Discover Disney Magic Kingdom Near Orlando and Sanford: Guide, Attractions, Dining, Rides And 6 Tips Before You Go in 2025. Is It Worth It?

Hi there! I just got back from Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World, and it was AMAZING! I want to tell you all about it so you can have the best time ever when you go. Magic Kingdom is the heart of Walt Disney World with so many cool rides, yummy treats, and awesome shows. Let me share everything I learned!

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions about Disney’s Magic Kingdom in Orlando

Magic Kingdom is the most famous park at Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida. It opened in 1971 and has Cinderella Castle in the middle that you can see from almost anywhere in the park. The park has six different lands that all connect to the central hub area around the castle. Each land has its own special rides, food, and things to see!

Yes! With so many attractions, Genie+ can help you skip long wait times for rides like Seven Dwarfs Mine Train and Space Mountain.

Late January to early March and mid-September to early November tend to have lower crowds and cooler weather.

Yes, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad will be closed for a major refurbishment. Additionally, the Rivers of America and Tom Sawyer Island are expected to be removed for upcoming expansions.

Great rides for little kids include “it’s a small world,” Prince Charming Regal Carousel, The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh, Dumbo the Flying Elephant, and Magic Carpets of Aladdin. These family-friendly attractions offer a gentler experience compared to the thrill rides you’ll find at Hollywood Studios.

A full day (or even two) is recommended to experience all attractions, shows, and parades at a comfortable pace. Magic Kingdom requires more time than parks like Epcot due to its extensive lineup of attractions and entertainment offerings.

There are six lands: Main Street USA, Adventureland, Frontierland, Liberty Square, Fantasyland, and Tomorrowland.

The most thrilling rides are Tron Lightcycle Run, Space Mountain, Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad (when it reopens), and Tiana’s Bayou Adventure. While not as intense as some coasters at Animal Kingdom, these provide plenty of excitement for Magic Kingdom visitors.

Tron Lightcycle Run: 48 inches (122 cm)

Space Mountain: 44 inches (112 cm)

Seven Dwarfs Mine Train: 38 inches (97 cm)

Big Thunder Mountain Railroad: 40 inches (102 cm)

Barnstormer: 35 inches (89 cm)

The Festival of Fantasy parade usually runs twice each day, once around noon and once around 3:00 PM. Check the My Disney Experience app for exact times.

The best place for first-timers is Main Street USA so you can see the projections on the castle. Other good spots include behind the castle near Prince Charming Regal Carousel, from the Swiss Family Treehouse, from the People Mover, or from the bridge in Frontierland.

Many rides at Magic Kingdom are indoors and keep running even when it rains. Bring a poncho or umbrella just in case. As one visitor mentioned, “The worst you can potentially see wait times for either one of these new rides is right at rope drop.”

Tiana’s Bayou Adventure replaced Splash Mountain, but it uses the same track and has the same big drop. It now tells a story from Princess and the Frog instead.

Lightning Lane is Disney’s skip-the-line service. You can pay extra to skip the regular lines at certain rides.

Yup! You can meet Mickey and Minnie at Town Square Theater, princesses at Princess Fairytale Hall, Mirabel from Encanto in the Fairytale Garden, and many others throughout the park.

Main Street, U.S.A. – Your Gateway to Magic

As soon as you step through the entrance, you’re greeted by the charming sight of Main Street, U.S.A., a turn-of-the-century American town bustling with energy. The Walt Disney World Railroad station marks the start of your journey, offering a scenic train ride around the park with stops in Frontierland and Fantasyland. Keep an eye out for the Dapper Dans, a barbershop quartet that adds a touch of vintage charm to the experience.

Further down Main Street, you’ll find the Town Square Theater, where Mickey Mouse himself is waiting to greet guests. As you approach the end of the avenue, all eyes are drawn to the iconic Cinderella Castle, marking the gateway to six unique lands filled with adventures.

Disney's Magic Kingdom in Orlando: Guide FAQ Before You Go Tips, Attractions Main Street USA

Adventureland – Jungle Expeditions and Pirate Escapades

  • Jungle Cruise: A boat ride through different jungles with funny tour guides. My friend said, “It’s famous for the corny jokes and puns that the jungle crew skippers use throughout the adventure which adds another amazing level to this fantastic boat ride.”
  • Pirates of the Caribbean: A dark boat ride with treasure, pirates, and Captain Jack Sparrow! “This is a must-ride attraction in the Magic Kingdom and due to the high capacity it never usually has a long wait time.”
  • Magic Carpets of Aladdin: A spinning ride that lets you fly on a magic carpet. “Younger guests will love taking a flight on this fun attraction.”
  • Swiss Family Treehouse: A walkthrough adventure with wooden platforms and rope bridges. “For those that make the effort are rewarded with fantastic views of the park.”
  • Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room: A show with singing birds, flowers, and tikis. “Even if you’re not a fan of the show, it’s a great attraction to take a rest and enjoy the cool atmosphere.”
Disney's Magic Kingdom in Orlando: Guide FAQ Before You Go Tips, Attractions Adventureland

