Magic Kingdom Tips

These Magic Kingdom tips are based on our experiences visiting this park over several years and I hope they help you and your family spend less time in lines and more time enjoying the magic!

Tip 1 – arrive early (AKA how to beat the lines at Disney World)

This isn’t often the easiest thing to do when you are on vacation – but it is the most important tip – you need to be at the gate with tickets in had about 20-30 minutes ahead of the scheduled opening time. This is even more important in peak season.

If you are travelling by car then you need to factor in extra travelling time. The Magic Kingdom is the farthest park to drive to, and then you have to park your vehicle, catch the tram to the Transportation and Ticket Centre and then take either a boat or the monorail to the park gate. This part of the journey can take 20-30 minutes! You therefore need to be arriving in the parking lot about an hour before official park opening.

If you are staying on Disney property then take the monorail or the bus to the park gates.

Tip 2 – where to start at the Magic Kingdom

To maximise the magic and minimise time in lines we follow a plan, and visit the attractions in a specific order. The plans can be purchased over at touringplans.com – at the time of writing a 12-month subscription will cost you just $8.95 – and believe me it is worth every cent! The plans are easy to follow and will help you beat the crowds. You can access the Touring Plans website for free if you have a copy of the latest Unofficial Guide to Disney World book – which is a must have book for anyone planning a trip to Disney World.

Tip 3 – enjoy the parades and fireworks

The folks at Disney certainly know how to put on a good show – and the parades and fireworks at the Magic Kingdom are not to be missed. Here’s some top spots to enjoy the magic from:

• The afternoon parade – watch this from anywhere on Main Street. It can get quite hot so try and find a shady spot (which are snapped up early). Grab a seat on the curb and rest your weary legs while you wait for the parade. It’s also a good time to enjoy a cake from the bakery or a cone from the Ice Cream Parlour.
• SpectroMagic – The first parade of the evening starts on Main Street and arrives in Frontierland about 15 minutes after the scheduled start time. Don’t spend hours staking out a spot on Main Street – head to the Shooting Arcade in Frontierland and pick a spot just outside – there are some great planters that make comfy seating and good viewing points. You should be able to snag a spot about 15 minutes ahead of the parade arriving.
• Wishes – this fireworks show is second to none – there are various good spots. The best is the middle of Main Street outside Casey’s – but in peak season this can get really crowded. Try the bridge to Tomorrowland for a good view of the fireworks and Tinkerbell’s flight.

Tip 4 – avoid the mass exodus

After the fireworks the world and his wife heads for the exit – to avoid the crush why not grab an ice-cream and a table outside of the Ice Cream Parlour – you can spend some quality downtime with your family discussing the days highlights and then leave the park when it’s less chaotic.

If you must leave at the end of Wishes then the shops on the right side of Main Street (as you face the exit) are joined together inside – making for an easier escape!

Tip 5 – experience Big Thunder Mountain by night

This coaster is my personal favourite – but ride it at night and it’s a whole different experience. The trains move faster at the end of the day (something to do with the grease heating up on the tracks) and in the dark your senses make it seem faster still. Give it a try!

More than 500 Walt Disney World Tips & Secrets

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Once you have decided to take your family to Walt Disney World in Florida you then need to think about where you would like to stay. Hotel options in Orlando are endless but before you start thinking about individual hotels you first need to decide whether you want to stay in a Walt Disney World Resort hotel, or somewhere “off property”.

Why you should consider staying in a Disney World Resort Hotel

1. Experience the Disney magic

When the Imagineers built the Resort they didn’t put all of the magic into the themeparks alone, each Resort hotel is an experience in itself. Whether you want to be whisked off to a Polynesian Isle at the Polynesian Resort, experience the grandeur of Victorian Florida at the Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, or watch animals roaming the savannahs at the Animal Kingdom Lodge, no two hotels are the same, and they are unlike any hotel you’ll stay in anywhere else in the world.

2. It’s easy to get from A to B

As a Disney World guest you have access to the free Disney Transportation System to travel between the various hotels, themeparks, golf courses, water parks and the shopping village. Depending on your Resort hotel of choice you’ll have access to busses, boats and even the monorail system.

You don’t even need to worry about renting a car if you’re flying in for your vacation. Disney’s free Magical Express coach service will collect you and your luggage from the airport and transfer you to your Resort. Then when your vacation is over they’ll take you back again in time for your flight.

3. Get entry into the park before the gates open

Resort guests are able to take advantage of Disney World’s Extra Magic Hours programme, which means on select days you can enter the parks one hour before the official opening, or stay for two or three hours after official closing. If you are travelling during off-peak season when the park opening hours are shorter this perk will allow you more time to experience your favourite attractions.

