When Magic Kingdom first opened its gates in 1971 it introduced its 6 distinct lands to its guests. Main Street U.S.A., Liberty Square, Frontierland, Adventureland, Tomorrowland, and Fantasyland are all lands that still exist to this day. Some of these areas, like Fantasyland, have seen quite a few changes during their lifespan. But the overall feeling of fantasy and fun still remains today. Guests of Magic Kingdom in Disney World probably think of Fantasyland first and foremost when they envision the park. Fantasyland is what Magic Kingdom is all about and takes the idea of fairytale and brings it to life. Continue reading to learn more facts and history of Fantasyland.

History

When plans for Magic Kingdom were being made it was decided very early on that Fantasyland would be brought over as it appeared in the Disneyland park. One major difference between Disneyland’s Fantasyland and Magic Kingdom’s Fantasyland being Cinderella Castle rather than Sleeping Beauty Castle. Still, the land’s medieval fairytale style was replicated for the new Florida park. Many classic rides like Mad Tea Party, it’s a small world, and Peter Pan’s Flight were reproduced at Magic Kingdom’s Fantasyland.

Fantasyland in Magic Kingdom is an area of the park that has seen the most change throughout the years. In 2010, renovations began on an area of Fantasyland called “New Fantasyland” that expanded the land greatly. Beast’s castle from Beauty and the Beast was added in the distance through forced perspective, as well as Ariel’s grotto, Prince Eric’s Castle, Belle’s cottage, Gaston’s Tavern, Rapunzel’s Tower, and Storybook Circus.  Under the Sea- Journey of the Little Mermaid was a new dark ride attraction that was added in 2012. Be Our Guest, a sit-down restaurant was developed so guests could dine inside Beast’s castle. Storybook Circus brought with it the addition of a second Dumbo attraction, a splash play area, and Big Top Gifts shop. In 2024, a new interactive smell scavenger hunt, “Smellephants on Parade” was added to this area. Bathrooms were added near Rapunzel’s Tower with many guests lovingly calling them the best bathrooms at Disney World.

In addition to the New Fantasyland areas, a new family roller coaster entitled Seven Dwarfs Mine Train was added in 2014. This attraction became Fantasyland’s second roller coaster next to Goofy’s Barnstormer, and quickly became a popular attraction thanks to its theme and indoor audio-animatronic section.

Attractions

Current attractions that have a home within Fantasyland are Under the Sea-Journey of the Little Mermaid, Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, Mad Tea Party, Prince Charming Regal Carousel, its a small world, Peter Pan’s Flight, and The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh.

Fun Facts

• Prince Charming Regal Carousel is the oldest attraction in Walt Disney World. This carousel was a historic carousel first built in 1917 before it changed hands a few times and landed with Disney
• There is an exclusive resort suite located inside Cinderella Castle that is used for giveaways and special promotions
• When walking through Storybook Circus, look down at the pavement for additional theming
• When Under the Sea- Journey of the Little Mermaid opened, Imagineers dumped water from the 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea attraction into the grotto

Future Plans

There are currently no future plans for Fantasyland.

What do you enjoy about Fantasyland? Which land is your favorite within Magic Kingdom? We want to hear from you in the comments below!

Featured Photo: Emily Murray.