The Magic Kingdom is the place I consider to be the king of all Disney Parks. It’s the most visited theme park in the entire world, in 2016 it saw over 20 million visitors and that number increases every year! With that being said, it can be a little overwhelming planning for a day at the most popular Disney park. You don’t want to miss anything, yet you don’t want to rush. So we came up with a list of Magic Kingdom must dos for you to focus on if your time is limited or you want to know where to start!
Savor the Taste of a Dole Whip
Pineapple Dole Whips have become an icon of a Disney Vacation. This famous snack option is a soft-serve, non-dairy, gluten and vegan work of editable art! The Magic Kingdom serves up Dole Whips at Aloha Island which is tucked back in Adventureland next to the Enchanted Tiki Room. If you want to try making one of these beauties at home.
Sport Some Disney Ears
Where else in the world is it acceptable and in fact encouraged to sport animal ears? I would not let this opportunity to be a kid again pass you by! There are so many fantastic ear options to consider, my new favorite being the Rose Gold ears! If you want a preview of options or to order your ears ahead of your trip check out shopDisney.com.
Watch a Street Show
On Main Street USA you will encounter some fun characters throughout the day.
Fly Away with Peter Pan
The lines are long for Peter Pan’s flight so make sure you get a Fastpass+ in advance. This attraction is so magical when you sore in a pirate ship over the scenes of Peter Pan. It’s a great one to take the kids on.
Take a Ride on The Jungle Cruise
There are plenty of classic attractions at the Magic Kingdom but this one is my personal favorite! Jungle Cruise is fun for the whole family with its classic bad jokes! Jungle Cruise jokes have become so legendary I wrote a whole article covering the best ones. If you happen to visit during the holiday season you are in for a treat because it transforms into The Jingle Cruise. The Jingle Cruise is the same ride but with a holiday twist.
Dine Inside a Castle
Whether you join Cinderella at her Royal Table or you dine with the Beast at Be Our Guest you won’t be disappointed. Cinderella’s Royal Table is a character dining experience where you will meet the characters of Cinderella. Be Our Guest is like stepping into the movie, Beauty and the Beast. The atmosphere makes it worth eating here alone, plus you will get the opportunity to meet the Beast himself.
Main Street Confectionary
Once you walk into this candy store the smells will take you over! Inside you will find freshly made chocolate, candy apples, and warm cookies it’s the perfect place for anyone with a sweet tooth! I enjoy heading to the back of the store and watching them making treats. They always are assembling or frosting something.
Castle Pictures
When you think of Magic Kingdom, you think Cinderella Castle. It’s the icon of Disney World, and everyone needs a picture with Cinderella’s Castle or maybe about 10. The great thing about Disney is they have Photopass photographers at the ready with loads of angles on the Magic Kingdom castle shot. Even if you don’t have memory maker they will take a picture for FREE on your personal camera! All you have to do is ask!
Get Spooked on the Haunted Mansion
Another classic Disney attraction that you absolutely cannot skip! Don’t let the spooky name scare you off, this ride really isn’t all that scary. Though some young ones may be spooked by the dark scenes and thunder. Be sure to stop by the graveyard before you enter for some fantastic interactive elements. Also, challenge your kids to see if they can spot the hidden engagement ring from Master Gracey’s bride in the queue (tip: look for it embedded in the ground).
Festival of Fantasy Parade
Festival of Fantasy at the Magic Kingdom.
I guarantee you, this is like no parade you have ever seen before. It’s incredible, to say the least. Be on the lookout for the Maleficent float, there is an extra special effect that will surprise you!
Take a Spin on the Magic Kingdom Mountains
The mountain range of the Magic Kingdom is an essential stop if you meet up with the height requirement! These mountains are, Space Mountain, Splash Mountain, and Big Thunder Mountain Railroad. The unofficial 4th mountain is
Sven Dwarf Mine Train located in Fantasyland.
Happily Ever After
Cap off your evening with the best place to watch fireworks, the Magic Kingdom! The music, the magic, the fireworks, it’s amazing. It will leave you speechless. Happily Ever After which replaced Wishes in 2017 and now heavily features projections on the front of the castle so make sure you have a good view. If you are looking for the best place to watch the Happily Ever After with have a
map showing you all the best spots!
What is going to be your first stop at the Magic Kingdom? Hopefully, this list gives you some ideas of what you want to add into your schedule. Use our FREE vacation planning printouts to organize your vacation!
I have been visiting the parks annually since my parents first brought me at just a year old. Recently I was able to fulfill my life long dream of being a Florida local and moved from the wintery Northeast to the sunshine and fun of central Florida. Now I am hoping to share my Disney knowledge with you so you can have the best vacation possible!
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