4. Guaranteed theme park admission

If you are travelling at a particularly busy time – such as Christmas or Thanksgiving – then you may find the parks reach capacity early in the day – when this happens Day Guests (i.e. those not staying in a Disney hotel) are turned away at the gate to ensure there is still room for Hotel guests.

5. It’s great for teenage guests

If you are travelling with teenagers then staying on site will allow you to give them a little bit of freedom. Because the hotels are linked to the parks by the transportation system you don’t need to spend all of your time together as a family. The kids will be able to come and go as they please without relying on you and the car to ferry them around like they do back home.

6. Time on your own when you’re travelling with small children

If you’re taking young family to Disney World then you might not like the idea of missing out on the evening entertainment because the kids need to sleep. If you stay in a Disney World Resort hotel then you’ll have access to the in-room babysitting service (at additional cost). If your children are of school age there are also some brilliant kid’s clubs.

7. It’s perfect for taking afternoon breaks

Touring the parks can be tiring, especially in the heat of the summer months. Staying in a Disney World hotel makes it really easy to leave the parks during the afternoon and return back to your room for a nap. You can also take advantage of the Resort pool to cool off and refresh before heading back out to the parks in the evening.

The downsides of staying in a Disney World Resort hotel

There are some downsides you need to consider when making your decision.

1. Disney World Resort hotels can be quite expensive

There’s no two ways about it – even if you stay at a Value Resort you will pay for the privileges mentioned above in the price of your room. If money is tight then you might want to consider looking outside the gates of the Disney World Resort where you can find cheaper accommodation (though it won’t be to the same standard of course).

2. Staying onsite can encourage you to leave the car at home

Free transport is definitely an advantage, but if it encourages to go car-less then it can become a disadvantage. With the exception of the Magic Kingdom I firmly believe you can travel between resorts and parks more quickly by car. Besides who wants to wait in line and stand on a bus full of sweaty people at the end of the day – you’re supposed to be on vacation right? Having a car will also allow you to visit local supermarkets, malls and other (non-Disney) theme parks more easily.

3. World class food comes at a price

You will find some world class restaurants in the Walt Disney World Resort and plenty of choice – it’s definitely not all hot dogs and fries. If you’re on a budget, or travelling with fussy eaters, then you might be better off eating at one of the many chain restaurants you will find outside the gates in nearby Kissimmee, Lake Buena Vista or in the International Drive area.

What are the lodging options outside of the Disney World Resort?

Lodging costs in the surrounding areas can vary greatly, from cheap and cheerful motels to private rentals and luxurious hotels.

There are three main areas you should consider if you are thinking about staying off property:

1. International Drive

Popular with tourists, this area is about 15 to 25 minutes northeast of Disney World and is well placed if you wish to spend time at Universal Studios or SeaWorld.

Personally I’m not a fan of this area and the traffic on International Drive can be awful at times but some people swear by the hotels here.

2. Lake Buena Vista

There are a number of hotels and affordable suites to choose from on the FL 535 and west of the I-4. Within easy reach of Disney World and many restaurants this would be my second choice for off property vacations.

3. Kissimmee – US192/Irlo Bronson Memorial Highway

My personal favourite is the Kissimmee area along the US192 West. You’ll find countless hotels and affordable private rentals – many with private pools. With access to Disney World property via the ‘secret’ Sherberth Road shortcut you can actually reach some of the parks more quickly than if you were a Resort guest!

What are the advantages of staying outside of Disney World?

1. Great for low cost sleeping

The obvious one is cost. There are plenty of hotels, motels and private villa rentals available for less than the cost of staying in a Disney Resort

2. There’s more to Orlando than Walt Disney World

Staying outside of the World makes it much easier to visit other local attractions. There is life outside Disney World and you can choose your location depending upon the other attractions you want to visit on your trip – such as Sea World, Universal Studios Florida, or the shopping malls!

3. Access to cheaper restaurants

There are lots of “chain” restaurants available to help you keep the costs down if you’re travelling on a budget.

4. More space

If you are travelling as a family then you may want to consider a private rental home – why cram yourselves into a hotel room when for a similar price you can rent a whole house?

5. Breakfast facilities

You need to be at the parks before opening to avoid the lines, so you don’t want to waste valuable time eating breakfast in a restaurant. Choose a private rental (villa) or a hotel suite with kitchen facilities and you can fix yourself toast and cereal instead.

6. Private pool.

Most private rental homes come with private pools – so there’s no fighting over the sun loungers.

Are there any downsides to staying outside of the Disney World Resort?

1. You’ll need a car

I don’t really see this as a disadvantage but some people can’t/don’t like to drive on vacation. Of course you can get a coach or town car transfer from the airport, and many hotels do shuttle buses to Disney and the other parks but you’ll be pretty limited without your own transport.

2. No Disney perks

You’ll miss out on things like Extra Magic Hours and Guaranteed Admission.

