The Best of The Magic Kingdom

Walt Disney World's Magic Kingdom was the first of Disney's Theme Parks to be opened in Florida. Walt's dream, completed after his death with loving care by his older brother Roy O. Disney, opened to the public on October 1st, 1971. This homage to the child that lives in all of us sits on 142 acres, and at its center is the towering beautiful Cinderella Castle. Similar to the original Disneyland in California, the park is divided into six themed lands - Main Street, U.S.A.; Adventureland; Frontierland; Liberty Square; Fantasyland; and Tomorrowland.


The Best of Walt Disney World's Magic Kingdom


It's hard to pick the best of the Magic Kingdom's attractions because there is so much to do that appeals to every age and taste. This list then fell to my personal favorites, some old, some new, and all pure Disney Magic.

• Pirates of the Caribbean
• Jungle Cruise
• Splash Mountain
• Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
• The Haunted Mansion
• Peter Pan's Flight
• Seven Dwarfs Mine Train
• Mad Tea Party
• Space Mountain
• Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin

This New Fantasyland Centerpiece Offers Stunning Views


In addition to the dozens of Disney characters found at locations throughout the park, Walt Disney World's Magic Kingdom presents a diverse variety of entertainment each and every day. Each Land offers a selection of specialty performances that enhance the overall theme with shows going on throughout the day. However - two of the entertainment options stand out above and beyond them all.

The "Festival of Fantasy Parade" is a relatively new addition to the Magic Kingdom, having just debuted in 2014. With bright colors, extraordinary costumes, and amazing floats the enchanting stories of classic Disney movies come to life for the daily spectacular. It's no wonder you need to stake out your spot on the parade route early.

"Wishes" is a nighttime fireworks spectacular that tugs at the heartstrings of both young and old. Jiminy Cricket narrates the biggest, boldest story in the sky you have ever seen. Presented on most nights, this Magic Kingdom classic is one of those things that fans never tire of.


Belle and Beast Grace The Lead Float


The Magic Kingdom offers hungry guests everything from popcorn to prime rib. Eateries range in style from vendor carts along the side of the path, to quick service restaurants with solid menus, and full table service experiences that create once in a lifetime magic. Check out what's on our list of the best.

Columbia Harbour House (Liberty Square - lunch, and dinner) Some of the most surprising food comes from this easy to miss quick service spot in Liberty Square. Clam chowder, fish, chicken, sandwiches make up a clean yet flavorful menu that elevates your average quick-service restaurant to someplace you'll return to again and again.

Cosmic Ray's Starlight Cafe (Tomorrowland - lunch, and dinner) Plain and simple the Starlight Cafe is a quick service joint that's out of this world. Burgers, chicken, soups, and sandwiches make for a solid meal. Ample seating includes an indoor section with fun entertainment at a reasonable price.

Cinderella's Royal Table (Fantasyland - breakfast, lunch and dinner) The most difficult reservation to get in the land, dining at Cinderella's Royal Table is a right of passage for many Disney fans. The opulent interiors of Cinderella Castle are reason enough to make this reservation, but a bevy of royal ladies and a solid menu make this the Best table service in the Park.

Be Our Guest Restaurant (Fantasyland - quick-service breakfast and lunch, sit-down dinner). Deep inside Beast's Enchanted Castle Guests can dine in one of the most spectacular of all Disney's themed restaurants. The menu is French inspired and while the food doesn't always live up to the decor, it is an experience that shouldn't be missed.

Main Street Confectionary (Main Street U.S.A. - sweets and snacks) is the place to find Mickey Krispie Treats, Character Caramel Apples, and delicious confections of all sorts.

Aloha Isle (Adventureland - snack) is home to the frozen delight with its own fan following. pineapple lovers should be sure to stop by and try Adventureland's famous Dole Whip, and Dole Whip Float.


We give you the Dole Whip Float


The Magic Kingdom is home to two annual Special Events that die-hard fans know can take a great trip and make it spectacular. Each fall the friendly ghosts and goblins come out to play at Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party! Mickey and the gang host this all-ages celebration on select nights in September and October.

Then, like magic it's the holidays and Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party lights up the Magic Kingdom with the spirit of the season, as Mickey and his friends celebrate with exclusive entertainment, snow on Main Street, and parade starring Santa Claus himself!


Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party at the Magic Kingdom


The Magic Kingdom is the beating heart of the Walt Disney World Resort and no trip to the vacation kingdom is quite complete without a visit at this most magical of the Disney Parks. While there are many ways to tackle a Disney vacation, your touring schedule should be sure to include the best of the Magic Kingdom.

Do you agree with our list? What would you add as "The Best" of the Magic Kingdom? Leave a comment below to share your picks.