Be prepared, you guys -- this is a long one!
~ ~ ~
Fantasyland
Make a wish...you're about to enter a world where classic Disney stories leap off the screen and come to life like never before. Here is a land where elephants fly, teacups dance and every corner holds a bit of the magic of dreams come true. If the Magic Kingdom has a heart, it is surely here.
Fantasyland was always portrayed as Walt's favorite, although much like children, no doubt he'd be hard pressed to pick a favored land in his Park. Fantasyland, however, was the realm of his already-famous and most-beloved canon and characters, a land that Snow White, Peter Pan, Mr. Toad, and Alice might call home. Mickey, Minnie, Pluto, Goofy, and Donald were also perfectly at home in the regal fairy tale and comfy storybook settings - created for this new entertainment experience by many of the same men and women who had brought them to the movie screen.
The impressive Cinderella Castle transports us from the classic Americana of Main Street, U.S.A. and into the age-old pages of a childhood storybook. Here, magnificent mosaics, golden spires, lavish tapestries, imposing gargoyles, and ornate latticework compose a symphonic atmosphere reminiscent of the grandeur and romance of the Renaissance. Cinderella Castle truly represents a bygone era: a time where princes and princesses reigned, a time when dragons roared and knights sought to intercede them, a time when fairy-tale fantasy lived in a world rich in magic... This world, of course is represented beyond the castle walls in the happiest kingdom of all, Fantasyland.
(NOTE: It should be pointed out that in my ideal Magic Kingdom, as showcased in the picture above, the Castle Forecourt Stage is gone. However, much like with the Christmas Dreamlights, a temporary stage would be set up for Halloween and Christmas. This way, the Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular and Mickey's Most Merriest Celebration can continue to delight guests at their respective parties.)
As we cross over the stone bridge and through its towering portico, we are "welcomed" by a never-ending loop of some of Disney's classic fairy-tale romance songs: "When You Wish Upon a Star", "Once Upon a Dream", "A Dream is a Wish Your Heart Makes" and "Someday My Prince Will Come". The sheer size and magnificence of Cinderella Castle is fully realized once inside the castle's lavish interior, laden with decor reminiscent of the medieval era; vivid tapestries, stone statues and fine-glass windows. The most notable feature of the Castle's interior is a series of mosaic murals, re-telling the story of Cinderella through over 30,000 individual glass tiles, their colors flecked with real gold. The scenes speak of romance, magic, and beautiful dreams all come true.
The Bibbidi-Bobbidi Boutique resides on the first floor of the castle. In this enchanted chamber inhabited by chattering mice and whistling bluebirds, children of all ages are allowed the chance to magically transform into his or her own favorite Disney character (mostly princesses), a dream come true for many a youngster. Right nearby the Boutique, we climb an elegant spiral stairwell to the second floor, playful gargoyles and the light of dim sconces beckoning for us to climb toward whatever mysteries and magic may preside above.
Soaring archways and cathedral ceilings create a dramatic atmosphere for Cinderella's Royal Table, a fantastical feast for the eyes and taste buds. As the story goes, Cinderella is holding a banquet in honor of the world’s best-loved Disney Princesses, and we are invited. As such, we dine in splendor as Disney's iconic princesses mingle, give autographs and pose for pictures. Cinderella, Snow White, Belle, Aurora, and Ariel are just a few of the familiar guests in attendance. Authentic medieval tapestries and acquired artifacts adorn the lavish dining room, whilst flags and shields bearing the namesake of many a medieval nation hang proudly above us.
A climb to the third-floor takes us to the closed-off residence of the Cinderella Castle Suite, an in-park hotel suite if you will. Only reserved for those of us with special circumstances (or taking a guided tour of the park), the Cinderella Castle Suite is an immersive gem hidden within the castle walls, a luxurious penthouse suite of fantastical proportions. With a master bedroom, jacuzzi-tub, and stunning view of Fantasyland, the Cinderella Castle Suite is truly and quite literally the suite of our dreams.
Heading back downstairs, we pass through the northernmost-facing portico of Cinderella Castle and step into Storybook Village, a quaint little village displaying what life in the Dark Ages might have been like were it to clash with the color and whimsy of Toontown. Architecture of Bavarian, Dutch, Swiss, and Tudor origin craft the town. Minstrel-style arrangements of classic Disney tunes fill the air, creating a sense of medieval trade and fellowship. Beloved Disney characters roam the streets, eager to meet with guests, thus truly making Fantasyland the land where characters live. Though the characters found throughout Fantasyland have specific meet 'n' greet locations, don't be surprised to see them wandering about, taking full advantage of the "roaming character" concept.
For reasons of budget, schedule, and creative intent, when the Magic Kingdom first opened in 1971, the initial decor for the Fantasyland courtyard was that of a simple medieval tournament, with brightly colored (sheet metal) awnings, tents and banners. And as the years have gone by, the "Old" Fantasyland has clearly shown its wear and tear, especially when compared to the New Fantasyland that opened in 2012. Because of this, the "Old" Fantasyland area has been remodeled inside and out, and new exteriors reflecting the locale and era of the attractions were built. Now, when you step into Fantasyland, you'll find yourself in a European-themed setting. Cobblestone pathways and colorful foliage reminiscent of the Black Forest put the finishing touches to Fantasyland's new Storybook Village. Each attraction today sports a detailed, three-dimensional facade, while technological advances and stunning special effects combine for truly memorable fantasy adventures. Fantasyland will always be a magical land of make-believe, where wishes really come true.
One of the original Opening Day attractions at the Magic Kingdom, Cinderella's Golden Carrousel is nestled in the idyllic heart of Fantasyland, a nod to the inspiration for Walt's Disneyland, the Griffith Park Merry-Go-Round. Held underneath a vibrant medieval tent, sculpted greenery and vibrant flowers set the stage for a cavalry of wood-carved horses and gleaming carriages. Upon the wooden canopy, painted stills depict scenes from Cinderella, held up by hand-carved cherubs. As an old-fashioned organ plays, we parade up and down atop our horses, getting unique views of the wonders that are awaiting us here in Fantasyland. Oh, and by the way, Cinderella's horse is among the team of horses. Just look for the one with the gold ribbon around its tail!
