A Detailed Look at all 6 Areas of Disney World’s Magic Kingdom
Disney World has four theme parks: Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios and Animal Kingdom. Each of these theme parks has different attractions, different entertainment, different dining. Each park offers a unique experience. Inside each of the four theme parks are areas that centre around a certain theme. Knowing what is available at each of these areas will help you have a more successful visit to the parks. Allowing you to explore all you want to see in any given area at a time, instead of going back and forth throughout your visit.
Disney World’s Magic Kingdom hosts 6 different areas:
Main Street U.S.A.
Tomorrowland
Fantasyland
Liberty Square
Frontierland
Adventureland
Main Street U.S.A. host the most shops. Fantasyland has the most restaurants and eateries, as well as the most attractions. Frontierland and Tomorrowland appeal to the tweens and teens. Fantasyland is tailored to younger children. Liberty Square is for the historian of your group.
Below you will find a detailed look at each of these areas, including what is available for dining and shopping in each location. To jump right to a section that you want more details about simply click the area listed here:
Main Street U.S.A, Tomorrowland, Fantasyland, Liberty Square, Frontierland, Adventureland
Main Street U.S.A.
Dining
Casey’s Corner
The ultimate place to grab a hot dog at the Magic Kingdom. 9 choices. These are actually meals, with apple slices or french fries. Casey’s Corner is open at 10:30am and stays open until park close. There are tables inside and outside.
A buffet-style restaurant featuring your favourite characters from the one hundred acre wood. You can dine here for any meal, they actually open at 8am for breakfast which gives you early entry into the park. We love dining here, it’s great for big groups and the whole family because of it’s large variety.
Main Street Bakery
Your Starbucks location at the Magic Kingdom. It’s always really really busy. There are other great coffee locations found around the park if you don’t want to wait in line. It’s open from park open until park close. There’s no seating here but there’s some great spots to sit in the courtyard found just off of Main Street.
The Plaza has a beautiful view of Cinderella’s Castle. It’s a small restaurant, and they serve lunch and dinner, breakfast during peak season. You’ll find All-American favourites at this original park restaurant. It’s an ideal spot to dine if you’re paying out of pocket but not the best value if you’re on the dining plan. Make sure to order one of their all you can drink milkshakes.
Plaza Ice Cream Parlour
This parlour is found at the end of the Main Street on the eastern side of the street. Here’s where you can find the Mickey’s Kitchen Sink Sundae, with your souvenir container. There’s also a large variety of sundaes, floats, and cones. A great use of your dining plan snack credits. Open from 11am until park close.
A must for any fan of Lady and the Tramp, Tony’s Town Square Restaurant is based on the Tony’s restaurant from the film. It’s an Italian restaurant with a large dining room, garden room and outdoor patio. A great place to come and watch the Festival of Fantasy Parade. Make sure to order the Tiramisu for your dessert. When you dine here you can pair it with the Festival of Fantasy Parade Dining Package and get special entrance to a viewing area for the parade. The menu is full of pastas: lasagna, spaghetti and meatballs, ravioli, fettuccine. There’s also pizza and chicken parmigiana. They have a nice selection of wine. Tony’s is open for lunch and dinner, opening at 11am until 9:30pm. Tony’s is located at the entrance of the Magic Kingdom on the eastern side of the Town Square.
Shopping
Box Office Gifts
You walk through this shop to get to the character meet and greets. Here you’ll find accessories for your phone, MagicBands, and camera accessories.
The Chapeau
THE place to find your headgear at the Magic Kingdom. Here’s where you can get your Mickey Ears personalized and also a large variety of Minnie Ears.
Crystal Arts
Here you’ll find exquisite one of a kind pieces, from jewelry to figurines, you’ll find things here you can’t find anywhere else. Also you can watch an artist hand blow glass right in front of you. Crystal Arts is located beside Main Street Bakery, be careful of coming in here with young kids.
Disney Clothiers
On the Western side of Main Street U.S.A. is this clothing store that has a section for each member of the family. A section for men, with both dress attire and casual dress, women’s clothing, kid’s clothing and girl’s dress up clothing, with all kinds of accessories. This is a very popular place to come in the evening while waiting for the fireworks. So do yourself a favour and shop here first thing in the morning, in the hour before the park officially opens.
Emporium
The first store on the Western side of Main Street U.S.A. Here you’ll find MagicBands, mugs, books, photo albums, plush toys, beach towels and so much more! A great spot to find souvenirs. Open from park open until park close.
This hidden gem is a must do for anyone bringing their young child to Disney World. It’s here where you can have your child have their first haircut. The first haircut package includes a lock of your child’s hair, a certificate and Mickey Ears with Child’s first haircut written on the back. It can turn a distressing first haircut into a magical experience. Call ahead to book your child’s appointment, they also do men’s cuts as well. For more information check out this previous post.
The Confectionery
The Confectionery is a magical place, here’s where they make delicious character apples, dip rice krispie treats in chocolate, and sample items to guests visiting the store. It’s a great place to come and redeem DP snack credits to bring home with you. Open from park open to park close.
Uptown Jewelers
Connected to the Confectionery, Uptown Jewelers is home to all kinds of jewellery for every budget. Whether you’re looking to drop $20 or a couple thousand, there will be plenty for you to choose from. This is also a great location to look at the many designer purses found at the Disney parks. Don’t forget, you can have your purchase brought back to your resort. Save you from carrying around an expensive purchase for the rest of your park day.