Frontierland – Wild West Adventures

  • Tiana’s Bayou Adventure: A log flume ride based on Princess and the Frog with a big 52-foot drop! “You’ll want to hold on tight as your log plunges 52 ft at 42 mph into a misty tunnel for a giant splash down.”
  • Big Thunder Mountain Railroad: A roller coaster through an abandoned mine. (Note: This ride is closed for improvements until 2026!)
  • Tom Sawyer Island: An island you can explore with caves, forts, and bridges. (Note: This will be closing in 2025 to make room for new rides!)
  • Country Bear Jamboree: A musical show with singing bears. “This is a fun little performance featuring amazing audio animatronic bears singing classic Disney songs in their unique country style.”
Disney's Magic Kingdom in Orlando: Guide FAQ Before You Go Tips, Attractions Frontierland

Liberty Square – A Tribute to American History

  • Haunted Mansion: A spooky (but not too scary) ride through a mansion filled with 999 happy haunts. “Don’t forget to look out for the hatbox ghost and other popular haunts on this amazing dark ride.”
  • Hall of Presidents: A show with robot versions of all U.S. presidents. “Come and enjoy a slice of classic American history.”
  • Liberty Square Riverboat: A boat ride around the Rivers of America. (Note: This will be closing in 2025.)
Disney's Magic Kingdom in Orlando: Guide FAQ Before You Go Tips, Attractions Liberty Square

Fantasyland – Fairy Tales Brought to Life

  • Peter Pan’s Flight: A ride where you fly over London and Neverland in a pirate ship. “This amazing dark ride takes you through some memorable scenes from the classic Disney animation on board your very own flying ship.”
  • It’s a Small World: A boat ride with singing dolls from around the world. “This ride features over 300 audio animatronic dolls in traditional costumes from cultures around the world and with a catchy theme song that will get stuck in your head for days.”
  • Seven Dwarfs Mine Train: A roller coaster that takes you through the dwarfs’ diamond mine. “This is a great little coaster for all the family to enjoy.”
  • The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh: A ride through the Hundred Acre Wood. “Join Pooh Bear and the gang as you ride through many exciting show scenes featuring all your favorite characters.”
  • Mad Tea Party: Spinning teacups based on Alice in Wonderland. “You can enjoy this fun dizzy experience.”
  • Under the Sea – Journey of The Little Mermaid: A ride that tells the story of The Little Mermaid. “This omnimover dark ride takes you under the sea where you will experience an adventure with all your favorite characters and songs.”
  • Prince Charming Regal Carousel: A beautiful carousel in the center of Fantasyland. “I suggest riding this attraction at night to enjoy all the amazing lit up scenery around Fantasyland.”
  • Dumbo the Flying Elephant: A spinning ride where you fly in Dumbo elephants. “This classic Disney spinning attraction will dazzle younger and older guests alike.”
  • Barnstormer: A small roller coaster featuring Goofy. “It’s a nice little coaster and a great way to introduce younger kids to thrilling rides.”
Disney's Magic Kingdom in Orlando: Guide FAQ Before You Go Tips, Attractions Fantasyland

Tomorrowland – The Future Awaits

Take a relaxing tour through Tomorrowland, with behind-the-scenes glimpses of Space Mountain and more.

  • Space Mountain: A fast roller coaster in the dark that feels like you’re zooming through space. “It’s just bunny hills and sharp turns and catchy intergalactic soundtrack and a lot of going wee while you ride in near complete darkness.”
  • Tron Lightcycle Run: A super fast motorcycle-style roller coaster. “Join the grid as you take a high-speed launch straight outside before heading back into a battle with other riders on this exciting attraction.”
  • Buzz Lightyear Space Ranger Spin: A ride where you shoot targets to get points. “This shooting dark ride lets you compete with your family and friends to get the highest score as you help Buzz Lightyear take on the evil Emperor Zerg.” (Note: This ride will be closing in August 2025 for updates until 2026!)
  • People Mover: A relaxing ride above Tomorrowland. “This is a 10-minute elevated train ride that gives you an awesome perspective of the park.”
  • Tomorrowland Speedway: Drive your own car around a track. “This is perfect for younger guests that want to experience driving for the first time.”
  • Astro Orbiter: A spinning ride high above Tomorrowland. “This takes guests on an out of this world experience that also gives amazing views of Tomorrowland.”
  • Walt Disney’s Carousel of Progress: A show about how technology has changed over time. “It shows you the development of technology throughout the years with the use of a family of amazing audio animatronics.”
  • Monsters Inc. Laugh Floor: A funny show where monsters interact with the audience. “The show utilizes digital puppetry technology which uses live actors behind a large digital screen. This means that each show is very unique.”
Disney's Magic Kingdom in Orlando: Guide FAQ Before You Go Tips, Attractions Tomorrowland

