For most people, fireworks are generally only seen on New Year’s Eve and 4th of July. However at Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World fireworks are an everyday affair. For many first timers, finding a spot for the nighttime spectacular is overwhelming.
After countless viewings of the different fireworks shows that shoot off behind Cinderella’s Castle, I have discovered the best places to watch.
- Main Street USA: If you ask a Cast Member, there’s not a bad place to watch the fireworks on Main Street USA. This is partly true, while I wouldn’t dare say that’s a bad view (unless the tall guy in front of you decides to hoist his small child on his shoulders directly in front of you). My preferred location on Main Street is in the center of the street about half way from the entrance to the castle, in between the Plaza Ice Cream Parlor and Casey’s Corner. It’s perfect because it’s close enough to be able to all the remarkable projections on the castle, but far back enough that the castle doesn’t block any of the fireworks. This is especially true for the specialty fireworks for holidays that include perimeter fireworks.
- Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort Beach: The Polynesian Resort is in the Magic Kingdom Resort Area and sits directly across the Seven Seas Lagoon from Magic Kingdom. If you grab dinner at O’hana or a beverage at Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto and Tiki Bar you can check out the resort and watch the fireworks for the beach area. While you can’t see the projections on the castle, you get a full view of the fireworks and is usually a lot less crowded than Main Street.
- Transportation and Ticket Center (TTC): The TTC is another great outside the park viewing location. You can a similar view as the Polynesian Beach from the ferry dock, but it is even less crowded than the Polynesian and they pump in the music! It’s also close to the trams and parking so you can beat the Stroller 500 race out of the park!
- California Grill Observation Deck: If you dine the California Grill at Disney’s Contemporary Resort or have a beverage at their lounge it gives you access to their observation deck. Even if you enjoy earlier in the evening if you bring your receipt back to the check-in desk that will grant you access for the show. It is absolutely worth the price tag to view the fireworks from their deck. The view from the 15th floor can’t be beat! The lights are dimmed and the music is played for the show.
- Top of the World Lounge at Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort: This last location is reserved only for Disney Vacation Club Members who are staying at a Disney resort and their guests. The view is similar to the California Grill Observation Deck. The lounge offers specialty cocktails and other beverages as well as a light appetizer menu. There is comfortable seating inside, as well as, an outdoor deck that allows you to see and hear the show! If you know any Members or are one yourself, make sure to check out this cool perk!
These are just a few of my favorite places to end the day and enjoy the Magic Kingdom’s amazing nighttime spectaculars. Remember, “All we have to do is look inside our hearts and unlock the magic within.”
