Hiya, Carli, and thank you for stopping by planDisney today. And a great big Mickey Mouse salute for your family's service. Firefighters are true heroes, and I can't think of a more magical spot to kick off your first visit than at Engine Company 71. I'm getting
fired up just thinking about it!
When you step into
Magic Kingdom Park, you'll walk through a tunnel underneath the train station. You might notice dim lighting and movie posters on the walls; this represents guests getting ready to go "onstage" when the lights are down. When you walk into Town Square and the beginning of Main Street, USA, it's as if the spotlights have turned on, and YOU are part of the show!
Just past City Hall on the left, you'll see
Engine Company 71, the fire station named for the year Magic Kingdom opened. I just know your family will enjoy a journey back in time, admiring the vintage firefighting gear and classic equipment on display. The last few times I've been by, I haven't seen any Cast Members inside, but you never know who might be there. My son once received a sprinkle of pixie dust in the form of a Mickey Mouse sticker at the fire station!
But for me, the most fabulous parts of this self-guided tour are the proudly displayed framed patches from fire stations around the country. I love spotting all the different states where I've visited. It's a tribute and a legacy for firefighters everywhere, and a wonderful spot for photos.
I chatted with a Cast Member who said patches are often rotated, so you might see a different set on a future visit. She also said guests can sometimes donate their own patches, so feel free to stop by
Guest Relations at City Hall for more information about the donation process.
Another idea is to search online for nearby active fire stations. I've heard that some of the Reedy Creek stations schedule tours, and you might even find a firefighter or two willing to trade coins and patches. I'm waving my fire-resistant magic wand so that you can make contact with some fellow firefighters while you're in town.
Carli, I hope you have a magical time. Don't forget to grab some complimentary
celebration buttons at City Hall to commemorate your first visit. Feel free to reach out to
planDisney anytime; I'll keep my hook and ladder ready!
Magic awaits,
Elaine