Cinderella's Golden Carrousel and most of its horses date back more than 100 years. It was originally handcrafted by the Philadelphia Toboggan Company in 1917 for Belle Isle Park in Detroit, Michigan, and eventually found its way to Olympic Park in Irvington, New Jersey. Olympic Park closed in 1965, and most of the park's attractions and paraphernalia was either destroyed or sold off. The Walt Disney Company purchased the carousel in 1967, saving it from the jaws of destruction.
Cinderella's Golden Carrousel sets an impressive backdrop for the final resting place of the "Sword in the Stone" itself, Excalibur, the legendary blade of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table. In its base reads: "WHOSO PULLETH OUT THIS SWORD OF THIS STONE AND ANVIL IS RIGHTWISE RULER BORN OF ENGLAND." The wise Merlin hosts the daily Sword in the Stone Ceremony, where a would-be King or Queen of England is chosen in the absence of King Arthur (reportedly visiting the Bermuda) to draw Excalibur from its sheath. Only one true hero will prevail in an often humorous celebration of magic and royalty.
To the right of the carousel, Princess Fairytale Hall gives lords and ladies of all ages the chance to rub elbows with royalty in a lavish setting. The Fairytale Hall is the place to go if you want to meet the likes of Cinderella, Tiana, Merida and Elena of Avalor, although faces like Snow White, Rapunzel, Belle, Ariel and Aurora do show up on occasion. In keeping with the new style of Storybook Village, the tournament tents -- as well as the former Seven Dwarfs' Mine shop -- have been turned into a building reminiscent of Disneyland Paris' Auberge de Cendrillon (as pictured above), complete with a replica of the famous pumpkin coach nearby! Heading back towards the castle from the Fairytale Hall, a giant beanstalk can be seen stretching towards the heavens, growing from the top of a thatched-roof cottage; the same cottage that served as the homestead of three certain poor farmers... This homestead serves as the home of Sir Mickey's, a shop themed around the classic featurette Mickey and the Beanstalk. The shop specializes in toys, plushes, clothing and accessories. The beanstalk's roots can be found in the ceiling of the store, and along the walls, with Mickey Mouse himself seen standing on one of the roots. You can even see Willie the Giant peeking through the walls! Just outside Sir Mickey's, a path leads down past the castle, and towards Cinderella's Wishing Well. Much like with La Fuente de la Fortuna in Adventureland, all the coins tossed in the well are donated to children's charities all over the world.
Speaking of characters, it's not just our Disney friends you can find here. There are also a series of characters exclusive to Fantasyland, to help immerse guests in the fairytale setting. First, there's the Royal Majesty Makers, which comprise of retired knight Sir Sterling, his clever niece Bridget, squire Tobias and the kind Lady Llewellyn. As the official ambassadors to Cinderella’s court, they will put your skills to the test—and school you in the finer points of regal behavior. Proper court etiquette is Lady Llewellyn’s domain, while Sir Sterling captivates the crowd with tales of his knightly adventures. In addition, there are three other faces that often wander about the streets. First, there's Clef, the Royal Minstrel of Fantasyland.
Clef is a friendly minstrel, always eager to share a song and tell the stories of the Magic Kingdom. His hair is black and messy, barely concealed by a red cap, festooned with white feathers, much like the hat Prince Florian (that's Snow White's prince) wears. His eyes twinkle with excitement, his mouth always ready to sing. He wears a golden tunic, tied around the waist with a sapphire sash. Upon his shoulders is a cape, shaded in a deep, dark red, with a bright red underline. Upon his legs, he wears black leggings, which pave the way for golden pointed boots. And of course, ever present in his arms is his trusty lute. Personality-wise, Clef is ever so friendly. He is what you would consider a "friend to all living things". He's always happy and full of energy, practically skipping through Fantasyland, playing a melody. He's always eager to strike up a conversation, and quick with a song.
Next, permit me to introduce to you Rosie. Rosie is Clef's sweetheart, and official choreographer of the kingdom. She is clad in a beautiful pink ballgown, perfectly reflecting her status as a dancer. And because I'll use thrift whenever I see it, her ballgown comes from the pre-2001 refurbishment of Beauty and the Beast: Live on Stage at Disney's Hollywood Studios (as seen in the picture above). Rosie is more than willing to teach visitors to Storybook Village how to waltz like a prince or princess, and she is often seen waltzing about with her beau, Clef.
Finally, we have Louis. Louis is Clef's little brother, and is following in his footsteps to learn how to be a minstrel and a storyteller. As such, he can be clumsy and aloof at times, but underneath, he's got a heart as big as all outdoors. These three characters can often be found strolling through Fantasyland together, singing songs and re-telling old stories; and often team up with the Royal Majesty Makers to help welcome guests to Fantasyland.
Now, on the other side of the carousel, we first come across Castle Couture, specializing in princess-themed merchandise. In addition to serving as a gift shop, this area also has a photo studio where PhotoPass photographers will snap your royal portrait. Built within the walls of the shop is Le Fontaine de Cendrillon. Small yet beautiful, this fountain features a bronze sculpture of Cinderella. And if you look at it just right, you'll notice that the crown in the mural behind the sculpture is positioned right on the sculpture's head. The path continues to Sleepy Hollow in Liberty Square.
The stories told within Storybook Village are among the most beloved stories Disney has ever told. Apart from the meet-and-greet, the other major attractions of Storybook Village include four dark rides and a live show; and all five represent one or two different aspects of childhood. To begin with, it should be noted that Mickey's PhilharMagic has played its final performance at the Magic Kingdom; and the theater that used to play host to it has undergone a transformation. The tent-marked concert hall has morphed into an old building that wouldn't feel out of place in 19th-century Paris. The building is festooned with streamers and banners, as if prepared for a jubilant celebration of sorts. And right in the center of it all is a large bell tower, the bell of which rings to mark the hour. Atop the tower is a white flag, which, if our days of Shakespearean study in English class have taught us anything, means that a play is being performed! From within this building, we can hear the warm music and unmistakable laughter of a celebratory feast... Perhaps a feast of fools?
