Hands up if you love Big Thunder Mountain Railroad in Magic Kingdom!
This is just one of those iconic attractions you must ride when you’re at Disney World. If you’ve ever found yourself in line for Big Thunder Mountain Railroad and overheard someone request “Row 15,” there’s a good chance they’re a fellow Disney adult. So, if you’re wondering why this row is such a big deal, buckle up, because I’m about to clue you in on why we keep asking for it.
As we were saying, we love Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, and we LOVE Row 15. Let’s go over the reasons why!
It’s All About That Speed (or at least the Feeling of It)
Let’s start with the most obvious reason: the last row just feels faster. Technically, the whole train is moving at the same speed, but when you’re sitting in Row 15, you get pulled through the drops and turns in a way that makes you feel like you’re zooming past everything.
You’re not just along for the ride, no, no no. You’re on a wild, fast-paced adventure!
The G-Forces? (Yes, Please)
If you’re in the front row, you’re more gently eased into turns and drops, but in the back, you’re whipped around with some serious G-forces.
You know that extra pull you feel when the train takes a sharp turn or plunges down a drop? That’s the magic of the last row, and for adrenaline junkies like me, it’s where the thrill really kicks in.
A Clear View of What’s Ahead
Here’s another bonus: You get a perfect view of the track. From the back, you can watch the train ahead of you as it snakes through the mountain, which builds anticipation for every drop and turn.
There’s something about seeing what’s coming that heightens the excitement. You know it’s about to happen, and yet, somehow, it still surprises you.
More Time at the Peaks
Ever noticed how the train hangs just a little bit at the top of a hill before you plummet down?
Well, if you’re in the back, you get that moment of suspense at the peaks just a little bit longer. It’s like the ride is toying with you, making the drop even more dramatic.
Air Time, Baby
You want to know what’s one of my favorite parts about Row 15? The air time!
That’s because the back of the train gets yanked over hills, which in turn makes us tend to float out of our seat a little more during those drops. It’s that feeling of weightlessness that makes the wholew experience so thrilling, and you definitely get more of it in the back.
Space to Breathe
When you’re in Row 15, there’s literally no one behind you.
This gives the last row a less crowded, more secluded vibe, which makes the whole experience feel a bit more personal and less chaotic. It’s just you, your ride buddy, and the wild west. Perfect.
The Theming? Yes, I’m Here for That
One thing I really appreciate about sitting in the back is that you can actually take in more of the scenery.
You’re not distracted by the engine at the front, and because the ride isn’t all about speed for you, you have time to admire Disney’s incredible theming—the craggy rocks, the goats on the mountainside, the old mining equipment. It’s a vibe, and in the back row, you’re soaking it all in.
It’s a Wilder Ride, Period
Up front, Big Thunder feels smoother, but in the back, it’s wilder, more unpredictable, and more intense.
It’s like the ride has two personalities — a calm, scenic experience for those in the front, and a chaotic, adrenaline-pumping adventure for those in the back.
There you have it. Those are just a few of the reasons why Disney Adults keep asking for Row 15 on Big Thunder Mountain Railroad. Now, we need to hear from your! Drop a comment below and in the meantime, stay tuned to Disney Food Blog, where we will continue to monitor any news about the construction of Cars Land.
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What’s your favorite part of Big Thunder Mountain Railroad at Magic Kingdom? Please let us know with a comment!
Lawrence Ling says
Yes the back row is a lot more thrilling and more fun with every turn.