Since the announcement of the Walt Disney World Fantasyland expansion, most of the excitement has centered around Fantasyland Forest. With major highlights like Be Our Guest Restaurant, Under the Sea – Journey of the Little Mermaid, and Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, it’s easy to see why.
But let’s talk about the hidden gem: Storybook Circus Phase I.
Welcome to the Circus!
Often overshadowed, Storybook Circus is so much more than just twin Dumbos. During my March 2012 visit, the area was bursting with charm. The Fantasyland Train Station was complete with nods to Walt’s backyard railroad—the Carolwood Pacific Railroad. You’ll also notice elephant tracks, peanut trails, and even monkey footprints guiding you through the land.
The train station doubles as a roundhouse, with cleverly themed restrooms, vintage luggage details, and ties to the upcoming Casey Jr. Splash ‘n’ Soak Station.
Goofy’s New Gig
The Barnstormer featuring the Great Goofini takes over where Goofy’s Wiseacre Farm once stood. The coaster is still kid-friendly, but the queue has been transformed. It now features Goofy’s failed circus stunts with colorful signs and themed props. I tried to capture as many of them as I could in the latest SamsDisneyDiary video!
Dumbo Gets Plussed
The water feature from Disneyland’s Dumbo finally made its way to Magic Kingdom—now upgraded with LED lighting, daytime sparkle, and nighttime glow. And for the first time ever: an interactive queue that promises to change how families experience the wait.
Only one Dumbo spinner was operational during my visit, but even then, the wait was worth it. The second spinner and full queue would soon complete the experience.
What’s Next?
The circus tents and construction walls teased Pete’s Silly Sideshow and a possible counter-service location. What characters will appear? What surprises lie behind the walls? Only time would tell.
But if the level of detail in Storybook Circus Phase I is any indication, the rest of New Fantasyland is bound to impress.
[…] even more colorful as the installation of Smellephants on Parade presented by Scentsy has begun at Storybook Circus. Guests visiting the land will go on a brand-new, interactive search-and-sniff experience, perfect […]