The Ultimate Guide to the Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World


Originally opened in 1971, the Magic Kingdom Park is the first of Disney’s major theme parks in Orlando and the theme park that started in all in central Florida. This 107-acre park is the most visited theme park in the world hosting more than 10 million guests each year which is over 2 million more than its sister park, Disneyland in California.

The park is built directly behind to the Seven Seas Lagoon which is a man made lake that was dug to provide fill for  the  parks original  construction.  The Lagoon provides access to the main entrance from the Transportation and Ticket Center (and parking area) the world famous Monorail or via the Magic Kingdom ferry.  There are three hotels that run along the Magic Kingdom Monorail which are Disney’s Contemporary Resort, Disney’s Polynesian Resort and Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa.  

In addition to the Seven Seas Lagoon there is Bay Lake which is a natural lake about one-mile across which was the former home to both Disney’s River Country and Discovery Island.  Bay Lake also front Disney’s Wilderness Lodge, Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground, Disney’s Contemporary Resort and the Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort. 

Amazing Florida Beaches
Amazing Florida Beaches

As of October 2021 Disney introduced the Disney Genie, Disney Genie+ and Lightning Lanes which replaced the FastPass+ at the for theme parks.  Click here to learn more about this new system.

This Ultimate Guide to the Magic Kingdom is not only perfect for first time visitors, but for seasoned Disney fans are are looking for the latest information about this amazing theme park.

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On most evenings Disney features the “Electrical Water Pageant” which runs through the Seven Seas Lagoon and Bay Lake.  This water “parade” features an array of sea creatures and flags set to lively themed music.

The Magic Kingdom is centered around the 189-foot Cinderella’s Castle which is this parks most recognizable icon and serves as the backdrop for a number of Disney shows and parades as well as the evening fireworks display.  You will be amazed as 16 million colored lights illuminate the castle bringing the story’s of Disney to life.

Within Cinderella’s Castle is the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique and Cinderella’s Royal Table.  

The Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique is where your child can be transformed into a Disney Princess as well as shining knights with an authentic costume, hairstyle, makeup and more. Reservations are highly recommended due to demand and The Fairy Godmothers-in-Training start at 8:AM.  Click here to make a reservation.

Cinderella’s Royal Table is a one of a kind dining experience where you not only meet Cinderella, but dine like royalty.  Reservations are an absolute must and can be made up to 180 in advance.  This is a high demand restaurant to make your reservations for either breakfast, lunch or dinner as early as possible. Prices range from $35.00 to $75.00 per person.  Click here to see the menu at Cinderella’s Royal Table.

There are six themed lands at the Magic Kingdom each with its own themed rides, shops, shows and restaurants.  

  • Main Street USA
  • Adventureland
  • Frontierland
  • Liberty Square
  • Fantasy Land
  • TomorrowLand

These lands along with select rides, shops and attractions are shown as follows:

Main Street USA

Main Street, USA is Disney’s version of the classic American Main Street in the early 1900’s.  Originally inspired by Walt Disney’s hometown of Marceline, Missouri, guests will find a variety of shops, restaurants, character meet and greets as well as theme park services.

Rides and Attractions

  • Walt Disney World Railroad:  Take a relaxing a ride on a full-sized steam train that circles the Magic Kingdom Park.  This 1.5-mile ride takes about 20 minutes and you will see a number of rides and attractions at the Magic Kingdom.  There are three individual stations where you can board or jump off:  The primary station at the main entrance at Main Street USA,  The Frontierland station and the Fantasyland station.  This experience is a must-do for any first-timer at the Magic Kingdom.  

  • Town Square Theater: Spend some time with Mickey Mouse backstage in his rehearsal room and meet Tinker Bell at the Town Square Theater.  Wait times vary but can range from 10 minutes to more than 60 minutes depending on the crowds that day.  Mickey Mouse is always in demand so if a meet & greet is on your list, you may want to visit him early.  

