Disney World’s Magic Kingdom first opened in 1971. Featuring 6 distinct lands, Magic Kingdom continues to thrill guests with its intricate theming and sense of fantasy, exploration, and history. Main Street U.S.A. is one of Magic Kingdom’s lands and is the first area you explore as you step foot into the park. Inspired by the Main Street from Disneyland, Main Street U.S.A. has roots in the early 20th century with its design and has a small-town vibe inspired by Walt Disney’s hometown of Marceline, Missouri. Main Street U.S.A. is charming and full of nooks and crannies to explore. Continue reading to learn some facts about Main Street U.S.A. and its history.
History
Inspired not only by the spirit of early 20th century America, but also by the feeling of a small midwestern town, Main Steet U.S.A. was designed with Walt Disney’s hometown of Marceline, Missouri in mind. Different architectural designs can be noted throughout that pay homage to the original inspirations for the area. Main Street U.S.A. needed to exist to give guests a pathway to the central hub which spoked out to the other lands that would be featured at Disney World. Main Street U.S.A. still acts as a “home base” for the park, and many consider it to be the heart of the park. Guests who are interested in learning more about the history of Main Street U.S.A. can book the Marceline to Magic Kingdom tour during their vacation. This tour not only goes in depth throughout Main Street, but also gives guests a peek backstage with facts and information about certain original Disney attractions.
Attractions
Currently, Main Street U.S.A. is home to the Walt Disney Railroad, Main Street Vehicles, Harmony Barber Shop, Town Square Theater- Meet Mickey Mouse, Main Street Philharmonic, The Dapper Dans who perform songs throughout the day, Casey’s Corner Pianist performing on an outdoor piano, Disney’s Festival of Fantasy Parade, Mickey’s Magical Friendship Fare castle show, Disney Adventure Friends Cavalcade, Happily Ever After, as well as other seasonal parades and nighttime spectaculars.
Restaurants located on Main Street include Tony’s Town Square, The Plaza Restaurant, Crystal Palace, Casey’s Corner, Main Street Bakery, Main Street Confectionary, and The Plaza Ice Cream Parlor.
Main Street is home to several shops including The Emporium, Crystal Arts by the Arribas Brothers, Box Office Gifts, and more.
Fun Facts
- Scents are pumped throughout Main Street like vanilla and popcorn
- The American flag is lowered every day by a veteran who is either on staff or visiting the park that day
- The Fire Station is Station 71 for the year that Magic Kingdom opened
- The sidewalks are red to absorb sunlight so guests won’t squint as much during photographs
Future Plans
Magic Kingdom will soon be debuting a new nighttime parade in 2025 that will travel down Main Street U.S.A. entitled Disney Starlight. More information on this will be coming soon!
What is your favorite land within Magic Kingdom? How much time do you typically spend exploring Main Street U.S.A. during your visits? We want to hear from you in the comments below!
Featured Photo: Megan Woodard