Mad Tea Party

Theme parks around the world, not just Disney, usually have a variation on the 'spinning tea cups' ride.  It's a popular ride and suitable for all ages. 

I have to admit that it's not a favourite of mine.  The intense spinning often makes me feel queasy but, in most theme parks, I will ride it as my kids love them and, certainly at Disney, I will ride every ride if I can.

The theming of the spinning tea cup ride at Disney theme parks is, unsurprisingly, based on the Mad Hatter's tea party.  Brightly coloured teacups spin round on a base which has three sets of five cups grouped together.

The iteration of this ride at Disneyland is uncovered and located next to the Alice in Wonderland dark ride.  Huge paper lanterns hang from trees above the ride.  It's a glorious sight.

The version of the ride at the Magic Kingdom in Disney World is covered and has, at its centre, a large coffee pot which the teacups revolve around.  The colour scheme is similar to Disneyland and the same paper lanterns hang from the roof of this ride.

Titled Mad Hatter Tea Cups in Disneyland Paris, the ride is, again, very similar.  It has a lovely transparent roof which gives it an outdoor feel whilst protecting from the elements. 

Another iteration, very similar to the Magic Kingdom version is found at Hong Kong Disneyland although without the central coffee pot.  The central coffee pot is, however, found at the iteration at Tokyo Disneyland where the ride is called Alice's Tea Party.

Looking through Youtube, there are quite a few videos showing characters riding the attraction.  This must be hugely fun for any guests riding at the same time.  Imagine riding the tea cups at the same time as Alice and the Hatter.  There's even a Tokyo Disneyland video with Alice, Flynn Rider, Esmerelda, Peter Pan, Wendy, Captain Hook, Geppeto, Honest John and Gideon riding the tea cups!

A colourful, fun ride, and a must-ride, even if it does leave my head spinning!