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Shops, Restaurants and Dining

  • Tony’s Town Square Restaurant: Tony’s is a casual dining, sit down Italian restaurant themed after the Lady and the Tramp movie that is open for lunch and dinner.  Click here to see the menu at Tony’s.
  • The Main Street Bakery: Grab a pastry as well as a cup of STARBUCKS® coffee to start your day.
  • Plaza Ice Cream Parlor: Cool off on a hot summer day with an hand-scooped ice cream cone, waffle-bowl sundae and more. 
  • The Plaza Restaurant: A family-friendly restaurant serving breakfast, lunch and dinner.  Dining options include typical American fare like burgers and sandwiches for lunch to a lobster cobb salad for dinner.  Click here to see a menu at The Plaza Restaurant.
  • Casey’s Corner:  Just like at the baseball park, enjoy all the American favorites including hot dogs, corn dog nuggets, french fries and more. 
  • The Crystal Palace: Enjoy all you can eat buffet style dining with your favorite characters at The Crystal Palace restaurant.  Characters include Winnie the Pooh and some of his friends from the Hundred-Acre Woods.  Costs range from $24 to $59.99 and the restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner.  Click here to see the menu at The Crystal Palace.

  • Emporium: From mouse ears to pins, apparel and accessories, you will find it all at this amazing gift and souvenir shop.
  • Uptown Jewelers: Get your charms for the PANDORA Disney Parks Collection at Uptown Jewelers as well as other jewelry, handbags, watches, accessories, artwork and more.
  • Harmony Barber Shop: Disney has a real barber shop / hair salon where you can get your hair cut and your beard trimmed.  There is even a special offers for your “Baby’s First Haircut”.  
  • Main Street Chamber of Commerce:  Package pickup for all those souvenirs you purchased throughout the day.
  • City Hall: Guest services and this is the right place for all your questions.

Do you love to take photos?  There are a number of great spots to take photos within Main Street USA including by the flag pole, in front of the balloons from one of the street vendors, within the candy stripe wall in  the Confectionery and at the end of Main Street, USA with Cinderella’s Castle as a backdrop.

Adventureland

Adventureland at the Magic Kingdom is classic Walt Disney with a combination of a jungle feel along with a Caribbean, Spanish, African and Polynesian flavor.  There are two main sections within Adventureland which are the Arabian Village and the Caribbean Plaza. 

To get to Adventureland just make a left at Cinderella’s Castle once you pass Main Street USA and you will find an exotic environment with lush landscaping and rich architectural details.  Two of the most favorite Disney rides are within Adventure and include The Jungle Cruise and the Pirates of the Caribbean ride.   Both rides are suitable for all ages and are timeless Disney classics which never get old.  

Rides and Attractions

  • Jungle Cruise ride:  (Endless Summer favorite) You will hop on a classic steam boat as your river guide sets out for an amazing adventure along the waters of Amazon, the Nile and the Mekong rivers.  Watch out for the gorillas, elephants, hippos, baboons, snakes as well as he headhunters that show up along the 10-minute trip.  The best part of the experience is usually the guides as they are among the funniest cast members throughout all of the Disney parks.  And if there are at the Magic Kingdom during the holiday season, the Jungle Cruise is transformed into the “Jingle” Cruise with a completely jolly and festive experience.  Wait times vary but can range from 15 minutes to more than 60 minutes depending on the crowds that particular day. Disney Genie+ Lightning Lanes are available for the Jungle Cruise.

  • Pirates of the Caribbean ride:  (Endless Summer favorite) Remember that dead men tell no tales which riding your boat looking for treasure and loot.  Pirates of the Caribbean is another timeless Disney classic that is perfect for guests of all ages.  Be on the lookout for Captain Jack Sparrow as well as some of the other pirates as they plunder seaside towns.  Since this attraction is completely indoors it is not dependent on the weather.  So this is one of the rides you should head to when those famous central Florida thunderstorms come rolling through.  Wait times vary but can range from 20 minutes to more than 60 minutes depending on the crowds that particular day.  Disney Genie+ Lightning Lanes is also available for the Pirates of the Caribbean.

