Be Our Guest: Columnist Gets Sneak Preview of Disney Attractions
This mom around town was lucky enough to have a sneak peak around the new Enchanted Forest at Disney World's Magic Kingdom.
Just when you think it can't get any better, Disney adds some new magic. Its newest attractions do not disappoint.
As Disney Vacation Club Members, my family and I were able to attend a “dress rehearsal” for Disney World’s new Enchanted Forest in the Fantasyland section of the Magic Kingdom last week.
Disney World’s recent and vast expansion includes the Storybook Circus area, which opened a few months ago and sports a second Dumbo ride, an activity filled circus tent to keep the crowds occupied while waiting, and a splash area for the little ones. There is much more to come in future months and the Enchanted Forest, which we previewed, is set to open on Dec. 6, just in time for those visiting during the holidays. I wish we were going back!
Now, when you look beyond Cinderella’s iconic castle you will also see the Beast’s castle high in the mountains behind it. In that castle is the new Be Our Guest restaurant. Our preview included a tour through the magnificent space; unfortunately they are not opening until December, but I did hear they are surprising guests with meals there. The rooms hold more than 500 people. One of the Disney cast members told us it seats 700. It will be a counter service during the day and a sit-down dinner at night. Guests will order counter meals on magic scrolls. Pretty neat!
The large dining room is fit for a fairy tale wedding. It felt like we were walking into the movie and visiting Belle and Beast while they ate and danced. The restaurant boasts three amazing dining rooms. My favorite was the West Wing. If you remember, in the movie, the Beast tells Belle she is not allowed to enter that wing of his castle. The enchanted rose is displayed there.
We also enjoyed a dress rehearsal of Belle’s Enchanted Tales. To enter this attraction, guests walk through Belle’s cozy cottage, which is, of course, full of books. I won’t tell you much more about the show but all little princesses and princes will love it, even the big ones. I will tell you there is a magical mirror, a talking armoire and much more. This attraction is totally interactive and kids and adults may participate if they want.
We also had the opportunity to hitch a ride on Ariel’s Under the Sea Journey of the Little Mermaid. We climbed into clam shells and were entertained by Ariel, Sebastian, dancing fish, a gigantic Ursula and all of the beautiful music from the movie. The Little Mermaid is one of my favorite Disney movies, so I really liked this ride. Ariel’s grotto is also in the new area but we didn’t get a chance to visit with the mermaid.
We did however stop at the newly opened Gaston’s Tavern for some of Gaston’s brew, and a cinnamon bun the size of a cake. It was yummy.
My family and I enjoyed each new feature of the Magic Kingdom’s Enchanted Forest. We can’t wait to go back and see what else Disney has in store. The new attractions were crowd friendly and interactive with just enough of that Disney magic to make you want to do them again. I would say they are “must dos” for those with or without kids.
I can’t wait to book our next trip and make some reservations at Be Our Guest. I’ve already got my own beast tagging along with me.
Yes, we joined the 60,000 or so people from New Jersey who visited Orlando last week. Cast members said that was the number of New Jersey residents they expected even in the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy. Hopefully, many families had some well-deserved vacations.
Michael
7:46 am on Monday, November 12, 2012
We just got back last night. We also got into the dress rehearsal, which was great. But the Be Our Guest restaurant was taking reservations, so we ate there Tuesday night. Best restaurant in Magic Kingdom by far. They had mussels, steak, great chocolate cake for dessert, plus beer and wine. Can't wait to go back!
T Jones
9:22 pm on Monday, November 12, 2012
Patch needs more articles like this one and less of the politically charged articles. Thanks for the write-up. Hopefully we get to check out the new stuff soon!