Yes, we have come across the Fantasyland Theatre, which serves as the new home of one of the most breathtaking theatrical productions in Disney Parks history -- The Hunchback of Notre Dame: A Musical Adventure. Much like with Legend of the Lion King, this show is no stranger to Walt Disney World. It originally played at Disney's Hollywood Studios from 1996 until 2002. But now, the show, which represents beauty -- a childhood staple -- has returned to entertain a new generation of Magic Kingdom guests, as well as giving one of Disney's most underrated masterpieces a little bit more representation in the park.
Inside the theater, we find ourselves in a glorious stone-faced lobby, not unlike the inside of a grand cathedral. Lit by the soft, dim glow of candlelight, the stone lobby offers a feeling of peace and sanctuary. Gargoyles and statues look down upon you and smile. Soft instrumental arrangements of the film's score fill the air. Stained-glass windows depict characters from the story we are about to hear. However, the theater itself is an entirely different story. From the safety of this cathedral, we find ourselves deep in the catacombs of Paris, in the Gypsies' secret hideout, the Court of Miracles. The stage looks exactly like the stage of the original DHS version, and blends in perfectly with the catacombs. Giant bells sit not only above our heads, but in holes along the walls as well. Ancient carpets and other goods line the whole place, immersing us in the setting.
Suddenly, the bells start to ring. Gypsies begin to swarm in. The powerful chords of Alan Menken's sweeping score fills our ears. It has begun. Clopin appears and leads us through an unforgettable retelling of Quasimodo's inspired tale. Despite the efforts of the cold, self-righteous Judge Claude Frollo, the deformed bell-ringer eventually finds freedom through his friendships with the beautiful gypsy Esmeralda and the captain of the guard, Phoebus. The story is told through the use of uplifting musical numbers pulled straight from the film, vibrant costumes, innovative and expressive puppets, and a healthy helping of special effects. The show in its original format is splendid, but I would augment the show a bit to include a few more bits of dialogue and add in the "Hellfire" sequence. A script will also be featured among the individual ride-throughs. Oh, and for all those who enjoyed Mickey's PhilharMagic, fear not. Although the show no longer plays at the Magic Kingdom, it has found a new home elsewhere in the resort. Where that is, we'll get to later on. Topsy-Turvy Trinkets, what was formerly known as Fantasy Faire, sits at the exit to the Court of Miracles, offering us merchandise based upon the 1996 film. Quasimodo, Esmeralda, Phoebus, Clopin, and even Frollo are often seen roaming the grounds outside the theater, always happy to meet some new friends.
It's bedtime in the Darling children's nursery, but Wendy, Michael and John have some unexpected visitors! Our travels have brought us before a beautiful building, made of wood and stone, with patchwork roofs as blue as the sea. With its tallest roof topped with a weathervane depicting a pirate ship, this can only be the home of Peter Pan's Flight. Built in the true "E-Ticket" fashion, the time-honored attraction, which represents the adventure of childhood, puts us aboard a flying pirate galleon, sprinkled with pixie dust, for an adventure unlike any other. Our adventure begins in London, where we learn to fly with the Darling children, courtesy of their bedtime heroes - Peter Pan and Tinker Bell. Next, we head off into the night sky, where we set sail with Peter Pan over the streets of London, past the second star to the right and straight on into the volcanic peaks, tropical flora and sparkling waterfalls of Neverland. A swashbuckling duel between Pan and Hook gets us hooked on faith, trust and pixie dust as the enchanted Jolly Roger takes flight and returns to the nursery of the Darling children. It is only appropriate that Peter, Wendy, Hook and Smee all make meet 'n' greet appearances around and about Storybook Village, often involved in humorous antics with one another.
A few feet away from Peter Pan’s Flight is a small area themed around the movie Tangled. If you enter Fantasyland from Liberty Square (either from nearby the Columbia Harbour House, or via a path in-between The Haunted Mansion and Memento Mori), this is where you'll find yourself. The area offers theme park guests a chance to simply rest and relax amidst a highly-themed environment. Rapunzel's tower sits atop a rocky waterfall (more trees will be planted to block views of it from Liberty Square and Frontierland), while other nods to the film include various Pascals hidden among the area, Flynn's satchel, Maximus' hoof-prints and of course, multiple frying pans. Rapunzel and Flynn Rider themselves often make meet and greet appearances in a wooden gazebo nearby the village. Vines and leaves will cover the gazebo to create an extremely relaxing atmosphere. A powerful wooden fan rests on the ceiling, providing a cool breeze on those hot Floridian days.
Now, in the current Magic Kingdom, you'd find "it's a small world" nearby. That is not quite the case here. In my ideas, I want to fix one of the biggest problems with the current Fantasyland: the incredibly narrow pathway in-between Peter Pan's Flight and "it's a small world." As such, I would take this opportunity to move "small world" to another corner of the park and give it a refurbishment so that it can finally stand on its own against its larger counterparts. But what of the space left behind? Well, I would finally open up that pathway, and take the opportunity to bring some more classic Disney stories to life.
To begin with, I would expand upon Tangled's presence in Fantasyland with the addition of an all-new dark ride, Tangled: A Royal Celebration. The ride can easily be described as having a similar scope and style to EPCOT's Frozen Ever After, in that it is a slow-moving dark ride through the world of the film, but set after the events of the film, thus building on the world's canon. In Tangled: A Royal Celebration, we set off for Corona in order to be part of Rapunzel's birthday celebration, her first one since she returned to the kingdom. However, the path from the forest to the kingdom is not always smooth sailing, and a few dangers pop up. Luckily, with Flynn, Maximus and Pascal at our sides, we are able to arrive at the kingdom just in time to see the floating lanterns fill the sky, in a warm and whimsical celebration of friendship.
