Cinderella is one of the most iconic, classic Disney princesses ever. A firm favorite for many Disney fans, Cinderella has also had a massive impact on the Disney World park, most especially at Magic Kingdom. But did you know Cinderella’s history dates back to 1697, before Walt Disney adapted the story to wow audiences of the 20th century?
Walt saw the magic and potential in the classic Cinderella story, releasing the first animated feature in 1922, with the absolute classic animated movie released in 1950. Since then, the movie has been made and remade, with the most recent being the live-action version that took the world by storm.
Cinderella certainly is a popular story, and one that has fed the design and creation of the Disney World park, as she was a classic character at the park’s inception. The world of Disney has grown and grown over many decades, but one thing that has remained at the base of it all: magic.
So how has the magical story of Cinderella made an impact on Disney World?
How has Cinderella impacted the Disney World parks?
The early princesses and their magical stories have certainly infused with the vibe and atmosphere of Magic Kingdom. In Fantasyland, the princesses are a huge feature, with Cinderella of course included. Magic, spells and true love are the basis of Cinderella’s stories, and that entwines and feeds into the whole area of Fantasyland in Magic Kingdom. So wherever you go within this park, you are sure to get the magical feeling that is the basis of Cinderella’s entire story, and feel her impact in every corner of Fantasyland.
However, the most obvious impact Cinderella has made at Disney World, is Cinderella’s castle itself.
Cinderella’s Castle at Disney World
As you can tell by the name, Cinderella’s castle is not only the most iconic building in Disney World that stands for everything the brand represents, but it was also heavily influenced by Cinderella during its construction. It is, after all, her castle! In beautiful pastel shades of blue and pink, and absolutely towering over Sleeping Beauty’s castle, located in Disneyland by over an extra 100 foot, the castle exudes the magic and beauty of the princess herself. Inside, you can find her restaurant, a Cinderella and princess themed boutique, and a very special, hidden suite, which only special guests and the Princess herself are allowed to visit and stay in.
Top Ten Cinderella-Inspired Activities at Disney World Orlando
If Cinderella is your favorite character at Disney World and you want to enjoy as much Cinderella-inspired fun as possible in the parks, have a look below at our top ten Cinderella-inspired activities.
1. Snap a Selfie in front of Cinderella’s Golden Carriage
Step in front of the exquisite pink, white and gold carriage used in the production of Walt Disney Studios’ all-new, live-action “Cinderella” to capture a memorable photo. You can find it at select times during the year outside Fantasyland, so make sure you keep an eye out for it on your visit.
2. Meet Cinderella at Princess Fairytale Hall
Elegantly finished rooms welcome you to the royal home in the Magic Kingdom at Princess Fairytale Hall where you can meet Cinderella and other princesses. Here you can take photos and hear stories from Disney’s most loved princesses. The spacious gallery is adorned with portraits of the princesses – guests can even catch a glimpse of Cinderella’s infamous glass slipper.
Outside of Cinderella’s Castle located in Fantasyland, you can also find Cinderella’s step-sisters, Anastasia and Drizella, as well as her wicked step-mother, Lady Tremain. Be sure to check your My Disney Experience app ahead of time to find out when they are making their appearances.
3. Dine at Cinderella’s Royal Table
Meeting Cinderella in her royal castle is a dream come true at Cinderella’s Royal Table, where she will make an appearance. Take photographs, and receive your very own autograph card. Specializing in feasts fit for royalty, this one-of-a kind dining experience will make you feel like you’re living a fairy tale. For the best view of the princess during your meal, and for a table near the upper level. Though don’t be disappointed if you are seated elsewhere, as Cinderella will move about the restaurant throughout your meal. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are offered daily. Reservations can be made up to 60 days in advance by calling 407-WDW-DINE (407-939-3463) or by visiting DisneyWorld.com/dining. Make sure you book up as far in advance as possible, as this restaurant is extremely popular!
4. Get a Magical Makeover at Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique
Though this is temporarily unavailable, we expect it to be back soon! A Fairy Godmother will transform the little princess in your life with a wave of her magic wand. Girls ages 3-12 can select their hairstyle, make-up, nail color accessories and a Disney princess costume, if they wish, in this enchanted beauty salon. Little princes can even join in on the fun too, as Fairy Godmothers-in-training can transform them into heroic knights. There are two boutique locations to choose from, one inside Cinderella Castle at Magic Kingdom and one at Downtown Disney inside the World of Disney retail store.
5. Pick up Your Favorite Cinderella-Themed Merchandise
Pick up costume dresses and accessories, a Cinderella Castle play set, dolls and mugs as well as unique items such as a custom phone case at D-Tech on Demand in the Marketplace Co-Op at Disney Springs Marketplace, or Sir Mickey’s in Fantasyland at Magic Kingdom. You can also find a Cinderella-themed retail MagicBand at the Frontier Trading Post to compliment your Disney Vacation.
6. Stroll Through the Central Plaza area at Magic Kingdom
Feel like a princess by taking a relaxing stroll or a selfie in the Magic Kingdom Central Plaza area, which is designed to be reminiscent of castle gardens. The sculpted gardens, charming fountains and new pathways are part of the ongoing transformation surrounding Cinderella Castle in the Magic Kingdom.
7. Find Enchanting Footwear at Downtown Disney
You may not find glass slippers, but if you head to Downtown Disney the shoe options are unlimited. There are hundreds of stylish flip flops for men, women and kids at Havaianas. Or stop in Sanuk in Disney Springs, with more than 175 fun and comfortable designs that are funky, functional and fit for a prince or princess. For more tips and inspiration about what to wear to Disney, make sure you check out our handy guide.
8. Have A Fairy Tale Wedding at Walt Disney World
Couples looking for a truly magical wedding venue can look to Disney Fairytale Weddings for the perfect backdrop to their special day. From arriving in Cinderella’s Coach to taking wedding photos in front of Cinderella Castle, the options are endless for brides looking to live out the fairy tale. Brides-to-be also can channel Cinderella’s timeless elegance in a Cinderella-inspired gown from America’s foremost bridal company, Alfred Angelo. Brides can find the Cinderella gown starting Mid-April at Alfred Angelo stores across the U.S. and specialty retailers worldwide.
9. Spend Supper with Cinderella at Cinderella’s Happily Ever After Dinner
Though this is currently unavailable, we expect this to be available again soon! You’re the honored guest of Cinderella and Prince Charming at this enchanting dinner buffet at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa’s 1900 Park Fare restaurant. The Princess’ storybook friends join in the festivities as you choose from delectable seafood, salad, pasta and beef dishes, representing several “kingdoms” from around the globe, plus kid-friendly options as well. Reservations are available by calling 407-WDW-DINE (407-939-3463) or by visiting DisneyWorld.com/dining.
There are other restaurants where you might be lucky enough to spot the princess. She sometimes also makes appearances in the Akershus Royal Banquet Hall in Epcot, located at the Norway Pavilion, and over at the Grand Floridian resort just outside of the parks, she is regularly found at Cinderella’s Happily Ever after Dinner, located at the restaurant 1900 Park Fare. You may even get to meet Prince Charming at the same time!
10. Experience ‘Disney Enchantment’ Every Night at Cinderella Castle
Well before the clock strikes midnight, you can watch the nightly dazzling “Disney Enchantment” fireworks display at Magic Kingdom. The night sky plays host to a wish-granting fireworks spectacular synchronized to an unforgettable musical score that inspires everyone to believe in magic. Brilliant colors wash over Cinderella Castle as bursts of light and, for the first time, an immersive projection that extends from Cinderella Castle down Main Street at Magic Kingdom park.