3. You’ll need to stay with your party

When relying on a car it’s less easy to split up during the day, and you won’t be able to let your teenagers visit the parks alone unless you’re willing to drop them off and pick them up again.

4. No Disney Magic

The extra magic you’ll experience by staying in a Disney Resort just can’t be found anywhere else!

My Favourite Private Rental

If you are planning a trip and you are looking for a private villa with a pool then you should know that my favourite home away from home is this 4-bed private rental in Cumbrian Lakes, Kissimmee. We stayed there for three weeks in May 2007 and loved it; I’ve stayed in a lot of villas over the years and this one put all of the others to shame – if we weren’t DVC members now I’d want to stay there every trip

Check it out at: www.4800cumbrianlakesflorida.co.uk/

Should you stay in a Disney World Resort hotel or not?

I really can’t answer that question for you because it’s all down to personal preference, party size and budget. When we were kids we always stayed in a private rental when we were on vacation at Disney World. We loved the space and the convenience of the kitchen and private pool, and houses in Kissimmee are so close to the parks that you can get from the house to the parking lot in less than 30 minutes. I am a huge fan of private rentals.

When my husband and I first visited Disney World together we stayed in the Ramada Maingate on Highway 192 and couldn’t fault it; take a shortcut up Sherberth road and we were at the Animal Kingdom in just five minutes.

We didn’t experience Disney World Resort hotels until our honeymoon when we stayed at the Animal Kingdom Lodge for a week, and we just fell in love with the Disney magic. Since then we invested in the Disney Vacation Club (timeshare) programme which gives us the best of both worlds. We get to stay in a Disney hotel but we have a studio with kitchen facilities, and we still hire a car so while we can use the free Disney transport when we feel like it we can also hop in the car to go shopping or to eat in the restaurants along Highway 192.

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The Magic Kingdom is home to some of Disney World’s best entertainment so make sure you factor the shows into your plans.

Click here to download your Magic Kingdom Guidemap

Captain Jack’s Pirate Tutorial

If your little ones dream of being a pirate then check out this tutorial show which takes place daily outside the Pirates attraction. Guests are chosen by Captain Jack Sparrow to join in the fun.

Celebrate a Dream Come True Parade

This parade takes place daily (usually at 3pm but check your Times Guide) along Main Street USA. Mickey and his friends will entertain guests from aboard their giant colourful floats. Grab yourself a spot anywhere along Main Street to experience the fun – and maybe enjoy an ice cream or baked snack at the same time.

Move it! Shake it! Celebrate it!

This parade starts at the bottom of Main Street USA and then circles the Hub in front of Cinderella Castle where the floats then park up and the party gets started. Guests are encouraged to join in the fun and dance along with their favourite characters.

To experience this parade to the full stand by the Partners statue (Mickey and Walt) in the middle of the Hub. From here you can move around and see all of the floats. I really enjoyed this one – and the music’s pretty catchy too

SpectroMagic

Ok – this evening parade is a light spectacular that is not to be missed! You’ll see all of your favourite Disney characters on floats adorned with thousands of fairy lights. You might want to see this one more than once!

Wishes

Finish off a perfect day at the Magic Kingdom with the Wishes Fireworks Spectacular. The fireworks explode above Cinderella Castle in perfect sync to the soundtrack and you’ll never see another fireworks display like it!

Thanks for joining me on this virtual tour of the Magic Kingdom. I hope you now feel a little more familier with the park and the wonderful attractions and entertainment that you’ll find here.

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“Tomorrowland…a vista into a world of wondrous ideas, signifying man’s achievements… a step into the future with predictions of constructive things to come. Tomorrow offers new frontiers in science, adventure and ideals… the challenge of outer space, and the hope of a peaceful and unified world.” – Walt Disney

Click here to download your Magic Kingdom Guidemap

Arriving in Tomorrowland

From Toontown walk the path along the railroad track and you’ll find yourself transported from the bright colours of toontown to the futuristic land of tomorrow. Here you’ll soar through space, ride a rocket and battle with Emperor Zurg.

Tomorrowland attractions

Space Mountain

Coaster fans will enjoy blasting through the pitch-darkness in this indoor roller coaster. Once again this coaster is perfect for the slightly less brave – there are no loops or turn-you-upside-down moments and it only reaches speeds of 28 miles an hour!

Astro Orbiter

These rockets soar high above Tomorrowland – if you have a head for heights they’ll give you an amazing view across the park.

Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin

Defeat Emperor Zurg and save the galaxy by shooting at targets throughout this Buzz Lightyear themed attraction. It’s fast, it’s fun and you’ll be determined to beat your partner!

Monsters Inc. Laugh Floor

This recent addition to Tomorrowland is fabulous. You’ll attend a comedy show hosted by Mike Wazowski and his friends from Monsters Inc as they try to capture laughter to convert to power. Fun the whole family will enjoy.

