The main attraction, if you will, of the Walt Disney World resort is of course the Magic Kingdom. The castle, the classic rides, the parades, and the fireworks. When you think Disney you most likely think Magic Kingdom, and you aren’t alone. So as the most popular of the parks, it can also be the hardest to plan for. So here are some tips to help navigate your all important Magic kingdom day.
1. Rope drop it like it’s hot!
As someone who used to wake up whenever and mosey my way into the parks I have learned the error of my ways now that I have children. Take advantage of the early hours, if you are staying in a deluxe resort use those early hours as well. You will be shocked how much you can get done in 30 minutes. Make a plan and attack it. Do not waste this time on dumbo or the little mermaid but tackle the big ticket items, Peter Pan, Seven Dwarves, even Jungle cruise are all acceptable choices because once these lines begin to grow they will not reduce.
2. Mobile Ordering is your friend
Learn the mobile ordering system and use it to your advantage. Some of the quick service restaurants, especially during lunch, will have wait times as long as the attractions. Look at the menu while waiting in line for a ride, make the order, and just click when you are nearby. We all have to eat, but don’t waste your time while doing it.
3. Main Street is not the way
When it comes to the parades and fireworks Main street is a mob zone. Use the size of the park to your advantage, especially for the parades. Find a nice spot in Frontierland and enjoy the relatively lower crowds. For fireworks this is a slightly different animal. If you NEED to see the castle projections avoid this tip, butttt if you can enjoy the show without them Tomorrowland, Fantasyland, and Liberty square all offer fantastic viewing options without the castle hassle.
4. TTA all the Way
Am I biased… Yes. Does that mean I’m wrong… Maybe. But the TTA is always your friend. For kids and adults alike it’s a low wait time high rest time attraction for all ages. Need a break? Feet killing you? Kids sick of waiting in lines? The TTA is here to save you.
5. Fireworks? Fireshworks!
I know I know I just told you where to watch the Parades and fireworks and I stand by those tips, but if you don’t want to watch them… DON’T. While everyone is sitting around you can be riding the rides. The displayed wait times may not reflect it but trust me the lines have dropped during these moments. Use them to your advantage and hit those big tickets while everyone is distracted!