The Magic Kingdom is where fairy tales come to life, and that enchantment begins long before you pass through the gates. In the weeks leading up to your trip, why not delve into some Disney classics that directly connect to the attractions and lands you’ll explore? Turning the countdown into a series of themed movie nights adds to the anticipation and makes every castle, mountain, and character feel even more magical when you see them in person.
TRON
If you’re heading to Magic Kingdom and plan on riding TRON Lightcycle / Run, taking the time to watch TRON: Legacy (or even the original TRON) beforehand adds a whole new layer to the experience. The neon grid and the sleek Lightcycles all come to life in the attraction, making you feel like you’ve stepped right into the film. It’s the perfect pre-ride watch to get your adrenaline going before you join the Grid yourself.
Cinderella
The Cinderella Castle is an iconic part of the experience and serves as the heart of Magic Kingdom. Take some time to watch or rewatch this Disney Classic for a new appreciation of this central structure and a general introduction to the Disney Princess legacy. Explore the Castle, grab those family photos, and keep your eyes out for character meet & greets with Cinderella herself. You can also further the Cinderella experience with a trip to Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique or a dining experience at Cinderella’s Royal Table.
Princess and the Frog
One of the newer additions to the Disney Princess lineup, the story of Tiana is a gorgeous, musical adventure that will have the whole family tapping their toes. This is a great movie to review ahead of your visit to Tiana’s Bayou Adventure in Frontierland, where the story continues.
Pirates of the Caribbean
Take a boat ride on Pirates of the Caribbean, where Jack Sparrow creates mischief and mayhem. Be sure to catch up on one or two of the movies in this series before you visit to add to that immersive feeling of venturing into the world of pirates with some of your favorite characters.
Peter Pan
What would a trip to the Magic Kingdom be without flying off to Neverland? Peter Pan’s Flight will take you over the rooftops of London and off to see Captain Hook and the Lost Boys. There are so many versions of this timeless tale that you can enjoy, and any one of them will remind you of what we love about Peter Pan, Captain Hook, Tinker Bell, Smee, and Wendy.
Snow White
Fantasyland in Magic Kingdom is a unique experience, with more attractions and experiences than Disneyland Park. Seven Dwarfs Mine Train is the resident Snow White attraction, offering guests a unique ride through the world of Snow White and her friends. Add the original animated movie or the recent live-action remake to your watch list so you can get in touch with the storyline before you visit. If you are lucky, you might also catch Snow White at Princess Fairytale Hall for a photo op!
Swiss Family Robinson
An oldie, but a goodie! An old-school family adventure tale, Swiss Family Robinson, was one of my favorites growing up, and the Swiss Family Treehouse is a fun way to relive part of that excitement. If you plan on doing the walk-through, don’t miss the excuse to show this one to the family before you arrive.
The Little Mermaid
It’s time to go Under the Sea ~ Journey of the Little Mermaid with this musical adventure that follows our favorite mermaid under the ocean. Be sure to screen The Little Mermaid before your big trip and reacquaint yourself with the music and characters we love. Don’t miss the dedicated meet & greet opportunity in the grotto nearby with Ariel herself!
Beauty and the Beast
Before you leave home, give everyone a movie night with Beauty and the Beast, either the animated original or the live-action remake, so that you can appreciate all the details included in Enchanted Tales with Belle! All the intricacies in Maurice’s workshop and the Beast’s library are best enjoyed when the story is fresh in your mind!
Jungle Cruise
The Jungle Cruise is another attraction that inspired the movie we suggest. Don’t miss Dwayne Johnson in Jungle Cruise to get a feel for this famous Disney ride. Practice your favorite cheesy Skipper jokes before you arrive and see if you can pick which one will be used during your sailing!
If you have a favorite movie that relates to the stories of Magic Kingdom, add it to the comments below and help your fellow DIS community prepare for their upcoming adventure!
