Hi Erica,
Welcome back to the Disney Parks Moms Panel! I have visited Walt Disney World Resort in early February several times and it's a fantastic time to visit. Currently at
Magic Kingdom Park, if the park opening time is 9 a.m. then they will allow guests to enter the park at 8 a.m. Shops are open along Main Street, U.S.A. and you can go as far as the castle but the walkways to different lands are blocked by ropes and/or Cast Members.
You will want to enter the park a bit before 8 a.m. so you can make your
Crystal Palace reservation on time. For early dining reservations, there will be a Cast Member with a clipboard or tablet by the entrance tapstiles. The Cast Member will check for your name on the reservation list and allow you to enter early. Shops won't be open yet, but you will have a fabulous view of Cinderella Castle as you enter. I would try to be there extra early so you can take a good photo of or with the Castle.
Erica, thank you for visiting us with another great question. I hope you'll let us know if we can help you with any other planning questions.
Wishing you a magical vacation,
Amy H.