The Magic Kingdom at Night
Every section of the park takes on a new character after the sun goes down, and all of them are worth a visit at that time of day. Tomorrowland, with its lights and energy, is a popular draw for teenagers in the evening. Fantasyland takes on a new sense of intimacy, and Adventureland settles into its theme beautifully after dark. But we recommend one area of the park over any other – both for the experience of riding the attractions, and for taking in the nighttime entertainment.
Frontierland’s headlining attractions are outdoor attractions, so the experience of riding them is drastically different after dark. Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, especially, is a much different experience once the rocky landscape is lit against the night sky.
Main Street Electrical Parade
We aren’t generally fans of parades for teenagers, but the Main Street Electrical Parade (and SpectroMagic – a similar style parade sometimes hosted at the Magic Kingdom) are exceptions.
The nighttime parade starts near the firehouse on Main Street, and exits near Splash Mountain. You won’t need to invest any time camping out to save a spot if you plan to be in Frontierland (near Splash Mountain, across from Pecos Bill’s) 16 minutes after the parade starts.
Wishes Nighttime Spectacular
The Wishes Nighttime Spectacular is centered on the Cinderella Castle, and those standing on Main Street facing the Castle will without a doubt have the most complete view of the show. If you don’t mind getting there a little early to stake out your spot and hanging around in very crowded conditions, then a great spot to see the show would be on Main Street between Casey’s and the Ice Cream Parlor.
For a different perspective on the show, you can head to Frontierland instead. Near the exit of Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, you’ll find a geyser with a small boardwalk around down near the river. Stand as close to the geyser as you can without getting wet, and face the trees on Tom Sawyer’s Island right in front of you.
The fireworks feel very close, and there are usually very few people around so you’ll feel like you’re watching a private show. An added benefit is that the wait should be short for Big Thunder Mountain right after the show.
Wishes Dessert Party
For a special Fireworks-viewing experience, reserve the Wishes Desert Party. This nightly event allows you to watch the night time show from a designated viewing area. In the hour before the show, while everyone else in the park is standing around or sitting on the ground trying to stake out a spot for the show, you can be helping yourself to an all-you-can-eat buffet of sweets and beverages.
The view of the Castle from the covered terrace is exceptional, and you’ll have a great view of the fireworks, no matter where you are sitting. As Tinkerbell flies down from the Castle, she flies directly toward the Tomorrowland Terrace and lands on the roof above.
There is an extra per-person charge for this experience, and you’ll want to book in advance because the event often sells out. Call Disney Dining at (407)WDW-DINE for more information.
