DisneyTips.com Your Guide To A Great Disney Vacation
When most people think of Walt Disney World, it is the Magic Kingdom that they picture. For many, it is the heart of the magic. It is where you’ll find some of the most iconic Walt Disney World attractions. You’ll see flying elephants, princesses, classic cartoon characters, and plenty of pixie dust. There is something for everyone! Here are ten questions and answers about the Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World.
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10. When Did the Magic Kingdom Open?
The Magic Kingdom opened on October 1, 1971. It was the first of the four Walt Disney World theme parks in Florida to open. The Magic Kingdom was Walt Disney’s dream. He secretly bought up land for “the Florida project”. Sadly, Walt died before seeing his dream come to fruition. At the beginning Walt Disney World was only the Magic Kingdom, EPCOT Center didn’t open for another 11 years. Since the Magic Kingdom will turn 50 on October 1, Disney is planning “The World’s Most Magical Celebration”. It will begin on October 1, and run for 18 months.
9. What Are the Utilidors?
While it feels as if you are walking on ground level while at the Magic Kingdom, you’re actually walking on the second story for a good part of the park. The Magic Kingdom has a series of utilidors, or tunnels, that run below everything. This makes it easy to get food, merchandise, and even Cast Members to different parts of the park without anyone seeing. The utilidors are not open to the public, but are included with some behind the scenes tours.
8. What Is Capacity at the Magic Kingdom?
Disney does not release the numbers for full capacity at any of its theme parks. That said, full capacity is estimated at somewhere between 100,000 and 125,000 guests. This was before COVID-19 limited capacity.
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7. Can You Walk to the Magic Kingdom?
If you are staying at some select Disney Resorts you don’t even need to worry about a car, bus, or any other transportation except for your legs. Disney’s Contemporary Resort has had a walking path for years. It’s a quick walk, and will probably take you less time than waiting for the monorail. Recently a new walking path opened from Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. It’s a longer walk, but it’s beautiful and well maintained. Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort does not have a direct walking path to the Magic Kingdom, but you can walk to Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and walk its path from there.
6. What Are Mickey’s Parties?
Twice a year the Magic Kingdom gives guests a chance to party with Mickey Mouse and friends! Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party starts in August. A few days after that ends, Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party will begin. Both feature special characters, parades, extra treats, and spectacular fireworks. Mickey’s parties run on select nights, and the ticket costs extra. They were canceled in 2020 because of COVID-19. TAKE NOTE! Disney has announced they will be offering a BOO BASH for 2021! Check out the details here.
5. Are There Any Good Full Service Dining Options at the Magic Kingdom?
There are many amazing dining options at Walt Disney World. Creative chefs from all over the world create mouthwatering treats that everyone will love. If you’ve ever dreamed of having dinner in Cinderella Castle make a reservation at Cinderella’s Royal Table. Be Our Guest Restaurant is great for those wanting to dine inside Beast’s Castle instead. The Crystal Palace is perfect for Winnie the Pooh fans. Liberty Tree Tavern will bring out your patriotic side. Make reservations in advance to be guaranteed a table. Of course, there are always plenty of quick service dining options available as well.
4. How Many Fireworks Are Used at the Magic Kingdom?
Beginning July 1, Happily Ever After will once again light up the sky as scenes play on Cinderella Castle. Disney has not released how many fireworks are usually annually at the Magic Kingdom, but it’s estimated that more than one million fireworks are used annually.
3. Are There Any Thrill Rides at the Magic Kingdom?
Although there may not be extreme roller coasters that go upside down at the Magic Kingdom there are some fun rides for those seeking a thrill. Space Mountain takes you on an adventure through space. There are family coasters like Seven Dwarfs Mine Train and Big Thunder Mountain Railroad. Splash Mountain takes you down a five story drop; be prepared to get wet. Although no date has been announced the Tron roller coaster is coming to the Magic Kingdom and it will be amazing. It will be the most intense ride at the park.
2. How Many Guests Were at the Magic Kingdom on Opening Day?
When the Magic Kingdom opened on October 1, 1982, there were approximately 10,000 guests. A daily admission ticket was only $3.50, but that did not include rides. Many of the opening day attractions are still at the park. They include Mad Tea Party, Haunted Mansion, “it’s a small world”, and Country Bear Jamboree, which is the last attraction that Walt Disney himself helped to develop.
1.How Tall is Cinderella Castle?
When walking into the Magic Kingdom one of the first things you will see on Main Street, USA is Cinderella Castle. As you get closer you may look up in amazement when it hits you that you’re actually there. If you’re wondering how tall it is, it’s 189 feet tall. If you’ve ever been to Disneyland in California you may think to yourself how much bigger Cinderella Castle is than Sleeping Beauty Castle, and you would be correct. Sleeping Beauty Castle in Disneyland is only 77 feet tall. Both castles used a “forced perspective” which gives the illusion that it is taller than it really is. There are no real bricks used on Cinderella Castle, and no real gold is used. The moat holds 3.37 million gallons of water. Unlike Sleeping Beauty Castle, the drawbridge on Cinderella Castle does not work.
