Liberty Square in Magic Kingdom

Image from www.waltdisneyworld.com

In honor of President's Day, let's take a look at some of the rides, restaurants, and attractions in Liberty Square at Walt Disney World Resort's Magic Kingdom - home of the Hall of Presidents.  Liberty Square is a small area of the park located between Fantasyland and Frontierland.  While it doesn't have the big thrill rides or most popular restaurants, it's a hidden gem that can frequently be less crowded then other parts of the park.

Attractions / Rides

Haunted Mansion - Perhaps one of the most popular rides in Magic Kingdom, the Haunted Mansion takes you inside with 999 "happy haunts."  The wait to enter the mansion takes place through an outdoor graveyard.  Upon entering the mansion, guests are escorted into a room where some of the resident ghosts give you a quick welcome.  Then you are invited to enter your "doom buggy" for a ride through experience of the mansion and its resident ghosts.  The ride is not incredibly scary, but you may want to think about the personality of your own child before bringing a preschooler along.  We took Brody at 2 because he insisted he was big enough and brave enough to go.  He did fine on the ride, but was scared in the pre-show.

Hall of Presidents - A classic Disney attraction, guests can beat the Florida heat in this air conditioned theatre while also getting a taste of history.  The show includes a movie and then each president addressed the crowd in his audio animatronic self.  The show is not designed to hold the attention of little ones, but is a great place to go if you need a break from the heat and crowds.

Liberty Belle Riverboat - Another often overlooked ride is a quick cruise around Tom Sawyer Island on the Liberty Belle.  Again, not a thrill ride, but another nice way to beat the crowds, take a look at some pretty scenery, and take a break from the heat of day.  

Restaurants

Liberty Tree Tavern - Can't get a reservation at Be Our Guest or Cinderella's Royal Table?  Don't assume that all is lost in Magic Kingdom.  Liberty Tree Tavern is another Table Service option that serves good ol' fashioned American comfort food.  You won't be disappointed in the quality of the food or service here.  The atmosphere harkens back to Colonial America where everyone is treated as family!  A quality find (and an easier dining reservation to snag!)

Columbia Harbour House - This is a Quick Service option for guests that is usually less crowded then other choices throughout the park.  The choices here are features from New England.  Fish, clam chowder, and some unique sandwiches give diners a welcome change from burgers, pizza, and chicken often found at other quick service choices.  

Next time you're in Magic Kingdom, don't just breeze through Liberty Square but stop to enjoy a slower pace as well as the quality attractions and food!