As I am starting this Blog as a new writer the logical place to start is at the beginning. The Magic Kingdom was the first of the Disney World Parks and I believe still one of the most popular for children of all ages. As you enter the front gates of the park you walk down Main Street USA, the most amazing street in the world.
Take A Stroll Down Main Street
This is a place that allows one to suspend the imagination and immerse ones self in another world. The scent of fresh baked cookies welcomes and follows travelers the length of the street, giving a sense of familiarity and comfort as they explore the main street of an old fashioned small town. Walking from block to block the scenery changes subtly, allowing one to anticipate the new adventures ahead. But resist temptation and do not hurry for there is much to see.
One of the things to watch is the progression of streetlamps from gas to electric as you move through time from past toward present. Movie credits roll in the upper windows listing the creative people responsible for this show, advertising the services to be found there and representing the businesses involved in its creation.
Don’t Forget to Stop in Town Square!
Along the way you will run into the Town Square. On the left you will find fire station 71 across from the cinema and the town restaurant, Tony’s from Lady and the Tramp. At the central park there are benches where one can relax in front of City Hall and perhaps have a chat with Goofy. If you are around at 5 pm you will be able to see the flag ceremony, typically performed by veterans or people associated with 9/11. Afterward the participants receive the flag that’s been taken down and a special pin.
Returning to Main Street one finds an old time General Store on the corner complete with a wall mounted telephone with party line call in progress. Back on the street you will notice Cinderella Castle at the end is much closer and dominates ones attention. Another little detail, barely noticed at first is that the shop windows have been getting progressively lower than normal. This is so small children can see the displays inside.
At the end of Main Street you will have reached the turn of the century with Casey’s Corner, a hot dog stand on one side and Plaza Ice Cream Parlor on the other. Above the Plaza Restaurant Walter Elias Disney’s window faces Cinderella Castle honoring the director of the Show. The master planners responsible for designing the Magic Kingdom are listed below. Beyond Main Street USA you will move into Fantasyland.