  • The Magic Carpets of Aladdin ride:  Inspired by the movie Aladdin, up to four guests can ride on each of the flying carpets which can be directed both high and low (from the front) and forward and backwards (from the rear).   You will soar above Adventureland around the magic lamp and genie bottle. This is yet another classic Disney ride which is perfect for the younger ones but available for guests all ages. Disney Genie+ Lightning Lanes is available for the Magic Carpets of Aladdin ride and wait times range from 15 minutes to more than 30 minutes depending the crowd levels that day.
  • A Pirates Adventure: A Pirate’s Adventure: Treasures of the Seven Seas is interactive experience whereby you become a crew member for Captain Jack Sparrow, embarking on an adventure to fight of other pirates and find treasure by seeking clues from your treasure finder card.  Collect all five cards to get a special card signed by Captain Jack himself.   The five missions take about 20 minutes each to complete and there is no time limit so you can enjoy other experiences during your adventure.   While this is a very fun experience for kids, it is recommended that first-timers pass since it can take time away from getting to some of the more popular attractions. 
  • The Enchanted Tiki Room: Cool off during a hot summer day and enjoy a sing along with over 225 Audio-Aminatroinc birds, flowers and statues.  This is a very cute but quick, 10-minute show which could offer a nice break from the lines of the more popular rides but we recommend for first-times only to see if time permits.
  • Swiss Family Treehouse: Even if you have a treehouse in your backyard this is an attraction you won’t want to miss.  You will explore all six-stories of the treehouse home of the shipwrecked Swiss Family Robinson to see how they lived on this deserted island.  As a warning, there are more than 100 stairs to climb so make sure you are ready for some exercise.  When you make it to the very top there is amazing views of Adventureland and the Jungle Cruise.  This is a walk-through attraction which can take from about 15-minutes to more than 30-minutes depending on the number of guests in the treehouse as well as how much you want to browse through it.
  • The Pirates League:  Did you ever want to be a full fledged pirate?  Well this is the place.  You and your family will be transformed into a pirate (or a mermaid) including a hair style, makeup and other accessories.  Guests must be at least 3 years of age and it takes about 30 to 60 minutes for the transformation.  Packages start from around $20 and can exceed $50 depending the price of the accessories.  This is a great treat for the little ones and reservations (which are highly recommended) can be made up to 6 months in advance of your visit. 

Shops, Restaurants and Dining

  • Sunshine Tree Terrace: Grab a frozen orange and vanilla soft-serve “Citrus Swirl” along with some other snacks and this quick service restaurant.  
  • Jungle Navigation Company Skipper Canteen:  Enjoy a wide variety of Asian, African & South American cuisine at this casual table service restaurant.  Entrees including stead, chicken, port and lamb chops as well as a variety of specialties for the kids.  Open for both lunch and dinner, the Skipper Canteen offers a good meal at a fair “theme park” price.   Click here to see the full menu at the Jungle Navigator Company Skipper Canteen.
  • Aloha Isle:  This is a “must do” for any first-timer to The Magic Kingdom so make sure you stop here for the famous “DOLE Whip” pineapple flavored soft serve ice cream.  Lines can be long at Aloha Isle as this treat is a favorite among Disney aficionados.    And for just $9.99 you can get the DOLE Whip in a souvenir Tiki Bowl.
  • Tortuga Tavern:  Eat like a pirate in this quick service restaurant.  Open for lunch and dinner, you can choose from a variety of American fare including hot dogs, a Brisket Sandwich and more.   Click here to see the full menu at the Tortuga Tavern.

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Frontierland

Just like you would find in the old west, this land is chock full of amazing rides and experiences.  Themed after the 19th Century American “Wild West”, you are immersed into the time of cowboys and pioneers, the Gold Rush and more.

Two of the biggest thrill rides in the Magic Kingdom are located in Frontierland and include Splash Mountain and the Big Thunder Mountain Railroad. And if you are a Disney purist, then make sure you catch the Country Bear Jamboree.

Rides and Attractions

  • Big Thunder Mountain Railroad (Endless Summer favorite) Big Thunder Mountain Railroad is another “must do” ride at the Magic Kingdom and we consider this one of the most exciting rides throughout the entire park.   You will take an amazing high speed ride on an old railroad car through a haunted gold mine set in the mid-1800’s.  Experience all the ups & downs as well as twists & turn (there are no loops or inversions on this ride).  Big Thunder Mountain Railroad ride is also limited to guests 40 inches and taller and is considered to be a “thrill” type roller coaster ride that may not be suitable for everyone.  Disney Genie+ Lightning Lanes are available and wait times range from less than 30 minutes to more than 60 minutes depending the crowd levels that day.

  • Country Bear Jamboree: Classic Disney at its finest, the Country Bear Jamboree is a good old-fashioned stage show in the Grizzly Hall that features 18 Audio-Animatronics bears playing a number of original and classic country & western songs.   The show is approximately 15 minutes long, is loads of fun and suitable for all ages.  According to Disney’s web site this is one of the last attractions that Walt Disney helped develop.
  • Tom Sawyer Island: Just like the old days in the American frontier; you will explore this amazing island filled with passages, tunnels, suspension bridges an old mill as well as a classic frontier fort.  To cross the “Rivers of America” and get to Tom Sawyer island you and your party will jump on a log raft piloted by a Disney cast member.   This is a self guided tour which is suitable for all ages; but keep in mind that the island is not open the entire day (typically it opens late mornings and extends to later in the afternoon / early evening).  
  • Tiana’s Bayou Adventure (Coming Soon):  Tiana’s Bayou Adventure is currently under development on the site of the former Splash Mountain attraction.  This attraction will take riders on an adventure through the bayou with the characters and music from the Princess and the Frog move.

