Walt Disney World for Adults: Magic Kingdom Edition!
The Magic Kingdom is thought to be the most magical place on earth, especially for kids.
No need to worry. This place is just as magical for adults who love the charm Walt Disney World is known to have!
As a grown-up going to the Magic Kingdom, all you have to do is unleash your freedom and dive in.
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Disney’s Magic Kingdom is For Adults Too!
This park is a wonderful starter for those interested in the classic Disney appeal. It gives a good variety of thrilling attractions on the more milder side.
You’re in the thick of theme park entertainment with all the shows, parades, and fireworks in one place.
I’m usually alone in my solo theme park adventures, but on occasion you may find me doing Disney with my friends the adult way!
Try not to think about the massive number of crying kids, annoying teens, and cranky toddlers. Let not the music of adolescent beings prohibit your trip to the Magic Kingdom theme park.
This venture you have chosen can be super fun.
…to the degree you have no imaginative restrictions or boundaries.
Buy all your Disney apparel without anyone (like a parental-figure) telling you “no you can’t have that,” or “it’s not in the budget!”
This could be a good or bad thing depending on if your personality allows for self-control.
This Magic Kingdom Guide will answer:
- What makes the Magic Kingdom a park for grown-ups?
- Are there tips for adults going to the Magic Kingdom?
- What is there to do at the Magic Kingdom for adults?
- Is the Magic Kingdom fun for adults?
- What is the Magic Kingdom itinerary for adults?
- Are there Magic Kingdom Must Do’s for adults?
- What are the best attractions at the Magic Kingdom for adults?
- Where can you find alcoholic beverages in the Magic Kingdom?
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What makes the Magic Kingdom a park for grown-ups?
It’s the wonderful magic that greets you on Main Street U.S.A. I like to remember my first visits which are triggered by the enchanted sites and sugary smells along the main road.
For the occasional theme park goer, the Magic Kingdom is a manageable and easy park to navigate.
The Magic Kingdom is divided into six lands:
- Main Street U.S.A.
- Tomorrowland
- Fantasyland
- Frontierland
- Liberty Square
- Adventureland
The lands are centered around the hub, which is Cinderella Castle. This is especially important to note when planning and mapping out your trip.
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What to Expect on Your Trip to Walt Disney World
When it comes to experiencing the attractions, if you’re a thrill ride junkie, then this may not be the park for you.
If you’re an adult who likes to mix up moderate thrills with more relaxing moments, then you’re in the right place.
Start your trip off by walking through the shops of Main Street U.S.A.
The next adult thing to do is to grab the best Starbucks drink and find a nice table outside Casey’s Corner overlooking the castle.
While you’re in your Magic Kingdom daze, go over your itinerary for that day and take a few pictures to set off your trip.
Ready to plan your theme park trip? Watch the best vacation planning tips on YouTube. Get started here!
10 Easy Tips for Adults Going to the Magic Kingdom
Now that you know what to expect, let’s go over a few of my favorite tips and tricks for the Magic Kingdom!
1. Get to the park before it opens
I mention this tip in almost every post because it is very important. Especially if you’re coming to any of the central Florida theme parks.
The Magic Kingdom is the busiest theme park in the world so be sure to get there before to the gates open.
Remember: Try to arrive an hour and a half before the park opens.
This may seem radical, but if you’re parking you have to take into consideration:
- Finding a parking space.
- Getting on the tram to the transportation ticket center.
- Taking the monorail or boat over to the Magic Kingdom gates. There can be a very long line to get on the monorail or the boat.
- Getting through the ticket turnstiles. This may take a while due to new security safety measures of having your bags checked.
WATCH: 13 Beginner Tips for Going to Disney World This Year!
2. Be sure to check out the Magic Kingdom crowd calendar
The calendar gives you an estimation of peak times at the Magic Kingdom throughout the year.
Beware, its times can change and is not always 100% accurate, but it gives you a general idea of the park’s busyness.