Across the street from the Royal Celebration, beneath towering steeples and chimneys, wrought-iron weathervanes and swaying roofs, we find the entrance to what looks like a fanciful puppet theater. Inside these walls, Pinocchio's Daring Journey takes us aboard an enchanted woodcarver’s cart and into the celebrated world of Walt Disney's Pinocchio. Along cobblestone alpine roads, we follow little Pinocchio and his faithful conscience Jiminy Cricket as they attempt to avoid fateful encounters with the wily Foulfellow and Gideon, the cruel Stromboli, the donkeys of Pleasure Island, the Coachman and the dreaded Monstro the Whale. It's a rather intense story, which is why the ride represents fear. But fear not -- all ends well for our intrepid heroes. Guided by the "wishing star," we meet the lovely Blue Fairy and ultimately share in Pinocchio’s happy ending. It seems only fitting that the ride exit out into Geppetto's Toy Shoppe, a must-see for toy collectors and world-travelers alike, a cozy collection of international trinkets and treasures. Hand-carved marionettes, nutcrackers, cuckoo-clocks, toys, candies, puzzles, music boxes and dolls stock the shelves, each an import from Central Europe and beyond. Figaro the cat can be seen on the shop’s highest windowsill, fast asleep, often awakening for a quick swipe at a nearby "occupied" birdcage.
Of course, what Fantasyland would be complete without the inclusion of the Pinocchio Village Haus? All real boys and girls can feast upon Italian favorites in this quaint cottage. Italian cheeses, panini sandwiches, seafood, pastas and stone-cooked pizzas are just a few of the available selections. Aside from lavish murals harkening to Walt Disney's classic Pinocchio, large windows provide ample viewing of the streets of Fantasyland. In keeping with the "roaming character" aspect of Fantasyland, the likes of Pinocchio, Geppetto and Jiminy Cricket can be seen here, joined on special occasions by the Blue Fairy.
At the farthest end of the new street, we come across a beautiful sight. Blending in beautifully with the naturalistic settings of Storybook Village is an old, timbered English farmhouse. A verdant garden takes up residence in the backyard, marked by a tall oak with a blue balloon tied to one of its branches. Stepping inside the farmhouse through its tool-shed, we pass through a hallway and find ourselves in the room that belongs "to a boy named Christopher Robin." Of course, his favorite storybook is wide-open, and big enough for us to step through. It is here, inside this book, that we take a magical journey through the imagination of a child; for this English farmhouse is the all-too-appropriate home of Pooh's Hunny Hunt.
This incredible and unique attraction, the world's "first trackless dark ride," premiered in Tokyo Disneyland on September 4, 2000. Its predecessor, The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh, which opened at the Magic Kingdom just a year and three months earlier -- June 4, 1999, to be precise -- has definitely started to show its age; and consequently, is usually deemed as just "mediocre." Certainly not helping its reputation is that it controversially replaced Mr. Toad's Wild Ride. Therefore, I see it as a smart move to add Pooh's Hunny Hunt to the Magic Kingdom.
Based on the stories of A.A. Milne and the timeless music written by the Sherman Bros., Pooh's Hunny Hunt has riders swept up in a gust of wind on a Blustery Day, bouncing alongside a boisterous Tigger, and caught in the midst of a colorful nightmare swarmed with mischievous Heffalumps and Woozles. Of course, all ends well, because as Pooh is dreaming, the blustery wind takes him up into the Honey Tree, where he wakes up to a hefty helping of his favorite treat. Pooh's Hunny Hunt uses a state-of-the-art trackless ride system developed by WED. A custom local positioning system (LPS) is used to manage an array of sensors as opposed to a dedicated wire or track embedded in the floor. The patented control system works by directional data being relayed from a master control computer directly to the vehicles which are fashioned to resemble honey pots. This data is then used to move an individual honey pot car through a complicated matrix embedded within the actual floor tiles. Every few seconds, the master computer generates a random path and "steers" the honey pot in real-time, so as the cars roll through the ride the vehicles are, in fact, being told where to go. Because this system is in real-time, they can maneuver accordingly in just fractions of a second. This also allows for spontaneous yet synchronized "honey pot choreography" with groups of honey pots (as many as eight in a single show scene) appearing to "dance" with the others, often timed with beats in the music. Due to limitless variations possible, each journey through the attraction is unique.
Leaving the 100 Acre Wood and coming back to the farmhouse, Pooh Corner is our one-stop shop for all things Pooh. The shop is most notable for its elegant window display, featuring the famous Pooh doll, the storybook and various other small toys. It'll surely bring back memories of visiting the toy store at Christmastime as a kid, sure to bring kids inside. Once you walk through the doors, you're overwhelmed with color and the fun atmosphere that is set up in the store. Available for purchase are a wide variety of toys aimed at younger children, in particular rows and rows of stuffed animals and books. There is also a bakery portion of the store, with different sweet treats much like you'd find at the Main Street Confectionery, but with a Winnie the Pooh theme, including Disneyland's popular "Tigger Tails". In addition, there will be seating available like a small coffee shop for you to relax with your snacks in the air conditioning. (Or in the heat come winter!) So, while you make your way through this charming forest, be sure to stop by Pooh Corner and take a honey-sweet break. (And maybe sneak a present for the little ones!). The only "bother" here is settling on a purchase!
Nearby, aptly set up near the gardens of the farmhouse and under the shade of a "honey tree", The Hunny Tree offers delicious food inspired by the Winnie the Pooh stories. The main courses on the menu include honey in some way--spinach salad with honey pecans, buttermilk and honey chicken kabobs, chicken tenders served with either honey mustard sauce or honey itself, and honey ham and Swiss sandwiches. In addition, The Hunny Tree offers selections from Rabbit's garden: salads, fruit and veggie cups and hearty vegetable soup, as well as honey whole-wheat bread and a specialty dessert you can't find at Pooh Corner: "Heavenly Honey", which amounts to three layers of honey-flavored doughnuts topped with icing and drizzled in warm honey. Of course, Pooh, Rabbit, Eeyore, Piglet, Tigger, Christopher Robin, Owl, Kanga and Roo all make meet-and-greet appearances in the surrounding hollow.
And there we have the first half of Fantasyland. There will be three posts regarding this magical land, so expect to see the next two coming along over the weekend. But until then, what do you guys think of Fantasyland thus far? Are you excited to see Hunchback and Tangled getting their own attraction? Are you excited to see Hunny Hunt here? Keep the feedback coming and I'll see you in the next post!
UPDATE: Here is how the expanded Storybook Village would look.
