space Mountain Height Requirements and Info You Need"

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With too many attractions to count, Walt Disney World Resort is a vacation destination designed for the thrill ride lover.

And of those many attractions, Space Mountain is one that continues to stand out as a fan-favorite.

Located in the Magic Kingdom, the dark roller coaster takes guests on a journey through space.

When it comes to exciting roller coasters, this one is full of dips and drops that keep guests on their toes!

view of the exterior of Space Mountain from across the water in Disney World

About Space Mountain in Disney World

Space Mountain is an indoor roller coaster located in Tomorrowland at the Magic Kingdom. The attraction first opened in 1975 and has been thrilling guests ever since.

And while the ride may be over 40 years old, it still holds up today as one of the best coasters at Walt Disney World.

The ride lasts about two minutes and thirty seconds and reaches speeds of up to 28 miles per hour. The attraction is also one of the tallest rides in Tomorrowland, reaching a height of almost 200 feet!

While the ride may be short, it’s sure to leave a lasting impression. Guests will zip through the dark on this high-speed coaster, encountering plenty of twists and turns along the way.

And with lighting and sound effects that make you feel like you’re in a time warp, Space Mountain is sure to be a hit with guests of all ages.

How fast does Space Mountain go?

The attraction reportedly reaches speeds of up to 28 miles per hour.

But the lighting the Disney Imagineers use in the exciting ride makes it seem much faster, as does the unknown factor since the ride is in the dark.

We have a whole article about whether Space Mountain is scary or not, that can help you decide if you want to give it a try!

What is the average wait time for Space Mountain?

The average wait time for Space Mountain is about 30-60 minutes. Depending on the crowds, these times can vary.

Learn more about wait times at Disney World!

guests wait in the queue for Space Mountain at Magic Kingdom in Disney World

Does Space Mountain go upside down?

No, Space Mountain does not go upside down.

However, there are several sharp turns and drops that might make it feel like your stomach flipped upside down!

Ride Height Requirements

Riders must be 44 inches tall or taller to ride, and those with heart conditions or other health problems should not ride. This is for guest safety.

We have a whole list of Disney World height requirements (plus a free printable list that covers all the theme parks, including Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, and Disney’s Hollywood Studios) that is helpful as you plan your trip!

It’s always good to know the minimum height requirement ahead of time, particularly if you’re traveling with small children.

If someone in your party doesn’t meet the Disney ride height requirements, you can make use of the rider switch service if needed, so the entire family can enjoy their vacation.

Looking for something a little more peaceful? I love the Tomorrowland Transit Authority or the Carousel of Progress!

Who shouldn’t ride Space Mountain?

For safety reasons, because of the darkness and high speeds, Space Mountain is not recommended for those with heart conditions or other health problems.

There have been reported instances of people dying from pre-existing conditions after riding the attraction.

If you have any concerns, be sure to speak with a cast member before riding and make use of the rider swap program if needed.

Tomorrowland in Magic Kingdom lit up at dusk

Space Mountain Facts

If you’re a trivia fan, you’ll enjoy some of these interesting facts about Space Mountain:

  • The ride stands over 183 feet tall.
  • Space Mountain has almost identical two tracks, the Alpha and the Omega.
  • Tomorrowland Station MK-1 is the name of the Tomorrowland’s space station featured in the ride’s queue.
  • Space Mountain was the first roller coaster at Walt Disney World.
  • It’s also the first roller coaster in the world to be entirely indoors.
  • Space Mountain was inspired by the Matterhorn Bobsleds at Disneyland.
  • It took 3 years to construct the space-themed ride.
  • The Alpha track is about ten feet longer than the Omega track.
  • The first in history, the ride is electronically operated via computer.
  • Former sponsors included RCA and FedEx.
  • Astronaut Gordon Cooper worked with the Space Mountain team as a consultant. He wanted to make sure the ride resembled NASA’s early space missions and that the experience felt like actual space flight.

Tips for Riding Space Mountain

Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your experience on Space Mountain:

  • Use Genie+ to reserve a return time to avoid waiting in line.
  • If you’re not using Genie Plus, head to the ride early in the morning to avoid long wait times.
  • If you’re taller than 6 feet, you might want to ride in the front row for a little more leg room.
  • For a more intense ride, try sitting in the back row.
  • Keep your hands and arms inside the ride vehicle at all times.
  • This is definitely a ride where you’ll want to keep your belongings secure, so be sure to leave any loose items in the provided pouch in front of you or with a non-rider.
  • Need to make a quick stop by the bathroom before riding? The closest restroom is to the right of the ride, underneath part of the Tomorrowland Transit Authority PeopleMover track.

And there you have it – everything you need to know about Space Mountain at Walt Disney World!

Be sure to add this classic attraction to your must-do list on your next trip to the Most Magical Place on Earth. You won’t regret being a part of the out-of-this-world fun!

More Planning Tips for Magic Kingdom:

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3 photos featuring external views of Space Mountain at Disney World