Plus, the Magic Kingdom is the most popular theme park in world!
What are the Best Times to Visit the Magic Kingdom?
These months are closely followed by May and October as still pretty decent visiting times.
3. Plan out your day using the Disney Genie+ system
It’s sad to say, but we have officially left the FastPass era and have entered into the world of Disney Genie and Lightning Lane.
As per Disney, Genie is the brand new complimentary and convenient new digital service within the My Disney Experience app specially designed to help create your perfect Disney day.
So you can basically view the Disney Genie as your own personal travel assistant. It will give you the park hours for the park you have chosen for the day, suggested things to do, and a so much more!
This is an absolute MUST DO tip for any trip at ANY of the Walt Disney World theme parks.
4. Download the Walt Disney World park app and purchase tickets online
The Disney app allows you to make your Disney Park reservations before your visit. You can check out your PhotoPass pictures and view wait times while you’re in the park.
The app will also allow you to book dining arrangements within the app. Tickets are also cheaper when you purchase them online.
Hipster Power Tip: You will want to have this app on hand while you’re at the park to keep track of wait times. The app is about 80% accurate when it comes to the wait times.
Because the flow of traffic is constantly moving, the wait times may not be up-to-date by the minute.
5. Dress comfy but stylish
Make sure you have a good pair of sneakers, a light-weight t-shirt, shorts, and a hat to block the Florida sun. You’ll want to remain stylish.
After all, we are ThemeParkHipsters! Plus, you want your pictures to be memorable.
6. Have water on hand
The must bring item is water. The Florida heat and humidity is hard to describe to out of town guests who are use to milder temperatures.
The Florida summer heat and sometimes the early fall heat can affect someone who’s not used to it.
Hipster Power Tip: Have water, sunscreen, glasses, a hat, a small umbrella, and a frosty towel in your theme park backpack.
7. Don’t be afraid to ask a Cast Member for help
Disney Cast Members are some of the best people who are around to help. They like to service each guest the Disney way.
In the mist of helping, they sometimes do what’s called “plussing” your day. Which adds more Disney magic to your day than you paid for.
Hipster Power Tip: Never be afraid to ask a Cast Member for help. You never know what you may learn or receive when asking.
8. Ride a top attraction during a parade or fireworks show at the Magic Kingdom
This is a tip I used to do when I was a teenager because I was anti-parades and anti-shows.
If you are the same type a person, then this is the ideal time to ride a high-priority attraction.
9. Go to the Magic Kingdom during the weekday
Tuesdays and Wednesdays tend to be the quieter and less crowded days at the Magic Kingdom.
10. Book a character meal in advance at the Magic Kingdom
The Crystal Palace and Cinderella’s Royal Table offer special dining with Disney characters. These dining experiences book up quickly.
If this is something you would like to do on your adult day at the Magic Kingdom, then definitely book in advance.
Ready to plan your theme park trip? Watch the best vacation planning tips on YouTube. Get started here!
What is there to do at the Magic Kingdom for adults?
First of all, you get a chance to revel in the magical mind of Walt Disney himself as you experience firsthand, his thoughts and dreams.
You can also hop on Disney’s famous rides such:
While you’re there, enjoy throwback attractions like the Jungle Cruise, the Enchanted Tiki Room, Pirates of the Caribbean, the Haunted Mansion, and Walt Disney’s Carousel of Progress.
Another thing adults can do in Disney World is have a great cocktail. What better way to enjoy some of the amazing attractions at the Magic Kingdom than with an adult beverage.
We’ll go through where you can find alcohol in the Magic Kingdom later in this guide.
Events and Parties at the Magic Kingdom
On your adult trip to Disney, you should think about visiting one of the special events that take place after hours inside the park.
It’s your opportunity to be able to experience more attractions without the crazy lines that happen during the day. Plus, these events are perfect for you if this is going to be your first solo trip.
They’re very organized with lots of entertainment to keep you busy. Also, many of the families with smaller kids don’t make it to the end of the night.