~ ~ ~
Fantasyland
Make a wish...you're about to enter a world where classic Disney stories leap off the screen and come to life like never before. Here is a land where elephants fly, teacups dance and every corner holds a bit of the magic of dreams come true. If the Magic Kingdom has a heart, it is surely here.
Fantasyland was always portrayed as Walt's favorite, although much like children, no doubt he'd be hard pressed to pick a favored land in his Park. Fantasyland, however, was the realm of his already-famous and most-beloved canon and characters, a land that Snow White, Peter Pan, Mr. Toad, and Alice might call home. Mickey, Minnie, Pluto, Goofy, and Donald were also perfectly at home in the regal fairy tale and comfy storybook settings - created for this new entertainment experience by many of the same men and women who had brought them to the movie screen.
The impressive Cinderella Castle transports us from the classic Americana of Main Street, U.S.A. and into the age-old pages of a childhood storybook. Here, magnificent mosaics, golden spires, lavish tapestries, imposing gargoyles, and ornate latticework compose a symphonic atmosphere reminiscent of the grandeur and romance of the Renaissance. Cinderella Castle truly represents a bygone era: a time where princes and princesses reigned, a time when dragons roared and knights sought to intercede them, a time when fairy-tale fantasy lived in a world rich in magic... This world, of course is represented beyond the castle walls in the happiest kingdom of all, Fantasyland.
(NOTE: It should be pointed out that in my ideal Magic Kingdom, as showcased in the picture above, the Castle Forecourt Stage is gone. However, much like with the Christmas Dreamlights, a temporary stage would be set up for Halloween and Christmas. This way, the Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular and Mickey's Most Merriest Celebration can continue to delight guests at their respective parties.)
As we cross over the stone bridge and through its towering portico, we are "welcomed" by a never-ending loop of some of Disney's classic fairy-tale romance songs: "When You Wish Upon a Star", "Once Upon a Dream", "A Dream is a Wish Your Heart Makes" and "Someday My Prince Will Come". The sheer size and magnificence of Cinderella Castle is fully realized once inside the castle's lavish interior, laden with decor reminiscent of the medieval era; vivid tapestries, stone statues and fine-glass windows. The most notable feature of the Castle's interior is a series of mosaic murals, re-telling the story of Cinderella through over 30,000 individual glass tiles, their colors flecked with real gold. The scenes speak of romance, magic, and beautiful dreams all come true.
The Bibbidi-Bobbidi Boutique resides on the first floor of the castle. In this enchanted chamber inhabited by chattering mice and whistling bluebirds, children of all ages are allowed the chance to magically transform into his or her own favorite Disney character (mostly princesses), a dream come true for many a youngster. Right nearby the Boutique, we climb an elegant spiral stairwell to the second floor, playful gargoyles and the light of dim sconces beckoning for us to climb toward whatever mysteries and magic may preside above.
Soaring archways and cathedral ceilings create a dramatic atmosphere for Cinderella's Royal Table, a fantastical feast for the eyes and taste buds. As the story goes, Cinderella is holding a banquet in honor of the world’s best-loved Disney Princesses, and we are invited. As such, we dine in splendor as Disney's iconic princesses mingle, give autographs and pose for pictures. Cinderella, Snow White, Belle, Aurora, and Ariel are just a few of the familiar guests in attendance. Authentic medieval tapestries and acquired artifacts adorn the lavish dining room, whilst flags and shields bearing the namesake of many a medieval nation hang proudly above us.
A climb to the third-floor takes us to the closed-off residence of the Cinderella Castle Suite, an in-park hotel suite if you will. Only reserved for those of us with special circumstances (or taking a guided tour of the park), the Cinderella Castle Suite is an immersive gem hidden within the castle walls, a luxurious penthouse suite of fantastical proportions. With a master bedroom, jacuzzi-tub, and stunning view of Fantasyland, the Cinderella Castle Suite is truly and quite literally the suite of our dreams.
Heading back downstairs, we pass through the northernmost-facing portico of Cinderella Castle and step into Storybook Village, a quaint little village displaying what life in the Dark Ages might have been like were it to clash with the color and whimsy of Toontown. Architecture of Bavarian, Dutch, Swiss, and Tudor origin craft the town. Minstrel-style arrangements of classic Disney tunes fill the air, creating a sense of medieval trade and fellowship. Beloved Disney characters roam the streets, eager to meet with guests, thus truly making Fantasyland the land where characters live. Though the characters found throughout Fantasyland have specific meet 'n' greet locations, don't be surprised to see them wandering about, taking full advantage of the "roaming character" concept.
For reasons of budget, schedule, and creative intent, when the Magic Kingdom first opened in 1971, the initial decor for the Fantasyland courtyard was that of a simple medieval tournament, with brightly colored (sheet metal) awnings, tents and banners. And as the years have gone by, the "Old" Fantasyland has clearly shown its wear and tear, especially when compared to the New Fantasyland that opened in 2012. Because of this, the "Old" Fantasyland area has been remodeled inside and out, and new exteriors reflecting the locale and era of the attractions were built. Now, when you step into Fantasyland, you'll find yourself in a European-themed setting. Cobblestone pathways and colorful foliage reminiscent of the Black Forest put the finishing touches to Fantasyland's new Storybook Village. Each attraction today sports a detailed, three-dimensional facade, while technological advances and stunning special effects combine for truly memorable fantasy adventures. Fantasyland will always be a magical land of make-believe, where wishes really come true.
One of the original Opening Day attractions at the Magic Kingdom, Cinderella's Golden Carrousel is nestled in the idyllic heart of Fantasyland, a nod to the inspiration for Walt's Disneyland, the Griffith Park Merry-Go-Round. Held underneath a vibrant medieval tent, sculpted greenery and vibrant flowers set the stage for a cavalry of wood-carved horses and gleaming carriages. Upon the wooden canopy, painted stills depict scenes from Cinderella, held up by hand-carved cherubs. As an old-fashioned organ plays, we parade up and down atop our horses, getting unique views of the wonders that are awaiting us here in Fantasyland. Oh, and by the way, Cinderella's horse is among the team of horses. Just look for the one with the gold ribbon around its tail!
