Magic Kingdom

Overview

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INTRODUCTION

The MAGIC KINGDOM, which covers 107 acres, opened on October 1, 1971. It's been dubbed "The Most Magical Place on Earth!" and is home to six themed lands, and dozens of attractions that appeal to all ages.

WALT DISNEY WORLD
is a tribute to the philosophy and life of Walter Elias Disney...
and to the talents, the dedication, and the loyalty of the entire Disney organization that made Walt Disney's dream come true.

May Walt Disney World bring Joy and Inspiration and New Knowledge to all who come to this happy place...
a Magic Kingdom where the young at heart of all ages
can laugh and play and learn -- together.

-- October 1, 1971
Dedication plaque on Main Street, USA
by Roy O. Disney

LAY OF THE LAND: The Magic Kingdom is laid out like a wheel, with the hub centered directly in front of towering Cinderella Castle. Pathways act as the spokes leading to the following themed areas:

Main Street, U.S.A. -- Inspired by Walt Disney's memories of his hometown, Main Street U.S.A. is a re-creation of early 20th century small-town America, on a 7/8 scale. There are quaint shops, a town hall, fire station... even an old-style barbershop.

Adventureland -- An exotic mix of jungles, wild animals, pirates and a Middle Eastern bazaar, Adventureland is home to several of the Magic Kingdom's best-known and best-loved attractions, including Pirates of the Caribbean and Jungle Cruise.

Frontierland has all the adventure and excitement of the Wild West, including the wet wonders of Splash Mountain and the wild thrills of roller coaster Big Thunder Mountain Railroad.

Liberty Square honors this country's colonial heritage with the Hall of Presidents. It is also home to the ever-popular Haunted Mansion.

Fantasyland is the quintessential fairytale experience with castles, princesses, pixies and boys who won't grow up. It is currently undergoing a major renovation that will essentially double its size by the end of 2012, early 2013. Read more about the Fantasyland Explansion HERE.

Tomorrowland is a look at the future where you can battle aliens at Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin, or hurtle through the universe on a high-speed coaster at Space Mountain.

KIDS AND CHARACTERS

Magic Kingdom is THE place for children to meet and greet their favorite characters. Consult your Guide Map and Times Guides for times and locations.

Magic Kingdom Characters At A Glance
Character Meet and Greet FAQ!

WHAT'S NEW?

Merida Play and Greet Experience at the Fairytale Garden opened May 18, 2012. The Garden has had a Scottish Highlands-inspired makeover, and the new setting has an area in which those waiting to meet Merida can get archery lessons and participate in other activities until it's their turn. Joining Merida are the three mischievous bear cubs from the film.

Fantasyland Expansion -- The first "New Fantasyland" phase opened March 12, 2012 and included part of the Storybook Circus area. Attractions include the new and enhanced Dumbo ride as well as the rethemed Barnstormer attraction featuring the Great Goofini.

Sorcerers of the Magic Kingdom, an "immersive role-playing adventure," officialy opened February 2012. Merlin the magician recruits guests as apprentice sorcerers who will attempt to subdue the "villains" armed only with cards that have mystical powers. Participants fight with villains such as Cruella de Vil, Yzma, and Kronk at special locations throughout the park. Playing the game is included as part of park admission.

The Magic, The Memories and You Romance Edition -- the original show debuted in January 2011. It is periodically tweaked match the season. There was a holiday edition in December; the current Romance Edition is scheduled to run through mid-April 2012.

Tinker Bell and Friends now have a new home in Adventureland in Tinker Bell's Magical Nook.

WHAT'S NEXT?

The Magic, The Memories and You Summer Edition is set to debut May 25, 2012. The original show debuted in January 2011. It is periodically tweaked match the season. There was a holiday edition in December; the Romance Edition ran through April 2012.

Fantasyland Expansion -- The second half of the Dumbo the Flying Elephant attraction will open in July 2012, along with the Casey Jr. Splash 'n' Soak Station. Under the Sea ~ Journey of The Little Mermaid, Enchanted Tales with Belle, Be Our Guest Restaurant, Gaston’s Tavern, and Ariel’s Grotto will open in time for the 2012 holidays. The Seven Dwarfs Mine Train will debut in 2014.

Snow White's Scary Adventures will be closing Thursday, May 31, 2012. A new meet & greet area called Princess Fairytale Hall will open at that location.

WHAT'S GOING... GOING... GONE?

Mickey's Toontown Fair closed February 11, 2011 to make way for an expansion of Fantasyland. It featured a place to meet Mickey, Minnie and the gang up close and in person. Geared specifically to the littlest park-goers, there was even a kid-sized coaster, The Barnstormer at Goofy's Wiseacre Farm.