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Best Tricks to Keep Cool at the Magic Kingdom

castle-disney-world-walt
Credit: Disney

Traveling to Walt Disney World Resort in the summer can be one of the best times of the year to visit. The parks are traditionally open later, rides are less likely to be closed for refurbishments, and the parks will often feature multiple fireworks shows and parades each day. However, the summer can also be one of the worst times to visit due to crowds, heat, and humidity.

RELATED: 5 Fun Facts About Rides in Magic Kingdom

But if you visit when it’s hot (even if it’s not the middle of July), it’s important to beat the heat and stay cool. Here are a few ideas for keeping cool and comfortable while visiting the Magic Kingdom.

Prepare for the Heat

Olaf melting in front of Cinderella Castle at Magic Kingdom

Credit: Disney, Clipart

One of the best ways to start is to bring items that keep you cool. Helpful items to bring would be a misting fan, sunscreen, a hat, a refillable water bottle, and anything else that may personally help you beat the heat. In addition, dressing appropriately can affect your comfort during your Disney World vacation. Be mindful of not just the heft of your clothing, but whether it’s breathable, comfortable, and lightweight.

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Keep Hydrated

This piggybacks on the idea of bringing your own refillable water bottle. If you forget or don’t have one, you can easily get free water from most quick-service restaurants. In addition, fountain drinks and bottled beverages are more than easy to find throughout the Magic Kingdom. Limiting caffeine intake’s also important, as it can lead to dehydration.

Stay Cool with Attractions

Magic Kingdom offers many indoor rides and shows that provide a fantastic opportunity to escape the heat and enjoy a lovely time in air-conditioned spaces. Some of the best attractions to enjoy while cooling down include:

Pirates of the Caribbean

Pirates of the Caribbean

Credit: Disney

The queue for the ride is almost entirely indoors and air-conditioned – providing a nice cool zone even before you board your boat. And once you enter your ride vehicle, you have another nine minutes of cool…you may also enjoy a nice splash during the ride’s short drop!

Carousel of Progress

carousel of progress

Credit: Disney

This attraction is one of the most famous spots to cool down when visiting the Magic Kingdom. There are almost always empty seats, and the ride/show lasts 21 minutes in the air-conditioned shade.

The Hall of Presidents

seal-united-states-president

Credit: Disney

Another show that provides over 20 minutes of relaxation, it’s a great option to utilize that’s almost in the center of the Park.

Magic Carpets of Aladdin

magic carpets of aladdin

Credit: Disney

Although this attraction can be a long wait in the sun, if it has a short wait, you may get a chance to hop on and enjoy a quick cool-down with some camel’s spitting water.

Casey Jr. Splash ‘N’ Soak Station

This wet zone provides an excellent place for children (and adults if so inclined) to cool down. Located in the back of Fantasyland, circus animals spray Guests with streams of water and gentle mists.

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Hit the Shops

When not escaping the heat in a ride or show, stopping by a shop can be just as cooling. If there’s one thing you can guarantee, every Magic Kingdom store is properly air-conditioned. There’s also no shortage of shops to explore – and who knows…maybe you’ll find a unique new souvenir.

Enjoy Desserts and Dole Whip

Dole Whip Soft Serve Magic Kingdom

Credit: Disney

Taking a moment to enjoy a nice cold frozen treat is a satisfying way to stay cool. In addition to ICEE drinks, Mickey ice cream bars, and soft serve, Dole Whip provides a great option. For those unfamiliar with the pineapple-flavored soft serve, you can find it at  Aloha Isle in Adventureland.

Final Comments

Family at Magic Kingdom

Credit: Disney

There are many ways to beat the heat at the Magic Kingdom and at any Walt Disney World Resort theme Park. If you choose to visit in the heat, just remember to make staying cool and hydrated a priority. People can often get sick from too much heat or sun – especially when traveling or on vacation. So be safe!

RELATED: Picky Eater Guide in Magic Kingdom

About Steven Wilk

Steven has a complicated relationship with Disney. As a child, he visited Walt Disney World every few years with his family. But he never understood why kids his age (and older) were so scared of Snow White or Alien Encounter. He is a former participant of the Disney College Program (left early…long story), and he also previously worked in Children’s publishing, where he adapted multiple Disney movies and TV shows. He has many controversial opinions about Disney…like having a positive view of Michael Eisner, believing Return of the Jedi is superior to The Empire Strikes Back, and that Toy Story Land and Galaxy’s Edge should have never been built (at least not at Hollywood Studios). Every year for the past two decades, Steven has visited either Walt Disney World, Disneyland, Aulani or went on a Disney Cruise. He’s happy to share any and all knowledge of the Disney destinations (and he likes using parenthesis a lot…as well as ellipses…)