Since
opening day in 1971, the Magic Kingdom has had the most to see of all
the hot spots on the WDW property. With the most attractions, shows and
other entertainment, it is often hard to decide on the best the Magic
Kingdom has to offer. Whether you use this as a guide to get through
your first trip, or just to try something you haven't in the past, I
hope this little column can be of service. So, now on with the Magic
Kingdom's finest.
Thrill Attraction
Best: Splash Mountain
Yes,
I know about Space Mountain but the truth is that this cute and fluffy
log flume ride packs a wallop when it comes to thrills. You may only
see the five story drop from the outside, but believe me, there is much
more. There is nothing like a thrill ride with a real story.
Worst: Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
A true classic, but not much in the way of thrills.
Attraction for Kids
Best: Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin
By
far, this is the coolest kid-friendly attraction at all four parks. The
ride is so good, it's getting a spin off at the Studios in 2008 with
Toy Story Mania. Don't worry - you don't have to be a kid to ride.
Worst: Stitch's Great Escape
I can not say anything that hasn't already been said.
Entertainment
Best:
Spectromagic
This
nighttime parade spectacular has been entertaining guests for fifteen
years and still packs the sidewalks of Main Street USA. It is far
superior to the old Main Street Electrical Parade, and is a must-see no
matter how many times you have already seen it.
Worst: Main Street Family Fun Day Parade
A
sad attempt to make something of the Year of a Million Dreams. The
parade is not really a parade, as everyday guests march with Disney
characters.
Table Service Restaurant
Best: Liberty Tree Tavern
This
all-you-can-eat table service eatery located in Liberty Square is
always packed and usually needs advanced dining reservations at
least four months in advance. The neverending Thanksgiving dinner is a
park favorite and is generally a bargain compared to the lackluster
buffets around the rest of WDW.
Worst: Crystal Palace
In my opinion, the absolute worst restaurant in all of WDW.
Counter Service Restaurant
Best: Pinocchio's Village Haus
Even
after a huge menu change, it still is the best, serving personal pizzas
along with all the usual fast food offerings with phenomenal scenery
and a view of It's A Small World.
Worst: Columbia Harbor House
Just because it's the worst, doesn't mean it's bad. Offers good fast-seafood. El Pirate y El Perioco is a close second.
Shopping
Best: The Emporium
Since
this store grew to practically the entire left side of Main Street USA,
it has almost everything sold at WDW. If you can't find what you're
looking for at the emporium, then check Mouse Gear in Epcot.
Worst: Caribbean Plaza
What
once was the end all and be all of shops is now nothing more than a
media-saturated store full of movie merchandise and cheap toys. A far
cry from what it once was!
Attraction
Best: Pirates of the Caribbean
Yes, it is slightly better than the Haunted Mansion. Pirates rule all at the Magic Kingdom.
Worst: See Worst Kids Attraction
Days to Visit
Best: Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday
These days seem a little less crowded.
Worst: Mondays can be bad, and the weekends are times to run from the Kingdom's gates, no matter what season.
Well, that's it for now. Join me next time for the best and worst of the Quarter-Century old Epcot.