Carousel of Progress

This is one of Walt’s original attractions and was previously housed at Disneyland in California. You’ll join a family of Audio-Animatronics on a trip through 100 years of progress. This attraction is seasonal – if it’s open during your trip be sure to see it.

Stitch’s Great Escape

Fans of Lilo and Stitch will enjoy this attraction as Experiment 626 escapes from his keepers and wreaks havoc.

If you are traveling with youngsters who are sensitive to noise and darkness then you might want to skip this attraction. Guests are secured into seats in a circle around the room – which makes it difficult for you to comfort frightened children and impossible to leave the room.

Tomorrowland Indy Speedway

This attraction lets kids drive their own sports car around a race track – and is obviously extremely popular! If your youngsters have this on their must-see list then make sure you schedule it in to your plan properly to ensure a minimal wait – the queue is out in the open and I don’t want you standing in a long line and getting sun stroke!

Tomorrowland Transit Authority

This slow moving car moves along a track giving you a bird’s-eye view of Tomorrowland and a sneak peek inside Space Mountain.

We’ve now toured all the wonderful lands of the Magic Kingdom – so let’s take a look at what entertainment you can see at the park…

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Unless you are planning an extremely short visit, or you are a regular visitor to WDW then I’d prefer you not to think of your travel day as Day One of your Disney vacation.

No matter how excited you are to hit the parks there are better ways to spend your time, and your money, on your travel day. Don’t forget that there is more to Disney World than just the themeparks and travel days are the perfect days to experience the rest of the magic.

Keep in mind that you should aim for an early night so that you are up bright and early the following morning, which brings us on to Principle 2…

Pixie Dust Planning Principle 2 – Early risers experience more magic
If you’re a morning person then you’ll find this principle easy to accomplish. The big secret to Disney vacation success that not many people realise is that you can see and experience more in the first couple of hours after park opening than you will in the remainder of the day.

Why is this?

Because everyone is on vacation – which means that most people like to sleep in.

Remember Family X? They didn’t even make it to the park gates until 11.30am and then during their 12-hour stay they managed to experience just 3 attractions and the evening entertainment.

If you are willing to rise early and be at the park gates at least 15 minutes before the scheduled opening hours it is possible for you to experience 8 or 9 attractions before Family X even reaches the entrance!

Pixie Dust Planning Principle 3 – Pretend you’re Spanish
If the thought of setting an alarm clock on vacation fills you with dread then don’t worry – you might be up early but you also need to factor in some Spanish Siesta time.

Remember Family X? They slept in and had a leisurely morning, but by 2.30pm they’ve only just experienced their second attraction and they’re feeling tired and grumpy.

You on the other hand arrived in time for park opening, have experienced 12 or 13 attractions and are back at your Resort hotel having a refreshing swim or a nap!

Pixie Dust Planning Principle 4 – Make a reservation
Walt Disney World has some amazing, world-class restaurants, but if you want to experience them you need to make a reservation.

Once you have decided which parks to visit on which days you will want to consider which restaurants will fit with your plans and make a reservation.

If a park has evening entertainment that you wish to experience then you can work your dining plans around them.

Pixie Dust Planning Principle 5 – Evening entertainment is not to be missed

The evening parades and fireworks spectaculars are world class and should not be missed. At certain times of the years the evening entertainment is limited to a few days a week, if this is the case then plan your evenings first and then let that guide your plans for both the day time and dining reservations.

Pixie Dust Planning Principle 6 – Try not to burn the candle at both ends
If you are travelling at a time of year when the parks are open late you could find yourselves enjoying the evening entertainment at 10 or 11pm. If you aren’t likely to be back in your hotel room until midnight or later then you should try and avoid an early start the next day.

Of course this seems to be in complete contradiction to Principle 2, but it isn’t really. If your travel plans permit you simply need to follow a late night with a ‘rest day’.

Pixie Dust Planning Principle 7 – Don’t forget your rest days
Even with your Spanish Siestas you will still find yourself tiring after a few days at the theme parks. You will spend hours on your feet and will literally walk for several miles a day. Don’t forget that you are on vacation and try and factor in some ‘rest days’.

If you have had a late night the previous evening then a rest day might consist of a lie in, a wander around Downtown Disney and then a couple of hours at a Water Park. You could then spend the evening playing a round of miniature golf or doing some shopping at a local outlet mall.

Alternatively, you might keep your early morning schedule at one of the theme parks but leave in the early afternoon and take the rest of the day off. After your siesta you could experience some of the non-theme park magic the Resort has to offer.

The length of your stay will influence the number of rest days you should take in order to recharge your batteries!

Pixie Dust Planning Principle 8 – Skip breakfast
Well, not entirely – breakfast is the most important meal of the day after all. I just need you to skip restaurant breakfasts, or save them for rest days.