Characters
*Character meet and greets aren’t currently being offered due to restrictions*
Mickey Mouse
From park open until park close, head to the Town Square Theatre to meet Mickey Mouse dressed as a Magician. You can grab FastPasses for this meet and greet, which I would strongly recommend.
Tinker Bell
Come to the Town Square Theatre and enter Pixie Hollow to meet Tinker Bell. The cast member will sprinkle you with magic dust to shrink you down to fairy size to meet this feisty fairy. Also open from park open to park close, you can grab a FastPass for this character meet and greet too.
Attractions
Horses
Take a horse drawn trolley down Main Street U.S.A. The only time you’ll find these trolleys going is first thing in the morning. Once the parades begin the trolleys seize operation so make sure to grab a ride first thing.
Main Street Vehicles
Hop on one of the vehicles, they’ll take you from the top of Main Street U.S.A. to the front of Cinderella’s Castle and back. The only place to disembark is at the top of Main Street or Cinderella’s Castle.
Railroad
Hop on the railroad to gain quick access to Frontierland and Fantasyland. The railroad runs throughout the park day but does close before the fireworks display, so don’t rely on it at the end of your park day. When you hop on the railroad at this stop your next stop will be Frontierland.
Tomorrowland
Attractions
Astro Orbiter
This fantastic ride has been a staple for decades. This attraction is featured in many Disney games and is another ride that I never went on until our honeymoon, another reason to take the every ride challenge. Take an elevator up to the astro orbiter and be seated solo, or with your little, and be lifted high into the sky overlooking the Magic Kingdom. The view you get from the Astro Orbiter makes it an amazing attraction to save for the evening. The Magic Kingdom lit up at night is spectacular. Warning it does go very fast, so hang on to your little one and their hat. We’ve had many a hat fly off during these flights. This is truly a must do, because of the view.
Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin
This attraction is found in the shadow of the Astro Orbiter beside Monsters Inc’s Laugh Floor. It’s another attraction that’s for all heights. That being said, your smaller travellers won’t be able to reach the guns to participate in the attraction. On this ride you’ll climb aboard your very own ship with 2 laser guns. The goal is to shoot as many Zs as you can find to defeat Captain Zurg. The more Zs you shoot the more points you get. It’s like an immersive video game. The attraction is popular so grab a FastPass, or stop by first thing in the morning or late in the evening to avoid lines.
Monsters Inc Laugh Floor
This attraction has no height requirement, so it’s great for the whole family. You’ll find the Laugh Floor on your immediate right upon entering Tomorrowland from in front of Cinderella’s Castle. This is more entertainment than attraction. It’s a stage show featuring some of your favourite characters from Monsters Inc. The Laugh Floors goal is to get you to laugh and fill up a canister with laughs. Monsters will come out and crack you up and sometimes even get you to participate in the show. It’s a very impressive experience. Coming to the Laugh Floor is a great way to get a break from the heat and a rest for your feet.
Space Mountain
This thrill ride is a roller coaster in the dark. The height requirement is 44 inches, which is approximately 5 years of age. Sit solo in a space rocket tandem for three and be lifted high and dropped as you rocket through space. As you’d expect this ride is extremely popular. So take advantage of the rider switch pass or FastPass. As you’d expect this ride is not recommend to those with back problems, heart issues or with child. If you love a good roller coaster than do not miss this, it doesn’t get old with age. You can ride it again and again and it’s still fantastic.
Tomorrowland Speedway
A perfect ride for littles and car racing fans, the Tomorrowland Speedway puts you in the drivers seat, literally. Although the cars are on a track, your movement of the wheel makes the car move back and forth. Making this attraction long if the driver is experimental in their driving skills. The location of the wheel makes it perfect for littles to take the wheel while the adult controls the pedal. There can be a lot of bumping so it’s not recommended for people with back issues or those guests who are pregnant. It’s an extremely popular ride, and it’s outside, so waiting in this line can be really hot. If it’s a must do on your list then grab a FastPass.
Tomorrowland Transit Authority People Mover
Another attraction at the Magic Kingdom that’s for the whole family, load yourself on the people mover and get a tour of Tomorrowland. You’ll sit on a bench seat, facing the other people in your cart and you’ll travel through and around Tomorrowland. Being taken into Space Mountain and Monsters Inc Laugh Floor. It’s a fun little ride that takes you inside and outside. One of our littles favourite things about this ride is you have to take an escalator to the ride. Even when the line is long, the wait time is short because the ride is constantly moving.
Walt Disney’s Carousel of Progress
We stumbled upon this gem on our honeymoon and make it a priority on every Magic Kingdom visit. Come into this rotating theatre and watch as a family progresses through the century. There are four different stages, this family will tell you the major inventions and changes of the era. All to the tune of “It’s a Great Big Beautiful Tomorrow”. The show lasts around 20 minutes. Another great place to get a break from the heat and crowds. Also an ideal spot to feed a nursing baby or give your littles some much needed quiet time.
Dining
Auntie Gravity’s
The perfect spot in Tomorrowland to grab a soft serve ice cream. Auntie Gravity’s is home to the seasonal milkshake, it changes depending on the season, you can also find ice cream floats, sundaes, and soft serve in a cone or a cup. Aunty Gravity’s is found beside Mickey Star Traders, a Tomorrowland shop.
