The Absolute 10 Must-Do’s In the Magic Kingdom

If you asked a few Disney fans what their favorite park would be, I’d bet that most would tell ya that it’s the Magic Kingdom. Hey, I can’t argue there! It’s an amazing park and between Cinderella castle, the characters, and all the shows and attractions…it really is a magical experience.

For first-timers or even regular Disney peeps like me…Magic Kingdom can be a bit overwhelming. There’s just so much to see and do! It’s hard to know what exactly should be made a priority during your visit.

In order to help us all out, I’ve rounded up my top 10 must-do’s while visiting the Magic Kingdom.

1. Strike a Pose in Front of Cinderella Castle

If you don’t get your picture in front of the castle, did you even go to Disney World? 😀😀😀 Quintessential, iconic, and a must-do…I promise you won’t regret this. Actually, I can almost guarantee that your picture in front of the castle will be a cherished memento for years to come.

True story; during our first trip to Disney World, when I had no idea what I was doing, I failed to get a single picture of the whole family in front of the castle. Ugh! Such a rookie mistake and one that I really regret. Don’t be like me. Get your magic shot!

You can find PhotoPass photographers lined down Main Street to help you. Once your picture had been taken, make sure to have the photographer tap your Magic Band or park ticket. This allows the photo to be loaded up to your My Disney Experience account. Even if you didn’t purchase Disney’s Memory Maker, you’ll still be able to view and purchase the photo if you’d like.

The PhotoPass photographers will also take your picture with your cell phone. You just need to ask them. Lastly, don’t forget your castle selfie shot! Post on #insta…you can thank me later! ❤️

2. Meet the Cutest Mouse in Alllllll the Land

When in the Mouse’s house, you gotta meet the host himself! Before strolling down Main Street, U.S.A., you’ll find Mickey Mouse at the Town Square Theatre. Upon entering the park, the theatre is to the right when passing under the train tracks. (You can also meet Tinker Bell here, too!)

On a typical day, you’ll find Mickey dressed in his magician outfit. On special celebrations, like Mickey and Minnie’s 90th birthday celebration, you can find Mickey and Minnie together and in their confetti outfits!

Meeting Mickey is a FastPass+ option and you can check wait times under entertainment on the My Disney Experience app.

3. Whip it Good! A DOLE Whip-That Is!

Cool, creamy, and oh-so-pineapply….you are definitely going to want to get yourself one of these on a hot day in the Magic Kingdom. The classic DOLE Whip might just be one of the most popular snacks in all of Walt Disney World, and rightly so! They are so good and refreshing! (And it only costs around $5!)

You can find them in Adventureland at Aloha Isle across from Aladdin’s Magic Carpets. You’ve got a few flavor choices when it comes to the Dole Whip; classic pineapple DOLE whip (The originally OG), a Dole Whip Float, and other seasonal flavors depending on what time of year you are visiting. I like the Pineapple and Vanilla Dole Whip Swirl. Ya’ll…just get it!

4. Join the 999 Happy Haunts!

Oh yes…THE HAUNTED MANSION, my friends! Arguably, one of the most popular attractions in all of Walt Disney World, and with a huge cult following…you just gotta add this one to your must-do list!

Here you’ll take a dark ride inside of a “Doom Buggy” through a haunted mansion. Created by some of Walt Disney’s original Imagineers, be prepared to be spooked, charmed, and comically entertained as you’re being narrated around by a “ghost host!” It’s one of our favorites and always a spooky good time!

(Beware! It could be too scary for some children. I’d chat with your kiddos first to give and let them know what to expect. You could also check out Youtube and watch a virtual view of the ride. You’ll be able to tell if it’s something your kids would be into or not.)

The Haunted Mansion is located in Liberty Square and I recommend snagging a FastPass+ for this attraction, as wait times can soar up to an hour plus on an average day.

5. Conquer the Three Mountain Tops!

That’s right…there are three mountain top rides in Magic Kingdom and I recommend riding all three! This trio of attractions is some of the best and most popular thrill rides in all of Walt Disney World. Make sure you check these off of your bucket list or you’ll regret it later!

Splash Mountain and Big Thunder Mountain are both located in Frontierland. (They are neighbors to each other!) I recommend getting a FastPass+ for these as they typically have long waits. If you didn’t get a FastPass for these, then I’d make this part of your rope drop plan and head over to Frontierland and ride these two attractions first thing in the morning.

The same thing for Space Mountain…try to get a FastPass+ for it. It not…then try to get a FastPass+ for the other two mountains and head over to this first. Got that?!