Shows, Parades And Fireworks

  • Disney Festival of Fantasy Parade: A parade with amazing floats celebrating Fantasyland stories. “Look out for Peter Pan, Sleeping Beauty, Tangled, plus a host of other princesses and of course Mickey and friends.”
  • Disney Adventure Friends Cavalcade: A shorter parade with lots of characters
  • Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away: A new nighttime parade coming summer 2025!
  • NEW: Starlight Night Parade (Summer 2025) – A brand-new nighttime parade featuring dazzling light-up floats, vibrant colors, and beloved Disney characters.
  • Let the Magic Begin: A morning show where Mickey and friends welcome you to the park
  • Mickey’s Magical Friendship Fair: A show with characters from Frozen, Tangled, Princess and the Frog, and more
  • Happily Ever After: The nighttime fireworks show with projections on the castle. “This show features dazzling fireworks, beloved Disney music, and immersive projection effects on the Cinderella Castle.”

Shopping And Dining

Shopping – Cool Souvenir Ideas

  • Custom Silhouette: Get your profile cut out of paper by an artist on Main Street USA or Liberty Square. “The silhouette artists here create their designs with paper and scissors… Prices for an individual silhouette start at $14.”
  • Personalized Parasol: Get a pretty umbrella with custom artwork in Liberty Square. “Prices for these tend to start at around $20.”
  • Custom Ornament: Visit Ye Olde Christmas Shop to get a personalized ornament, even in summer! “You can pick out a festive ornament to best represent your trip or your personal interests, then whatever ornament you choose you can get it personalized by a cast member.”
  • Custom Glass Art: Visit Crystal Arts on Main Street for special glass souvenirs.
  • Embroidered Mickey Ears: Get your name stitched onto Mickey ears at the shop by Town Square Theater.

Dining

Yummy Treats to Try

  • Apple Cider Donut Holes at Friar’s Nook in Fantasyland: “These are so soft and delicious and they’re actually warm too. That means they’re probably making them fresh back there.”
  • Spring Rolls at the Adventureland Spring Roll Cart: “I’m head over heels for the unique spring roll options served here. The one flavor that tends to stick around is the cheeseburger variety.”
  • Candied Bacon Skewer at Westward Ho in Frontierland: “It’s a huge thick piece of bacon served with potato chips and even though the flavor of the bacon is nice and smoky on its own, that candied brown sugar coating gives the whole thing sweet and savory vibes.”
  • Hush Puppies at Columbia Harbour House: “They’re nice and crispy on the outside and thick and doughy on the inside and just all around deep fried golden cornmeal balls of goodness.”
  • Cinnamon Roll at Gaston’s Tavern: “The warm cinnamon roll is filling, it’s thick and creamy, and it’s big enough to share.”
  • Custom Candy Apples at Main Street Confectionery: “I decided on getting the mini Easter bunny candy apple. I love the colors on this and I think that the ears are little tiny marshmallows.”

Special Places to Eat

  • Cinderella’s Royal Table: Eat inside Cinderella Castle with Disney princesses! “During this meal you’re going to dine in the Cinderella Castle surrounded by scaling stone walls and ornate tapestries and impressive art and gorgeous stained glass windows as well as princesses.”
  • Be Our Guest Restaurant: Eat in the Beast’s castle from Beauty and the Beast! “From the moment you step into the first dining room, you’ll be transported into a world of magic, curses, and enchanted roses.”

6 Tips for Visiting – Before You Go

1. Arrive Early:

Rope drop gives you the best chance to ride popular attractions with minimal wait times.

2. Use Genie+

Maximize your time by reserving Lightning Lane access for top rides.

3. Catch a Break

Take advantage of slower-paced attractions like the PeopleMover and the Carousel of Progress for a midday rest.

4. Stay Hydrated:

Florida heat can be intense, so bring a reusable water bottle.

5. Plan for Fireworks:

Secure a good viewing spot for Happily Ever After at least 30-45 minutes before showtime.

6. Use the My Disney Experience app

Check wait times and show schedules on the app.

EXTRA TIP

Whether you’re a homeowner or business operator in Central Florida, our specialized cleaning services include: carpet cleaning in Sanford, and carpet cleaning in Orlando. We also offer upholstery cleaning and mattress cleaning.

Summary

That wraps up our ultimate guide to Magic Kingdom 2025! Whether you’re soaring through TRON, meeting Mickey, or enjoying the new Starlight Night Parade, there’s something for everyone in the most magical place on Earth. Have a good time there – wish you ShinyandSpotless team!