Magic Kingdom tips

Visiting Magic Kingdom

• At Magic Kingdom, get your spot for the SpectroMagic light parade down Main Street U.S.A. early- especially if you have little ones. Crowds begin to form an hour or more before the show, and if you want a front row seat you'll need to get there early.
• Stake out your place for the "Wishes" fireworks show early! The best spot is on Main Street U.S.A. near Cinderella Castle. While there are good places to see the fireworks in Frontier Land and Liberty Square, the effect will NOT be the same. From those spots, it just looks like a fireworks show. The show is choreographed and meant to be seen with Cinderella Castle in the foreground.
• If you want to get in the park early, arrive an hour before the posted opening time. By the time you park and ride the shuttle to the park entrance, you'll be among hundreds of people in line. Use the time in line to apply sunscreen and pick up a park guide (if you haven't already) to plot your strategy.
  
  
• As you enter the park, check the tip board near the end of Main Street, U.S.A. near the Crystal Palace. It will provide attraction show times and waiting times for the major attractions. This will help you plan your day.
• Families with small children may want to spend a lot of time at Mickey's Toontown Fair. This section of the park is geared toward the younger set who may find all the excitement they need on Goofy's Barnstormer ride, a small roller coaster with plenty of 'junior thrills'.
  
  
• The busiest park times (early to mid afternoon) are a great time to check out the less popular attractions. Ride the Disney World Railroad or check out the Hall of Presidents in Liberty Square, where you can also ride the riverboat. This strategy will give you (and the kids!) a chance to get your second wind.
• If you're staying in Orlando for a week or so, don't feel like you have to do everything at Magic Kingdom in one day. You may want to spend one full day, and one or two more ½ days at the park to give you ample time to enjoy the attractions without feeling rushed.