Magic Kingdom Overview
It has often been said that the true essence of Disney magic can be experienced simply by stepping foot inside the
Magic Kingdom. Opened in 1971, the venerable theme park has withstood more than three decades of changing cultures, a constantly
shifting social climate, and an explosion of technology that has left lesser places outdated and obsolete. Yet, somehow, the
Magic Kingdom continues to remain the undisputed king of Theme Parks, drawing more yearly visitors than any other.
How
the Magic Kingdom has managed to maintain its charm and appeal over the years is a lesson in simplicity. It has stayed true
to its original vision, a place where families could gather in a clean and safe environment to enjoy the time they spend together.
No trip to Disney World is complete without visiting the Magic Kingdom. For veteran visitors to Walt Disney World, visiting
the Magic Kingdom is like visiting an old friend. To first time visitors, they find themselves quickly, and almost helplessly,
transported back to their childhood.
The Magic Kingdom is divided into five distinct areas (lands), arranged in a spoke-like formation, all meeting at the top
of Main Street USA right in front of Cinderella Castle. The five lands consist of Tomorrowland,
Fantasyland, Frontierland, Liberty Square
and Adventureland. Each land is themed to its appropriate title and maintaining that theme is paramount
to the parks operation. A vast network of underground tunnels connect all sections of the Magic Kingdom, thus preventing guests
from seeing any of the necessary "behind the scenes" operations, and preventing cast members from one land from having to
walk through another. The idea struck Walt Disney in California, when he noticed a Tomorrowland cast member, walking through
Frontierland to go "off stage". Since all Cast Members wear uniforms appropriate to their area, the poor Tomorrowland worker
was clearly out of place in "the wild west".
From a touring perspective, the Magic Kingdom can present some real challenges for those who want to experience the "magic"
and not wait 90 minutes on each attraction to do so. As our site visitors have learned over the years, a good plan is probably
the single most important tool you can use to get the most from your vacation.