Cool Ship
Serving mostly beverages, including energy drinks and vitamin water. Cool Ship also serves hot dogs and churros. Open from noon until 8pm.
Here’s your quick-service location at Tomorrowland. Open from 10am until 7pm, guests will find ample seating, plenty of places to order and your typical fast food with a couple of healthy choices. The menu is mostly made up of burgers and fries and nuggets but there is a large selection of peanut free and gluten free items. Cosmic Ray’s is found as guests enter Tomorrowland from Fantasyland, across from the Tomorrowland Speedway. They also offer mobile ordering.
The Lunching Pad
Found directly underneath the people mover, stay sheltered from the sun and the rain while enjoy a quick bite. Here you can find some fountain pop, slushies, a variety of pretzels, and churros. You can also grab a pulled pork sandwich or a hot dog.
Shopping
Merchant of Venus
Your place to find Star Wars items at the Magic Kingdom. You’ll find Storm Trooper helmets, Star Wars toys and of course plenty of apparel. You don’t have to travel all the way to Hollywood Studios to find great Star Wars merch, you can find it right here in the Magic Kingdom.
Mickey’s Star Traders
At this store you’ll find a variety of items, from mugs to clothing to plush toys. If you have a big stitch fan in your group then you’re likely to find something here that will fit their bill. Open from park open until park close.
Tomorrowland Light and Power Co.
This shop is located at the exit of Space Mountain, but can be accessed from the outside. A great place to kill time while some of the members of your party are riding this thrill ride. You’ll find some unique items here including Space Mountain shirts and collectibles. Open from park open to park close.
Ursa’s Major Minor Cart
The place to grab minnie and mickey ears in Tomorrowland. Skip the long lines of the indoor shops and grab the hat your looking for by charging it on your MagicBand.
Characters
*Character Experience aren’t currently being offered due to restrictions*
Buzz Lightyear
At the exit of Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin, meet Buzz Lightyear himself. Buzz will pose for a picture and stamp your autograph book. That’s right, no signature here, he has his very own stamp. Buzz appears here periodically from 10am until 4:45pm.
Fantasyland
Attractions
Prince Charming Regal Carrousel
This carrousel gives guests a beautiful view of Cinderella’s Castle. This attraction is for the whole family, it has no height requirement. The rounding line moves quickly and is slightly sheltered. Because the carrousel is outside, get this attraction done early in the day or in the evening to avoid waiting in the heat. The Carrousel is truly a must for any visit. Especially that first visit.
Mickey’s Phillarmagic
Mickey’s Phillarmagic is a 3D show featuring songs from beloved Disney films with Donald Duck in the midst of it all. The show will make you laugh and sing. With really young ones, keeping the 3D glasses on can be tough so I recommend this one for any one over the age of 2. FastPass+ is offered for this attraction but I don’t consider it necessary.
Peter Pan’s Flight
This attraction is one of the most popular attractions in Fantasyland and the Magic Kingdom for that matter. Peter Pan’s Flight is across the street from it’s a small world and beside Mickey’s Phillarmagic. On this ride, guests will board a boat and be brought on the journey of Wendy, John and Michael, looking below as they pass the landmarks. Be sure to book a FastPass for this attraction, as there is nothing to occupy littles throughout the line. Which is what puts it on the list for the worst lines at the Magic Kingdom. Without a FastPass reservation you may be in for a painful 50 minute wait. It is at least sheltered so you’ll have a break from the sun.
it’s a small world
This boat cruise is still travelling. The lines can be long, but they move quickly as each boat holds a lot of guests. The boat will take guests through different areas of the world represented through set design and marionettes. All to the tune of “it’s a small world”. There are FastPasses available for this attraction.
The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh
Closely located to the Mad Tea Party, this ride takes guests through the Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh. Aboard a honey pot, guests will travel into the books and pages of these beloved stories. There are two rows in each honey pot, each holding up to three people. All your favourite characters appear from Winnie the Pooh, Piglet, Eeyore, Kanga and little Roo, Owl, Rabbit, Gopher, Christopher Robin and Tigger Too. This attraction has activities throughout the regular line. Giving littles plenty to do while they’re waiting in line. So even though there are FastPasses available for this attraction I would use them for Peter Pan’s Flight or the Seven Dwarf’s Mine Train.
Seven Dwarf’s Mine Train
A roller coaster that is quick, fun and made for kids 38” and over. So your little around the age of 3 will be able to ride this coaster. This roller coaster, even though it’s built for everyone, is still very fast, so do not attempt if you do not enjoy roller coasters. The cart will take you through the Dwarf’s Mine, you’ll pass them all while they are mining for their diamonds. You’ll see all the dwarves while they sing the beginnings of “Heigh-Ho”. It’s a fantastic ride. Do not miss it. Be sure to take advantage of the FastPasses available for this attraction and reserve.
Mad Tea Party
Here are those classic spinning tea cups. They can spin as fast or as slow as you want. This is a short ride, with a slightly long line. There is a FastPass offered for this ride.
Enchanted Tales with Belle
This attraction is also a character experience. Join in on the retelling of Belle’s adventure to the Beast’s castle. Guests will get to participate in this retelling, acting out as members of the cast of Beauty and the Beast. Belle will be in attendance for this special production. Enchanted Tales with Belle runs continuously throughout the day and FastPasses are available.
