Mark Twain Riverboat

Reviews

• LM

  Louisa Moore

  Apr 1, 2026
  4.0
  When it comes to classic Disneyland attractions, it's hard to top the Mark Twain Riverboat. This historic-style steam paddleboat cruises the Rivers of America around Tom Sawyer Island. While what's happened to the sister paddleboat at Disney World in Orlando is nothing short of a travesty, the Disneyland version is still going strong and steaming its way around the park (for now). Let's hope this attraction never goes away, as it is one of the original things to do when Disneyland first opened. The boat itself is beautifully detailed, with multiple decks you can explore. My favorite place to stand is right at the front on one of the upper decks. You have to be able to climb stairs to access most of the boat, but ADA users will be happy to know this attraction is fully accessible on the ground level (which also affords perfect views). Seating is limited, so be prepared to stand for the duration of the ride. I don't mind standing because I often move around to catch different views of the park and enjoy the fresh air. The riverboat is gentle and scenic, offering lovely views of Frontierland, Big Thunder Mountain, and New Orleans Square (bring your camera). This isn't a thrill ride, but a relaxing, meandering break from the park's hustle and bustle. I love riding this boat on crowded days just to escape the bottlenecks. The boat winds around the water and rustic riverbank scenes, complete with animatronic people and animals. It's fun to see what you can spot from the decks. The riverboat has a classic Disney atmosphere too, with a vintage vibe and narration that's corny but immersive. You can step onboard and feel transported back to the frontier days packed with old-timey Americana. The ride lasts about 15 minutes and waits never seem to be too long. I wouldn't opt to wait to ride the riverboat, but since it's usually a walk-on attraction I've never had to. The ride is vastly different at night than during the day, mostly because of the mood lighting that makes the animatronics look more lifelike. I'd prefer to do this one at night, but it's fine any time of day. The Mark Twain Riverboat is a chill experience that's more about atmosphere and history than offering thrills and excitement. If you like enjoying the park at a slower pace, want to relax a little after lunch, or want to escape the heat and crowds, this is the ride you're looking for!
• RH

  Randy Hsu

  Feb 21, 2026
  5.0
  This has to be the most underrated attraction in the park. Aside from nostalgia and a salute to America, it is a serene river cruise and lots of great traditional sights to see along the way. A ride after dark (usually winter season) brings out the charm from the fires and lanterns.
• TR

  Tim Run

  Feb 13, 2026
  5.0
  My favorite spot in the park!
• JJ

  JaapThind

  Feb 12, 2026
  5.0
  Very peaceful
• LS

  Lisa Smith

  Jan 21, 2026
  5.0
  When you’re at Disneyland, you definitely have to get on the Mark Twain River boats you can go on the top the middle or the bottom you can sit you can stand you can face the outside and look at all the people or you can look at where Tom Sawyer Island is, there’s so much to see and they give you a little tour along the way You might have to go on it a couple times to be able to see all the little nuggets of coolness it also gives you a nice little break after walking around and out of 10 totally recommend this is for families. It’s very wheelchair accessible cane, friendly, and walker friendly great for all ages in any size party

Frequently Asked Questions About Mark Twain Riverboat