If you’re planning a day at Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World with little ones, there’s one area that deserves a spot on your must-do list – Storybook Circus. It might not always be the headliner in Disney planning conversations, but for families visiting Magic Kingdom with younger kids, this little corner of Walt Disney World is kind of a big deal.
Storybook Circus is one of the most thoughtfully designed areas in Magic Kingdom, and truly the perfect place to “camp out” with the under-40-inch crowd. There are rides, play spaces, character meet-and-greets, snacks and shopping, shaded seating, and even transportation to other areas of the park. Everything is close together and all in one place, making it so easy and convenient when you’re visiting Walt Disney World with toddlers or little kids.
If you’re wondering how to make the most of Storybook Circus, this is how I’d spend a morning in this land with little ones.
Start Your Morning with the Rides
Begin your day with two of the most kid-friendly attractions at Magic Kingdom – Dumbo the Flying Elephant and The Barnstormer.
Dumbo the Flying Elephant is a classic “spinner” style attraction where guests circle above Storybook Circus in their own flying elephant. Kids especially love being able to control how high or low they fly using the joystick inside their vehicle. Best of all, there is no height requirement for Dumbo, so it’s a ride the whole family can enjoy together.
Just next door is The Barnstormer, featuring The Great Goofini, Goofy’s daredevil circus pilot alter ego. This fairly simple roller coaster has a few gentle turns and small drops, making it a perfect first roller coaster for younger kids who are ready to try something a little more exciting. The height requirement for The Barnstormer is 35 inches.
These rides are right next to each other, which makes this an easy first stop to begin your morning. And if there is a wait for Dumbo, kids can spend that time playing in the indoor, circus-themed play area inside the queue – which is a win for everyone!
Meet Characters at Pete’s Silly Sideshow
Next, head over to Pete’s Silly Sideshow for character meet-and-greets. Here, you’ll find Minnie Magnifique, Daisy Fortuna, The Astounding Donaldo, and The Great Goofini. Early to mid-morning is a great time to meet these popular characters before lines start to build.
Cool Off at Casey Jr. Splash ‘N’ Soak Station
After rides and character hugs, it’s time to cool down and let the kids burn off some energy at Casey Jr. Splash ‘N’ Soak Station. This popular water play area is themed after the train that brings Dumbo, his mom, and the other animals to the circus in the animated movie Dumbo. It has so many fun water spray features that kids will love and definitely won’t be able to resist. Be sure to pack a change of clothes in your park bag because this is definitely one of those “they will get wet” situations!
Take Your Time with a Scavenger Hunt
When you’re ready to slow things down a bit, try the Smellephants on Parade scavenger hunt. Remember those scratch-and-sniff stickers we all loved as kids? This is basically that, but with a Disney twist.
As you explore the area, you’ll track down 8 different Smellephants, match the scents, and mark your map with stickers along the way. It’s fun and free, and it’s just the right pace for little ones who might need a break from lines and rides; and, you even get a cute little souvenir to take home at the end!
Grab Snacks and Browse at Big Top Souvenirs
Before wrapping up your morning, stop into Big Top Souvenirs. This is one of the largest shopping locations in the park, and it’s a great place to look for souvenirs, get some snacks, or treat yourselves to something sweet. You’ll find all sorts of amazing desserts here – specialty cupcakes and cookies, fudge, chocolate-dipped marshmallows, beautiful caramel apples and, of course, plenty of delicious Mickey-shaped treats.
End with a Relaxing Train Ride
When everyone’s starting to feel a little tired, head over to the nearby Fantasyland train station and hop on the Walt Disney World Railroad. The train makes a stop on Main Street, U.S.A., so if you’re ready to wrap up your morning, it’s a quick way to head toward the exit.
If you’re not quite done for the day, the train also continues on to Frontierland before looping back to Fantasyland. You can rest for a bit, let the kids catch a second wind, and travel to another part of the park without adding more steps to already-tired little legs.
Magic Kingdom is the quintessential park for families, especially with areas like Storybook Circus that feel tailor-made for younger children. If you’re planning a Walt Disney World vacation with little ones, this can be such a great place to start your Magic Kingdom day. It offers a wonderful blend of rides, play, and downtime, all in one thoughtfully designed area. Rather than rushing from attraction to attraction, Storybook Circus could easily become one of the most enjoyable (and relaxing) parts of your entire day!
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