The New Fantasyland at Walt Disney World: What’s New & What’s Next

Disney, Walt Disney World

The first part of the Fantasyland expansion is now open. Here’s what has been finished – and what’s on the horizon.

New Fantasyland in Magic Kingdom® Park at the Walt Disney World® Resort will take enchanting experiences one step further with circus big tops, an undersea grotto and more magic than ever before! Two incredible themed areas – Storybook Circus and Enchanted Forest – will nearly double the land’s original size. Here’s a summary of what you will find in these new areas.

Storybook Circus – Now Open!

Step right up to Storybook Circus, a throwback to the golden era of classic three-ring attractions. Here you can:

  • Soar through the air on Dumbo the Flying Elephant, which is now twice the fun thanks to the addition of a second pachyderm squadron.
  • At the Big Top at Dumbo the Flying Elephant you can enjoy themed (and air-conditioned) play experiences – from the Human Cannonball to a Tower of Flames – and you will receive a circus ticket pager upon entering that goes off when it’s your turn to board the attraction!
  • Enjoy the classic Barnstormer attraction, which has a bright new look, featuring Goofy as The Great Goofini. It’s a twisting, turning roller coaster “flight” high above the circus fun.
  • Cool off at Casey Jr. Splash ‘n’ Soak Station, a circus-themed water play area. Water squirts from playful monkeys, elephants, camels and from Casey Jr. when he lets off billows of cooling “steam.”

Enchanted Forest – Previews Start Nov. 19, 2012. Grand Opening on Dec. 6, 2012.

Open in time for the holiday season, Enchanted Forest will offer you a magically interactive realm that brings to life Belle’s beautiful French countryside and allows you to be part of Ariel and Prince Eric’s world. Enchanted Forest will be home to two new castles (Prince Eric’s from “The Little Mermaid” and the Beast’s from “Beauty and the Beast”), a quaint village, waterfalls and plenty of pixie dust! Highlights planned include:

  • Under the Sea ~ Journey of the Little Mermaid is a major new attraction that takes you on a ride with Ariel and her friends through their exciting adventures above and below the waves – all against a musical backdrop of songs from the classic film.
  • The castle of the Beast stands majestically upon a hill and houses the Be Our Guest Restaurant (reservations open in late August), which will feature a lavish dining experience in the elegant ballroom, gallery and mysterious “West Wing” of the castle. With seating for 550, this eatery promises a French bistro flavor, offering “great food fast” service by day and full table service dining in the evening.
  • Maurice’s Cottage (decorated with a few of his wacky contraptions!) is situated in Belle’s Village amongst a French countryside setting complete with a wishing well and rustic foot bridge. The inventor’s humble workshop welcomes you into the first scene of Enchanted Tales with Belle, a lively retelling of the “tale as old as time.”
  • Nearby in Belle’s Village, you will find the rousing Gaston’s Tavern and Bonjour! Village Gifts.

Additional elements of New Fantasyland will open in 2013 and 2014.  Keep an eye on the Premier Custom Travelblog for updates.

For more information on Walt Disney World or to book your vacation, please call Premier Custom Travel at (800) 304-6789.