Are you trying to figure out the best place to watch Magic Kingdom fireworks for your Disney vacation?
One of the best ways to end your fantastacial park day is with one of Walt Disney World’s amazing nighttime spectaculars!
A magical show of fireworks, projections and memorable special effects.
Since the retirement of Magic Kingdom’s “Wishes” fireworks spectacular, its successor “Happily Ever After” has been competent and highly praised as one of the best to date!
So much so that when it was temporarily replaced by “Enchantment,” outcry bellowed for the return of Happily Ever After.
It was promptly announced to return at D23 Expo in 2022 to the gleeful Disney fandom.
Clearly, the show is very special, so today I want to set you up for success as to where exactly you should watch the famous fireworks show!
Some options are free, while others you have to pay for, but we will go over why these locations are the best, how to find them and tips for the location as well.
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1. Fantasyland
This first location may not actually be what you would expect as one of the best spots to watch the Happily Ever After fireworks.
Fantasyland in Magic Kingdom is located behind Cinderella Castle, where some of the most popular and classic attractions are located.
This includes “it’s a small world”, “Peter Pan’s Flight”, “Princess Fairytale Hall” and “Seven Dwarfs Mine Train.”
During the Magic Kingdom fireworks, a certain section of Fantasyland is roped off for safety reasons.
This is generally roped off to where guests will stand behind Princess Fairytale Hall, Prince Charming Regal Carousel and Philharmagic.
The best places behind this safety rope would be Storybook Circus near the water play area.
You can also go next to the carousel or in between Seven Dwarfs Mine Train and the entrance to Enchanted Tales with Belle.
In these areas, there is not much blocking your view and there won’t be a worry of crowds as much.
The only downside to these areas in Fantasyland is that you will miss out on the projections.
Now, if you don’t mind skipping those, you will benefit with an extra special possible encounter.
Why We Love Fantasyland as The Best Place to Watch Magic Kingdom Fireworks
During the fireworks, some Disney princesses can be found frolicking and interacting with guests enjoying the land and the fireworks briefly.
This was done as a special surprise and delight for the Disney 100th anniversary celebrations that are taking place in the Disney Parks.
So don’t forget to keep an eye out around the carousel, entrance to princess Fairytale Hall and Storybook Circus for possible encounters.
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My Top Tips for Watching Magic Kingdom Fireworks Show from Fantasyland
1. Remember to try not to crowd the princesses when you come across them.
2. If you wait at a respectable distance or ask the character attendant, they will let you know what to do with the princesses around and what they are able to do as far as interactions.
3. Most likely they will be on the move, so autographs are unlikely to happen, but photos may be possible.
If you time your carousel ride just right, you may have a chance to ride it with some princesses!
4. Try to get to Fantasyland about 30–45 minutes prior to the show, as they will block certain passageways around and near the castle for safety reasons.
5. Finally, there will be very loud noises from the fireworks back here, so if you have sensory issues, this may not be the best spot.
You may want to seek refuge in Pinocchio’s Village Haus.
2. Partners Statue
Next on our list is a popular photo spot and easy to spot icon of Magic Kingdom.
The Partners Statue, otherwise known as the “Walt statue,” is in the center of the Magic Kingdom hub, right in front of Cinderella Castle.
The copper statue features Walt Disney and Mickey Mouse holding hands, with Walt pointing to something.
While it hasn’t been confirmed what he is pointing to, the most popular theory is that Walt is pointing towards his dream, it being Disney Parks, and showing it to Mickey.
This 6 ft 5 inch statue made its debut in Magic Kingdom in June 1995 as the second to exist, the 1st being in Disneyland in 1993.
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My Top Tips for Watching the Magic Kingdom Fireworks Show from the Partners Statue
1. If you can manage, I would recommend grabbing a spot on the sidewalk area surrounding the statue on either the left or right side.
2. If all else fails, in front of it can work as well. But at a distance far enough to where you can get a good view without the statue blocking.
In this case, I would say the hub grass sidewalks in front of them.
3. I would not really suggest watching behind the statue, where you will be close to the castle.
You may be craning your neck a bit, but if you don’t mind this, it could work too.
4. This spot in particular will give you easy access to escape to either Tomorrowland or Frontierland once the fireworks end and less chance of dealing with crowds quickly and safely.
5. If you have crowd anxiety, I would not suggest this spot as it can get a bit congested. Otherwise, plan on grabbing your spot about 45 mins prior to showtime.
Some have had luck grabbing a spot about 10 minutes before, but this is entirely up to your discretion.
3. Frontierland Bridge
I bet you would never have considered going this far out to watch Happily Ever After!
Why We Love Frontierland as The Best Place to Watch Magic Kingdom Fireworks
Frontierland is perfect for those with sensory issues because it is less crowded and a more secluded area.
It’s also great for those who want to give their service animal some protection from the loud booms of the fireworks.
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My Top Tips for Watching the Magic Kingdom Fireworks Show From Frontierland
1. The best spot is to watch on the bridge that connects the two sections of Frontierland.
The bridge is in between the former site of Splash Mountain, soon to be “Tiana’s Bayou Adventure” and right across from Pecos Bill restaurant.
2. If not here, then the next best would be the wooden walkway along the river going towards Big Thunder Mountain Railroad.
These spots in Frontierland will give you beautiful views of the fireworks reflecting off the river without the booms of the fireworks or ridiculous crowds.