Under the Sea- Journey of the Little Mermaid
Guests jump into a clam shell and journey through the tale of Ariel, narrated by Scuttle. This ride is constantly loading people onto the ride so the line moves very quickly. Guests maze through the caverns underneath Eric’s castle to get to this attraction, so the line can be distracting. Watch for hidden Mickey’s as you wander through the line. The ride is dark, but moves quickly so if there’s a part your little is scared of they’ll be out of it in a moment. Ursula is larger than life so be leery of that. All your favourite songs from the film will be acted out in front of you by life like animatronics. It’s a must do for any Ariel fan, young or old.
Dumbo the Flying Elephant
This classic ride is found in Storybook Circus. Climb aboard Dumbo and fly high in the sky or low to ground. There’s one bench seat per elephant, fitting three or two. Each elephant has a toggle giving guests the ability to move their elephant high or low. One of the things I love about this ride is the wait. Inside a big circus tent, guests wait their turn by spending time playing in a play structure. The scene from Dumbo of the clowns putting out the fire during the show is reimagined for kids to play in. With netting, slides, stairs, and climbing walls, littles will get out some energy running and playing around. This play area is inside, so you get a nice relief from the heat. When you arrive in this waiting station you’ll be given a buzzer. The buzzer will go off when your flight is about to take off. It’s an amazing system. If you’re here at a quieter time of year, this area may not be open, but they curtain it off so your littles won’t be disappointed. FastPasses are available for this beloved ride but if you use a FastPass you’ll miss out on this waiting area.
The Barnstormer
The Barnstormer is a short roller coaster ride found in Storybook Circus. This short coaster has quite the climb and therefore is quite thrilling. Children 35” and up can ride the barnstormer. FastPasses are available. The carts of the coaster can only fit two people, make sure to hang on tight to that small traveller.
Casey Jr Splash and Soak Station
Here’s the place you want to spend your afternoon at the Magic Kingdom. Casey Jr from Dumbo is set up with some silly animals who will spit and spray water on you. It’s a wonderful way to cool off on a hot day. Just make sure to bring your littles a change of clothes for the rest of your stay at the Magic Kingdom.
Extra: Pete’s Silly Side Show
Directly beside the character meet and greet tent is a tent with colouring stations for kids. This is a great place to come and keep your kids occupied while your youngest traveller naps or maybe while you feed that smallest traveller. It can also provide some wonderful shade and a break from the activity of the park.
Characters
*There are currently no character experience due to COVID-19 restrictions*
Meet Rapunzel and Tiana
Located in Princess Fairytale Hall, behind Cinderella’s Castle, guests can meet Tiana and Rapunzel at the same time. This character experience does have a FastPass, which I would recommend because these lines are long and there is nothing to do to occupy your kids attention. If you can’t get a FastPass then do this first thing or at the end of the day to avoid long, long lines. This is the only place you can meet Tiana. So if have a Tiana fan this is the place to go. This is a great place for your princess to dress up in costume for some keepsake pictures.
Meet Cinderella and Elena of Avalor
Meet Cinderella and Elena of Avalor at the same time in Fairytale Hall, behind Cinderella’s Castle. The lines for this meet and greet can be very long and there’s nothing to do in this line so I would recommend getting a FastPass for this meet and greet. This is the only place you can meet the Disney Junior character Elena of Avalor. These characters spend a lot of time talking to their guests so expect to spend at least 15 minutes in the meeting area, waiting your turn and then meeting the princesses.
Meet Peter Pan
Directly beside Peter Pan’s Flight, guests can meet Peter Pan from Neverland. Only appearing periodically between noon and four, check your My Disney Experience app during the day to confirm when he’ll be appearing. There’s no FastPasses for this meet and greet, it’s the only place to meet Peter Pan, and the line is outside, no protection from the sun.
Meet Winnie the Pooh and Tigger
Beside The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh you can meet Winnie the Pooh and Tigger Too. The pair are waiting to get a picture with you together or separately. The area is shaded, giving you a bit of relief from the sun. The two characters appear in this spot from 10:45 until 7pm, taking breaks throughout that time. There are no FastPasses available for this meet and greet. Don’t want to wait in line? Meet them at The Crystal Palace or 1900 Park Fare, two buffet style restaurants.
Meet Characters from Wonderland
In front of the Mad Tea Party, you’ll find Alice, the White Rabbit and the Queen of Hearts. Not all at the same time, they work in rotation. They only appear here in the mornings, so make sure to meet them first thing if they’re on your must do list. There’s no proper line for this experience, you’ll be directed by cast members on hand.
Meet Merida
On the outskirts of Fantasyland you can meet Merida, the Scottish princess from Brave. You’ll find this meet and greet spot off the entrance to the Fantasyland from the courtyard in front of the Magic Kingdom. Across from the Starlight Cafe. Merida appears here from park open until 6:15pm. No Fastpasses are available at this character experience. This is the only place to meet Merida at Walt Disney World.
At Pete’s Silly Side Show, you can meet Minnie Mouse, Daisy Duck, Goofy and Donald Duck. They are all dressed up as different acts in the circus. Goofy as the daredevil, Donald as a snake charmer, Daisy as a fortune teller and Minnie the Magnifique. Minnie Mouse and Daisy are paired together and Donald and Goofy are paired together. You’ll have to line up separately to meet either or. Pete’s Silly Side Show is open from 10am until 7:30pm and has no Fastpasses. This whole experience takes place in a tent, giving you shade and cool air.