Shops, Restaurants and Dining

  • Pecos Bill Tall Take Inn and Cafe:  Themed like an old western saloon, this quick service dining restaurant is open for lunch and dinner.  You will enjoy Mexican food including nachos, burritos, fajita and more.   Click there to see a full menu at Pecos Bill.
  • Westward Ho:  Grab a frozen lemonade and a corn dog at this quick service dining restaurant that is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner.  Click here to see the menu at Westward Ho.
  • Golden Oak Outpost: Quick service dining with an old west theme.  Serving lunch and dinner including chicken nuggets, waffle fries and more.  Open for lunch and dinner only.  Click here to see the menu at the Golden Oak Outpost.
  • Frontier Trading Post:  This western themed gift shop sells a variety of souvenirs and is a great place to trade you Disney pins.

Liberty Square

Liberty Square is classic Americana with the entire land themed after the colonial era of American history.   You will find replicas of the Liberty Bell and the Liberty Tree as well as architecture from that time period.

Beyond the American history (and may be a little out of place) is one of the most fun attractions of the entire park.  The Haunted Mansion is located at the rear of Liberty Square and is one ride/attraction that is not to be missed. 

  • Hall of the Presidents: (Endless Summer favorite)  History comes to life in the Hall of the Presidents as you will find all 44 Presidents of the United States talk about the founding of the nation. Listen to George Washington and John F. Kennedy as well as Abraham Lincoln speak to you just like if they were alive today.  This attraction is 25-minute long and runs throughout the entire day.   This attraction is suitable for all ages and perfect to any history buff.  But wait, you say there are 45 Presidents but only 44 are shown.  Well when you are there you can find out about President Grover Cleveland and how he served two non-consecutive terms making him the 22nd and 24th President.
  • Haunted Mansion: (Endless Summer favorite) One of the ultimate Disney classic rides that will send shivers up your spine.  After walking through one of the best themed queues of any theme park in Orlando, you will enter the mansion and board your Doom Buggy for the ride of your life. You will see everything from dancing ghosts to an old time graveyard but be on the lookout for a number of “Hidden Micky’s” throughout the mansion.  The Haunted Mansion is a must do for any first-timer and open to guests of all ages.  The ride is a little dark and can be quite scary for the little ones so use your best judgment on whether to ride. Disney Genie+ Lightning Lanes are available and wait times generally range from around 20 minutes to more than 60 minutes depending the crowd levels that day.  If you are the park near Halloween, you may want to pass as wait times can get a little extensive.

  • Liberty Square Riverboat: Go back in American history on the 47-foot tall, four-deck  riverboat called the “Liberty Belle”.  You will take a cruise around Tom Sawyer Island and your tour will be narrated by Mark Twain who shares memories of his time along the Mississippi River.  The voyage takes about 20 minutes to complete and you will get really cool view of Big Thunder Mountain, Splash Mountain and the Haunted Mansion.  This ride is perfect for all ages and is a nice break from the crowds on a hot summer day as you enjoy the shade and the breeze.

Shops, Restaurants and Dining

  • Liberty Tree Tavern: Enjoy all-American food at this classic buffet style restaurant.  In addition to the buffet, the Liberty Tree Tavern offers a full menu at lunch.  There are six individually themed rooms named after some of the most famous figures in US History:  George Washington, Benjamin Franklin, John Paul Jones, Thomas Jefferson, Paul Revere and Betsy Ross.  The Liberty Tree Tavern is open for lunch and dinner; reservations are highly recommended and can be made up to 180 in advance. Wine at beer are served at this restaurant.  For the buffet, prices are $21 per child (age 3 to 9) and $39 per adult for both lunch and dinner.   Click here to see a full menu at the Liberty Tree Tavern.
  • The Diamond Horseshoe: Reservations are accepted for this all you can eat family style restaurant that serves American fare including BBQ pulled port, chicken, brisket, smoked sausage and more. There is an a la carte lunch menu also available.  Prices for the all you can eat buffet are $39 per adult and $21 per child. Wine and beer are served at The Diamond Horseshoe.
  • Liberty Square Market: Quick service dining with hot dogs, turkey legs and a variety of  drinks & snacks. 
  • Sleepy Hollow: Enjoy some of the finest specialty deserts including fruit waffle sandwiches, funnel cakes and more.  There is also a variety of coffee and other beverage offerings. 
  • Columbia Harbour House: (Endless Summer favorite)  One of our favorite quick service dining restaurants in the Magic Kingdom, you will find lobster rolls, shrimp, fried fish, grilled salmon and more.  Open for lunch or dinner, prices are considered to be reasonable for theme park restaurants. Click here to see the full menu at the Columbia Harbour House.

