Cinderella Castle, Lake Buena Vista
Facts and practical information
Cinderella Castle stands as the iconic centerpiece of Walt Disney World's Magic Kingdom in Lake Buena Vista, United States. This fairy-tale fortress is not only a symbol of the theme park but has also become an emblem of the Disney brand worldwide. Inspired by various historic palaces and castles, its design blends features from French châteaux and Gothic and Romanesque elements, creating a fantasy architecture that captures the magic of Disney.
The castle, which was completed in 1971, soars to an impressive height of 189 feet, making it one of the tallest structures in the Magic Kingdom park. Unlike many real castles, Cinderella Castle is built using steel framing and fiberglass, and it is designed to endure the harsh Florida hurricanes.
Guests to the Magic Kingdom are greeted by the castle's majestic presence at the end of Main Street, U.S.A. The castle features an intricate mosaic telling the story of Cinderella, which is composed of over 300,000 pieces of Italian glass in more than 500 colors. Inside the castle, visitors can dine at Cinderella's Royal Table, a popular restaurant offering character dining experiences. Above the restaurant, within the castle's towers, lies the exclusive Cinderella Castle Suite, which is not open to the public for bookings but is occasionally offered for special promotions and contests.
At night, Cinderella Castle transforms into an enchanting spectacle with the "Happily Ever After" fireworks show, which combines fireworks, projections, and music to create a magical storytelling experience. The castle is also used as a canvas for seasonal decorations and themed lighting, making it a dynamic focal point throughout the year.
Cinderella Castle – popular in the area (distance from the attraction)
Nearby attractions include: Magic Kingdom, Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, Tomorrowland Transit Authority PeopleMover, Stitch's Great Escape!.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When is Cinderella Castle open?
- Monday 8 am - 11:20 pm
- Tuesday 8 am - 10:20 pm
- Wednesday 8 am - 10:20 pm
- Thursday 8 am - 10:20 pm
- Friday 8 am - 9:50 pm
- Saturday 8 am - 11:10 pm
- Sunday 8 am - 11:20 pm
Which popular attractions are close to Cinderella Castle?
How to get to Cinderella Castle by public transport?
Tram
- Castle Courtyard • Lines: Horse Drawn Street Car (2 min walk)
- Town Square • Lines: Horse Drawn Street Car (6 min walk)
Train
- Fantasyland Station (6 min walk)
- Main Street, U.S.A. Station (6 min walk)
Bus
- Magic Kingdom Bus Station (8 min walk)
- Gate 16 • Lines: Magic Kingdom - Disney's Animal (8 min walk)