Meet Ariel
Ariel is in her grotto, right beside Under The Sea- Journey of the Little Mermaid. Here you’ll meet Ariel while she’s still a mermaid. You can meet her from park open to park close. There are also Fastpasses available for this meet and greet. While you’re waiting to meet Ariel you’ll be winding under the sea to her grotto. Want to meet Ariel as a human? Get the details here.
Meet Gaston
The only villain appearing in Fantasyland, Gaston can be found in front of his tavern. Appearing periodically between 10am until 4:30pm, Gaston will be sure to boast of his amazing muscles and skills. This is not a proper meet and greet area, so there’s no shelter or line. Guests waiting to meet Gaston will have to be directed by a cast member. This is the only place to meet Gaston at Walt Disney World.
Dining
One of the most popular restaurants at Walt Disney World, Cinderella’s Royal Table is a restaurant in the castle. Guests will dine on the second floor of the castle overlooking Fantasyland. Princesses will come to your table to meet you while you’re dining on one of the amazing menu items. This is one of Walt Disney World’s signature restaurants. It’s price fixed, so you pay ahead of time and then enjoy. Be sure to make a reservation in advanced.
This restaurant is found in the Beast’s castle. Dine in the Beast’s ballroom, West Wing or the library. Be Our Guest is a quick service restaurant for breakfast and lunch. For supper you can experience a signature dining experience, a la carte. This restaurant is very popular so be sure to get a reservation in advanced. But try these last minute reservations tips to get one of these coveted reservations. Breakfast is served from 8am-10:30, lunch is served from 11am-2:30pm, and dinner is from 4pm-9:30pm.
The Pinocchio Village Haus
A quick-service restaurant, serving pastas, pizzas and salads. Pinocchio Village Haus has ample tables and chairs inside. The perfect spot to grab lunch or dinner. On one side of the restaurant you can overlook guests boarding the boats of it’s a small world. Open from 11am until park close. The only place in Fantasyland with mobile ordering.
The Friar’s Nook
Your destination for snack food of the fried variety. Open from 11am to 8pm, Friar’s Nook has chicken tots, fiesta tots, greek tots, hot dogs and twinkies. They also offer a variety of iced coffees and slushies. A great place to use some dining plan snacks credits as a meal. Find Friar’s Nook right next to Princess Fairtytale Hall.
Storybook Treats
Open 11am until park close, Storybook Treats offers soft serve ice cream. The perfect remedy for a hot day. Grab a soft serve sundae, a cookie sundae, a float, or a cone. Find Storybook Treats beside Friar’s Nook and across from the entrance of Seven Dwarf’s Mine Train.
Cheshire Cafe
One of the few places to grab breakfast at the Magic Kingdom, enjoy a one of a kind pastry: the Cheshire Cat Tail. S’mores Pie and a Ham and Cheese Pretzel are also on the menu. Cheshire Cafe is found nearby the Mad Tea Party. Grab your food and go or sit at one of the white chairs and tables. Open from 9am until 7pm.
Gaston’s Tavern
A great place to grab breakfast at Fantasyland; Gaston’s Tavern offers the famous Warm Cinnamon Roll. You can also enjoy a snack style lunch with sandwiches, hummus and chips, fruit and cheese picnic platter. Eat outside or inside the tavern, beside the larger than life portrait of Gaston.
Prince Eric’s Village Market
Across from Prince Eric’s castle you’ll find this Village Market. The perfect place to grab a healthy snack. Open from 10am until 6pm, find fruit, vegetables, water and juices. You can guarantee you’ll find something to round out that park diet.
Extra: Big Top Souvenirs
This fantastic shop has a wonderful selection of clothes and toys but they also have candy apples, slushies, cupcakes, rice krispies treats and more. Open from 9:30am until park close.
Shopping
Sir Mickey’s
Found in the shadow of Cinderella’s Castle, Sir Mickey’s is a shop that has clothing and toys. With a heavy Mickey and Princess theme. Open from park open to park close.
Castle Couture
Your destination for all things princess in Fantasyland. Not as busy at the Emporium found on Main Street U.S.A. and it has more variety. Open from park open to 8:15pm, pick up a princess costumes, princess toys, princess accessories, princess dolls. Everything and anything princess. Castle Couture is connected to Cinderella’s fountain, across from Prince Charming’s Carrousel.
Fantasy Faire
This shop is found at the exit of Mickey’s Phillarmagic. Here you’ll find a variety of boxed snacks, and everything Donald Duck. Find toys, shirts and hats with all of Mickey and his pals. You can find Mickey and Minnie ears here. Open from park open to park close.
Hundred Acre Goods
One of my favourite shops on property. Here’s where you’ll find great gifts for preschoolers, toddlers and babies. All the items here are winnie the pooh theme or snow white and the seven dwarves themed. You’ll find mugs, toys, apparel and plush toys. You can also find unique books, DVDs, blu-rays and CDs. Open from park open until park close. We’ve purchased some beautiful baby clothing here and some fantastic Melissa and Doug toys.
