Orlando: Disney World’s Magic Kingdom

Posted on December 26, 2016 By Joe Hardenbrook

OK, I’ll admit, I’m not a huge fan of theme parks. But we were in Orlando to escape some Wisconsin winter weather, so I put myself in the mood!

I had been to Disneyland in California about four years prior. The last time I was at Disney World in Florida was 1991.

We hopped on the shuttle from Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort and were dropped off at the Magic Kingdom. The shuttle was full, but not uncomfortably so.

I know there a lot of people who get into Disney planning mode, but we walked into the Magic Kingdom without a major plan…just planning to amble from one section to another until closing time.

After walking down Main Street USA and past Cinderella Castle, we began in Tomorrowland and did Space Mountain, then over to Fantasyland and the Mad Tea Party teacups, and through Liberty Square and the Hall of Presidents.

Teacups

We had la surprisingly good lunch in Adventureland at Jungle Skipper Canteen — a table service restaurant that’s a fusion of South African, Asian, and South American dishes. We also got our Dole Whip at Aloha Isle!

While waiting for lunch, we toured the Swiss Family Robinson treehouse and after lunch did the “jungle cruise” and the Pirates of the Caribbean ride. Then it was over to the Haunted Mansion and It’s a Small World. Dinner was disappointing: a quick counter-service meal from The Friar’s Nook.

Because it was December, everything was decked out in Christmas decorations–the highlight being Cinderella’s Castle draped in dreamy icicle lights. We crammed into the plaza around the castle for the fireworks show…spectacular!

Cinderella’s Castle

We visited on a Saturday, so it was quite crowded…especially since it was close to the holidays. However, we had a great time and enjoyed the sunshine!

Below are a few photos, for the full set, check out my Flickr album.