Fantasyland

Staring at Cinderella’s Castle, Fantasyland is where much of the magic happens.  With the classic Disney characters like Mickey, Minnie and Donald to the Disney’s princesses, you can pretty much spend all day in this land alone.

The main stage show as of January 2023 is Mickey’s Royal Friendship Faire. This live stage show is held on the stage in the front of Cinderella’s Castle.  You will join Mickey, Minnie and his friends as well as the characters from Frozen, The Princess and the Frog and Tangled for a great show of music, singing/dancing and amazing special effects.  Make sure you check the show times for your visit as this show runs several times a day with varying start times. And since it is outside, is subject to the weather. 

In addition to the Friendship Faire, the Disney Festival of Fantasy Parade is one not to miss.  With your favorite Disney characters along with a fire breathing dragon, you may want to find a spot a little early as the crowds near the castle can get large.

At night Cinderella’s Castle and Main Street USA play host to Disney’s Happily Ever After which is a spectacular fireworks,  projection and special effects show.  This show runs nightly, typically right before park closing, and is about 15 minutes in length.  It will be the capstone to your day so make sure you give yourself enough time to find a good spot since the best places get taken early.

Rides and Attractions

  • Seven Dwarfs Mine Train: (Endless Summer favorite) One of the newest attractions (we guess not that new anymore), the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train is a family friendly roller coaster that offers an exciting and fun ride that is perfect for most riders.  Keep an eye out for the jewels as you race down the mountain.  The mine train is limited to guests 38 inches and taller and is considered to be a “thrill” ride.  Disney Genie+ Lightning Lanes and individual Lightning Lanes are available.  Wait times are typically more than 60 minutes on most days. 

  • Mickey’s PhilharMagic show:  Step in to the Concert Hall for a 3D experience with Mickey, Donald and a number of the Disney characters.  The 150-foot wide screen wraps around the theater a full 180 degrees so there is not a bad seat in the entire theater.  This show is perfect for all ages and Disney Genie+ Lightning Lanes are available (typically not needed on an average day).
  • Under the Sea – Journey of The Little Mermaid: (Endless Summer favorite) Become a part of the undersea world of Ariel as you jump on a clamshell for a music filled ride.  Look our for your favorite characters including Sebastian, Prince Eric, Flounder, King Triton, Ursula and of our course Ariel.  This ride is perfect for all ages and has no height requirements.  And although you are under the sea, you will stay dry and comfortable so there is no need to bring a poncho with you. Disney Genie+ Lightning Lanes are available and wait times range from around 20 minutes to more than 60 minutes depending on the day’s crowd levels. 

  • Peter Pan’s Flight ride:  One of the historic rides inspired by Walt’s 1953 classic, you will be immersed in the story as you jump on your pirate ship along with Peter Pan and head out over London and onto Never Land.  During your journey you will fight Captain Hook while avoiding the ticking crocodile.  This ride is perfect for all ages and does not have any height restrictions.  Disney Genie+ Lightning Lanes are available and wait times range from around 15 minutes to more than 45 minutes depending on the day’s crowd levels.  
  • “it’s a small world” ride: (Endless Summer favorite)  Another one of the classic Disney attractions, it’s a small world is known as the “Happiest Cruise That Ever Sailed” (per the Disney web site).  You will board a boat and take a magical ride through all seven continents.  The 10-minute ride was originally created for the 1964-65 World’s Fair in New York and is perfect for all ages (does not have any height restrictions).  Wait times can get lengthy and range from around 30 minutes to more than 60 minutes depending on the day’s crowd levels. Disney Genie+ Lightning Lanes are available for “it’s a small world”.

