New Fantasyland

A lot of hype has been put up about the New Fantasyland expansion in Walt Disney World's Magic Kingdom, and it deserves all that attention. It is the largest expansion ever at this park and while some sections are still under construction the Beauty and Beast and the Little Mermaid experiences are up and running. I had the privilege to eat at the new Be Our Guest restaurant for both lunch and dinner and I must say its the most beautifully designed restaurant at Disney I have been to. The ballroom is just how you see it in the movie and Beast's west wing as well! The study is a bit out of place because its not actually part of the movie but the center piece makes up for it.

 Food wise the restaurant is also outstanding. For lunch the offer a modified quick service so you can order your food in the queue then sit down and they bring your meal by the magic rose you are given as a position finder. The french onion soup is wonderful as are the desserts. For dinner the dinning style changes to a more sophisticated palate. Servers of the castle bring you to your table with rose napkins and delectable dinner options. When I was there for this meal we had enough people to each choose a different item and try every entree on the menu and they were all spectacular! What sets this restaurant apart from the rest of Magic Kingdom is their offering of wine and beer at dinner. If you happen to be celebrating anything make sure to let them know in your reservations or wear a birthday pin and try the "grey stuff" it really is delicious. 

Speaking of food Gaston's Tavern is right next door if you don't want to wait in line for Be Our Guest. There is not much on the menu but the cinnamon rolls are huge and the decor is truly Gaston's style. You might even spot the big guy strolling around in front by his fountain.

 Belle's Cottage was a nice experience but because I visited during soft opening (late November) and opening week (December 6th) the lines were long and the cast members didn't leave much time inside the rooms to really explore and see what was there. The new story time with Belle was refreshing and when the summer months come along will be a nice change from the once outdoor area where it was held. Over all its a cute thing for the little kids but if you want to look at things inside the cottage and Maurice's workshop you might be disappointed from being rushed on to the next room.

The Journey of the Little Mermaid ride is almost identical to its California counterpart but I'm so glad that Disney brought it to Florida. The wait line is filled with thingy-ma-bob's and whatcha-ma-call-its. It is interactive but when I got in line we just about walked onto the ride. Ariel's meet-and-greet has also been restored in her Grotto just next to the ride entrance.

The last area to be opened will be the 7 Dwarfs' Mine Train. Walking around the construction fences there are areas to peek in and see the progress. This ride is not supposed to open though until 2014! Also new over by Small World and Peter Pan. It will house a meet-and-greet as well as some new bathrooms.

Have a Magical Day!