There’s no doubt that Disney makes the fireworks at the Magic Kingdom, well, magical. But sometimes you don’t have time to wait out a spot or you’re not even inside the park or you just don’t want to fight the crowds. Here are my five favorite places to watch the Magic Kingdom fireworks that are NOT directly in front of Cinderella’s Castle. Oh, and if you happen to be looking for some places to escape the crowds in the Magic Kingdom, I’ve got you covered!
Locations outside of the park…
The Balconies at the Contemporary
Did you know you can visit the resorts even if you’re not staying there? Show ID at the gate and you can stroll around. Inside the Contemporary, on the level where the gift shop and Chef Mickey’s are located, you can walk out onto a balcony at the end of the hotel and watch the fireworks. There are even benches! It’s usually nice and breezy, so this is even a good place to watch in the summer. Make sure you check the time that the fireworks will begin before you go!
On a Boat
If you can time it just right, you get a pretty good view of the fireworks from the ferry boat to the TTC. But, if you’re willing to shell out a bit more cash, there are fireworks cruises that Disney offers. While I was pregnant, we went on the Pirates and Pals Fireworks Cruise and it was so much fun, even without kids!
The Grand Floridian Marina
My favorite part about viewing the Magic Kingdom fireworks from here is that they pipe in the music and you have a beautifully framed view over the water between the buildings. It gets a little crowded, but if you get there at least 15 minutes before the show starts you can actually snag a seat!
Locations inside the park…
The Crystal Palace
If you’re looking for a less crowded area to watch the fireworks that are still near the castle, this is the place for you. There are outdoor tables in front of the Crystal Palace restaurant and a fairly new walkway where you can stand with a clear view to watch the castle show and fireworks.
Fantasyland
By far, my favorite of the fireworks viewing locations because it feels like you’re behind the scenes. The fireworks explode right over your head and you have to look all around to catch all of them. It’s really magical. The one down side is that you can’t bank on watching them here – depending on conditions, they close Fantasyland to viewing during the fireworks show for safety and comfort reasons. More often than not, though, it’s open to anyone who wants to watch!
What’s new about Disney’s fireworks in 2019?
As part of my experience at Disney’s Social Media Celebration, I learned about the upcoming changes to Disney fireworks shows in 2019!
- Illuminations: Reflections of Earth will end its 20 year run at Epcot on September 30, 2019 and will be replaced with Epcot Forever on October 1, 2019. The new show features choreographed kits, fireworks, and lasers. It sounds amazing and I can’t wait to see it!
- There is a special fireworks show for Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party.
- Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks Show will be featured at Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party this year and will also be displayed nightly between December 23 and 29.
- This portion of this post was written based on information I learned at Disney’s Social Media Celebration in July 2019. As always, I only share what I truly love and am excited about!
Where do you like to watch the fireworks?