  • Prince Charming Regal Carrousel ride: This carousel is a work of art.  Originally built in 1917 for Belle Isle Park in Detroit, Michigan, there are 90 wood-carved horses along with a chariot that is inspired by the Disney movie Cinderella.  The carousel is open to all ages with all heights and is located right behind Cinderella’s castle.  Wait times can get lengthy and range from around 15 minutes to more than 30 minutes depending on the day’s crowd levels.
  • Pete’s Silly Slideshow:  Meet some of your favorite Disney characters including Donald Duck and Goofy at the Big Top. Don’t forget to get your autograph books ready.
  • Meet Ariel in Her Grotto: Meet the Little Mermaid herself in her seaside grotto.  
  • Dumbo the Flying Elephant: (Endless Summer favorite) Another one of the timeless Disney classics based on the 1941 movie, on this ride you will fly high or low (you take the controls) with Dumbo and Timothy Q.  And while waiting for your ride, you will make a stop in the big-top tent which is an air-conditioned playground suitable for all ages.  There are no height restrictions on Dumbo so all can enjoy. Disney Genie+ Lightning Lanes are available and wait times range from around 20 minutes to more than 60 minutes depending on the day’s crowd levels. 
  • Mad Tea Party ride: Round and round you go in your teacup as you spin and twirl through the Mad Hatter’s party based on the Disney Classic, Alice in Wonderland.  This ride is suitable for all ages and does not have height restrictions. Disney Genie+ Lightning Lanes are available and wait times range from around 15 minutes to more than 45 minutes depending on the day’s crowd levels. 

  • The Barnstormer ride: (Endless Summer favorite)  If your little ones never have ridden on a roller coaster than Goofy’s Barnstormer is the perfect place to start.  High requirements cart at 35 inches and there are a few small drops which add to the excitement (but the ride is not scary at all).  Disney Genie+ Lightning Lanes are available and wait times can and range from around 15 minutes to more than 45 minutes depending on the day’s crowd levels.
  • Casey Jr. Splash N’ Soak Station: Cool off on a hot Florida day at this circus themed water playground.  All ages are welcome and there are no height requirements to play in the Soak Station.
  • The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh (Endless Summer favorite) Get lost in the Hundred-Acre Wood with Winnie the Pool.  Have some fun along with Tigger, Gopher, Piglet, Eeyore, Kanga and Roo while enjoying of the sites and sounds of this Disney classic.   This ride is perfect for all ages and there are no height restrictions. Disney Genie+ Lightning Lanes are available and wait times range from around 25 minutes to more than 45 minutes depending on the day’s crowd levels.

  • Princess Fairytale Hall:  Meet Princess Rapunzel and Princess Tiana at this magical hall.  Your little ones will get up close to the princesses and be able to get a few minutes of personal time.  Separate ticketed events are offered.

Shops, Restaurants and Dining

  • Be Our Guest Restaurant: Themed after the Disney classic, Beauty & the Beast, this amazing restaurant is not to be missed.  Be Our Guest is a quick-service dining for breakfast and lunch but converts to  sit-down / table for dinner.   Reservations for all three meals can be made up to 180 days in advance of your visit and highly recommended for dinner service.  Prices range from approximately $15 to more than $60.  Click here to see the menu at Best Our Guest.

  • Gaston’s Tavern:  Grab a sandwich, snack or drink at this quick service restaurant.  Make sure you try FeFou’s Brew which is frozen apple juice with a mixture of marshmallow and passion fruit.  
  • Pinocchio Village Haus: Italian favorites from pizza to pasta are offered at this quick service dining restaurant.  Open for lunch and dinner, this is the perfect place to stop and eat during a hot Florida day.  Click here to see the menu at Pinnochio Village Haus.
  • Cinderella’s Royal Table: Character dining at its finest inside Cinderella’s Castle overlooking Fantasyland.  Although open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, this is a very difficult reservation to get so make sure you book as early as possible.  The cost for breakfast is $62 per adult and $37 per child (ages 3 to 9) while lunch & dinner is $75 per adult and $45 per child.  Endless Summer Tip:  If you get an early morning reservation for breakfast you can enter the park early.  And yes, it is a lot of fun being the only ones to walk along Main Street USA.  Click here to see the menu at Cinderella’s Royal Table.
  • Prince Eric’s Village Market: Grab and go with a turkey leg or jumbo pretzel at this quick service restaurant. 
  • Cheshire Cafe’:  Grab a “Cheshire Cat Tail” and a drink at this quick service dining restaurant. 
  • Storybook Treats: The perfect spot to cool off with a Peter Pan Float or Gingerbread Sundae.
  • The Friar’s Nook: Enjoy American fare at this quick service dining restaurant that features buffalo chick tots, hot dogs and more.  Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner; click here to see the menu at The Friar’s Nook
  • Big Top Souvenirs:  Get all your amazing Disney apparel including souvenirs, apparel, home decor and even snacks & treats.
  • Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique: The perfect spot to transform your child into a  princesses or prince.  There are 10 different packages to choose from ranging from a variety of options for hair, makeup, costume and accessories.  The “transformation” take from 30 minutes to more than 60 minutes depending on the package that was chosen.  Reservations can be made up to 180 days in advance.