Cinderella's Golden Carrousel and most of its horses date back more than 100 years. It was originally handcrafted by the Philadelphia Toboggan Company in 1917 for Belle Isle Park in Detroit, Michigan, and eventually found its way to Olympic Park in Irvington, New Jersey. Olympic Park closed in 1965, and most of the park's attractions and paraphernalia was either destroyed or sold off. The Walt Disney Company purchased the carousel in 1967, saving it from the jaws of destruction.
Cinderella's Golden Carrousel sets an impressive backdrop for the final resting place of the "Sword in the Stone" itself, Excalibur, the legendary blade of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table. In its base reads: "WHOSO PULLETH OUT THIS SWORD OF THIS STONE AND ANVIL IS RIGHTWISE RULER BORN OF ENGLAND." The wise Merlin hosts the daily Sword in the Stone Ceremony, where a would-be King or Queen of England is chosen in the absence of King Arthur (reportedly visiting the Bermuda) to draw Excalibur from its sheath. Only one true hero will prevail in an often humorous celebration of magic and royalty.
To the right of the carousel, Princess Fairytale Hall gives lords and ladies of all ages the chance to rub elbows with royalty in a lavish setting. The Fairytale Hall is the place to go if you want to meet the likes of Cinderella, Tiana, Merida and Elena of Avalor, although faces like Snow White, Rapunzel, Belle, Ariel and Aurora do show up on occasion. In keeping with the new style of Storybook Village, the tournament tents -- as well as the former Seven Dwarfs' Mine shop -- have been turned into a building reminiscent of Disneyland Paris' Auberge de Cendrillon (as pictured above), complete with a replica of the famous pumpkin coach nearby! Heading back towards the castle from the Fairytale Hall, a giant beanstalk can be seen stretching towards the heavens, growing from the top of a thatched-roof cottage; the same cottage that served as the homestead of three certain poor farmers... This homestead serves as the home of Sir Mickey's, a shop themed around the classic featurette Mickey and the Beanstalk. The shop specializes in toys, plushes, clothing and accessories. The beanstalk's roots can be found in the ceiling of the store, and along the walls, with Mickey Mouse himself seen standing on one of the roots. You can even see Willie the Giant peeking through the walls! Just outside Sir Mickey's, a path leads down past the castle, and towards Cinderella's Wishing Well. Much like with La Fuente de la Fortuna in Adventureland, all the coins tossed in the well are donated to children's charities all over the world.
Speaking of characters, it's not just our Disney friends you can find here. There are also a series of characters exclusive to Fantasyland, to help immerse guests in the fairytale setting. First, there's the Royal Majesty Makers, which comprise of retired knight Sir Sterling, his clever niece Bridget, squire Tobias and the kind Lady Llewellyn. As the official ambassadors to Cinderella’s court, they will put your skills to the test—and school you in the finer points of regal behavior. Proper court etiquette is Lady Llewellyn’s domain, while Sir Sterling captivates the crowd with tales of his knightly adventures. In addition, there are three other faces that often wander about the streets. First, there's Clef, the Royal Minstrel of Fantasyland.
Clef is a friendly minstrel, always eager to share a song and tell the stories of the Magic Kingdom. His hair is black and messy, barely concealed by a red cap, festooned with white feathers, much like the hat Prince Florian (that's Snow White's prince) wears. His eyes twinkle with excitement, his mouth always ready to sing. He wears a golden tunic, tied around the waist with a sapphire sash. Upon his shoulders is a cape, shaded in a deep, dark red, with a bright red underline. Upon his legs, he wears black leggings, which pave the way for golden pointed boots. And of course, ever present in his arms is his trusty lute. Personality-wise, Clef is ever so friendly. He is what you would consider a "friend to all living things". He's always happy and full of energy, practically skipping through Fantasyland, playing a melody. He's always eager to strike up a conversation, and quick with a song.
Next, permit me to introduce to you Rosie. Rosie is Clef's sweetheart, and official choreographer of the kingdom. She is clad in a beautiful pink ballgown, perfectly reflecting her status as a dancer. And because I'll use thrift whenever I see it, her ballgown comes from the pre-2001 refurbishment of Beauty and the Beast: Live on Stage at Disney's Hollywood Studios (as seen in the picture above). Rosie is more than willing to teach visitors to Storybook Village how to waltz like a prince or princess, and she is often seen waltzing about with her beau, Clef.
Finally, we have Louis. Louis is Clef's little brother, and is following in his footsteps to learn how to be a minstrel and a storyteller. As such, he can be clumsy and aloof at times, but underneath, he's got a heart as big as all outdoors. These three characters can often be found strolling through Fantasyland together, singing songs and re-telling old stories; and often team up with the Royal Majesty Makers to help welcome guests to Fantasyland.
Now, on the other side of the carousel, we first come across Castle Couture, specializing in princess-themed merchandise. In addition to serving as a gift shop, this area also has a photo studio where PhotoPass photographers will snap your royal portrait. Built within the walls of the shop is Le Fontaine de Cendrillon. Small yet beautiful, this fountain features a bronze sculpture of Cinderella. And if you look at it just right, you'll notice that the crown in the mural behind the sculpture is positioned right on the sculpture's head. The path continues to Sleepy Hollow in Liberty Square.
The stories told within Storybook Village are among the most beloved stories Disney has ever told. Apart from the meet-and-greet, the other major attractions of Storybook Village include four dark rides and a live show; and all five represent one or two different aspects of childhood. To begin with, it should be noted that Mickey's PhilharMagic has played its final performance at the Magic Kingdom; and the theater that used to play host to it has undergone a transformation. The tent-marked concert hall has morphed into an old building that wouldn't feel out of place in 19th-century Paris. The building is festooned with streamers and banners, as if prepared for a jubilant celebration of sorts. And right in the center of it all is a large bell tower, the bell of which rings to mark the hour. Atop the tower is a white flag, which, if our days of Shakespearean study in English class have taught us anything, means that a play is being performed! From within this building, we can hear the warm music and unmistakable laughter of a celebratory feast... Perhaps a feast of fools?
