Magic Kingdom

Make your first stop the new Fantasyland, where the Beast’s Castle sits tall. The top attraction is Under the Sea—Journey of the Little Mermaid. Float along in a clamshell cart to the tune of Under the Sea as special effects and audio-animatronics of Ariel, Prince Eric, Flounder and the sea witch Ursula dazzle. Roller-coaster maniacs get their thrills on Space Mountain, a speedy trip into outer space, and Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, an old-fashioned clickety-clackety coaster with twists and turns novice riders love. The all-time favorite Pirates of the Caribbean features cannon blasts and a yo-ho soundtrack, but the recent addition of Captain Jack Sparrow (who really does look like Johnny Depp) gives you a new reason to hop aboard this boat ride. Amazing character shows are held daily on the stage in front of Cinderella Castle along with parades and firework shows; pick up the weekly Times Guide at the park entrance or download the free My Disney Experience app for the schedule, waiting times, park hours and more.

At the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique girls are transformed into princesses (and boys into knights). Pick your package— hair, makeup, costume and accessories. Big Top Souvenirs is the place to find circus-themed merchandise including the cutest plush Dumbos. Last stop as you exit the park (so you don’t have to carry purchases around all day) is the Emporium on Main Street. It’s chockfull of everything Disney—clothing, jewelry, toys, home accessories and more.

Go in style with sit-down service at the new Be Our Guest Restaurant in the Beast’s castle (reservations recommended). A menu with French influences features mussels in wine, chicken Provencal and ratatouille. It’s the only restaurant serving beer and wine in the park. For quick and casual burgers and chicken nuggets, Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Café has the largest seating area and a room with animatronics entertainment. Those with a sweet tooth find huge waffle-bowl sundaes at the Plaza Ice Cream Parlor.

Disney’s Contemporary Resort, Grand Floridian Resort & Spa and Polynesian Resort connect by monorail to the Magic Kingdom. For more moderately priced accommodations check out Disney’s Pop Century Resort (bus transportation to destinations in Walt Disney World is complimentary).