Remember Family X? They were busy eating breakfast in a restaurant when they could have been at the parks. Not only does eating breakfast in a restaurant cost you money (about $10 a head) it also costs you time (about an hour).

Save time and money by eating cereal in your hotel room on park days – and save restaurant and character breakfasts for your rest days when you have time to enjoy them at a more leisurely pace.

Pixie Dust Planning Principle 9 – Avoid Extra Magic Hours
One of the ‘benefits’ of staying in a Disney World Resort hotel is that you are able to access the parks at times that off-site guests can’t. This is generally one hour before park opening or three hours after park closing on certain days of the week.

Sounds good right?

Unfortunately not.

Parks with morning Extra Magic Hours (EMHs) attract guests and lots of them. It’s probably the only day that they set their alarm clocks LOL. Of course, even if they can’t get out of bed in time to take advantage of the EMH they end up at that park anyway since that was their ‘plan’ so the park is generally busier on days with an EMH.

The problem with morning EMHs is that you have to get up so early to take advantage of this extra 60 minutes and if you happen to be running even a little late the whole advantage disappears. Take my advice and let all the other guests go to morning EMHs, while you enjoy the peace and quiet of the other parks!

Now evening EMHs are another matter, sort of. I’d still recommend you avoid them as the park is likely to be busier on a day with an EMH and you have to stay well into the second or third ‘free’ hour to take advantage. For those late sleepers they might need that extra time – but trust me you’d be better off getting to bed at a reasonable hour and hitting the parks early the next morning

If your vacation time is short however then you may have to take advantage of the EMH to be able to experience everything you want to.

Pixie Dust Planning Principle 10 – Avoid hopping
Unless you have an Annual Pass or a UK Disney’s Ultimate ticket (both of which include park hopping privileges) I recommend trying to keep your itinerary to one park per day.

Park hopping privileges let you visit more than one park each day – but they are quite expensive. Unless you have no choice due to the length of your stay or the time of year try and stick to one park per day and you’ll save yourself a couple of hundred bucks.

Pixie Dust Planning Principle 11 – Go out with a bang!
Make your last evening a really memorable one by making sure you attend one of the evening entertainment spectaculars. You can either plan one in at the planning stage – or if your vacation length and the entertainment calendar permits you could leave the evening empty. Then after you have witnessed all of the entertainment once go back to experience your family’s favourite one on your last evening.

Pixie Dust Planning Principle 12 – Make a plan and stick to it
Remember Family X? They wasted so much time deciding which park to go to before breakfast and then which attractions to ride when they actually got to the park.
By making a plan before you leave home you will know which parks you are visiting on which days, you’ll know which attractions to hit in which order when you get to the gates and you’ll experience ten times more than Family X!

Pixie Dust Planning Principle 13 – Don’t forget that plans change
I know I just told you to make a plan and stick with it. And I really mean that – but sometimes you will be forced to change your plans.

Let’s say for example that you plan a rest day with swimming at one of the water parks, and then when you arrive that day is forecast for thunder storms, doesn’t really make ideal swimming weather does it?

Or let’s say you arrive at the Magic Kingdom with plans to experience the whole park, but your little one insists on riding Dumbo seven times in a row.

Or you arrive at Epcot for Illuminations and inclement weather means they have to cancel the show (Note this really doesn’t happen very often).

If any of these things happen then you need to be able to change your plan.

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Character meals are unique experiences that give you and your family the chance for some personal interaction with your favourite characters without having to wait in a long line. Instead of taking time out from your favourite attractions to meet and greet with the characters you can interact with them in between bites of Mickey waffles or Prime Rib!

What to Expect at a Character Meal

Whether you want to mingle with Disney characters over breakfast, lunch or dinner, Disney has all the bases covered. You could eat with the characters three times a day if you really wanted to, though it could become an expensive habit. While character dining has its benefits it is more expensive than standard dining options, since you are paying for the interaction as well as the food.

Meal styles vary at each restaurant with breakfasts usually being served buffet style. Your options are wider at dinner where meals range from set menu to family style, buffet or open menu.

Character Appearances Vary

Different characters appear at different restaurants and meal times so be sure to check the schedules in advance to avoid disappointment.

The programme is the same at all meals though, with the characters circulating around the room while you are eating.

There are generally three to five characters present and they will visit you at your table one at a time to interact with you and your family. They will pose for photos and sign autographs so make sure you have cameras, autograph books and pens at the ready.

Be Prepared

If you are going to pay to attend a Character Meal then you need to go prepared with something for you or your kids to collect autographs in. Make sure you remember a pen too – Sharpie markers work great for characters with oversized hands.