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Tomorrowland

TommorowLand is all about the future with an amazing array of rides and attractions.  From the upcoming Tron roller coaster that is now under construction to the classic Space Mountain ride, there is something for all at TomorrowLand.  

Rides and Attractions

  • Tomorrowland Speedway ride: Get behind the well of a gas-powered car and cruise around the speedway’s track.  This ride is designed for smaller racers and guests 32-inches or taller can drive as long as they are accompanied by a companion rider who is at least 54-inches tall.  Disney Genie+ Lightning Lanes are available and wait times range from less than 20 minutes to more than 45 minutes depending the crowd levels that day. 

  • Space Mountain ride: (Endless Summer favorite) Space Mountain is the original thrill ride at the Magic Kingdom.  In this “dark ride” you will fly through the galaxy past planets and stars for an amazing trip through space. Guests must be 44 inches or taller to ride Space Mountain.  Disney Genie+ Lightning Lanes and individual Lightning Lanes are available for Space mountain.  Wait times range from less than 30 minutes to more than 60 minutes depending the crowd levels that day. 
  • Astro Orbiter ride: (Endless Summer favorite) Guests will go for a ride high above TomorrowLand in a 2-person spaceship.  You control going up and down in this classic Disney ride.  The Astro Orbiter is open to all ages and heights and due to limited capacity, wait times can easily exceed 30 minutes to more than 60 minutes depending the crowd levels that day.

  • Monsters, Inc. Laugh Floor show: Enjoy a laugh with Mike Wazowski and friends at the Monsters, Inc. Laugh Floor.  You can text jokes to Mike and actually become part of the show.  This show is open to all ages and wait times range from 20 minutes to more than 40 minutes depending the crowd levels that day.  Disney Genie+ Lightning Lanes are available for this show.
  • Tomorrowland Transit Authority PeopleMover: (Endless Summer favorite) The “PeopleMover” is another classic Disney ride that gives you a full tour of TomorrowLand.  Board a four-person car for a 10-minute ride that goes through Space Mountain, Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin and Mickey’s Star Traders shop.  The PeopleMover is fun for all ages and gives a nice break from the crowds.  Wait times are generally less than 20 minutes on a typical day and Disney does a good job to keep the line moving.

  • Walt Disney’s Carousel of Progress: This classic Disney ride made its original debut at the New York World’s Fair in 1964-1965 under the name “Progressland” before it was moved to the Magic Kingdom park in 1975.   In this unique show you will watch the story of a traditional American family in four different periods in time; showing show technology has impacted their way of life.  This ride is open to all ages and wait times are generally less than 20 minutes on a typical day.

  • Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin ride:  Help Buzz Lightyear defeat the evil Zurg by firing your laser canon at the robot army targets.  Get enough points to become a Junior Space Ranger.  Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin is open to guests of all ages and heights.  As it is a popular ride, wait times are generally exceed 30 minutes on a typical day.  Disney Genie+ Lightning Lanes are available.
  • TRON Lightcycle / Run: Officially opened for park guests in April 2023, TRON Lightcycle / Run is the newest attraction at the Magic Kingdom. This attraction will take guests on an amazing motorcycle style thrill ride through the cyber-fi world of TRON following the events of “TRON: Legacy”, whose main character is Sam Flynn.  The attraction is limited to riders 48 inches or higher in height and guests must join a virtual queue via the My Disney Experience app. Disney Genie+ Lightning Lanes are available.

