Credit: Inside The MagicIf you’ve been to Walt Disney World Resort enough, you likely have found some “hacks” that help you most efficiently make the most of your time in the theme parks.
Among these little-known tips and tricks lies a gem that promises a magical experience without the hassle of battling crowds: the Tomorrowland Transit Authority PeopleMover.
For avid Disney aficionados, witnessing the enchanting Happily Ever After fireworks display at Magic Kingdom Park is an essential part of the experience. However, the prospect of fighting through thousands of eager Disney World guests along Main Street, U.S.A. in front of Cinderella Castle can often deter even the most passionate fans. But fear not, there exists a clandestine shortcut to behold the nighttime spectacular in all its glory – and it involves a leisurely ride on the Tomorrowland Transit Authority PeopleMover.
As dusk descends upon Magic Kingdom and the anticipation for the nighttime spectacular and fireworks show builds, savvy park-goers can head to Tomorrowland, away from the thousands crowded in front of Cinderella Castle. Instead of staking out a coveted viewing spot amidst the bustling masses, you can opt for a more relaxed approach. Sitting comfortably in cushioned seats aboard the PeopleMover, guests embark on a tranquil journey through Tomorrowland, with the promise of occasional glimpses of the fireworks illuminating the night sky.
While the vantage point may not offer an unobstructed view of the entire display, it presents a unique perspective dotted with photo opportunities and fleeting moments of pure Disney magic, but make sure you’re quick to get those photos.
As bursts of color and light dance across the horizon, passengers on the PeopleMover are treated to a symphony of sights and sounds, all while basking in the comfort of their plush seats in a car that will be entirely theirs, sharing these moments with only their party.
But the enchantment doesn’t end there. As the final echoes of the fireworks fade into the night, those in the know can seize the opportunity to beat the post-show exodus. With the crowds still congregating around Main Street, U.S.A., we recommend making a beeline for another beloved attraction: Space Mountain.
As the vast majority of the crowd waits for the end of the show, the wait times for Space Mountain plummet. With lines dwindling to a fraction of their daytime counterparts, thrill-seekers embark on a high-speed journey through the cosmos, the exhilaration of the iconic coaster serving as the perfect finale to an evening of Disney delights. Though Space Mountain boasts an average wait time of around an hour each day, it will dwindle to less than 30 minutes, sometimes even 15 or 20 minutes, during the fireworks show. This gives you the perfect opportunity to ride the attraction and skip the normal wait time, even without using a Disney Genie+ selection to get into the Lightning Lane.
Of course, we have to note that many other Disney park fans recommend heading to the opposite side of the theme park instead. In this case, they say you should ride Big Thunder Mountain Railroad during the fireworks show. If you can time it perfectly, this is one of the best ways to view the Happily Ever After fireworks. However, you won’t get to take in the same effect of the projections and glimpses that you get if you’re aboard the PeopleMover, so take that for what it’s worth.
What is your “Disney World hack?” Let Inside the Magic know in the comments!