Question re: visibility of MK castle from outside turnstiles.

[riu girl]

My daughter has sensory issues and was hoping to visit MK (near the turnstiles) the day before our "MK day" to allow her to get a little familiar with MK. Was wondering what exactly you can see from outside the entrance. Can you see the castle of any part of main street? I haven't been to MK in over 20 years and can't remember.

Also, if I went over to the contemporary resort that day also, are there any viewing areas that would allow her to see any part of MK? If so, where would the best area and what would she be able to see?

Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Suzy V.

 

[SueM in MN]

The castle is not visible form the turnstile. When you come into the park, the train station is directly in front of you. the second floor of the train station is where you board the train. There's sort of a tunnel on each side of the station at the first floor (ground) level that takes you thru the train station. You can't really see much until you go thru the tunnel. Even then, you won't see the castle right away. The tunnels are off to the side a bit compared to the castle.
You can see the castle from the rooftop observation level at the Contemporary.
Another thing that might be helpful to you would be to ride the monorail. You can get a pretty good overview of the park from a bit of a distance. If you also ride the monorail over to Epcot, your monorail actually goes into Epcot and flies over some of the park, giving a really good overview. A lot of kids with sensory issues don't mind the monorail (in fact some like it better than the parks). You can ride the monorail without going into the parks or using up a day on your passes.

 

[Ambassador]

The monorail is an excellent suggestion. Ask a CM while waiting for seats in front for the most private, fabulous view. Perhaps a train ride around the entire MK would be a good start for your daughter? Will she wear earplugs or noise-cancelling earphones? Also, check the guidebooks for quieter, out-of-the-way spots should it get to be too much: the fountain behind the Castle to the left, the alley to the right off Main Street, a table with a view of the Castle at Plaza Pavilion, the playground at Toon Town Fair (if age-appropriate for your DD).

 

[riu girl]

Thanks so much for the suggestions. We spent some time on the WDW web site last night to start preparing her for the holiday and she seems quite excited about the whole vacation. I have also let her watch the WDW video a few times as well. I think that by renting a double stroller for her and her brother (4) it will also give her a "safe" place in case the crowds get too much for. This worked quite well at a huge theme park here in Canada last summer.

Thanks again for the great tips.

Suzy V.