Fantasyland Disneyland
Dominated by the soaring spires of Cinderella’s Castle, this Land forms the core of the Magic Kingdom. The delightfully designed attractions inspire feelings of amazement and enchantment in even the most cynical.
This Land is usually the first destination for kids as their favorite storybook characters come to life here. Dumbo the Flying Elephant proves a compelling draw for young children whilst Cinderella’s Golden Carrousel, a genuine 1917 restoration, seems to entice both old and young onto its gallopers. Snow White’s Scary Adventures, which recounts the fairy-tale, is a basic tracked ride and may be slightly frightening for very young children.
Peter Pan’s Flight, however, is deservedly popular, combining the feeling of flying with the delight of perfectly matched music and movement. Opposite this is it’s a small world, a waterborne journey through a series of animated tableaux.
Situated at the entrance to Cinderella’s castle is the newest attraction, Dream Along with Mickey, a musical stage show where Mickey and the gang invite everyone to join in the music and dancing.
The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh incorporates the latest in ride vehicle technology, lighting, and multi-channel sound effects. A popular attraction, it is worthy of its Fastpass status.
Inspired by the Mad Hatter and the March Hare’s nonsensical “unbirthday” party in Alice in Wonderland, the Mad Tea Party ride has guests sitting in teacups that go right and left in circular motions. This musical ride is a must for young children.
The 3-D film, Mickey’s PhilharMagic, embodies the high standards associated with Disney, though it might be overwhelming for young children. The newest of the
3-D films shown around the Disney parks, it may also be the most perfected. It features a strong plotline – Donald Duck getting into trouble after appropriating Mickey’s Sorcerer’s Hat during a warm-up for an enchanted symphony. This sends the hapless duck spiraling through several of Disney’s most popular animated musicals, trying to undo his mischief.
The music is magnificent, the addition of 3-D to beloved scenes from Disney’s stable of hits is incredible, and the sensory enhancement at certain times is used very well and often for comic effect.
Ariel’s Grotto hosts the “interactive fountain” and greeting area. Here, small children can play in an aquatic environment, meet the Little Mermaid herself, and get totally soaked.
Pooh’s Playful Spot is a “splendiferous” playground from Winnie the Pooh, where children can bounce like Tigger and play like Roo.
TOP TIPS
• A little known shortcut from Mickey’s Toontown Fair to Tomorrowland is just to the right of the train station.
• The benches in Mickey’s Toontown Fair opposite Mickey’s house provide a good vantage point from which to watch the fireworks.
• The Tomorrowland Arcade can be a useful place to “park” easily bored youngsters while you take toddlers to savor the delights of Mickey’s Toontown Fair or take in some of the quieter shows.
