Can You Go into Cinderella’s Castle at Disney World?
Direct Answer: Yes, You Can! But There’s a Catch…
For many Disney fans, Cinderella’s Castle is the iconic symbol of the Happiest Place on Earth. With its majestic towers, elegant architecture, and fairytale charm, it’s easy to see why millions of visitors flock to the Disney World theme park in Orlando, Florida, every year. But have you ever wondered if you can actually go inside Cinderella’s Castle? The answer is yes, but there’s a catch… read on to find out how.
History of the Castle
Before we dive into the details of visiting Cinderella’s Castle, let’s take a brief look at its history. The castle was designed by Walt Disney himself and built in 1971 as the centerpiece of the Magic Kingdom theme park. It took 18 months to construct and cost a staggering $17 million, which is equivalent to around $100 million today. The castle is a 72.5-foot-tall, 183,000-square-foot structure that can accommodate 1,200 guests at a time.
Princess Royal Table Restaurant: The Only Accessible Area Inside the Castle
So, what part of Cinderella’s Castle can you actually visit? The answer is the Princess Royal Table restaurant, located on the second floor of the castle. This exclusive, fine-dining establishment is open for breakfast and lunch, offering a $62-$82 per person per meal experience. The restaurant is designed to resemble the grand ballroom from the Disney movie "Cinderella" and features candelabras, stained-glass windows, and fantastical murals.
Character Meet-and-Greets and Other Experiences
While you can’t fully explore the rest of the castle, you can still meet your favorite Disney characters, including Princess Cinderella herself, outside the gates of the castle. Take a stroll around the Storybook Circus area, where you can also enjoy live music, street performances, and photo opportunities with Disney characters.
Special Events and VIP Tours
Cinderella’s Castle also plays host to various special events and VIP tours throughout the year, including:
• Royal Table Experience: A unique private dinner experience that includes a special menu, wine, and personalized service. Prices range from $200 to $500 per person, depending on the package.
• Sunrise or Sunset Tour: A 4-hour tour that includes a meet-and-greet with Disney characters, a photo shoot, and a private guide. These tours cost $500-$1,000 per person, depending on the season.
Things to Keep in Mind
Before you start planning your visit to Cinderella’s Castle, keep the following in mind:
- Reservations: Book your table at the Princess Royal Table restaurant well in advance, as spaces fill up quickly.
- Dress Code: Formal attire is recommended for the Princess Royal Table restaurant, so dress to impress!
- Time Constraints: Allow at least 2 hours for your visit, including meal time and character meet-and-greets.
- Photography: Don’t try to sneak a peek into the castle’s restricted areas or take photos from unauthorized areas, as Disney security is strict about keeping the inner workings of the castle off-limits.
Conclusion
Cinderella’s Castle is a must-visit attraction at Disney World, even if you only get to experience the exclusive Princess Royal Table restaurant on the second floor. With its rich history, majestic architecture, and special events, this iconic landmark is a dream come true for any Disney fan. So, plan your visit, and you might just find yourself dining with royalty in this enchanting castle at the heart of the Happiest Place on Earth.
Additional Tips and Resources
- For more information on the Princess Royal Table restaurant, visit the official Disney World website or call (407) 939-3463.
- Check the Disney World website for schedule updates, character meet-and-greet times, and special event dates.
- Consider purchasing a Park Hopper ticket to ensure access to other Disney World attractions and experiences.
**Lastly, don’t forget to share your Cinderella’s Castle experience on social media using the hashtags #DisneyWorld #CinderellasCastle #DisneyMagic!