Hi Sarah! Welcome to planDisney!
Boo to you, a trick or treat! I'm excited you'll be visiting Walt Disney World again this year during
Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party! I love being in the Magic Kingdom during this time of year and taking in all the festive décor that lines Main Street, U.S.A. Mickey-shaped pumpkins, fall foliage, and decorated Jack-o'-lanterns can be found from the moment you enter the park.
A trip to the Magic Kingdom is not complete until you ride
Dumbo the Flying Elephant! This classic attraction is a must-do for my family and still ranks as my youngest's favorite. As you mentioned, there is a wonderful children's playground that sits inside the big-top tent and is part of the queue for this attraction. It's the perfect place for your little ones to play while you take a much needed break in the air conditioning.
During Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party, there are some character meet and greets that utilize this space. Minnie, Donald, and Daisy each meet in the play area dressed up in their best Halloween costumes. While they typically do not start meeting until 7 PM when the party officially begins, Guests are allowed to start lining up well in advance in anticipation. If the play area was closed during this time frame last year, I would suspect that this would be the case for this year as well.
If you plan to visit the
Magic Kingdom during the day and not attend the party, I suggest riding Dumbo the Flying Elephant earlier in the day while the playground is most likely still open. If you are just coming for Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party, I would get there right at 4 PM and head straight to this attraction. There is a chance that Guests are still allowed to utilize this space before they close it off for the party festivities.
Sarah, I hope this information helps you plan for your upcoming visit!
Stop back and see us again at planDisney!
Have a Spooktacular day!
Greg