3. If you really want to attempt something magical, try riding Big Thunder Mountain Railroad while the fireworks are going on. You will have less wait time and get some views of them going off as you ride.
Or you can watch the fireworks and then enjoy a low wait time to access the ride immediately after the fireworks end.
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4. California Grill at Disney’s Contemporary Resort
Our next option will cost a pretty penny, but depending on your budget, it may be worth it for you to try!
California Grill is located at the very top of the Contemporary Resort, which is a short walk away from Magic Kingdom.
The restaurant is considered fine/signature dining, and you can use the Disney Dining Plan on it.
For this particular one, you will need a reservation. You will want to book it as soon as it is 60 days out from your visit for dinner.
Why We Love California Grill as The Best Place to Watch Magic Kingdom Fireworks
This restaurant is coveted for its exquisite panoramic views of the lagoon, the wooded areas and Cinderella Castle.
California Grill offers one of the best fireworks dining experiences on property, especially compared to the other monorail resorts like Polynesian Village Resort and the Grand Floridian.
The restaurant has an onstage kitchen where they blend global flavors in creative and delicious new ways.
Food at California Grill
You will delight in a 3-course menu featuring fresh, seasonal ingredients inspired by the Golden State.
You can also enjoy recommended pairings of wine with your meal.
You will be expected to dress in a manner that fits the upscale and sophisticated aesthetic of the restaurant. Price is $89 per adult plus tax and $39 per child plus tax.
With this option, you get a lavish dining experience with the best view overhead of the fireworks.
Plus, with the music being pumped into the 15th floor balcony, you will get a truly elegant experience.
My Top Tips for Watching the Magic Kingdom Fireworks Show from California Grill
1. Check what time the fireworks will be on the day you plan to dine, and try to get a dinner reservation close to when they start.
2. Depending on the time of year you go, you may get the Halloween or Christmas fireworks.
The fireworks are also subject to weather and can be cancelled. You can book a reservation here.
3. Try viewing at the Polynesian Village Resort beach, where they also pump in music for guests.
4. You may be required to show proof of a dining reservation if you drive in.
However, you can take the resort monorail from Magic Kingdom to avoid this altogether.
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5. Magic Kingdom Dessert Cruise or Party
Lastly, you have two paid options that could easily be memorable experiences for you and your party.
With the Ferrytale Fireworks: A Sparkling Dessert Cruise, you will hop aboard the famous Magic Kingdom ferry and set sail on the seven seas lagoon.
The pastry team will have a spread of international cheeses and spectacular desserts ready and available of you to enjoy.
There will also be sparkling specialty drinks themed to the fireworks and alcoholic options for the grown ups.
Kids can enjoy an ultraviolet scavenger hunt, and you will be invited to don your “Mickey vision” glasses during the finale to widen your experience in the coolest way!
My Top Tips for Watching the Magic Kingdom Fireworks Show From the Ferryboat Dessert Cruise
1. Reservations are required and should be done 60 days in advance, as it is very popular.
However, depending on availability, you can book on the day of as long as it’s before 5 p.m.
2. It should be noted that this cruise happens on select Wednesdays and Saturday.
Boarding starts 50 minutes prior to the fireworks and afterward, no further boarding will be allowed. Price is $130 per adult and $80 per child, including tax.
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Magic Kingdom: Seats and Sweets Dessert Party
If you wish to be in the midst of the action, then you have the Magic Kingdom: Seats and Sweets Dessert Party.
You can sit back and enjoy decadent and specialty desserts at the Tomorrowland Terrace Restaurant.
Some of my favorite treats are the chocolate silk tarts and chocolate dipped strawberries crafted by a renowned pastry chef.
Alongside this, you may enjoy a selection of cheeses. Select beverages are available, including wine and beer for grown-ups.
Why We Love This as The Best Place to Watch Magic Kingdom Fireworks
While you dine, you will have amazing views, a seat to the fireworks and a great view of seeing a certain fairy fly in the sky!
This option gives you essentially everything the cruise does, but within the park’s borders.
It costs $99 to $100 per adult and $59 per child, tax included. This option is available nightly and check in is an hour prior to the fireworks.
A Sparkling Dessert Cruise VS. Seats and Sweets Dessert Party
Both options offer the experience of seeing the fireworks uniquely with desserts and beverages, without dealing with crowds.
In the cruise you won’t be able to see projections vs. the party where you will have perfect views.
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My Final Thoughts on The 5 Best Places to Watch the Magic Kingdom Fireworks
Magic Kingdom offers a wide variety of ways and locations to enjoy their famous Happily Ever After fireworks spectacular.
But no matter where you view them, you will have the enjoyment of being immersed inside the world of the beloved Disney characters and stories that you have come to know and love over the decades.
Let us know where you enjoy watching the show if you have seen it before in our Facebook group!
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Until next time, Happy Park Hopping Hipsters!
About the Author
Victoria is a professional solo traveler here to make your solo trips as stress free AND enjoyable as possible for you.
She has over 5 years of Disney and Non-Disney travel experience and was featured by POPSUGAR as one of the Top 50 Black Disney Creators you should follow.
She is a Proud Native to Baltimore, Md but always will call Disney World home. You can find her at Disney Tea with V.
(Original Article Date: October 9, 2023/Updated by Editor on April 19, 2024)