Magic Kingdom

The very first theme park to open at Florida's Disney World was "The Magic Kingdom" on October 1, 1971(at the same time that the Contemporary and Polynisian Village hotels opened). Based on Disneyland in California, and represented by the iconic Cinderella's Castle, it's twenty-three attractions were dedicated to fairy tales and various Disney characters. Actual construction had begun in 1967 over a series of tunnels that would allow cast members and VIPs to move through the park out of sight of guests. Because of a high water table, all of this was built on existing grade level, making the the park itself actually on the second story (at an elevation of 108 feet). Covering 107 acres, the Magic Kingdom is designed like a wheel, with the castle at the hub, and includes six themed lands; i.e. Main Street, USA; Adventureland; Fantasyland; Liberty Square; Frontierland; and Tomorrowland. Since its opening, the Magic Kingdom has only been closed for six hurricanes, and on September 11, 2001, because of the terrorists attacks. We had a great time watching our two youngest grandchildren marvel at their first-time experience here, while the two older grandkids played excellent tour guides. Truly, for us, "The Happiest Place on Earth."

First of the theme parks created at Disney World, the Magic Kingdom is based on various Disney characters and fairy tales.

Perhaps the one image that is most closely associated with the whole of Disneyworld is Cinderella's Castle...

...but for us, now, it will forever be this image.

Visitors from around the world "flock" (ugh!) to Disney World.

Not sure who was having more fun, the grandkids...

...or the adults?

For sure, it was a memorable 50th anniversary for us...

...with Disney World helping us to celebrate.

...and for Carl and David, keeping a "special" tradition alive!