This makes the park quite lovely and peaceful when the crowd gets low.
Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party
The Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party is an annual event that started in 1995 as a single celebration but with time and given its popularity it expanded into a long seasonal event.
It’s Disney’s way of celebrating Halloween without the gore that you may find at Universal’s Halloween Horror Nights.
This personally my favorite after hours event to visit at the Magic Kingdom since you get LOTS of free candy and you get to meet some rare Disney characters.
Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party
Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party features special shows including Mickey’s Once Upon A Christmastime Parade, grand fireworks, over the top dance parties, photo ops with Disney characters as well a handful of other unique activities.
There’s also the new nighttime show called Minnies Fantastic Christmastime Fireworks extravaganza which will take you through some of the most heartfelt holiday stories on select nights from until the end of December.
This event is also fun for grown-ups visiting Disney World.
Not only do you get to celebrate the festive season, you’ll get to enjoy free drinks like hot cocoa and unlimited holiday cookies.
Read NEXT: The Magic of Disney World at Christmas (Complete Guide)
Is the Magic Kingdom fun for adults?
Absolutely, yes! Disney’s Magic Kingdom is a safe place for both adults and children. It allows everyone to let go and enjoy their imagination.
When going as adults you can do all the rides and you can buy all the toys without having to ask anyone.
We’re all children at heart who have to “adult “to stay within the norms.
When you are exploring the park, you’re able to put your adult hat away for a second and release the kid inside of you.
Read NEXT: How to Do the Magic Kingdom ALONE!
What’s the Magic Kingdom itinerary for adults?
Now that we have the basics covered, let’s go through how to break down your day.
Hipster Power Tip: Tom Sawyer Island is a cool place for adults to hang out and get away from the noisiness of the Magic Kingdom.
Magic Kingdom Morning Itinerary for Adults
- Before you get to the Magic Kingdom purchase your tickets, book your park reservation, and download the park map.
- Have your Disney Genie+/Lightning Lane reservations booked.
- Arrive at the gates prior to the parking opening and head down Main Street U.S.A.
- Once you’ve taken in Cinderella Castle go left and head towards Adventureland.
- This is where your attraction adventure will begin. Once you’re there, hike up the Swiss Family Treehouse. The tree house provides amazing views of the Magic Kingdom.
- Join other park goers on the Jungle Cruise and listen as the skipper enthusiastically tells stories that echo on the rivers of the jungle.
- Now it’s time to head on another voyage to find Captain Jack Sparrow and the Pirates of the Caribbean.
- Once you’ve escaped the treacherous boat ride grab a Dole Whip. If anybody knows the Disney culture, then you know you must have a Dole Whip on any trip to the Magic Kingdom. If you don’t care for pineapples they do offer alternatives.
- After your refreshments, head over to Frontierland and hop on Tiana’s Bayou Adventure.
If getting wet is not an adult thing for you to do, then skip it and ride the Big Thunder Mountain Railroad. This is a classic, simple, fun ride reminding you of childhood. It’s enjoyable both alone or when you’re there with people who love screaming on rides as much as you do.
Magic Kingdom Afternoon Itinerary for Adults
- Next, take a break and explore the fabulous Tom Sawyer Island. You have to take a mini boat over to the island. It’s only a three-minute ride at the most.
- On the secluded island you will see Liberty Square from different viewpoints. There are also many caves to discover and it’s a location to take a break from the hot weather.
- Once you have enjoyed your time at Tom Sawyer Island ride the Haunted Mansion. This is a Walt Disney World classic ride and it has so much rich history and storytelling.
- After dancing with the happy haunts, take a break and have lunch.
- I prefer Liberty Tree Tavern, but you can book a character dining RSVP at the Crystal Palace. It’s a nice adult thing to do and it is a lot of fun if you love character meet and greets.
