EXPLORING WALT DISNEY WORLD’S MAGIC KINGDOM
Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom is the ultimate place to find everything Disney, including fairy tales, castles and plenty of your favourite oh so friendly Disney characters. [Editor’s note: The layout and attractions at Disney World’s Magic Kingdom are similar to Disneyland Park in Anaheim, California] Magic Kingdom opened on October 1, 1971 and has since become the most iconic of the four theme parks.
There’s no denying that the popular theme park is a dream world for younger children… But, with a little imagination it can be a favourite destination for the young at heart.
Recommended attractions and experiences
In the heart of Disney’s Magic Kingdom, standing 190 feet tall is Cinderella’s Castle. It’s not only the perfect spot for a photo; it’s a Disney symbol that’s nearly as recognizable as Mickey Mouse himself! What most people don’t know is that Cinderella’s picturesque castle actually acts as a central hub for six different themed “lands” within Magic Kingdom. The surrounding lands are, starting from the main entrance and going clockwise around the castle: Main Street U.S.A., Adventureland, Frontierland, Liberty Square, Fantasyland, and Tomorrowland.
If you’re looking for thrills and crazy rides, you’ll have to wait until you visit Epcot or Hollywood Studios, but don’t worry because there are plenty of must-see attractions to be found throughout Magic Kingdom. A few favourites? Board a vessel and adopt a pirate’s life on the epic Pirates of the Caribbean ride; take a thrill ride on the Big Thunder Mountain Railroad; laugh with friends as you ride the uber popular Seven Dwarfs Mine Train; ride the legendary Space Mountain or simply cool down on the log flume-style Splash Mountain. When you’re in the mood for a little nostalgia… climb aboard a Doom Buggy and take a supernatural ride through the Haunted Mansion or go for a relaxing ride on the always popular, “It’s A Small World.”
While you’re wandering through Magic Kingdom with friends or your significant other make sure that you take the opportunity to line up and meet some of Disney’s most beloved characters: Alice, Aladdin and Jasmine, Winnie the Pooh and Tigger, Minnie Mouse and Daisy, and even Mickey Mouse. You’ll never know who will be standing around the next corner.
Finally, take a break from magical rides and getting your picture taken with your favourite Disney character and be sure to make time to check out one of the magical parades that take place at Magic Kingdom during your stay. The Festival of Fantasy Parade at Magic Kingdom (check schedules for times) is one of the most popular, featuring classic Disney moments right on Main Street USA. [Editor’s recommendation: The parades start in the entrance plaza and travel up Main Street, so try and score a spot standing right in front of the Fire House]
Ready to eat
When you’re ready for a bite to eat, there are tons of quick-service options that can be found throughout Magic Kingdom. Burgers, sandwiches, salads and snacks can be easily spotted as you walk through the various lands within Magic Kingdom. Of course, a visit to Disney World wouldn’t be complete without one of Disney’s legendary Dole Whips… You can find them at Aloha Isle, in Adventureland. [Editor’s recommendation: In the mood for another tasty treat? Make sure that you stop on Main Street at the Plaza Ice Cream Parlor for a hard-serve ice cream or an ice cream sandwich]
Looking for a full table service restaurant? Don’t worry there are plenty to choose from within the park. Be Our Guest (One of Disney World’s newest restaurants) easily tops the list, but make sure to book a reservation in advance if you want to stop in for dinner.
Magic Kingdom holiday events
If you’re planning on visiting Disney World during the holidays then get ready for an amped-up experience because Mickey Mouse hosts special parties for both Halloween and Christmas! Through the fall, guest are encouraged to put on a costume and buy tickets for Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party. The after park hours event features a fantastic parade with its own catchy theme music, characters in costume, spooky decorations, and plenty of fireworks. If you’re planning on visiting Magic Kingdom throughout the month of December then get ready for holiday extravaganza. Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party features lights draped on Cinderella’s iconic Castle, snow (yes, snow), a very special Christmas parade, and (you guessed it) even more fireworks!
NEXT: Get ready to explore Disney World’s Epcot…
