Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, FL is a place where dreams come true, offering a magical experience for visitors of all ages. Here’s a comprehensive list of the best things to do in Magic Kingdom, including must-see attractions, iconic rides, dining experiences, and tips for making the most of your visit.
1. Experience the Iconic Rides
Magic Kingdom is home to many beloved attractions that have become synonymous with Disney magic. These classic rides are perfect for everyone, from families with young kids to Disney enthusiasts.
- Space Mountain: A thrilling indoor roller coaster in the dark, perfect for those who enjoy high-speed thrills and a space-age adventure.
- Pirates of the Caribbean: A fan-favorite boat ride that takes you through pirate-infested waters, offering captivating animatronics and immersive storytelling.
- Haunted Mansion: A spooky and fun ride through a haunted house filled with "999 happy haunts." The eerie atmosphere and ghostly surprises make this a must-do.
- Splash Mountain: A log-flume ride that combines catchy music, animation, and a thrilling drop at the end. It's perfect for cooling off on a hot Florida day!
- Big Thunder Mountain Railroad: A family-friendly roller coaster that takes you through a haunted gold mine with exciting twists and turns.
- It's a Small World: A gentle boat ride that takes you through the world's cultures with delightful music and colorful dolls. This iconic attraction is loved by families and fans of classic Disney magic.
2. Meet Disney Characters
One of the best parts of visiting Magic Kingdom is meeting your favorite Disney characters. There are numerous opportunities to interact with classic Disney characters, including:
- Cinderella: Meet her at Cinderella Castle.
- Mickey and Minnie Mouse: Stop by Town Square for meet-and-greet sessions.
- Princesses: Encounter characters like Belle, Ariel, Rapunzel, and more at designated locations around the park.
- Costumed Characters: Throughout the park, you can also find characters like Donald Duck, Goofy, Pluto, and Daisy Duck for photo ops.
3. Watch Parades and Shows
Magic Kingdom is known for its entertaining parades and live shows that captivate audiences of all ages.
- Festival of Fantasy Parade: One of the most famous parades in the park, it features characters from Disney's animated movies, including elaborate floats, dancers, and music. Catch it in the afternoon on Main Street, U.S.A.
- Mickey’s PhilharMagic: A 3D movie experience with beloved Disney characters. This show features amazing special effects and iconic Disney songs.
- Enchantment (Nighttime Show): A stunning fireworks show at Cinderella Castle, blending fireworks, projections, and music from Disney classics. It’s an unforgettable way to end your day.
4. Explore the Themed Lands
Magic Kingdom is divided into several themed lands, each with its own distinct charm and experiences.
- Adventureland: Home to the Jungle Cruise, Pirates of the Caribbean, and The Magic Carpets of Aladdin, this area has a tropical vibe with lots of adventurous rides and dining options.
- Fantasyland: The heart of Magic Kingdom, where you'll find the iconic Cinderella Castle, Peter Pan's Flight, The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh, and Seven Dwarfs Mine Train.
- Liberty Square: This land offers a step back in time to the Colonial American period, with attractions like The Haunted Mansion and the Liberty Belle Riverboat.
- Tomorrowland: A futuristic land with attractions like Space Mountain, Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin, and Monsters, Inc. Laugh Floor.
5. Dining Experiences
Whether you want a quick bite or a full-course meal, Magic Kingdom has an array of dining options.
- Be Our Guest Restaurant: Dine inside the Beast's enchanted castle in Fantasyland, where you can choose from a delicious French-inspired menu in an elegant setting. Breakfast and lunch are quick service, while dinner is table service.
- Cinderella’s Royal Table: A magical dining experience where you can meet Disney princesses while eating inside the castle. Reservations are required and this is a premium experience.
- The Crystal Palace: Located on Main Street, U.S.A., this character buffet features visits from Winnie the Pooh and friends. It's a great option for families with young kids.
- Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn and Café: A quick-service option in Frontierland, offering hearty Tex-Mex favorites like tacos, nachos, and burritos.
6. Shopping on Main Street, U.S.A.
Don’t miss the opportunity to shop for Disney-themed souvenirs and memorabilia. Main Street, U.S.A. is lined with charming shops, such as:
- The Emporium: The largest store in Magic Kingdom, offering everything from Mickey Mouse ears to Princess dresses and Disney collectibles.
- Main Street Confectionery: Stop here for freshly made treats, including caramel apples, chocolates, and cookies.
7. Take Photos at Cinderella Castle
Cinderella Castle is the heart of Magic Kingdom and one of the most iconic Disney landmarks. Don’t forget to take plenty of photos in front of the castle. There are also several photo opportunities with the castle as your backdrop, especially at night when the castle is lit up beautifully.
8. Enjoy the Magic Kingdom at Night
Magic Kingdom truly shines at night with its colorful lights and enchanting atmosphere. Be sure to check out the following:
- Fireworks Show: As mentioned earlier, the Enchantment fireworks show is a must-see. You can catch it from anywhere along Main Street, U.S.A., but the best view is right in front of Cinderella Castle.
- Nighttime Rides: Some attractions, such as Space Mountain and Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, are even more magical when you experience them at night with the park's lighting adding a whole new layer of fun.
9. The Hall of Presidents
- Why visit: The Hall of Presidents is a fun and educational show in Liberty Square that showcases every U.S. president, including a lifelike animatronic presentation of each president. It's a unique and lesser-known attraction that offers history in a fun way.
10. Relax in the Garden Areas
If you need a break from the crowds, head to the Tom Sawyer Island in Frontierland for some quiet time. You can explore the island's caves, bridges, and pathways. Alternatively, enjoy the peaceful surroundings near Liberty Square and Main Street to take a rest.
Tips for Visiting Magic Kingdom:
- Arrive Early: Get to the park early to beat the crowds and make the most of your day.
- Use the Disney Genie+ Service: Consider using the Disney Genie+ to skip the regular lines at some of the more popular attractions. This service allows you to reserve a time slot for select rides.
- Stay Hydrated and Take Breaks: Magic Kingdom can get hot and busy, especially in the summer. Take regular breaks, stay hydrated, and wear comfortable shoes.
- Check the App for Wait Times: The My Disney Experience app provides live updates on ride wait times, dining availability, and event schedules.
Conclusion:
Magic Kingdom offers a wealth of magical experiences, from thrilling rides to character meet-and-greets, incredible parades, and fireworks. Whether you're visiting for the first time or returning for another dose of Disney magic, there’s something for everyone in this enchanting park.