- After lunch, head over to Fantasyland and ride the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train. It’s a ride that’s not a high-level, out of your mind roller coaster. It’s more of a beginner’s type of roller coaster, but it’s still pretty exciting.
- Make sure you have a Lightning Lane Pass or Virtual Queue Pass for Tron Lightcycle/Run
- Ride Space Mountain. Space Mountain is one of the staple and signature attractions in the Magic Kingdom. The Genie+ booking usually fills up quickly.
- Go on the Carousel of Progress. It’s not a thrilling ride. It’s dated, but it’s such a classic Disney attraction that I say this is one of my top adult must do attractions.
Remember: This is not anything out of the ordinary; however, the story-line and what Walt Disney was trying to convey on this ride is priceless.
Magic Kingdom Evening Itinerary for Adults
- Since you have that attraction out the way, head over to challenge the space cadets on Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin. It’s like Men in Black Alien Attack or Toy Story Mania. Be sure to get the highest score on this out-of-the-world ride.
- It’s time for you to relax on your adult adventure. This can be a moment to go back to your hotel room to rejuvenate or you can find your perfect space for an evening parade.
- In addition, you can have a special dining experience booked at one of the Magic Kingdom Resorts.
The best adult option is grabbing a drink at Trader Sam’s in the Polynesian, then returning to the Magic Kingdom to watch the Happily Ever After Fireworks Show.
Magic Kingdom Must-Do’s for Adults!
- Conquer each mountain!
- Do a special tour like the Keys to the Kingdom.
- Create your very own special tour such as, a food only day or attraction day.
- Dine at Be Our Guest Restaurant.
- Ride the Tomorrowland PeopleMover at night!
- Try the kiddie, whimsical rides.
- Ride the magical rides like Peter Pan Flight, Dumbo the Flying Elephant, Under the Sea ~ Journey of the Little Mermaid, “it’s a small world,” and The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh.
- Have an adult beverage in the Magic Kingdom.
- Ride classic Disney rides like Carousel of Progress.
- Remember to find a nice quiet area of the park to regroup.
Hipster Power Tip: Be sure to book your Genie+ Reservations for Space Mountain before coming to the park for this attraction.
My favorite thing to do when I want to escape the crowd is to hitch a ride over to Tom Sawyer’s Island and find a quiet seat. I also like to sit in the front area of Liberty Square next to the entrance and people watch.
You can also to take the classic Disney train ride around the park where you will learn some facts about Disney.
What are the best Magic Kingdom rides for adults?
- BIG Thunder Mountain Railroad
- Tiana’s Bayou Adventure
- Haunted Mansion
- The Seven Dwarfs Mine Train
- Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin
- Space Mountain
- Tron Lightcycle/Run
Recommended: The Solo Theme Park Traveler’s Guide
Best Photo Spots at Magic Kingdom
- Cinderella Castle in Main Street USA
- Tom Sawyer Island in Frontierland (lots of photo opportunities here)
- Ariel’s Castle (look for other areas in the outdoor queue) in Fantasyland
- Beast’s Castle at Be Our Guest in Fantasyland
- Gaston’s Tavern and Fountain in Fantasyland
- Rapunzel’s Tower and Courtyard in Fantasyland
- The Disney Character Statues on the Hub Grass Main Street U.S.A.