Big Top Souvenirs
I love everything about this shop. You’ll find items here you won’t find anywhere else on property. Apparel for every age, Mickey ears, kitchen wares, special plush toys and more. The shop itself is a sight. Guests will find themselves inside a circus tent, all of the products are on rolling carts like circus animals. Spend sometime browsing in here and feel like you’re at the fantastical show of a live circus. Open from park open to park close.
Liberty Square
Attractions
Haunted Mansion
This ride open to all guests of any height. Guests ride doombuggies in this mansion haunted by 999 ghosts. The ride is constantly moving which helps limit any youngsters from being scared in one spot for two long. The ride is slow moving and does go backwards at one point. The ride is very dark, in content and in lighting. If you have a little that spooks easy, there are so many other great rides for them to enjoy. This is still an extremely popular ride so if it’s a must for you I’d FastPass it or check out the line during meal times, parade time or firework time.
Liberty Square Riverboat
Jump on board the Liberty Square Riverboat and take a ride around Rivers of America. This boat is 3-tiered and of course plenty of benches for sitting. During the boat ride you’ll see Splash Mountain, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, and Tom Sawyer’s Island. The boat ride lasts 17 minutes. A great spot to take a moment away from the busyness of a Magic Kingdom day.
The Hall of Presidents
This attraction is a mix of film and animatronic performance. A film will be played recounting the stories of a few of the American presidents and the story of how America was formed. After the film, audiences will see each and every president on stage as an animatronic. George Washington speaks and then is followed by the current president saying the Oath of Office. The whole attraction lasts 25 minutes, although this attraction is for all ages, I’d only recommend for those 9 and older as younger visitors may not be able to sit through the presentation.
Shopping
Liberty Square Parasol Cart
This cart is normally found next to Sleepy Hollow refreshments. Purchase a one of a kind parasol that can be personalized. The parasol comes in a variety of colours: white, purple, pink. And can include many different pictures and of course your name. A parasol with flowers and name will cost $17, and you can add additional adornments for $5. Be sure to come early and place your order so it can be done by the end of the day. I bought one of these years ago on one of my childhood vacations. It was an item I treasured for years.
Liberty Square Portrait Gallery
This little cart and kiosk is found outside of Ye Olde Christmas Shoppe and features caricatures and portraits. Have an artist do up a likeness of you and your family members as a special memento of your day at the Magic Kingdom. Or have a portrait done, both cost around $18.
Memento Mori
Located by the exit of the Haunted Mansion, Memento Mori sells one of a kind items that match the design and theme of the Haunted Mansion. Find attire, accessories and games that are all themed with your favourite Liberty Square ghosts. The perfect place to find Halloweenish items all year round.
Ye Olde Christmas Shoppe
This cute little shop is tucked in across the way from Sleepy Hollow Refreshments. Here you’ll find glassware, ornaments, wreaths, decorations, and everything is Christmas!!!! Which means you can buy a Christmas ornament in July to mark your vacation. It’s also a great place to buy Christmas gifts and store them away. It’s really a special spot, as the store is all themed on Colonial America.
Dining
Liberty Square Market
An open air market found in the centre of Liberty Square, Liberty Square Market is surrounded by picnic tables and offers a variety of fruits, veggies, hummus and pretzel cups, cheese snacks, and other healthy snacks. It’s a great spot to stop and pick a healthy item for the moment or for later in the day. With not many healthy carts located around the park take a moment to stop here and grab a healthy snack for waiting in line or watching the parade.
Columbia Harbour House
This quick-service restaurant is found just off the pathway as you head to Liberty Square from Fantasyland and is a great spot to come and have a satisfying meal. With pot pie, grilled salmon and lobster roll on the menu you’ll think you’re at a counter service restaurant on the Eastern Seaboard. There’s quite a bit of seating inside this quick-service restaurant and because its tucked away in a passageway not many people choose it for eating a meal. There are chicken nuggets on the menu for those in your party who don’t love fish. They offer mobile ordering here.
Sleepy Hollow Refreshments
A must stop for each of our vacations is the Sleepy Hollow Refreshments, they serves up waffles all day long covered with strawberries, nutella, you name it! They also have one of my favourites, the Ice Cream Cookie Sandwich. They are open from park open until park close, which means you can grab one of their delicious waffles for breakfast!
Liberty Tree Tavern
Head to the Liberty Tree Tavern, just past the Liberty Bell. Here you’ll be able to enjoy a harvest style feast, with turkey, potatoes, stuffing, and seasonal vegetables. During lunch time you can order from a variety of things off the menu including fish and chips, pot roast, pot pie and meatloaf. For dinner, your only choice is the all you care to eat skillet. The restaurant offers a homey feel as though you’re in a colonial-style inn at the end of there revolution. Liberty Tree is open from 11am until 9pm. It’s normally quite easy to get a reservation here, making it a popular choice for last-minute planners.
The Diamond Horseshoe
The Diamond Horseshoe is an all-you-care-to-eat style restaurant where diners will get a skillet full of western food. During dinner time, the only choice on the menu is the skillet but during lunch time you can choose from a variety including pulled pork and beef brisket. The skillet will be refilled as it empties until diners say they’ve had enough. The restaurant is a saloon style with a self playing piano found on the main stage. The restaurant is wide open and a great place to have rowdy kids. It doesn’t seat too many people so you’re not contending with lots of people moving about the restaurant. This restaurant has odd hours, normally open around 1pm and open until 5pm. For more details on this restaurant click here.