Yes, we have come across the Fantasyland Theatre, which serves as the new home of one of the most breathtaking theatrical productions in Disney Parks history -- The Hunchback of Notre Dame: A Musical Adventure. Much like with Legend of the Lion King, this show is no stranger to Walt Disney World. It originally played at Disney's Hollywood Studios from 1996 until 2002. But now, the show, which represents beauty -- a childhood staple -- has returned to entertain a new generation of Magic Kingdom guests, as well as giving one of Disney's most underrated masterpieces a little bit more representation in the park.
Inside the theater, we find ourselves in a glorious stone-faced lobby, not unlike the inside of a grand cathedral. Lit by the soft, dim glow of candlelight, the stone lobby offers a feeling of peace and sanctuary. Gargoyles and statues look down upon you and smile. Soft instrumental arrangements of the film's score fill the air. Stained-glass windows depict characters from the story we are about to hear. However, the theater itself is an entirely different story. From the safety of this cathedral, we find ourselves deep in the catacombs of Paris, in the Gypsies' secret hideout, the Court of Miracles. The stage looks exactly like the stage of the original DHS version, and blends in perfectly with the catacombs. Giant bells sit not only above our heads, but in holes along the walls as well. Ancient carpets and other goods line the whole place, immersing us in the setting.
Suddenly, the bells start to ring. Gypsies begin to swarm in. The powerful chords of Alan Menken's sweeping score fills our ears. It has begun. Clopin appears and leads us through an unforgettable retelling of Quasimodo's inspired tale. Despite the efforts of the cold, self-righteous Judge Claude Frollo, the deformed bell-ringer eventually finds freedom through his friendships with the beautiful gypsy Esmeralda and the captain of the guard, Phoebus. The story is told through the use of uplifting musical numbers pulled straight from the film, vibrant costumes, innovative and expressive puppets, and a healthy helping of special effects. The show in its original format is splendid, but I would augment the show a bit to include a few more bits of dialogue and add in the "Hellfire" sequence. A script will also be featured among the individual ride-throughs. Oh, and for all those who enjoyed Mickey's PhilharMagic, fear not. Although the show no longer plays at the Magic Kingdom, it has found a new home elsewhere in the resort. Where that is, we'll get to later on. Topsy-Turvy Trinkets, what was formerly known as Fantasy Faire, sits at the exit to the Court of Miracles, offering us merchandise based upon the 1996 film. Quasimodo, Esmeralda, Phoebus, Clopin, and even Frollo are often seen roaming the grounds outside the theater, always happy to meet some new friends.
It's bedtime in the Darling children's nursery, but Wendy, Michael and John have some unexpected visitors! Our travels have brought us before a beautiful building, made of wood and stone, with patchwork roofs as blue as the sea. With its tallest roof topped with a weathervane depicting a pirate ship, this can only be the home of Peter Pan's Flight. Built in the true "E-Ticket" fashion, the time-honored attraction, which represents the adventure of childhood, puts us aboard a flying pirate galleon, sprinkled with pixie dust, for an adventure unlike any other. Our adventure begins in London, where we learn to fly with the Darling children, courtesy of their bedtime heroes - Peter Pan and Tinker Bell. Next, we head off into the night sky, where we set sail with Peter Pan over the streets of London, past the second star to the right and straight on into the volcanic peaks, tropical flora and sparkling waterfalls of Neverland. A swashbuckling duel between Pan and Hook gets us hooked on faith, trust and pixie dust as the enchanted Jolly Roger takes flight and returns to the nursery of the Darling children. It is only appropriate that Peter, Wendy, Hook and Smee all make meet 'n' greet appearances around and about Storybook Village, often involved in humorous antics with one another.
A few feet away from Peter Pan’s Flight is a small area themed around the movie Tangled. If you enter Fantasyland from Liberty Square (either from nearby the Columbia Harbour House, or via a path in-between The Haunted Mansion and Memento Mori), this is where you'll find yourself. The area offers theme park guests a chance to simply rest and relax amidst a highly-themed environment. Rapunzel's tower sits atop a rocky waterfall (more trees will be planted to block views of it from Liberty Square and Frontierland), while other nods to the film include various Pascals hidden among the area, Flynn's satchel, Maximus' hoof-prints and of course, multiple frying pans. Rapunzel and Flynn Rider themselves often make meet and greet appearances in a wooden gazebo nearby the village. Vines and leaves will cover the gazebo to create an extremely relaxing atmosphere. A powerful wooden fan rests on the ceiling, providing a cool breeze on those hot Floridian days.
Now, in the current Magic Kingdom, you'd find "it's a small world" nearby. That is not quite the case here. In my ideas, I want to fix one of the biggest problems with the current Fantasyland: the incredibly narrow pathway in-between Peter Pan's Flight and "it's a small world." As such, I would take this opportunity to move "small world" to another corner of the park and give it a refurbishment so that it can finally stand on its own against its larger counterparts. But what of the space left behind? Well, I would finally open up that pathway, and take the opportunity to bring some more classic Disney stories to life.
To begin with, I would expand upon Tangled's presence in Fantasyland with the addition of an all-new dark ride, Tangled: A Royal Celebration. The ride can easily be described as having a similar scope and style to EPCOT's Frozen Ever After, in that it is a slow-moving dark ride through the world of the film, but set after the events of the film, thus building on the world's canon. In Tangled: A Royal Celebration, we set off for Corona in order to be part of Rapunzel's birthday celebration, her first one since she returned to the kingdom. However, the path from the forest to the kingdom is not always smooth sailing, and a few dangers pop up. Luckily, with Flynn, Maximus and Pascal at our sides, we are able to arrive at the kingdom just in time to see the floating lanterns fill the sky, in a warm and whimsical celebration of friendship.