Everyone Will Get Their Turn

Please make sure that all members of your party stay seated during the meal (unless they are off to the buffet to fill their plates). The characters will make their way around the restaurant and stop at each and every table so your family will get their turn.

If your children run off to seek out the characters themselves they will be asked to return to the table.

Be Prepared for Fear

No matter how much your children love watching Disney characters on television seeing them in real life can be a bit frightening. If they are wary then you can encourage them by hugging the characters yourself and posing for photographs.

The characters are used to dealing with young children so even if they don’t want to hug this larger-than-life character there will still be opportunities to capture the magic on camera.

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“Here is the world of imagination, hopes and dreams. In this timeless land of enchantment, the age of chivalry, magic, and make-believe are reborn, and fairy tales come true. Fantasyland is dedicated to the young at heart, to those who believe that when you wish upon a star, your dreams come true.” – Walt Disney

Click here to download your Magic Kingdom Guidemap

Arriving in Fantasyland

Take the path from Liberty Square alongside the Liberty Tree Taven and you’ll find yourself passing under an archway and arriving in Fantasyland. Here you’ll be able to ride a magical carousel horse, soar above the clouds on a flying elephant, pull a sword from a stone or explore the Hundred Acre Wood.

Oh and one more thing; Fantasyland is perhaps one of the Park’s busiest, and of course is adored by children – but it’s loved by adults too. If there are no children in your party then don’t think this is a land to be skipped – you might just experience a little bit of magic yourself.

Fantasyland attractions

Cinderella Castle

Make sure you visit the Castle and explore the mosaics on the inside wall. You can’t actually go inside the castle unless you plan to eat at Cinderella’s Royal Table restaurant (and if you do then I know you have already done your homework and made reservations!).

Dream Along with Mickey

Check your Times Guides for the schedule of this adorable show with Mickey and his Friends battling evil right in front of Cinderella Castle.

Mickey’s PhilharMagic

This is a must see 4D adventure, with Donald Duck and characters from your favourite Disney movies including Beuaty & the Beast, The Little Mermaid and the Lion King.

Dumbo the Flying Elephant

If you have little ones then be prepared – this is the most-loved attraction for pint-sized guests – and has one of the longest waits! If they are desperate to take the two-minute flight aboard the flying elephant make sure you schedule it in at the right time of day (more of that in later lessons).

The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh

This is another popular one with the kids and wait times can be very long so make use of the FASTPASS. You’ll board a giant hunny pot and bounce through the giant pages of a story book with Pooh and his friends on this whirlwind adventure.

Peter Pan’s Flight

Soar over the roof tops of London in a pirate ship and rescue the Lost Boys from the mean old pirates and Captain Hook.

Snow White’s Scary Adventures

This popular dark-ride will whisk you on a three minute adventure through the world of Snow White – it can be a little scary at times to be careful with little ones.

It’s a small world

This attraction is like Marmite – you either love it or you hate it – I love it, my husband hates it!

You’ll board a boat and then float down the river as audio-animatronic dolls from the world over serenade you. It’s brightly coloured and your kids should love it – but be warned that the song will be stuck in your head for the rest of the day!

Mad Tea Party

If you’ve got the stomach for spinning then you’ll have a blast in these over-sized twirling teacups.

Cinderella’s Golden Carousel

Take a ride on a magical horse on this gorgeous carousel which was built in 1917. This one will delight adults and children alike.

Ariel’s Grotto

This children’s play area is a great place for little ones to run off steam – there is water involved though so bring a spare change of clothes. Fans of this Little Mermaid will also be able to meet and greet with Ariel herself.

Pooh’s Playful Spot

Across from the Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh attraction you’ll find a small play area for children.

Sword in the Stone

At times throughout the day Merlin will encourage youngsters to attempt to pull the infamous sword from the stone. And when Merlin isn’t around then the grown ups can have a try too

Fantasyland videos – to give you a taste of the magic

Fantasyland expansion – what’s coming in 2012

Disney Imagineers are always keen to add new rides and attractions to the parks, but we’ve seen little addition to the Magic Kingdom in recent years (aside from Stitch trying to take over in various guises!) but that’s all about to change with the much-anticipated Fantasyland expansion.

Walt Disney Parks and Resorts Chairman Jay Rasulo revealed that the plans for Fantasyland a couple of years back, saying that it would be the largest expansion in the history of the Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World. “Storytelling is the DNA of Disney dreams and we’re always exploring new ways to tell new stories in new places.”

Construction is already well underway and we’ll will begin to see the changes in 2012, with everything planned to complete in 2013.

This concept art gives you a view across the new Fantasyland expansion area as if you were hovering above the Cinderella Castle. If you look to the front left you will see some castle walls – you will walk through these to reach the Princess Realms where Sleeping Beauty, Ariel, Cinderella and Belle will have their own meet and greet areas.