Frontierland
Attractions
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
The wildest ride in the West is a fantastic roller coaster that’s for any guest 40″ and taller. The roller coaster takes quick turns, has quick climbs and drops. The bench seating allows for up to three passengers and secures guests in with a pull down bar. This coaster is very popular and has long lines but the line moves very quickly because the coaster holds so many guests and there’s two going at a time. If you have a smaller rider, sit them between two guests so they don’t get smooshed up against the hard side. My mom and I took my daughter on this when she turned 5 and she loved it. And I can honestly that I’ve never tired of it either. It’s not scary, like Space Mountain. But it’s fun and a little thrilling.
Frontierland Shootin’ Arcade
Pick up a gun and try your hand at shooting. This attraction has an extra cost but is always open. Any smaller guest made need a little boost to get a good aim.
Walt Disney World Railroad
Hop on the train to get to the Storybook Circus area of Fantasyland. The train makes three stops, one at Storybook Circus, one at Main Street U.S.A. and one in Frontierland. This can be a nice break from tired feet and can get you to two areas of the park that are so far from Frontierland.
Splash Mountain
Cool off on this flume ride that takes you through the tale of Brer Rabbit. The story from the old film Songs of the South is told as guests glide along in their log boat. The big drop is very clear to all from the big visual as you walk by but there are a couple of other drops throughout the ride to be aware of. These drops can get you wet to so make sure to keep your valuables tucked away. There is a darker storyline to this attraction. With vultures taunting you as you climb to your big decent. This may scare younger guest so be aware. FastPasses are available for this attraction and so is the single rider line. Take advantage of either or.
Tom Sawyer’s Island
Take a boat ride over to Tom Sawyer Island, where you can run around and explore caves, mills and forts. A great place for kids to run wild during a day full of waiting and sitting. There’s plenty of maps on the island to make you sure of where you are at any given time.
Laughing Place Playground
Hidden under the railway, there’s a perfect place for your youngest travellers to spend some time. Roam around inside this little play house and slide down the slide. The perfect place to kill some time waiting for older kids to ride the two mountains.
Dining
Golden Oak Outpost
Located on the border of Adventureland and Frontierland, this little kiosk offers waffle fries, onion rings and chicken nuggets. They also offer two speciality milkshakes: Rocky Road and Dulce de Leche. Opens at noon and closes at 5pm.
Peco Bills Tall Tale Inn and Cafe
My favourite quick-service location in Magic Kingdom. It even surpasses Be Our Guest. Chow down on Mexican fare, with your choice of tacos, fajitas, rice bowls, nachos. And you can load them all up with the toppings of your choice from their toppings bar. Pecos opens at 10:45am and stays open until park close. This restaurant also has ample seating inside and out. For the full details click here. Peco Bills has mobile ordering, for more on that click here.
Westward Ho
Westward Ho is a little kiosk located in Frontierland, close to the water. A great spot to grab a quick breakfast after running to get the two mountains done after rope drop. They serve a breakfast sandwich and candied bacon skewers. They also have a few speciality coffees. During the remainder of the day you can find corn dogs, and chicken skewers.
Shopping
Big Al’s
At this little kiosk you’ll find some cowboy and cowgirl costumes. Maybe a cowboy hat, a toy gun or a raccoon hat. Big Al is one of the bears from the Country Bear Jamboree and you never know exactly what will be sold from his kiosk.
Briar Patch
Just as you’re approaching the entrance of Splash Mountain, there’s the Briar Patch store. This small little store sells specific Splash Mountain items as well as some odd general merchandise. Take a look in here because you may find an item here that’s not sold anywhere else.
Frontier Trading Post
The perfect spot to find some pins in Frontierland is Frontier Trading Post. You can get pins and lanyards here as well as Disney World unique hats. Like Goofy, Mickey, or Donald hats. There’s also Western themed items as well.
Prairie Outpost and Supply
Right beside Frontier Trading Post is the place to grab a snack in Frontierland. A sweet snack that is. Here you’ll find lollipops as big as your face, jellybeans galore, character apples and other sweets. A great place to find snacks to take home or save for later when you’re watching the fireworks.
Splashdown Photos
This shop is found as you’re exiting Splash Mountain. Here you can purchase your Splash Mountain photo and a frame to go with it. It’s here that you can find Splash Mountain shirts.
Entertainment
Country Bear Jamboree
A family favourite. We love to take in the Country Bear Jamboree as a way to wind down from an otherwise busy day. The show features Bears performing Western tunes in grand costumes. The show lasts about 15 minutes and runs from 11am until 8pm.
Adventureland
Dining
Jungle Navigation Co. LTD Skipper Canteen
The only table service restaurant found in Adventureland is Jungle Navigation Co LTD Skipper Canteen. This restaurant is a spin off of the attraction Jungle Cruise. The servers are sarcastic and playful with their guests. The food is Asian inspired with seafood and pork making up a lot of the menu. The colours are earthy, the restaurant is filled with items from the many cruises taken by the neighbouring jungle cruise. There are lots of windows, sending in artificial light. Jungle Navigation is stationed on your right when entering Adventureland from Main Street U.S.A. and is open for lunch and dinner. For a full review of this restaurant click here.