- Mickey and Walt Statue in front of Cinderella Castle
- Purple Wall in Tomorrowland
- Photo of Main Street U.S.A. from the second floor of the train station
- Tiana’s Bayou Adventure in Frontierland
- Liberty Boat in Liberty Square
Best Snacks at Magic Kingdom
- Cheeseburger Spring Roll located at the kiosks right when you enter Adventureland
- Pineapple Upside down Cake served with a choice of Pineapple DOLE Whip®, Vanilla DOLE Whip® or Swirl at Aloha Isle
- Dole Whip served at Aloha Isle and Sunshine Tree Terrace (a Disney staple and a must do snack)
- Loaded Corn Dog Nuggets topped with Cheese Sauce, Chile-Lime Seasoning, Sliced Jalapeños, Diced Tomatoes, Garlic Ranch, Corn Chips, and Green Onion at Casey’s Corner
- Cheshire Cat Tail at Cheshire Café (check back seasonal as dessert options change)
- Loaded Tots at the Friar’s Nook
- Warm Cinnamon Roll at Gaston’s Tavern (big, gooey and absolutely delicious)
- Sweet-and-Spicy Chicken Waffle Sandwich Fresh and a Fruit Waffle Sandwich served with Chocolate-Hazelnut Spread at Sleepy Hollow
- Barbecued Slaw Dog served with All-Beef Hot Dog topped with Barbecued Pork and Slaw served with House-made Chips at Tortuga Tavern
Recommended: The Solo Theme Park Traveler’s Guide
Where can you find alcoholic beverages in the Magic Kingdom?
Up until 2012 the Magic Kingdom had been somewhat of a dry theme park, meaning no alcohol allowed. Times have changed.
As of December 2016, the Magic Kingdom has added alcoholic beverages to their restaurants:
- Be Our Guest
- Tony’s Town Square
- Cinderella’s Royal Table
- Skipper Canteen
- Liberty Tree Tavern
- The Plaza
Be Our Guest Restaurant Best Wine Options
Wine Selection
- Enchantée Rosé (Enchanted) Jean-Luc Colombo Syrah/Mourvèdre Rosé, Méditerranée
- Banfi Rose Regale Sparkling Red, Piedmont
- Jacques Dumont Sancerre, France
- Château des Charmes Vidal Icewine, Niagara Peninsula
- L’ombre de la Bête Vin Rouge (Shadow of the Beast) Jean-Luc Colombo, Les Bartavelles, Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Rhône Valley
Beer Selection
- Angry Orchard Crisp Apple Hard Cider
- Stella Artois Lager, Belgium
- Kronenbourg 1664 Pale Lager, France
- Hoegaarden White Ale, Belgium
- Saison Dupont Belgian Farmhouse Ale, Belgium
- Cigar City Jai Alai IPA, Tampa, Florida
- Chimay Grand Reserve Ale, Belgium
- Schöfferhofer Grapefruit Hefeweizen, Germany
- Blue Moon Belgian White Ale, Golden, CO
Tony’s Town Square Best Wine Options
Wine Selection
- Antinori Castello della Sala ‘Bramito’ Chardonnay, Umbria
- Banfi Chianti Superiore, Tuscany
- Benvolio Pinot Grigio Grave, Friuli-Venezia Giulia
- Luce delle Vite ‘Lucente’ Super Tuscan, Tuscany
- Nino Franco Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore ‘Rustico’ Brut, Veneto
Beer Selection
- Peroni ‘Nastro Azzuro’ Euro Pale Lager, 16-oz draft
- Stella Artois Belgian Pilsner, 16-oz draft
Cinderella’s Royal Table Best Wine Options
Sparkling Wine & Champagnes
- Trimbach Riesling, Alsace, France
- Silverado Vineyards Chardonnay, Carneros
- Sartori Amarone, Italy
- Croft Reserve Tawny Porto, Portugal
- Whispering Angel Rosé, Provence
Beer Selection
- Kronenbourg 1664 Blanc, France
- Stella Artois Lager, Belgium
- Stella Artois Lager, Belgium
- Kronenbourg 1664 Pale Lager, France
- Unibroue Blanche de Chambly Belgian-style Wheat Ale, Canada
Skipper Canteen Best Wine Options
Wine Selection
- Zolo Signature Red Blend, Argentina
- Graham Beck Brut Rose, South Africa
- Veramonte Sauvignon Blanc, Chile
- Spice Route Chakalaka, South Africa
Beer Selection (Served Lunch and Dinner)
- Kungaloosh Spiced Excursion Ale – Florida
- Michelob Ultra Lager – St. Louis
- Tampa Bay Brewing Old Elephant IPA – Florida
- Blue Moon Belgian White Ale – Colorado
- Stella Artois Pale Lager, Belgium
- Star Lager, Nigeria
Liberty Tree Tavern Best Wine Options
Wine Selection
- Fess Parker Riesling, Santa Barbara County, CA
- Iron Horse ‘Fairy Tale Celebration Cuvée Brut, Green Valley Sonoma
- Mimosa with Sparkling Wine and Orange Juice
- William Hill Chardonnay, North Coast
Beer Selection
- Angry Orchard Crisp Apple Hard Cider
- Samuel Adams Seasonal – Boston, MA
- Bud Light Lager
- Samuel Adams Boston Lager
The Plaza Restaurant Best Wine Options
Wine Selection
- Cambria Katherine’s Vineyard Chardonnay
- MacMurray Estate Pinot Noir
- Indaba Sauvignon Blanc
Beer Selection (Served Lunch and Dinner)
- Cigar City Jai Alai IPA
- Bud Light Lager
- Blue Moon Belgian White Ale
*Beverage options subject to change and may be only available seasonally.
