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The Magic Kingdom
Bringing fantasy to life for Disney World guests

By , About.com Guide

Mickey welcomes guests to Magic KingdomCompliments of Walt Disney Company
The Magic Kingdom, the first of four theme parks that comprise Walt Disney World Resort is indeed a place of "magic." Since opening October 1, 1971, it has become part of the world's No. 1 vacation destination and the measure of family entertainment worldwide.

Step through the turnstiles and it's like you've entered a storybook filled with Disney characters ready to whisk you away to a world of fantasy and adventure. Classic attractions including Pirates of the Caribbean, Haunted Mansion and It's a Small World continue to amaze, while entertainment such as Cinderellabration and nightly fireworks like "Wishes" continue to dazzle.

Of course, there are plenty of photo opportunities throughout the park with a variety of Disney characters, plus enjoy the "Share a Dream Come True" daily parade of larger-than-life snow globes with Disney Characters and live performers that runs from Frontierland to Main Street, U.S.A.

The Magic Kingdom is a happy place for the young-at-heart. It's where families can laugh and play together and make memories that will last a lifetime.

Lands and Attractions

The golden spires of Cinderella Castle towers over the center of the seven "lands" in the Magic Kingdom which are (clockwise from park entrance):

Main Street, U.S.A. was inspired by Walt Disney's childhood in Marceline, Missouri. This re-creation of a bustling thoroughfare in early 20th century America, complete with horse-drawn trolley and vintage barbershop includes the Walt Disney World Railroad. Hop aboard the vintage steam engine-drawn railcars for a scenic trip around the park with stops in Frontierland and Mickey's Toontown Fair. If you prefer, leisurely stroll the shops along Main Street in search of magical souvenirs.

Adventureland was born out of Disney's true-life adventure films that documented exotic lands of jungles and wild animals. Major attractions include Pirates of the Caribbean, a rollicking buccaneer boat ride; Jungle Cruise, a tongue-in-cheek trek down the world's most famous rivers; and The Enchanted Tiki Room — Under New Mangement, which puts a humorous spin on Disney's first attraction to feature the three-dimensional storytelling of Audio-Animatronics.

Frontierland brings to life the tall tales of the Wild West in their prarie outpost where cowboys and miner roam. Major attractions include Splash Mountain, a thrilliing log ride; Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, a roller coaster ride through an unstable mine; and the ever popular performing bears of Country Bear Jamboree.

Liberty Square honors the country's early heritage in a step-back-in-time to colonial America setting. Major attractions include Haunted Mansion, with frights from friendly haunts; and the Hall of Presidents, a moving Audio-Animatronics salute to the United States'presidents.

Fantasyland brings fairytales to life in a whimsical land of castles, princesses and flying elephants. Major attractions include Mickey's PhilharMagic, a 3-D of Disney music and characters; The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh, a gentle journey through the Hundred Acre Wood; and Cinderella's Golden Carrousel, a merry-go-round of mighty steeds.

Mickey's Toontown Fair is the quaint country neighborhood where Mickey, Minnie and the gang live. Major attractions include The Barnstormer and Mickey's Country House.

Tomorrowland looks into the future with rocket ships and alien intruders. Major attractions include Stitch's Great Escape! and the ever-popular Space Mountain.

Fast Food and Dining

Popcorn to prime rib is available in a variety of unique settings that include everything from elegant table-service restaurants to outdoor refreshment carts. Major eateries include:
  • Tony's Town Square (Main Street, U.S.A.) serves salads, pastas and Italian entrees.
  • Pecos Bill Cafe (Frontierland) offers burgers, hot dogs, sandwiches and salads.
  • Columbia Harbour House (Liberty Square) cooks up clam chowder, fish, chicken and sandwiches.
  • The Pinocchio Village Haus (Fantasyland) serves pizza, Italian sandwiches, salads, soups and chicken strips.
  • Cosmic Ray's Starlight Cafe (Tomorrowland) serves up burgers, chicken, soups and sandwiches.
Guests can also dine with Disney characters.

Directions & Tips:

The Magic Kingdom is located within Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Florida and is accessible from several exits off of I-4 and the Hwy 192 exit off the Florida Turnpike. Once you are on Disney property, simply follow the signs to the entrance.

Be sure to pick up a Magic Kingdom guide map at the theme park entrance and time your day around "must-see" shows. Reduce wait time at no additional charge with Disney's FASTPASS which is available at Splash Mountain, Space Mountain, Jungle Cruise, The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh, The Haunted Mansion, Peter Pan's Flight, Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Sping and Big Thunder Mountain Railroad.

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