Aloha Isle
One of the most popular places to grab a snack at the Magic Kingdom is Aloha Isle. This is where you’ll find the sought after Dole Whip. Aloha Isle is found at the exit of the Enchanted Tiki Room and across from Aladdin’s Flying Carpet. Aloha Isle does offer Mobile ordering, which I would suggest using. Aloha Isle serves Dole Whip, the Pineapple Float, and Dole Pineapple Juice. The counter service restaurant is open from park open until park close.
Sunshine Tree Terrace
The first spot you’ll find when entering Adventureland from Main Street U.S.A. is Sunshine Tree Terrace. This counter service restaurant serves a delicious cool ice cream treat, either as a float or as a soft serve. The offerings come in vanilla, orange, citrus, chocolate or twist. They also serve coffee and tea. Sunshine Tree Terrace is open from 10am until evening.
Tortuga Tavern
This counter service restaurant is found on the border of Adventureland and Frontierland. Although a limited menu, it’s a great spot to grab a hot dog or their special beef brisket sandwich. The infamous gigantic Turkey Legs can also be found at the Tortuga Tavern. The restaurant has a few tables to sit and eat your meal or you can simply grab your food and go.
Attractions
Aladdin’s Magic Carpet
Fly on Aladdin’s Magic Carpet in the centre of Adventureland. This ride has two rows of seating. One row maneuvers the rising and falling of the flying carpet and the other maneuvers the carpet itself. This ride is similar to Dumbo’s Flying Elephant and the Astro Orbiter although it has an extra playful element. This ride has a spitting camel that spits out water during the course of the ride. Some guests may not only get a little wet but may get soaked.
Jungle Cruise
Take a boat ride around rivers of Asia, Africa and South America. Your guide will tell you of tales of adventure that have happened on those very waters. There are several animatronics that make up the ride, playful elephants and over protective hippopotamus’. It certainly does not compare to the incredible Kilimanjaro Safari found in Animal Kingdom’s Africa but this classic ride is fun and enjoyable.
Pirates of the Caribbean
The ride that inspired the blockbuster franchise is a boat ride taking guests through several pirate adventures. This ride is dark as you travel past pirates mid fight on their pirate ships, through a village ransacked with pirates, and around pirates jailed for bad behaviour. The attraction does have a drop, so be prepared to hold on to any precious cargo. There are also a couple spots where the water splashes up and may get guests wet. The boat carries many guests and the benches have no belts so be sure that your young ones sit still for the course of the attraction.
Swiss Family Treehouse
This giant treehouse is made up to look like the home of the Robinson’s from the many Swiss Family Robinson films. Climb the many stairs to check out the kitchen, dining room and bedrooms. It’s a great spot to have the kids blow off some energy or to kill time while you wait for your reservation at Jungle Navigation Co LTD Skipper Canteen. It’s open from park open until close but I certainly wouldn’t suggest climbing these stairs at night. Swiss Family Treehouse is located across from Jungle Navigation Co LTD Skipper Canteen.
Enchanted Tiki Room
One of the original attractions at Walt Disney World is the Enchanted Tiki Room. This show lasts about 20 minutes and features animatronic birds singing several songs. The birds come down from the ceiling and entertain the guests. The whole room actually becomes a part of the performance. The room is filled with backless benches. It’s a great spot to go and take a moment away from the chaos of a park day.
Shopping
Agrabah Bazaar
This small shop is located in the heart of Adventureland across from Aladdin’s Flying Carpets. It’s here you’ll find Aladdin merchandise, as well as merch that screams Safari. Like stuffed animals, safari vests and floral shirts. The whole store looks like the street market that is found in Aladdin.
Island Supply By Sunglass Hut
This shop is a great spot to pick up some sunglasses. The wares found at Island Supply have a southern feel, with grass skirts, leis, safari hats and towels filling up the store. It’s here that you’re most likely to find a Moana costume and a good selection of summer footwear. The store is open from park open until park close.
La Princesa de Cristal
Check out this little cart carrying beautiful and fragile crystal pieces. From tiaras to figurines, La Princesa de Cristal will have a gorgeous sparkling memento for guests to bring home. The cart is located at the exit of Plaza de Sol Caribe Bazaar.
Plaza de Sol Caribe Bazaar
Upon exiting Pirates of the Caribbean you’ll enter this pirate filled shop. Find pirate hats, pirate toys, pirate apparel. It’s a pirate fans wonderland. You can find unique jewelry and souvenirs. Grab a hat to look just like Jack Sparrows, or a hook for playing Captain Hook. There are also several action figures and toys of the many Pirates of the Caribbean Characters. You can shop here from park open until park close.
Characters
*Character interactions are not currently available due to restrictions *
Aladdin & Jasmine
Directly beside the Agrabah Bazaar and across from Aladdin’s Flying Carpet is a spot to meet the characters from Aladdin. Aladdin and Jasmine are here several times throughout the day, typically ranging between 10am and 5pm. During special Halloween and Christmas parties you’ll find Jafar and Abu here as well.
That’s the ins and outs of it my friends. There is so much to explore and do at Magic Kingdom that it’s impossible to fit it all in. So set yourself up with a plan for the day with a few must do’s and let the rest of the day be a fun exploration. For more on planning a visit to Disney World check out these previous posts:
Disney Vacation Planning Lingo
What Transportation is available at Walt Disney World?
5 Reasons to Stay at a Disney World Resort?
What You Need to Know If You’re Surprising your kids with a Trip to Disney World
13 Things You Need to Know Before Your Disney World Vacation
