Cinderella Castle Magic Kingdom

Where to Play, Eat & Shop in Fantasyland – Disney World Guide

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When many people think of Walt Disney World, the first place that often comes to mind is Fantasyland. From the elegant spires of Cinderella Castle to Dumbo’s daring flight over the big top in Storybook Circus, this enchanting corner of Magic Kingdom Park is where some of Disney’s most beloved fairytales come to life.

In short, you can’t (well, shouldn’t) take a trip to Walt Disney World and the Magic Kingdom without spending at least a little time in Fantasyland. But what Fantasyland attractions should you add to your list? Are there any restaurants in Fantasyland you should save some space for? Follow us down the rabbit hole to learn all the ways you can live out your own happily ever after in Fantasyland at Magic Kingdom.

Due to COVID-19, some Fantasyland offerings may be currently unavailable. For the most up-to-date list of open attractions, restaurants and shops, please refer to the My Disney Experience app.

Castle with moat in the evening

Fantasyland, Where Disney Fairytales Become Reality

For us, going to the Disney theme parks is all about escaping the everyday realities of life for a while. And as much as we love Epcot, Hollywood Studios and Animal Kingdom Theme Park (California Adventure Park, too), when it comes to the Disney Parks, nowhere does escapism better than “castle parks” like Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom.

Naturally, at the heart of those theme parks, right behind the storybook castle, is Fantasyland. In fact, you’ll find some iteration of this whimsical land in every Magic Kingdom-style park around the globe. What can we say? Everyone dreams of their own happy ever after.

At the Central Florida Fantasyland, Disney World guests can explore several different storybook settings, like Storybook Circus, the Enchanted Forest, the Hundred Acre Wood (yes, these are two different though similar-sounding places) and, of course, Cinderella Castle. Here, guests of all ages can step into their very own fairytale, enjoying regal makeovers courtesy of their very own Fairy Godmother-in-Training, dining with the Beast in his enchanted castle or taking a pixie dust-powered flight over the moonlit streets of London. Sounds pretty magical, huh?

This fanciful area happens to be one of the most family friendly parts of the park, and is home to a charming assortment of low or no-height-requirement attractions, magical Disney character meet-and-greets and approachable eateries that are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. As you might imagine, due to its universal appeal, this also tends to be one of the more popular (i.e., busy) parts of the park.

So, don’t be surprised if you encounter long wait times for some Fantasyland attractions, especially Peter Pan’s Flight and Seven Dwarfs Mine Train. Fortunately, for those who would like to fast-track their day while still experiencing everything this storybook land has to offer, many Fantasyland rides and shows are part of Disney Genie+, and this is also where you’ll find the only Individual Lightning Lane attraction at Magic Kingdom, the aforementioned roller coaster inspired by Snow White and her seven, height-challenged friends.

Peter Pan attraction at night

Where to Play, Eat and Shop in Fantasyland at Magic Kingdom

Fantasyland boasts no shortage of fantastical rides, character interactions, restaurants and shops the whole family will love. Whether you want to embrace your inner fairy princess or channel Peter Pan and never grow up, you’re sure to find a storybook-ready attraction that’s perfect for you and your crew.

In general, Fantasyland is made up of two (three) distinct parts: the original Fantasyland, which spans from “it’s a small world” to The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh, and New Fantasyland, which consists of the Enchanted Forest, where the new Beauty and the Beast and The Little Mermaid themed areas are located, and Storybook Circus.

Time for a bathroom break during your busy Magic Kingdom day? As far as restrooms go, the Tangled-inspired bathrooms are as adorable as it gets, as is the surrounding area. Conveniently located between Haunted Mansion, Peter Pan’s Flight and “it’s a small world,” this cute corner of Fantasyland is a decidedly picturesque stop for potty breaks and social media-ready selfies alike. Visit after sunset to snap a photo under a canopy of gently glowing lanterns.

Here’s everything you can see and do around Fantasyland in Magic Kingdom.

small world doll

Fantasyland Rides & Other Attractions

Whether flying the friendly skies over Magic Kingdom on Dumbo the Flying Elephant or getting the decidedly catchy lyrics to “it’s a small world” stuck in your head after a ride on another of the equally iconic, opening day rides in Fantasyland, Disney World has been charming guests both young and old ever since Magic Kingdom’s very first day on October 1, 1971.

Today, you can live the fairytale life on 14 different Fantasyland attractions. Here are all the quintessential classics and newer favorites to experience during your visit.

Casey Jr. Splash ‘n’ Soak Station

Cool off in the spray from an elephant’s trunk at this Dumbo-inspired aquatic play area. The Casey Jr. circus train has set up camp for the day and the animals have taken over, making for some especially refreshing fun.

Lightning Lane Availability: None

Height Restriction: Any Height

Best for: Kids & Preschoolers

Cinderella Castle Magic Kingdom

Cinderella Castle

Not so much a ride as it is a walkthrough attraction and impressive photo backdrop, no trip to Magic Kingdom is complete without visiting Cinderella Castle. Magic Kingdom’s grand icon sits at the center of the park, serving as an elaborate front door to Fantasyland. After snapping the obligatory selfie, stop by to check out the intricate mosaics illustrating the story of Cinderella.

Lightning Lane Availability: None

Height Restriction: Any Height

Best for: All Ages

Dumbo the Flying Elephant

Except for the likes of Mad Tea Party and Peter Pan’s Flight, you’d be hard pressed to find a ride in Fantasyland that is more iconic than Dumbo the Flying Elephant. For this aerial carousel, the precious pachyderm serves as co-pilot for your fairytale flight, making for one of the most recognizable ride vehicles in Disney history. There’s even one on exhibit in Washington, DC’s Smithsonian National Museum of American History.

Lightning Lane Availability: Disney Genie+

Height Restriction: Any Height

Best for: Preschoolers, Kids and Tweens

Dumbo elephant attraction

Enchanted Tales with Belle

For decades, book lovers and aspiring princesses alike have dreamed of sitting down for story time with Disney’s biggest bookworm, Belle from Beauty and the Beast. Now, in Enchanted Tales with Belle, guests don’t just hear her story; they help her bring it to life. This interactive reenactment is one of the more unique character encounters available at Disney World and a must for any fans of the Disney princess.

Lightning Lane Availability: Disney Genie+

Height Restriction: Any Height

Best for: All Ages

“it’s a small world”

Originally developed for the 1964 New York World’s Fair, “it’s a small world” is a Fantasyland mainstay. A Walt Disney World institution ever since Magic Kingdom’s opening day, this slow-moving boat ride features a multicultural cast of singing dolls in the style of Disney Legend Mary Blair. Add in the ride’s undeniably catchy theme song, and this is one Fantasyland attraction you won’t want to miss.

Lightning Lane Availability: Disney Genie+

Height Restriction: Any Height

Best for: All Ages

mad-tea-party

Mad Tea Party

Take a spin around Fantasyland in a titanic, arm-powered teacup on Mad Tea Party. Only for those strong stomachs or epic amounts of Dramamine, this Alice in Wonderland-themed fever dream of a ride offers the perfect amount of insani-tea.

Lightning Lane Availability: Disney Genie+

Height Restriction: Any Height

Best for: All Ages

Mickey’s PhilharMagic

Hum along to some of your favorite Disney songs during this 4-D performance of Mickey’s PhilharMagic. Led by Mickey Mouse as the conductor, with a temporary takeover by Donald Duck, the film is a charming romp through some of Disney’s most well-loved movies.

Lightning Lane Availability: Disney Genie+

Height Restriction: Any Height

Best for: All Ages

peter-pans-flight

Peter Pan’s Flight

After a sprinkle of pixie dust and a generous helping of happy thoughts, take to the night sky over London in an enchanted pirate ship to drink in the twinkling lights below. Then, it’s off to Never Land! Just turn toward the second star to the right and follow it straight on ‘til morning. Don’t underestimate this nostalgic dark ride. Delighting guests since the park’s opening day, wait times for Peter Pan’s Flight are often some of the longest in Magic Kingdom, let alone Fantasyland.

Lightning Lane Availability: Disney Genie+

Height Restriction: Any Height

Best for: All Ages

Prince Charming Regal Carrousel

Whether gracing an oceanfront boardwalk or lighting up the midway of traveling carnival, there is no ride more classic than a merry-go-round. In Fantasyland at Magic Kingdom, the Prince Charming Regal Carrousel takes its inspiration from Disney’s Cinderella. In fact, as the story goes, you can even jump in the saddle of Cinderella’s very own steed. Just look for the carousel horse with a golden ribbon looped through its tail.

Lightning Lane Availability: None

Height Restriction: Any Height

Best for: Preschoolers, Kids and Tweens

Seven Dwarfs Mine Train attraction sign

Seven Dwarfs Mine Train

Heigh-ho, heigh-ho! It’s off to work in the diamond mines we go. Climb aboard this kid-friendly roller coaster for a rollicking fairytale adventure the whole family will love. Unique to Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, the creaky cart you ride in even teeters to and fro as you hurtle through the lush Disney forest from Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs.

Lightning Lane Availability: Individual Lightning Lane Attraction

Height Restriction: At least 38” (97cm)

Best for: Kids, Tweens, Teens and Adults

Under the Sea – Journey of the Little Mermaid

Dive below the waves for a musical journey under the sea on this whimsical dark ride inspired by The Little Mermaid. The attraction follows the story of Ariel, from underwater dance parties with Sebastian to risky deals with Ursula the sea witch to finally kissing her true love.

Lightning Lane Availability: Disney Genie+

Height Restriction: Any Height

Best for: All Ages

journey-of-the-little-mermaid

The Barnstormer

Take flight in a madcap stunt plane piloted by The Great Goofini in this kiddie coaster located in Storybook Circus. With Goofy behind the wheel, brace yourself for some jerky twists and turns along the way before coming in for a “landing.”

Lightning Lane Availability: Disney Genie+

Height Restriction: At least 35” (89cm)

Best for: Preschoolers and Kids

The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh

Voyage into the Hundred Acre Wood in a giant honey pot on The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh. This darling dark ride immerses guests in the world of Winnie the Pooh, from bouncing alongside Tigger to hunting for heffalumps and woozles.

Lightning Lane Availability: Disney Genie+

Height Restriction: Any Height

Best for: All Ages

Walt Disney World Railroad

All aboard! Walt Disney was a great lover of trains. So, when visiting Magic Kingdom, be sure to ride the rails of the Walt Disney World Railroad for a while. Stations are located in Fantasyland, Frontierland and Main Street, U.S.A. Then, board a water taxi bound for Disney’s Wilderness Lodge and the Boulder Ridge Villas for a chance to see some of the original train cars from the Carolwood Pacific, a mini-railway Walt Disney built in his backyard.

Lightning Lane Availability: None

Height Restriction: Any Height

Best for: All Ages

Wishing well behind a castle

Fantasyland Characters & Entertainment

While rides are some of the main attractions at Fantasyland, they aren’t the only experiences available in this fanciful part of Magic Kingdom. If you couldn’t already guess from the land’s towering castle, Fantasyland is where many of the park’s more enchanting residents call home, from Disney Princesses to the cuddly denizens of the Hundred Acre Wood.

Along with formal meet-and-greet locations (more on those next), you can typically also meet Disney characters at other areas around Fantasyland, such as:

  • Anastasia and Drizella, Cinderella’s Evil Stepsisters – From the balcony of Cinderella Castle or near the Cinderella Fountain
  • Belle from Beauty and the Beast – Maurice’s Cottage in the Enchanted Forest at Enchanted Tales with Belle
  • Winnie the Pooh and Tigger – At Thotful Spot near The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh
  • Merida from Brave – Fairytale Garden between Cinderella Castle and Cosmic Ray’s
  • Peter Pan – Near the Never Land Map
  • Gaston – Near Gaston’s Tavern

Ariel Mermaid on ship mast

Meet Ariel at Her Grotto

See if the seaweed really is always greener in somebody else’s lake with a trip to Ariel’s Grotto. Here, everyone’s favorite mermaid signs autographs and poses for photos with guests and guppies of all ages.

Lightning Lane Availability: None

Meet Disney Pals at Pete’s Silly Sideshow

See iconic Disney characters like Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, Daisy Duck and Goofy at Pete’s Silly Sideshow, where each is busy preparing for their circus act. If you like seeing characters’ impressively large wardrobes, this is definitely one meet-and-greet location you won’t want to miss.

On one side, Goofy is dressed as The Great Goofini, the high-flying stuntman, while Donald takes to the stage as The Astounding Donaldo, a mysterious snake charmer. On the side, Daisy is Daisy Fortuna, a fortune teller, while Minnie dazzles guests with her poodle-wrangling skills as Minnie Magnifique.

Lightning Lane Availability: Disney Genie+

Cinderella looking at her castle

Meet Disney Royalty at Princess Fairytale Hall

Hoping to hobnob with a few of the Disney Princesses? Then you’ll definitely want to pay a visit to Princess Fairytale Hall. Here, some of Disney’s most popular royals stop by to greet their adoring fans, sign autographs and pose for pictures. You’ll always find both Cinderella and Princess Tiana, as well as two other visiting royalty, typically Rapunzel and Elena of Avalor, with the princesses usually holding court from when the park opens until closing time.

Lightning Lane Availability: Disney Genie+

Disney Festival of Fantasy Parade

Ok, you caught us! While it may be on this list, you can’t actually see the Disney Festival of Fantasy Parade from anywhere in Fantasyland. However, as this Magic Kingdom parade is inspired by the characters and stories of Fantasyland, we still think it deserves a slot in your theme park day. And for all the character spotters out there, it’s a great way to see a bunch of your favorites without wasting too much time in line.

Although the parade doesn’t run through Fantasyland, the route is only a short walk away, running from Frontierland next to the upcoming Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, through Liberty Square and down Main Street, U.S.A. before exiting in Town Square. If you like, you can even snag reserved seating with Disney Genie+. Showtimes are typically offered twice a day at 12:00 PM and 3:00 PM.

Lightning Lane Availability: Disney Genie+

Disney characters on parade float

Fantasyland Restaurants

We don’t know about you, but meeting Disney characters, waiting in line and going on rides can work up quite a hunger. Luckily, whether you’re craving a Turkey Leg worthy of Gaston, a regal feast or a sweet treat in honor of Winnie the Pooh, it’s all on offer at one of the restaurants in Fantasyland. You can even sit down for a meal in one of Fantasyland’s two castles at either Be Our Guest Restaurant or Cinderella’s Royal Table.

Be Our Guest Restaurant

Designed to look like the Beast’s castle, complete with random appearances by the cursed prince himself, Be Our Guest Restaurant immerses diners in some of Beauty and the Beast’s most memorable scenes, like the grand ballroom and the dreary West Wing. Indulge in a prix fixe, three-course meal of French-inspired cuisine. Just be sure to save some room for the Dessert Trio, which includes a taste of the famous Grey Stuff.

Cost: Lunch & Dinner – Over $60 per adult

Cuisine: French & American

What to Get: French Onion Soup, Center-Cut Filet Mignon, The Grey Stuff

Reservations: Advance Dining Reservations and Walk-Up List available

Little Tea Cup with grey stuff

Cheshire Café

For an especially sweet interlude, pay a visit to the Cheshire Café. Located just across from Mad Tea Party, this snack stand dishes up light bites like pastries and pretzels, as well as refreshing beverages.

Cost: Snacks – $14.99 and under per adult

Cuisine: American

What to Get: Cheshire Cat Tail

Reservations: None

Cinderella’s Royal Table

Dine like royalty at Cinderella’s Royal Table, the only signature restaurant in Magic Kingdom and one of the park’s most in-demand character dining experiences. Located in Cinderella Castle, this epic, prix fixe character dining feast features elegant twists on classic American cuisine, as well as appearances by a slew of Disney Princesses. A Disney PhotoPass photographer is even on-hand to capture the moment.

Cost: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner – $45 to $67 or more per adult

Cuisine: American

What to Get: Stuffed French Toast, Tenderloin of Beef, The Clock Strikes Twelve Chocolate Mousse

Reservations: Advance Dining Reservations and Walk-Up List available

Gaston statue at night

Gaston’s Tavern

Ever wished you could sit down for a stein of suds with Gaston in his antler-bedecked tavern. Well, now you can! While we’re pretty sure Gaston would devour a Turkey Leg, you won’t find this classic Disney food item here. Instead, satisfy your sweet tooth with a cozy cinnamon roll or an icy LeFou’s Brew.

Cost: Snacks – $14.99 and under per adult

Cuisine: American

What to Get: LeFou’s Brew, Warm Cinnamon Roll

Reservations: None

Pinocchio Village Haus

When it comes to palate-pleasing foods, few dishes top the list like pizza. Pinocchio Village Haus cooks up an assortment of flatbreads, with flavors to satisfy everyone, from classic pepperoni or margherita to a flavorful pie topped with spiced hummus and berbere chickpeas. Try to claim a table overlooking “it’s a small world” for storybook-worthy view.

Cost: Snacks – $14.99 and under per adult

Cuisine: American

What to Get: Flatbread Pizzas, Garlic Knots, Tomato Basil Soup

Reservations: None, Mobile Order available

Inside restaurant with seating

Prince Eric’s Village Market

Located just across from Ariel’s Grotto, Prince Eric’s Village Market is a glorified snack stand with basic bites like pickles, soft pretzels and fresh fruit. It’s also the only place in Fantasyland you can buy a quintessential Turkey Leg.

Cost: Snacks – $14.99 and under per adult

Cuisine: American

What to Get: Turkey Leg

Reservations: None

Storybook Treats

Hoping to end your trip to Fantasyland on a sweet note? Storybook Treats is the place for you. Here you’ll find a tempting assortment of ice cream desserts, including cones, sundaes and floats. You can even try soft-serve flavors inspired by each of the Seven Dwarfs.

Cost: Snacks – $14.99 and under per adult

Cuisine: American

What to Get: Heigh-Ho Sundae, Show White Cone, Seven Dwarfs Specialty Cones

Reservations: None

Outside european style restaurant

The Friar’s Nook

Looking for kid-friendly fare in Fantasyland? Swing by The Friar’s Nook near Seven Dwarfs Mine Train. Although seating at this quick-service restaurant is extremely limited (just a few tables outside), this semi-hidden gem is well worth a visit if you’re craving cozy comfort food like hot dogs and tater tots laden with creamy macaroni & cheese.

Cost: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner – $14.99 and under per adult

Cuisine: American

What to Get: Loaded Hot Dogs and Tater Tots

Reservations: None, Mobile Order available

Fantasyland Merchandise Locations

Searching for the perfect souvenir for your fairytale vacation? Make a visit to one of Fantasyland’s several merchandise locations, where you’ll find everything from Mickey Ears and Disney Princess dresses to t-shirts and huggable plushies. You can even give your little princess or prince a royal makeover.

Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique

Does your child dream of being a Disney Princess or a daring knight? Make their wish come true with a fairytale transformation from Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique. Nestled at the base of Cinderella Castle, this storybook spa in staffed by a talented team of apprentices trained by Cinderella’s Fairy Godmother herself.

Guests must be no younger than 3 years old and no older than 12 to participate at Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique and reservations are highly encouraged. Prices start at $99.95 for a princess-themed makeover or $19.95 for a knightlier transformation.

Dresses hanging from shelves

Big Top Souvenirs

Step up to the big top for three-ring circus of snacks, sips and souvenirs. Stop by for merchandise themed after Dumbo and the other characters of Storybook Circus.

Bonjour! Village Gifts

Say “bonjour” to Beauty and the Beast-themed collectibles at this souvenir shop in New Fantasyland. Take home everything from art and books to dolls and apparel.

Casey Jr. Railroad Mercantile

Did your little ones have a little too much fun splashing around in the circus-inspired splash pad nearby? Snag a beach towel to help them dry off. Or, if you’re feeling hot but you’d rather stay nice and dry, bring your temperature down a bit with a mister fan.

Castle in the morning

Fantasy Faire

Located at the exit to Mickey’s PhilharMagic, Fantasy Faire is your one-stop shop for in Fantasyland for Mickey Ears, royal tiaras and other whimsical headwear. You can even channel Sorcerer Mickey with your very own sorcerer’s hat. Just make sure you’re more responsible with it than Donald.

Hundred Acre Goods

Looking for a sweet reminder of your trip to the Hundred Acre Woods? Located at the exit to The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh, Hundred Acre Goods is your headquarters for all things related to that silly old bear.

Sir Mickey’s

Whether you’re searching for the perfect shirt, a squeezable plushy or a pair of Mickey Ears, chances are you’ll find it at Sir Mickey’s. This Fantasyland shop is located just behind Cinderella Castle.

Cinderella's Castle in the evening
Cinderella Castle

Well, folks, that brings our grand tour of Magic Kingdom’s Fantasyland to an end. Have you been to Fantasyland in Disney World? Which Magic Kingdom Fantasyland rides are your favorites? Let us know in the comments! Then, learn how to work some magic on your wallet and save on your next vacation with our discount Disney World tickets.