7 of Our Favorite Places to Watch the ‘Happily Ever After’ Fireworks at Magic Kingdom
No visit to Walt Disney World would be complete without setting aside an evening to take in one of Disney’s magnificent fireworks displays. Though you can’t go wrong with ANY of the evening extravaganzas at Disney’s theme parks – ‘Happily Ever After’ at the Magic Kingdom tends to be the most popular. Though the Plaza Gardens are the most popular spot to take in the display over Cinderella Castle it does have its distinct disadvantages (namely crowds!) With that in mind we here at MickeyBlog thought we’d share with you some of our favorite viewing alternatives.
From Frontierland Riverwalk
Disney regulars who can’t be bothered with the front-of-the-castle crowds can usually be seen lining up along Frontierland’s Riverwalk to check out “Happily Ever After.” The Riverwalk is essentially a long boardwalk offering plenty of space for visitors to congregate. It’s also pretty special to watch the Fireworks illuminated on the river. From this vantage point, you still get awesome sightlines of Cinderella Castle but you DO miss the castle projections. That being said if you’re a Disney foodie you might want to make this your go-to option for the snacks alone! You’ll find a plethora of delicious delights nearby including popcorn, Mickey pretzels, and who can forget the churros!
From the Water
For those looking for a wonderfully unconventional way to enjoy Magic Kingdom’s nightly fireworks display, take to the Seven Seas Lagoon! Walt Disney World offers a handful of fun ways to enjoy Happily Ever After from the waterways! First up, and a favorite with the kids is the Pirate and Pals Fireworks Cruise. Departing nightly from the Contemporary Resort this swashbuckling adventure features Captain Hook, Mr Smee and a bounty of delicious snacks before you head out to your pontoon boat to catch the fireworks with your pirate crew. The cost for this event is $74 per adult and $45 per child (ages 3-9.)
For something a little more sophisticated FerryTale Fireworks Dessert Cruise which features delightful desserts while onboard a magnificent Ferryboat. Cruises depart from the Ticket and Transporation Center and speciality drinks, delicious desserts and even a scavenger hunt for the kids. The cruise is currently on hiatus but is taking bookings from August 30th. The cost is $99 per adult and $69 per child (3-9.)
Finally, Disney offers a range of private boat rental options. You’ll find everything from a small pontoon boat for $299 to fireworks viewing aboard one of Disney’s amazing yachts for $399 per hour. These are ideal for those celebrating a special occasion while at the parks and private dining can even be organized for your sailing!
Reservations for each of the cruises above can be made by calling 407.WDW.PLAY.
From the Beaches of Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
For guests wanting to catch the “Happily Ever After Fireworks” without the crowds, hop the monorail and head over to one of my personal favorite places to watch the fireworks – the Poly! The resort has a big, breathtaking sandy beach along Seven Seas Lagoon where you can watch the fireworks amidst the property’s beautiful tropical surroundings. Visitors to the Polynesian Resort who want to mix fireworks viewing with light bites and drinks should head to the patio of Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto. From the Poly, you also enjoy beautiful sightlines of the slightly cheesy but wonderfully nostalgic Electric Water Pageant.
From Behind the Castle
Though the traditional place to watch Magic Kingdom’s evening fireworks display is in front of the castle, for those (like me) that prefer to be unconventional, try behind the castle! Though you miss out on castle projections, the thrill of having the big bangs go off overhead is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. You’re much closer to the fireworks themselves giving you an incredible vantage point that you’ll never forget. My preferred spot is by the Caroussel, however, many Disney regulars also prefer New Fantasyland near Gaston’s Tavern or the Journey of the Little Mermaid.
From the Main Street Train Station
For those looking for a grand, sweeping view of Cinderella Castle and Main Street U.S.A. It doesn’t get better than the views you’ll get from the second level of the Train Station as you enter the park. From here you can enjoy amazing sightlines of the theme park and the castle all lit up at night. It’s the perfect vantage point for all you budding photographers. Just a quick warning though, I’ve watched the fireworks from here numerous times and I find the crowds to be a bit more territorial and shovey than in other locations. So be sure to bring your patience!
From the Private Viewing Deck at the California Grill
You can’t go wrong with a meal at the Contemporary Resort’s California Grill. This Signature Dining experience features a menu brimming with delicious California Cuisine and an unrivalled wine list. However, what truly elevates this restaurant to something spectacular is the fact they have a private viewing deck from which to take in the “Happily Ever After” fireworks display. Complimentary glasses of champagne are available for guests and they even pipe in the music to make you feel like you’re right in the middle of the action! The cost to dine here is in excess of $60 per adult and $30 per child and advanced reservations are essential. You can make them online or by calling 407.WDW.DINE
From Tomorrowland Terrace During the Dessert Party
For those on the hunt for a magical way to view the fireworks that you’ll be talking about for years to come, it doesn’t get better than this dessert party. Tomorrowland Terrace offers incredible sightlines fo the castle and all of the projections that occur during “Happily Ever After.” To make it even better you get to set down and rest those weary feet while dining on delicious treats like chocolate-dipped strawberries, hand-scooped ice cream and more! Best of all Tinker Bell flies straight overhead at the start of the show which is sure to bring a tear to your eye! The cost to attend this event is $84.00 per adult and $50 per child and can be booked online via your My Disney Experience account.
We hope we’ve given you a bit of “Happily Ever After” viewing inspiration. Readers are encouraged to keep following along with MickeyBlog for the latest Walt Disney World news and updates!
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