Welcome back to planDisney, Marcella!
It sounds like you have an amazing trip planned next month, and I’m so excited for you to experience the
Keys to the Kingdom Tour! If you love Disney history and behind-the-scenes magic, you’re in for a real treat.
I took this tour last summer with my 16-year-old son, and I can assure you that you won’t have any trouble entering the park early for your 8:00 AM tour. Even though
Early Theme Park Entry for resort guests doesn’t begin until 8:30 AM, you can check in at the
Magic Kingdom entrance by showing your tour reservation in the
My Disney Experience app. A Cast Member will verify your booking and allow you to scan in at the turnstiles. When I did the tour, this process was very smooth, and we were inside the park with plenty of time to check in at
Tony’s Town Square Restaurant before the tour started.
Once you check in, you’ll receive a name tag, a headset for the tour, and place your lunch order (you’ll enjoy a meal at
Columbia Harbour House or
Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn and Cafe during the tour). If you want to snap a few photos, this is a great time to do it, since most of the tour takes place in backstage areas where photography isn’t allowed.
To ensure a smooth arrival, you’ll want to plan your transportation accordingly. If you’re driving, I recommend arriving at the Transportation and Ticket Center (TTC) between 7:00 AM and 7:30 AM. Magic Kingdom’s parking lot typically opens about an hour before Early Theme Park Entry, meaning if the park opens at 9:00 AM, the lot should be open by 7:30 AM. From there, you’ll need to take the Monorail or Ferryboat to Magic Kingdom.
Since you’re staying at a Disney Resort hotel, you may also want to consider a
Minnie Van for the most convenient option, since they can drop you off right at the park entrance, saving you time.
I hope you have an unforgettable experience, Marcella! The tour goes by quickly (it’s amazing how fast five hours can fly when you’re immersed in Disney history), and you’ll love seeing all the hidden details and backstage magic.
Have a fantastic time, and see ya real soon!
Eean