Visiting Walt Disney World for the first time can be an overwhelming experience – it’s new, exciting, and there’s so much to do and see that you may not know where to begin! But don’t panic – I have compiled this list of must-do Magic Kingdom attractions for first timers to help you in your pursuit of Disney magic:
Carousel of Progress: Many would argue with this choice, stating its corny or not worth it, but I put it on the list as its one of the few rides created by Walt himself – you get to travel through decades and look at how technology and inventions have shaped our lives, and something else pretty cool about this one is that you sit in a rotating theater – as in the stage stays in one place, and the seats move around it. The wait is usually short, and it’s a nice chance to sit down and relax in an air conditioned theater, plus its appropriate for all ages
Haunted Mansion: Are you dying to become the 1000th ghost to join the Mansion’s 999 “happy haunts”? Then board your “doom buggy” on a tour through this dark, creepy house with spooks around every corner! There are tons of great illusions at play here, and I always see something new every time I ride it (which is always multiple times a trip, of course!). The cast members play the part of creepy bellhops and chamber maids as they tell you to “step lively” and “fill in the dead space” as you enter the ride – and from there the scares start! It’s a great ride for people who say “nothing scares them” – and then they suddenly are jumping at the sight of a corpse head popping up from behind a grave – classic
Pirates Of The Caribbean: The Ride that inspired the movies with Johnny Depp is one the whole family can enjoy – board your boat and head off for adventure on the high seas as you see two pirate ships duking it out, plenty of rum-drinking sailors, and a heartwarming “Take a Wench for a Bride” scene. As you travel through the scenes, you’ll spot captain Jack Sparrow himself sneaking around and trolling for treasure
It’s A Small World: Board a boat headed for international waters – as adorable small children sing about what a small world it is – and you glimpse pieces of different cultures from around the world! This is another one that Walt Disney created – and it was debuted at the 1964-1965 World’s Fair, then it moved to Disneyland, where it was so popular that a WDW version was included in the original park opening in 1971. It’s not the most thrilling ride, but its cute and fun, and kids will love it – the sounds and displays are beautiful and whimsical. Warning – the song just might get stuck in your head for a while…
Space Mountain: Walt’s idea for a high-speed attraction themed around the space age comes to life with this Tomorrowland roller coaster. You launch off into space on your ship for a bone-rattling ride in the dark with twists, turns and dips that will make you squeal with glee (well, at least that’s what they make me do!). Roller coaster lovers and thrill seekers alike will really enjoy this, but I recommend that you prep small ones on what to expect so they aren’t shocked and end up crying (like I did my first time! But not to worry, I grew to LOVE LOVE this ride!)
The People Mover: This 10 minute journey on a vehicle that glides through Tomorrowland is a great way to check out the Magic Kingdom from up high – as the view is great! Kids and adults alike will enjoy traveling through the Park and even getting to ride through Space Mountain! The wait isn’t usually long, as the ride is a continual load so people are constantly getting on and off, and it’s a great way to relax after walking around all morning and just take in your surroundings!
Of course there are TONS of other attractions and rides to see aside from these – this list is just made up of the ones that you should DEFINITELY work into your Magic Kingdom trip – they’re the ones I feel capture that Disney Magic the best! But I would love to know what you think – what are your “Magic Kingdom Must do’s?”
Stay tuned right here on Chip and Co for more “Must Do” Attractions for First Timers!
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