Hey there, Miguel! Thanks for stopping by planDisney!
It looks like you’ll be visiting Walt Disney World in just a few short weeks. How exciting! With its 4 theme parks, 2 water parks, more than 25 Disney Resorts Collection hotels, and countless dining and shopping options, you are in for the vacation of a lifetime.
I love your question because you want to start your Walt Disney World adventure on the right foot. Which park will set the right tone? The right magical vibe? The answer, in this writer’s humble opinion, is the
Magic Kingdom. The Magic Kingdom began welcoming guests in 1971, the second Disney Park to open after Disneyland in 1955. I’m a huge history nerd, so I’m always interested in trying to understand how a place has changed over time and how it influenced everything that came after it. While Magic Kingdom may not be the original Disney Park, it was modeled after Disneyland and certainly impacted the design of every Disney Park built afterward. That may not interest everyone, but I love having a classic Disney experience and then being able to identify that common thread through the rest of my vacation.
Speaking of classics, the Magic Kingdom is home to some of the most iconic rides and experiences around. You can’t visit Walt Disney World and not get your
photo taken in front of Cinderella Castle, so why not check that off your vacation itinerary first? And you won’t want to miss classic rides like Jungle Cruise, Pirates of the Caribbean, Dumbo the Flying Elephant, Space Mountain, and Haunted Mansion (just to name a few). Some of these rides were first developed at Disneyland, but their Florida counterparts have their own unique designs and features that make them something special.
With your castle photo taken, classic rides enjoyed, and popular snacks consumed (DOLE Whip! Mickey-shaped pretzels! Mickey Premium Ice Cream Bar!), you’ll be ready to experience everything else Walt Disney World has to offer. If you aren’t too sure about my Magic Kingdom-first approach, then I’d recommend browsing the
Attractions and Entertainment Page, as well as the
Disney Parks Blog, to see what sparks your interest.
I hope this info helps, Miguel. Pop right back if you have other questions or need additional recommendations. Your planDisney pals are always happy to help!
Magical travels!
Matt