Across the street from the Royal Celebration, beneath towering steeples and chimneys, wrought-iron weathervanes and swaying roofs, we find the entrance to what looks like a fanciful puppet theater. Inside these walls, Pinocchio's Daring Journey takes us aboard an enchanted woodcarver’s cart and into the celebrated world of Walt Disney's Pinocchio. Along cobblestone alpine roads, we follow little Pinocchio and his faithful conscience Jiminy Cricket as they attempt to avoid fateful encounters with the wily Foulfellow and Gideon, the cruel Stromboli, the donkeys of Pleasure Island, the Coachman and the dreaded Monstro the Whale. It's a rather intense story, which is why the ride represents fear. But fear not -- all ends well for our intrepid heroes. Guided by the "wishing star," we meet the lovely Blue Fairy and ultimately share in Pinocchio’s happy ending. It seems only fitting that the ride exit out into Geppetto's Toy Shoppe, a must-see for toy collectors and world-travelers alike, a cozy collection of international trinkets and treasures. Hand-carved marionettes, nutcrackers, cuckoo-clocks, toys, candies, puzzles, music boxes and dolls stock the shelves, each an import from Central Europe and beyond. Figaro the cat can be seen on the shop’s highest windowsill, fast asleep, often awakening for a quick swipe at a nearby "occupied" birdcage.
Of course, what Fantasyland would be complete without the inclusion of the Pinocchio Village Haus? All real boys and girls can feast upon Italian favorites in this quaint cottage. Italian cheeses, panini sandwiches, seafood, pastas and stone-cooked pizzas are just a few of the available selections. Aside from lavish murals harkening to Walt Disney's classic Pinocchio, large windows provide ample viewing of the streets of Fantasyland. In keeping with the "roaming character" aspect of Fantasyland, the likes of Pinocchio, Geppetto and Jiminy Cricket can be seen here, joined on special occasions by the Blue Fairy.
At the farthest end of the new street, we come across a beautiful sight. Blending in beautifully with the naturalistic settings of Storybook Village is an old, timbered English farmhouse. A verdant garden takes up residence in the backyard, marked by a tall oak with a blue balloon tied to one of its branches. Stepping inside the farmhouse through its tool-shed, we pass through a hallway and find ourselves in the room that belongs "to a boy named Christopher Robin." Of course, his favorite storybook is wide-open, and big enough for us to step through. It is here, inside this book, that we take a magical journey through the imagination of a child; for this English farmhouse is the all-too-appropriate home of Pooh's Hunny Hunt.
This incredible and unique attraction, the world's "first trackless dark ride," premiered in Tokyo Disneyland on September 4, 2000. Its predecessor, The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh, which opened at the Magic Kingdom just a year and three months earlier -- June 4, 1999, to be precise -- has definitely started to show its age; and consequently, is usually deemed as just "mediocre." Certainly not helping its reputation is that it controversially replaced Mr. Toad's Wild Ride. Therefore, I see it as a smart move to add Pooh's Hunny Hunt to the Magic Kingdom.
Based on the stories of A.A. Milne and the timeless music written by the Sherman Bros., Pooh's Hunny Hunt has riders swept up in a gust of wind on a Blustery Day, bouncing alongside a boisterous Tigger, and caught in the midst of a colorful nightmare swarmed with mischievous Heffalumps and Woozles. Of course, all ends well, because as Pooh is dreaming, the blustery wind takes him up into the Honey Tree, where he wakes up to a hefty helping of his favorite treat. Pooh's Hunny Hunt uses a state-of-the-art trackless ride system developed by WED. A custom local positioning system (LPS) is used to manage an array of sensors as opposed to a dedicated wire or track embedded in the floor. The patented control system works by directional data being relayed from a master control computer directly to the vehicles which are fashioned to resemble honey pots. This data is then used to move an individual honey pot car through a complicated matrix embedded within the actual floor tiles. Every few seconds, the master computer generates a random path and "steers" the honey pot in real-time, so as the cars roll through the ride the vehicles are, in fact, being told where to go. Because this system is in real-time, they can maneuver accordingly in just fractions of a second. This also allows for spontaneous yet synchronized "honey pot choreography" with groups of honey pots (as many as eight in a single show scene) appearing to "dance" with the others, often timed with beats in the music. Due to limitless variations possible, each journey through the attraction is unique.
Leaving the 100 Acre Wood and coming back to the farmhouse, Pooh Corner is our one-stop shop for all things Pooh. The shop is most notable for its elegant window display, featuring the famous Pooh doll, the storybook and various other small toys. It'll surely bring back memories of visiting the toy store at Christmastime as a kid, sure to bring kids inside. Once you walk through the doors, you're overwhelmed with color and the fun atmosphere that is set up in the store. Available for purchase are a wide variety of toys aimed at younger children, in particular rows and rows of stuffed animals and books. There is also a bakery portion of the store, with different sweet treats much like you'd find at the Main Street Confectionery, but with a Winnie the Pooh theme, including Disneyland's popular "Tigger Tails". In addition, there will be seating available like a small coffee shop for you to relax with your snacks in the air conditioning. (Or in the heat come winter!) So, while you make your way through this charming forest, be sure to stop by Pooh Corner and take a honey-sweet break. (And maybe sneak a present for the little ones!). The only "bother" here is settling on a purchase!
Nearby, aptly set up near the gardens of the farmhouse and under the shade of a "honey tree", The Hunny Tree offers delicious food inspired by the Winnie the Pooh stories. The main courses on the menu include honey in some way--spinach salad with honey pecans, buttermilk and honey chicken kabobs, chicken tenders served with either honey mustard sauce or honey itself, and honey ham and Swiss sandwiches. In addition, The Hunny Tree offers selections from Rabbit's garden: salads, fruit and veggie cups and hearty vegetable soup, as well as honey whole-wheat bread and a specialty dessert you can't find at Pooh Corner: "Heavenly Honey", which amounts to three layers of honey-flavored doughnuts topped with icing and drizzled in warm honey. Of course, Pooh, Rabbit, Eeyore, Piglet, Tigger, Christopher Robin, Owl, Kanga and Roo all make meet-and-greet appearances in the surrounding hollow.
~ ~ ~
And there we have the first half of Fantasyland. There will be three posts regarding this magical land, so expect to see the next two coming along over the weekend. But until then, what do you guys think of Fantasyland thus far? Are you excited to see Hunchback and Tangled getting their own attraction? Are you excited to see Hunny Hunt here? Keep the feedback coming and I'll see you in the next post!
UPDATE: Here is how the expanded Storybook Village would look.
Last edited:
