Fantasyland

The main entrance to Fantasyland is Cinderella’s Castle, in the northernmost area of Magic Kingdom.  The castle has undergone several changes since it was first built.  For its 25th anniversary, it was designed to look like a pink cake, trimmed with candy.  Now, as it stands at 180 feet tall, it is intricately designed with gold trim.  The most photographed of all of the building in Walt Disney World, Cinderella’s Castle was inspired by the design of 12th and 13th century French castles and, of course, by the design of the castle in the animated Cinderella feature.  This amazing castle looks real, but is really made of fiberglass and steel beams.

Inside, the Disney coat of arms is on display along with a multitude of mosaic murals.  The murals were created using over a million pieces of Italian glass and pieces of silver and 14 karat gold.  The murals, which are 15 feet by 10 feet, depict the “happily ever after” Cinderella story that is not shown in the film.

The second floor of the Cinderella’s Castle houses Cinderella’s Royal Table restaurant.  Here, guests can enjoy a Character breakfast hosted by Cinderella, as well as by her Fairy Godmother, Belle, Peter Pan, and Jasmine.  This event is very popular, so it is important to call ahead for Priority Seating to ensure a place at the table.

On one of the upper floors of Cinderella’s Castle, an apartment was constructed to be used by the Disney family.  This apartment remains unfurnished and is currently used by Tinker Bell as a change room.  The back courtyard of Cinderella’s Castle includes a bronze fountain depicting Cinderella and her bird and mouse friends.  Daily stage productions take place in the Castle’s forecourt.  These productions are put on by the “Kids of the Kingdom,” as well as by other Disney characters.  A rose garden is also located in front of the Caste.  This garden is near the water and provides a peaceful place to sit and enjoy the magic of Cinderella’s Castle.

Other attractions found in Fantasyland are Ariel’s Grotto, which is a children’s play area filled with squirting fountains, and Cinderella’s Goldren Carrousel, which was built in 1917.  The classic Dumbo the Flying Elephant and It’s a Small World rides can also be found here, along with many other rides and attractions.

Fantasyland also provides guests with several places to eat.  Among these restaurants are Cinderella’s Royal Table, which serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner within the Cinderella Castle.  Character meals are available here.  Enchanted Grove is a small stand that serves soft drinks and slush, while Mrs. Pott’s Cupboard provides soft drinks, ice cream, and other snacks.  For those looking for a counter service restaurant, Pinocchio Village Hause serves salads and sandwiches, while Scuttle’s Landing offers snacks, tea, and coffee.

For the shopper, Fantasyland offers opportunities to purchase merchandise related to Winnie the Pooh at Pooh’s Thotful Shop.  Mickey souvenirs can be purchased at Sir Mickey’s, while Donald Duck items can be found at Fantasy Faire.  Children’s jewelry and clothing, stuffed toys, and games can be purchased at Tinker Bell’s Treasures.