Disney Tips Your Guide To A Great Disney Vacation
Things are changing at the Magic Kingdom very soon.
Credit: Lee (myfrozenlife), Flickr
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Walt Disney World has recently updated the hours of its beloved Magic Kingdom. Starting from July 20, the park will now close at 11 p.m., allowing guests more time to enjoy the magical experiences it has to offer. The extended hours are set to last at least through August 2, but there’s potential for further extensions depending on the park’s operational needs and guest demand.
This change is significant for visitors looking to fully immerse themselves in the Magic Kingdom experience. With the extra time available, guests can explore the parks at a more leisurely pace, ensuring they can enjoy their favorite attractions, capture memorable photos, and soak in the enchanting atmosphere well into the evening.
In tandem with the extended hours, the Disney Starlight nighttime parade is set to debut on July 20, marking a highly anticipated addition to the park. This parade holds importance as it is the first daily operational nighttime parade at Magic Kingdom since the departure of the Main Street Electrical Parade in 2016. This fresh offering is expected to dazzle guests, featuring beloved characters and scenes from classic Disney films.
The Disney Starlight parade will bring to life favorites like Moana, Peter Pan, and Frozen, inviting guests to experience the magic of these stories in a new and vibrant format. This parade serves not only as entertainment but also as a nostalgic reminder of the cherished nighttime traditions that have captivated audiences for decades.
Credit: Disney
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With the longer hours at Magic Kingdom, guests are encouraged to explore various themed areas of the park. Each section holds unique attractions that cater to all ages, providing endless fun. Fantasyland and Tomorrowland are particularly popular, with rides like Space Mountain, it’s a small world, and the enchanting Seven Dwarfs Mine Train drawing large crowds.
Adventureland reveals classics such as Pirates of the Caribbean and Jungle Cruise, offering both thrill and nostalgia throughout their exhilarating experiences. Liberty Square, with its historic charm, features attractions like The Hall of Presidents and the spooky Haunted Mansion, both well-loved by returning visitors.
Frontierland boasts more adventurous rides, such as Big Thunder Mountain Railroad and Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, perfect for thrill-seekers. Guests entering through Main Street, U.S.A. can enjoy a leisurely stroll, taking in the sights and sounds that set the magical tone for their day.
With the added hours, families and friends can prioritize their must-do attractions while enjoying a less hurried visit. It’s a great opportunity to catch any missed experiences or revisit favorite rides before the day comes to a close.
Dining and Shopping Updates
As the park extends its operational hours, guests will need to keep dining and shopping options in mind. Many dining locations will close earlier than the park’s new 11 p.m. closing time. Favorites like Casey’s Corner, Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Cafe, and Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn & Cafe encourage guests to plan their meals wisely to maximize their time in the park.
Shopping locations also present ample opportunities for guests wishing to take a piece of the Magic Kingdom home. However, visitors should be aware that they may have to make their purchases before the park’s closing time, as many shops will wrap up earlier than the rides.
To make the most out of their visit, guests are encouraged to arrive early, plan their day around popular dining experiences, and utilize the extension of park hours for evening rides and attractions. This way, they can fully immerse themselves in the enchanting experiences Magic Kingdom offers, ensuring a day packed with joy, adventure, and unforgettable memories.