You’ll will be invited to share a dance with Cinderella in her chateau, join Belle in an enchanting story book performance in the Beast’s castle library and celebrate Sleeping Beauty’s birthday with the Good Fairies. Of course Tinker Bell and her fairy friends will continue to reign over Pixie Hollow.

For a more immersive look at what’s to come check out these videos:

The Beauty & the Beast realm will also be home to a new ‘Be Our Guest’ dinner show which I can’t wait to experience.

Journey under the Sea with Ariel, The Little Mermaid

Ariel will get her very own attraction: Journey under the Sea with Ariel, The Little Mermaid; a version has already opened at Disney’s California Adventure over in Anaheim and it’s had positive reviews from visitors. Ariel, Prince Eric and the “Under the Sea” gang tell the tale of The Little Mermaid through sounds, music, color and effects. There are nearly 200 Audio-Animatronic figures performing in this attraction and it uses the Omnimover ride system to move you through the enchanted world below and above the ocean. If you’re open to spoilers here’s a ride through video:

Flying elephants and mine trains

The much-loved Dumbo attraction will also get the pixie dust treatment as part of the Fantasyland expansion. Parents will be pleased to read that the enhanced attraction will have two spinners, increasing the capacity and hopefully decreasing the wait time! It will also have a circus theme – and a more interactive queue to keep the kids entertained while you wait.

The new Dumbo attraction and the Pixie Hollow meet and greet area will replace the existing Mickey’s Toontown Fair area of the park. The existing Mickey Mouse meet and greet has been given a new home in the Town Hall on Main Street USA (and brilliant news – there’s Fastpasses too!)

The other attraction that I am really looking forward to is the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train Coaster – this one sounds like a whole heap of fun and we’ve just been treated to a behind the scenes look at what we can expect.

The makeover will not extend to the west side where attractions such as Peter Pan’s Flight and It’s a Small World will remain untouched.

It sounds as if the enhancements appear to be very little girl orientated with all the princess elements, but Imagineers have assured us that the new Fantasyland additions will be very immersive and interactive and should appeal to little boys too.

Ready to move on with your tour? We’re off to Tomorrowland…

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“Actually, if you could see close in my eyes, there’s an American Flag waving in both of them…” – Walt Disney

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Arriving in Liberty Square

From Frontierland we leave the Wild Wild West behind and move into Liberty Square; a slice of America from 1776. Standing proud in the middle of the Square is a 135-year-old oak tree, known as the Liberty Tree which commemorates the communal meeting place of the Sons of Liberty. Alongside the tree is a replica of the infamous Liberty Bell – and right in front of that is a pair of stocks which make a wonderful photo opportunity

Liberty Square Attractions

The Haunted Mansion

Another of the park’s not to be missed attractions, the Haunted Mansion is brimming with 999 happy haunts. Once inside Master Gray’s Mansion you will board your Doom Buggy and your Ghost Host will take you on a tour of this creepy old house (Disney style of course – it’s not that scary).

Look out for the tombstones as you wait to enter the mansion; the names on the stones honour the attraction’s Imagineers and designers.

The Hall of Presidents

In my countless visits to Disney World over the last two decades I only just managed to see the Hall of Presidents – and I can’t believe I waited so long!

The 25 minute show features a film recounting America’s history, and an address by Abraham Lincoln. At the end of the film the curtain lifts and the stage is filled with American presidents. The Audio-Animatronic replicas are amazing to see as each moves and gestures in some way as his name is called out – Lincoln even rises from his seat!

I just added this to my not to be missed list.

Liberty Square Riverboat

Board the riverboat for a pleasant tour across the Rivers of America. This half-mile journey takes about 17 minutes as it takes you around Tom Sawyer Island and back; it’s an excellent way to take a break during the day.

Next in our virtual tour of the Magic Kingdom it’s time to rediscover the child inside as we head over to Fantasyland but before we do let’s make a little detour… The bridge between Liberty Square and the top of Main Street USA is the perfect place to take an unobstructed photograph of Cinderella Castle. If it’s dark then rest your camera on the bridge rail as a makeshift tripod, and if’s daytime then assemble your family on the bridge so you can capture the shot with the castle in the background.

Pictures all done? Let’s head on over to Fantasyland…

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While this is the most expensive Disney World Resort it isn’t filled with rich people; anyone is welcome as long as you’ve saved enough pennies If you really want to splash out on the Grand but even the cheapest room is too much then try booking during Value Season or looking out for Annual Pass-holder discounts.

As with the Polynesian, the monorail will take you to the Magic Kingdom and Epcot theme parks. A bus provides transport to the Animal Kingdom, Hollywood Studios, Downtown Disney and the water parks.

What are the rooms like?

