Magic Kingdom Park “It List” Experiences for Newbies

For a Disney insider, there is almost nothing more fun than sharing the love of Disney with others. If you’ve ever had a Disney-bound friend or family member ask you for the low down on all the must-do first-time Disney Park-goer experiences- this list might look familiar. After all, Disney lovers want others to enjoy the magic of Walt Disney World as much as we do. Here are the top Magic Kingdom Park “it list” experiences for newbies.

Float the Rivers of America

Hop on the Liberty Belle riverboat and float down The Rivers Of America. If your schedule allows, ride at twilight, right before the ride shuts down for the evening. The breeze from the water makes this unique Magic Kingdom view even more enjoyable. Bonus points, you’ll get a great views of Big Thunder Mountain from a new angle.

Experience Pirates of The Caribbean at Night

Pirates of the Caribbean is an iconic Disney favorite on my “must-do” list for the Park. Even the ride water has a unique smell on this classic Disney World attraction. Visiting this ride in the evening generally means shorter wait times. The spooky cavernous ride queue that winds toward the loading area is even more mysterious at night.

Nosh on a Dole Whip

Magic Kingdom Dole Whips are legendary Disney snacks. These sweet and tangy treats can be purchased in Adventureland at Aloha Isle. Dole Whips are perfect for sharing and provide an affordable, unique way to cool down.

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♬ Tiki Room – The Disneylanders

Eat A Hotdog At Casey’s Corner

It is impossible to round the corner toward Adventureland and not smell the delicious hotdogs and fries cooking at Casey’s Corner. These good old-fashioned hot dogs are to die for and are a Magic Kingdom dining staple in my family. No trip to the Most Magical Place On Earth is complete without a trip to Casey’s Corner.

Ride the Tomorrowland Transit Authority PeopleMover

No, the Tomorrowland Transit Authority PeopleMover is not among the most jaw-dropping or heart-pounding rides at Walt Disney World. Still- this classic ride ranks among my favorite in the Magic Kingdom. The delightful breeze wafts over you as you glide through the sky, incredible views of Tomorrowland, and modest wait times make it an “it list” attraction for me.

Ride the Magic Kingdom Mountains

A perfect day in the Magic Kingdom is incomplete without visiting the mountains. Riding Space Mountain and Big Thunder Mountain Railroad will induce an adrenaline rush to push you through the rest of the day and extra magic hours at The Magic Kingdom.

Dare to Enter the Haunted Mansion

Riding The Haunted Mansion in the dark increases the scare factor. Winding through the interactive graveyard, the ride queue, meeting your somber ghost host in the evening shadows, and boarding your doom buggy by moonlight will make the ride even more enjoyable. Regardless of what time of day you visit, do not miss a trip to The Haunted Mansion.

Dine at a Table Service Spot

Dining at the Crystal Palace character buffet is a fun way to celebrate a trip to Walt Disney World. This buffet serves American food favorites like turkey, roast beef, vegetables, and classic American desserts while the gang from The Hundred Acre Wood greet Guests at their tables. Pooh, Tiger, and Piglet love interacting with Guests. A character meal is a uniquely Disney experience that you will enjoy.

Hop On the Magic Kingdom Railroad

Much like the Tomorrowland Transit Authority PeopleMover, The Magic Kingdom Railroad allows Guests to sit back and enjoy a relaxing tour of The Magic Kingdom as the train travels between stations on Main Street, U.S.A., Frontierland, and Fantasyland. Riding the train for a few laps around the Park is a favorite mid-afternoon activity in my family when we are looking to kick back and relax.

Visit The Main Street, U.S.A. Confectionary

Just a few steps into the walk down Main Street, U.S.A. Guests will be distracted by the delicious smells wafting into the street. Sugar cookies, chocolate apples, cake pops, cupcakes, dipped crisped rice treats, and numerous other creations are available for Guests to enjoy at the Main Street, U.S.A. Confectionary. Choosing the wrong sweet treat at the confectionary is impossible; just hop in line and follow your heart.

Watch a Parade

Disney parades feature favorite storybook characters, incredible music, and even a fire-breathing dragon. While I am generally not a massive fan of putting rides on hold, breaking from the attraction schedule to watch the Festival of Fantasy Parade at midday is a great idea! The parade runs at 12 p.m. and 3 p.m., so you will have two chances to experience the magic.

Meet Belle in Fantasyland

Enchanted Tales With Belle is a wonderful idea for Guests hoping to get a bit more princess interaction time. Explore Belle’s cottage, meet characters from the Beast’s castle, and even meet Belle herself during this interactive meet-and-greet adventure that involves a storytelling show where Guests are the stars.

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End The Day With a Bang

As tired as you may be at the end of your Magic Kingdom day, do not miss the nighttime display. This musical projection display brings out the child in every Guest as classic Disney characters dance across Cinderella Castle to a lovely, emotional, and uniquely Disney musical score.

While my favorite experience in Magic Kingdom Park varies per person, these are my must-do Park tips for Disney World newbies. Which of these will you do first on your next Park day?