This re-creation of an early 20th-century town serves as the main entrance area to the park. The shops of Main Street are an excellent source of everything from souvenirs for the family to rare and collectible Disneyana.
*Tip* If you can get reservations, or get in on a walk-in basis, do not miss the Character Meal at the Crystal Palace. The building is of Victorian style and beautifully appointed. The food is excellent, and the characters from Winnie the Pooh will spend time with adults as well as children. Many adults claim that this is the best character meal in the parks.
*Tip* Take time to notice the names inscribed on the second-story windows. The major Imagineers who designed the park are all named. See if you can find Walt Disney's name. Note the red walkways, designed to resemble a red carpet. Also notice the forced perspective, making Main Street appear miles long on your way into the park, but only a few feet long on your way out.
*Tip* For a dose of nostalgia, grab hot dogs at Casey's Corner and find a spot to watch the barbershop quartet, the Dapper Dans.
*Tip* Tony's Town Square Restaurant is based on the Italian restaurant where Lady and the Tramp first fell in love. Take a look inside even if you do not eat there.
This area pays homage to exotic lands. Pirates of the Caribbean was recently redone to incorporate Captain Jack Sparrow and his archnemesis Barbossa from the popular film series. Most fans agree that the addition was tastefully done. Take the ride whether or not you have seen the movies.
The Jungle Cruise was the favorite attraction of Walt Disney himself. The ride is best at night; however, the corny jokes are fun no matter the time of day.
This area will take you back to the days of the Wild West. Splash Mountain and Big Thunder Mountain Railroad are considered thrill rides, but both are of the decidedly family-friendly variety. If you meet the health requirements, strongly consider both rides. The storylines are fun and the rides are fairly tame.
Do not miss Tom Sawyer's Island. Based on the writings of Mark Twain, the Island hearkens back to childhood, complete with forts to explore, guns to "fire," and swinging bridges to bounce across. Or if more sedate activities appeal, grab a peanut butter and jelly sandwich from Aunt Polly's and enjoy a game of checkers on a barrel top board, then relax in a rocking chair and let the world go by.
*Tip* Ask a Cast Member about the paint brush game. The prize is a Fast Pass!
Cool off and rest your feet at the Hall of Presidents, featuring audio-animatronic replicas of every US President. Though the show is a bit dated by today's standards, it is a nice tribute to our nation's leaders. Some of the later presidents recorded their own voices for the show.
*Tip* When strolling through Liberty Square you cannot miss Liberty Belle Riverboat. This old fashion steamboat is so much fun to ride.
The Haunted Mansion is one of Disney's most legendary attractions. Join 999 Grim Grinning Ghosts for a fun ride through their final resting place. This one is especially fun at night, particularly if you take the last ride.
This is Disney's tribute to the dreams of childhood. Before writing it off, however, remember that most of the classic attractions are housed here. Fly with Peter Pan, marvel at the singing and dancing dolls in It's A Small World, or meet the dwarfs with Snow White. The rides are silly but fun and may touch a wave of nostalgia for a simpler time.
*Tip* Do not miss Mickey's Philharmagic. This 3D show is spectacular.
*Tip* Winnie the Poohs Great Adventures is an awesome attraction for kids of all ages.
*Tip* Enjoy lunch at the Pinocchio Village Haus. Some of the tables overlook It's a Small World, where you can wave at people on the ride.
This land pays tribute to "the future that never was, and always will be." Offering a look back at science fiction through the ages, Tomorrowland offers two attractions of particular interest to seniors.
The Tomorrowland Transit Authority is a slow-moving aerial ride through Tomorrowland. Rarely crowded, this attraction can often be ridden twice back to back. If you are lucky, you may catch a ride during Space Mountain's downtime, allowing a rare lights-on look inside.
The Carousel of Progress is probably the ride most closely identified with Walt Disney himself. Originally built for the 1964 World's Fair, the Carousel provides a look at an average family from the 1800s through today. See if you can spot Walt Disney's picture in the ride.
The Magic Kingdom is a wonderful place for guests of all ages. Take your time to enjoy the amazing details as well as experiencing the rides. Some of the best touches are off the beaten path, yet fully accessible to those who take time out to notice. Allow yourself to suspend disbelief and take in the full experience. You may just find that the Magic Kingdom becomes truly magical for you.