Many families consider visiting Disney World to be a rite of passage. It is the place where dreams come true. Disney consistently gets it right. Even while they may take all of your money (and the title to both of your kidneys), they do give you an experience that is truly unique and take great care of the Disney Experience.
If you’re planning a visit to the park, you may be wondering what attractions, shows, and experiences you should prioritize. In this article, we’ll share our list of the top 10 things you need to do at Disney’s Magic Kingdom. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Disney fan, our list is sure to help you make the most of your visit and create memories that will last a lifetime. So, without further ado, let’s dive into the top 10 things you need to do at Disney’s Magic Kingdom!
Table of Contents
- Main Attractions
- Parades and Shows
- Characters Meet and Greets
- Dining Experiences
- Navigating the Park
Main Attractions
One of the biggest draws of Disney’s Magic Kingdom is its wide range of thrilling and enchanting attractions. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic ride or an exciting new adventure, the park has something for everyone. Here are some of the top attractions you won’t want to miss:
Cinderella Castle
No visit to Disney’s Magic Kingdom is complete without taking a photo in front of the park’s iconic centerpiece, Cinderella Castle. Standing at a towering 189 feet tall, this stunning castle is a sight to behold and serves as the backdrop for many of the park’s special events and shows.
Main Street U.S.A.
As soon as you enter the park, you’ll find yourself on Main Street U.S.A., a bustling thoroughfare lined with charming shops, restaurants, and entertainment. Here, you can browse for souvenirs, grab a bite to eat, and take in the sights and sounds of the park.
Adventureland
If you’re looking for excitement, head to Adventureland, where you’ll find some of the park’s most thrilling attractions. Take a cruise down the Amazon on the Jungle Cruise, battle pirates on the high seas on Pirates of the Caribbean, and explore the Swiss Family Robinson Treehouse.
Fantasyland
For a dose of enchantment, head to Fantasyland, where you’ll find a wide range of attractions based on classic Disney stories. Take a ride on the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, soar over London on Peter Pan’s Flight, and spin around in a giant teacup on the Mad Tea Party.
Tomorrowland
If you’re a fan of science fiction and futuristic technology, you won’t want to miss Tomorrowland. Here, you can ride the iconic Space Mountain roller coaster, battle aliens on Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin, and experience the thrill of a high-speed race on the Tomorrowland Speedway.
Parades and Shows
In addition to its amazing attractions, Disney’s Magic Kingdom is also home to a variety of parades and shows that are sure to dazzle and delight visitors of all ages. Here are two of the top parades and shows that you won’t want to miss during your visit:
Festival of Fantasy Parade
This daily parade is a feast for the senses, featuring stunning floats, colorful costumes, and lively music that celebrates the magic of Disney. From the moment the parade starts, you’ll be transported to a world of fantasy and wonder as your favorite Disney characters come to life before your eyes.
Happily Ever After Fireworks Show
As the sun goes down and the park lights up, the Happily Ever After Fireworks Show is a can’t-miss event. This spectacular display features a stunning combination of fireworks, music, and projections that tell the story of some of Disney’s most beloved characters. From Tinker Bell’s flight to the awe-inspiring finale, this show is sure to be a highlight of your visit to the park.
Whether you’re a fan of music, theater, or simply love a good show, Disney’s Magic Kingdom has plenty of options to keep you entertained. Be sure to check out the Festival of Fantasy Parade and the Happily Ever After Fireworks Show for an experience you’ll never forget!
Characters Meet and Greets
For many visitors to Disney’s Magic Kingdom, meeting and taking photos with their favorite Disney characters is one of the highlights of the trip. Luckily, the park has a variety of locations where you can do just that. Here are some of the best places to meet and take photos with popular Disney characters:
Town Square Theater
Located on Main Street U.S.A., Town Square Theater is a popular spot for character meet and greets. Here, you can meet classic characters like Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse, as well as other favorites like Tinker Bell and the Fairy Godmother.
Princess Fairytale Hall
If you’re a fan of Disney princesses, you won’t want to miss Princess Fairytale Hall. Located in Fantasyland, this regal setting is home to several popular princesses, including Cinderella, Belle, and Ariel.
Pete’s Silly Sideshow
For a bit of whimsy and fun, head to Pete’s Silly Sideshow in Storybook Circus. Here, you can meet and take photos with circus-inspired versions of popular Disney characters, such as Goofy as The Great Goofini and Donald Duck as The Astounding Donaldo.
Adventureland
In Adventureland, you can meet some of Disney’s most adventurous characters, including Aladdin and Jasmine, Tarzan, and Moana. This is also where you can find Captain Jack Sparrow, the infamous pirate from Pirates of the Caribbean.
Meeting and taking photos with Disney characters is a great way to create lasting memories and add a personal touch to your visit to the park.
Dining Experiences
Disney’s Magic Kingdom is home to a variety of dining options that cater to all tastes and preferences. From quick bites to sit-down meals, there’s something for everyone. Here are some recommended restaurants and food options to try during your visit:
Be Our Guest Restaurant
This Beauty and the Beast-themed restaurant is a must-visit for any Disney fan. Located in Fantasyland, Be Our Guest serves up French-inspired cuisine in a setting that feels straight out of the movie.
Columbia Harbour House
For seafood lovers, Columbia Harbour House is the perfect spot to grab a bite. This quick-service restaurant in Liberty Square serves up fish and chips, lobster rolls, and other delicious seafood dishes.
Aloha Isle
If you’re in the mood for something sweet and refreshing, head to Aloha Isle in Adventureland for a classic Disney treat: a Dole Whip. This pineapple-flavored soft serve ice cream is a fan favorite and perfect for a hot day in the park.
The Plaza Restaurant
For a sit-down meal in a charming setting, The Plaza Restaurant on Main Street U.S.A. is a great option. This turn-of-the-century eatery serves up classic American dishes like burgers, sandwiches, and salads.
Churro Cart
No visit to Disney’s Magic Kingdom is complete without indulging in a classic churro. You can find churro carts throughout the park, serving up these crispy, cinnamon-sugar-coated treats that are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
These are just a few of the many dining options available at Disney’s Magic Kingdom. With so many choices, you’re sure to find something that suits your taste buds and budget. Don’t forget to make dining reservations in advance to ensure you get a spot at your preferred restaurant!
Navigating the Park
Navigating a theme park like Disney’s Magic Kingdom can be overwhelming, especially if you’re trying to fit in all of the top attractions and experiences. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your visit:
FastPass+ System
One of the best ways to cut down on wait times for popular attractions is by using the FastPass+ system. This allows you to reserve a specific time to ride select attractions, which means you can avoid waiting in the regular standby line. You can reserve up to three FastPasses per day in advance, and once you’ve used all three, you can reserve more on a rolling basis throughout the day.
Best Times to Visit Attractions
Some attractions are more popular than others and can have long wait times, especially during peak times of day. If you want to avoid the crowds, try visiting these attractions during off-peak times, such as early in the morning or during parades and shows.
Navigating Crowds
Disney’s Magic Kingdom can get crowded, especially during peak times like holidays and weekends. To make the most of your visit, arrive early in the morning before the park gets busy, and use the FastPass+ system to avoid long wait times. You can also use the My Disney Experience app to check wait times for attractions and plan your day accordingly.
Be Prepared
Bring comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the day. Plan your day in advance by making dining reservations and prioritizing the attractions and experiences you want to see the most.
To make the most of your visit, it’s important to plan ahead, arrive early, and prioritize the attractions and experiences you want to see the most. With these tips and advice, you’ll be sure to have a magical and unforgettable experience at Disney’s Magic Kingdom.