Bonus! Don’t forget to ride the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train. While the word “mountain” isn’t in the name, this attraction takes you through a mine, which, of course, is located in a…MOUNTAIN! This is also a super thrilling coaster, where the cars swing back and forth as it flies around the mountain. My favorite part is the end, where you can find the Wicked Witch with her basket of apples knocking on Snow White’s cottage.

6. Sing and Dance with your Favorite Characters Along the Parade

Only down the middle of Main Street, U.S.A. will you find parades in Walt Disney World. THEY ARE AMAZING! Check the Times Guide on the My Disney Experience app and make sure to carve out time in your day to watch!

You’ll see absolutely mind-blowing floats, pageantry, and all the classic fairytale characters sing and dance along the street!

If you’re visiting during the holiday seasons and are attending either of the two special ticketed events; Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party or Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, you’ll definitely want to see either The Boo-To-You parade and the Once Upon a Christmas Time Parade. The Halloween Parade even includes the famous Headless Huntsman

The curb along Main Street can fill up fast with park guests staking out their seats well in advance of the actual parade time. If there’s a particular view or place you’d like to sit, send someone from your party to nab that spot about an hour before viewing.

7. Experience History: Ride on an Opening-Day Attraction

I know I already mentioned the Haunted Mansion, but there are several other original attractions that have been in the park since day one. Make sure to brush-up on your Walt Disney World history by riding some of these attractions. Many are Walt’s original ideas and you’ll be able to experience the true spirit of Walt’s ingenuity.

• Walt Disney World Railroad – Main Street, U.S.A.
• Jungle Cruise, Enchanted Tiki Room – Adventureland
• County Bear Jamboree – Frontierland
• Haunted Mansion & Hall of Presidents – Liberty Square
• Prince Charming Regal Carrousel, “it’s a small world”, Peter Pan’s Flight, Mad Tea Party, Dumbo the Flying Elephants – Fantasyland
• Tomorrowland Speedway – Tomorrowland

8. Cool Down in an Afternoon Show

After doing all of the activities above, you’ll need a break. Enjoy some downtime and cool down in some air conditioning. You’ll recharge your batteries and be ready for the evening’s events. There are several shows located throughout the park and they are all vastly different…there’s something for everybody.

• History buffs will appreciate The Great Hall of Presidents.
• Enchanted Tiki Room, Carousel of Progress are two awesome classics.
• Mickey’s Philharmagic and Enchanted Tales with Belle are excellent crowd-pleasers for the little tikes. Enchanted Tale with Belle is a live-action show!
• If you’re in need of some comedy, check out Country Bear Jamboree or Monsters, Inc. Laugh Floor.

9. Dine Among Royalty in a Castle

Beauty and the Beast fans will certainly want to eat at the Be Our Guest Restaurant located inside Beast’s enchanted castle. Available for either a Quick-Service lunch or a Table Service dinner. We recommend eating there for lunch. The food gets better reviews and it’s less expensive…a much better value for your dollar.

Princess lovers may want to try the Fairytale dining experience at Cinderella’s Royal Table located within Cinderella Castle. Even though it comes with a hefty price tag and an up to 180 days advanced dining reservation, it certainly is a meal dream come true!

10. Celebrate With Fireworks!

One of the most spectacular and magical experiences that you can have while visiting the Magic Kingdom is staying to watch the nighttime fireworks show. The current show, Happily Ever After, replaced the former Wishes. It is absolutely amazing. You’ll sing along with your favorite Disney songs and watch as the animated projections dance up the castle. The fireworks are perfectly synchronized and you might even catch yourself shedding a happy tear or two. (Or maybe it’s just me!)

Pro Tip: Make sure to catch a swirling of fairy dust spin up to the castle toward the beginning of the show. Can you figure out who was responsible during the grande finale??? SO GOOD!

Extra Magic: Keep an eye on the trees surrounding the castle before and after the show…the fairy lights and effects are awesome!

I Hope You Enjoyed The Absolute 10 Must-Do’s In Magic Kingdom, Friends!

Let me know in the comments if you plan on doing any of the activities mentioned above! What are your favorite things to do when visiting the Magic Kingdom? What did I leave out? I know other readers would love to know your suggestions too!

Don’t forget to follow me on all of my social media outlets. I’m at the parks each week and take you along in my stories! You’ll see the magic first hand and learn a ton of tips for your next Walt Disney World trip! You can join me {HERE!}

Here’s more Magic Kingdom posts that you might enjoy:

Kid-Approved Magic Kingdom Bucket List (with a FREE PDF guide!)

10 Disney Reopening Changes We Love so Much that We Hope they Become Permanent!

It’s been magical,