All rooms at the Grand are furnished in the same way and offer the standard Deluxe Resort amenities. Standard rooms sleep five people and are slightly larger than the dormer (attic) rooms which only sleep four but which have private balconies. The Lodge Tower rooms are located in the turrets and have all the features of a standard room as well as a separate sitting area.

All guest rooms receive a nightly turn down service complete with chocolates and a good night message.

There are four views available at the Resort; the Garden view overlook the beautiful landscaped gardens while the Pool/Marina view has balconies which look out over the pool or the Grand’s marina. The Lagoon view offers views across the Seven Seas Lagoon but not necessarily the Magic Kingdom. There are rooms in the Main Building with a Magic Kingdom view including the Jacuzzi Honeymoon rooms.

What eating options do I have?

You’ll be spoilt for choice at the Grand. For casual southern cooking head to the Grand Floridian Cafe for breakfast, lunch or dinner.

Snacks and take out are available 24/7 from the Gasparilla Grill.

For seafood and steak make reservations at Narcoosee’s, or for more upscale dining try Citricos.

The 1900 Park Fare restaurant offers a character buffet hosted by Mary Poppins and her friends, while Cinderella holds court over her Happily Ever After Dinner served nightly from 4.30pm-8.20pm.

For a little piece of afternoon luxury take a trip to the Garden View Lounge and experience the scrumptious Grand Floridian Afternoon Tea.

For the ultimate in elegant dining put on your best clothes and make a reservation at the upscale Victoria & Albert’s. This is the dining centrepiece of the Walt Disney World Resort, where the menu is selected daily by the chef.  Jackets are required for the men in your party while ladies are asked to wear fancy attire. Please note that children cannot dine at Victoria & Albert’s.

What recreational facilities will I be able to enjoy?

There are two pools at the Resort; the larger Courtyard Pool is open 24/7 weather permitting but has no lifeguard.

The theme pool is the Beach Pool which has a waterfall and of course, a slide and a pool bar.

Other activities include tennis courts, the Health Club and Spa, watercraft rental, jogging, volleyball and croquet.

If you’re lucky you might also get to witness a fairytale wedding being conducted at the Wedding Pavilion.

Will my kids be welcome?

Children and families receive a warm welcome at the Grand and will not feel out of place; one of my friends regularly stays here with her young triplets. There are a number of children’s activities including Adventure Time, Mousecraft and Story Time. There is also a supervised kid’s club for kids aged 4 through 12 at the Mouseketeer Clubhouse.

You can also make reservations for the Wonderland Tea Party, Pirate Cruise and Kid Adventures in cooking for an additional cost per child.

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“Here we experience the story of our country’s past… the colorful drama of frontier America in the exciting days of the covered wagon and the stage coach, the advent of the railroad and the romantic riverboat. Frontierland is a tribute to the faith, courage and ingenuity of the pioneers who blazed the trails across America.” – Walt Disney

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Arriving in Frontierland

From Adventureland, pass through a tunnel behind the Magic Carpets and you’ll find yourself transported to the Wild Wild West. Built alongside “The Rivers of America,” you’ll find mountain ranges, a dance hall, a shootin’ gallery, a fort and rustic log cabins making you feel right at home in the time of Davy Crockett.

Frontierland attractions

Big Thunder Mountain Railroad

“Hold on to your hats and glasses as this here’s the wildest ride in the wilderness!”

This might look like a runaway mine-train to you, but it’s my favourite attraction in the whole of Disney World! If you’re unsure about roller-coasters then this is a great one for you – all the thrills without the loops and the turn-you-upside-down bits.

My top tips: Try to ride in the back carriages (ask the Cast Member nicely) as the carriages at the front hardly pick up any speed. For a different ride altogether ride it in the dark – always seems much faster at night!

Splash Mountain

Frontierland’s second mountain will whisk you off to Brer Country as you ride thorugh Brer Rabbit’s Laughing Place in a log. The scenes inside are packed with music, laughter and Audio-Animatronics – all leading up to the five-story drop at the end!

This attraction is not to be missed – but you will get wet!

Country Bear Jamboree

Great family fun as you get entertained by a cast of Audio-Animatronic bears in this foot-stomping hoedown.

Tom Sawyer Island

If you are travelling with children who need to run off some steam then take the short raft ride across the Rivers of America to Tom Sawyer Island where you’ll find caves, tunnels and trails – and even a fort to explore.

Frontierland Shootin’ Arcade

Test out your shooting skills at this Old West arcade – you’ll need to put your hand in your pocket though as you have to pay to play.

Walt Disney World Railroad

A stairecase to the side of Splash Mountain will take you up to the station platform. From here the 15 to 20-minute journey on an authentic steam train will take you a full loop of the park with stops at Mickey’s Toontown Fair and then Main Street, USA.

Experience the full journey for a relaxing 20 minutes; or use it to hop to Toontown for more fun and excitement.

Let’s move onto Liberty Square

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