Shops, Restaurants and Dining

  • Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Cafe’:  Cosmic Ray’s is a quick-service dining restaurant located in the heart of Tommorrowland.  From burgers to chicken nuggets and sloppy joes, you will find American fare while enjoying the music of “Sonny Eclipse”.  Click here to view the menu at Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Cafe‘.
  • Cool Ship: Get your churro with chocolate sauce and a beverage and this quick-service snack restaurant.   Click here to view the menu at Cool Ship.
  • Auntie Gravity’s Galactic Goodies: Enjoy a soft serve cone, smoothie, float or sundae at this quick-service restaurant.   Click here to see the menu at Auntie Gravity’s Galactic Goodies.
  • The Lunching Pad: Located directly below the Tomorrowland People Mover, this quick-service dining restaurant with outdoor seating features a variety of American fare including hot dogs and roast beef sandwiches.  Click here to view the menu at The Lunching Pad.
  • Tomorrowland Terrace Restaurant: The Tommorrowland Terrace is a quick-service dining restaurant where you get get a cheeseburger or a chicken sandwich.  In addition to lunch and dinner,  this restaurant hosts a desert party for evening fireworks at the Magic Kingdom (additional charges apply).  Click here to see the menu at the Tomorrowland Terrace Restaurant.
  • Merchant of Venus: Specialty merchandise and souvenirs of your favorite Disney stories.  You will find everything from apparel and access to toys and stuffed animals. 

Special Events at the Magic Kingdom

Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party

Enjoy celebrating Halloween with Mickey and the rest of the Disney Characters.  Enjoy trick or treating, special entertainment and Halloween fireworks at this separately ticketed event.  This event is perfect for children of all ages as it is Halloween without all the fright – dress up in your favorite costume and enjoy the night.

Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party

You can celebrate the holidays at the most magical place in the world.  The Magic Kingdom park is transformed into a winter wonderland right down to the lights on Cinderella’s Castle (transformed by Queen Elsa from Frozen).  Special characters, parades, fireworks and entertainment highlight this amazing separately ticketed event.

Disney Villains After Hours at the Magic Kingdom

Perfect for teens and adults, you will have a amazingly wicked time  enjoying this three-hour separately ticketed special event.  From special entertainment to villain-themed food as well as a dance party.  

Click here for more information about hotels at Walt Disney World

What does is cost to go to Magic Kingdom?

As of January 2023 on Walt Disney World web site, prices at the Magic Kingdom ranges from as low as $109.00 per day to more than $189.00 per day for a single day ticket.  Multiple day passes are also available. Please note that these prices are for one park per day and do not include the Park Hopper Option.   

Disney is always running promotions with discounts and specials so be on the lookout for what they have to offer.  There are a number of other sources which at times offer discount ticket prices.  These include:

  • Costco Travel
  • AAA Travel

Where ever you decide to go to purchase your tickets, please make sure they are from a reputable source as there has been ticket fraud reports over the last several years.

Magic Kingdom Area Hotels

There are a number of resort hotels (and accompanying vacation club properties) in the immediate area of the Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World.  These properties offer a number of benefits to staying at other on-site Disney hotels as there is direct transportation via Monorail, boat or bus shuttle.  There are even paths leading to select hotels if the guests desire to walk. 

The three resort properties on the “Monorail Loop” are:

There are additional resort properties NOT on the Monorail Loop which include:

  • Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
  • Boulder Ridge Villas at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge (Disney Vacation Club)
  • Copper Creek Villas & Cabins at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge (Disney Vacation Club)
  • The Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort
  • The Campsites at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort

Click here for more information about hotels at Walt Disney World

Parking at the Magic Kingdom

Guests to the four Walt Disney World theme parks pay one parking fee that is good all day for all the four parks (Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Disney’s Animal Kingdom).  The parking fees are as follows:

  • Standard Self-Parking (car or motorcycle): $25.00 per day
  • Preferred Self-Parking (car or motorcycle): $45.00 to $50.00 per day
  • Oversized Vehicle Self-Parking: $30.00 per day.

There are no parking fees for registered hotel guests and select Annual Passholders as it is included as a benefit of being a Disney hotel guest or Annual Passholder.

Jerry Joyce

Jerry Joyce has been a Florida resident since 1988 and has lived in a variety of places in the South Florida area. Jerry is an avid boater & water sports enthusiast, beach aficionado, a lover of great food, muscle car fan and a theme park annual passholder for many years. Some of his favorite places in Florida include the Florida Keys, Walt Disney World, Cedar Key, the Loxahatchee River, St. Augustine and Ten Thousand islands.

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