10 Things We Love About Main Street USA

Main Street USA is a throwback to life in early 1900’s America, inspired by Walt Disney’s childhood years in Marceline, Missouri. Like all other areas of Disney parks, this is a detail-rich environment worthy of exploration!

10. The cute little side street

If you’re usually hurrying up Main Street to get to your favorite attractions, you may have missed this area, which is hidden in plain sight. As you approach the castle, there is a small side street on the right side of Main Street. It’s a great place to enjoy your coffee or a snack and just take a break from the hustle and bustle of the park. If you listen carefully, you can hear music lessons being given from a window above the street.

9. Starbucks / Main Street Bakery

There’s a lot of controversy about whether or not Starbucks belongs in Disney World. Luckily in this case, the Main Street Bakery has retained its charm (and delicious pastries) despite being taken over by Starbucks. And, if you’re a fan of Starbucks in the “real world”, why not indulge in your daily latte or frappe during the afternoon parade?

8. The Emporium

There’s so much to love about this grand gift shop! They sell all kinds of merchandise, from housewares to stuffed animals to clothing. While it may look like there are distinct shops on the left side of Main Street, the truth is that the Emporium is huge- it occupies the entire span. If you’re trying to enter or exit the park at a busy time (like when a parade is making its way down the street), you can even walk through the store and not have to go out onto Main Street until you reach the very front of the park.

7. Partners Statue

Take a moment to pay homage to the man who started it all and his treasured mouse pal. The site of the Partners statue, located at the end of Main Street in the “hub” always makes me a bit emotional! I always stop to take a picture of this iconic image of Walt and Mickey.

6. Citizens of Main Street

Have you ever met the Citizens of Main Street? You’ll notice them by their turn of the century attire. Stop and chat with fire chief Smokey Miller or the Mayor if you have a chance. If you love pin trading, be on the lookout for “Scoop” Sanderson, town reporter and pin aficionado.

5. Dapper Dans

The Dapper Dans are a top-notch barbershop quartet who will delight guests of all ages with their melodies. Be sure to stop and listen if you notice them performing!

4. Parade viewing

Sure, there are great spots to view the Magic Kingdom’s parades in Frontierland and Liberty Square, but there’s nothing more magical than watching a parade from Main Street! For a unique view and a slightly less crowded spot, consider watching from where the parade begins (or ends, depending on the direction of the parade) – at the gate between the firehouse and the Emporium.

3. The Fire House

Speaking of the Fire House, did you know that this is where sorcerer training takes place? Stop by and learn how to play Sorcerer’s of the Magic Kingdom, an interactive card game that takes you on an adventure throughout the park. Using the map and cards you’re given, you’ll cast spells throughout the park at several different windows in hopes of defeating the game’s villains. It’s great fun for kids and adults, and guess what? The cards are very cool souvenirs and are absolutely free. Each member of your party can get a pack every day you enter the park, as long as you are actually playing the game!

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2. Meeting Talking Mickey

If you haven’t seen Mickey Mouse in the Town Square Theater lately, you might be surprised to find that Mickey actually talks! Don’t miss this unique meet and greet opportunity!

1. How great it is to stroll on it empty

If you haven’t had the pleasure of strolling down a (mostly) empty Main Street, you’re missing out. Being in the park before it opens is quite magical. How can you do this, you ask? Simply book a tour or dining reservation (such as the Keys to the Kingdom tour or breakfast at Cinderella’s Royal Table) that is scheduled before the park opens and you’ll be admitted early. You can’t enjoy the attractions, of course, but you can walk all the way up Main Street to the hub. This is a great time to take photos!

Did your favorite Main Street staple make the list? There’s more than 10 things to love about Main Street, of course. What would you add to our list?

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