What to Know Before You Go to the Magic Kingdom
Before when end this Magic Kingdom for adults guide, let’s go over some of the most common questions I’m asked.
How much does the Magic Kingdom tickets cost?
A one-day REGULAR season Magic Kingdom ticket starts at $109* (prices do fluctuate based on the season).
What are the Magic Kingdom hours?
The Magic Kingdom usually opens at 9:00 a.m. and closes at 9:00 p.m. However, during the peak summer days the park may be open until midnight.
Remember when planning your trip, always check the park’s website or mobile app for the current hours and wait times.
What are the best Disney resorts for Solo Travelers?
- Swan and Dolphin Resort
- Encore Resort (perfect if you’re meeting family or friends later)
- Disney Wilderness Lodge Resort
- POP Century Resort
- Holiday Inn Express
What rides at Disney World have Single Rider Line?
The Magic Kingdom currently does not have any single rider attractions.
While planning out your day, you’ll want to have your Genie+/Lightning Lane passes booked as mentioned earlier in this guide and arrive early to the park.
Disney World Single Rider Attractions
- Test Track – Epcot
- Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster – Hollywood Studios
- Smugglers Run – Hollywood Studios
- Expedition Everest – Animal Kingdom
Is Magic Kingdom Worth it For Adults?
Absolutely! There are plenty of activities for adults to enjoy at the Magic Kingdom that will make you feel so happy to be back at Walt Disney World.
From special events, thrilling rides, to intoxicating beverages, you’ll find something that’s perfect for you!
I hope you enjoyed this guide for planning your next Magic Kingdom grown-up trip. Getting your Disney game plan together doesn’t have to be intimidating.
This guide is meant to help you have a jump start to mapping out your most amazing day ever at the Magic Kingdom!
Be sure to review the Magic Kingdom Map below for your trip!
I want to know what you love doing the most when you go to Magic Kingdom? Let me know in the comments section below.
If you enjoyed this article, then you’ll love these:
- 6 BEST Magic Kingdom Rides You MUST Experience At The Park
- Epcot for Adults: Complete Guide
- Tale as old as time: Beast’s Castle at Walt Disney World
- Magic Kingdom Secrets and Tips You Didn’t Know
- 49 Weird (but true) Haunted Mansion Secrets and Facts You Must Know
- Hollywood Studios for Adults (Definitive Guide)
Planning a trip soon? If so, read the Disney Vacation Planning Guide for your next dream trip!
Until next time, Happy Park Hopping Hipsters!
About the Author
My name is Nikky. I’m a wife, a mother, a pharmacist turned theme park blogger, USA Today 10Best Contributor, and a writer who loves ALL things amusement park related!
Traveling alone to the parks has changed my life and I want to show how you can create your own solo theme park memories.
Connect with me on Instagram!
(Original article date: June 2017/Updated April 25, 2024)