Calling all princesses! It’s time for a charming Disney vacation and you don’t even need a Fairy Godmother to wave her magic wand (although if you keep reading you’ll learn where to find one). Here is your royal invitation to the ultimate Cinderella vacation at Walt Disney World®.
There are so many opportunities to explore the world of Cinderella at the Disney Parks. From princess makeovers to cultural experiences to the magnificent Cinderella Castle itself, there is magic waiting for you on your next vacation. If you’re traveling with a Cinderella fan (or you’re one yourself), here is your guide to designing the perfect Cinderella-themed Disney vacation!
Accommodations
No other hotel captures the beauty and spirit of Cinderella than Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. While the resort is Victorian-inspired, Cinderella and Prince Charming would feel right at home here. You can even choose a room with a view of Cinderella Castle off your balcony (perfect for viewing fireworks). You may even spot a carriage and footmen outside waiting to escort a royal bride to her wedding.
Another option is a Royal Guest Room at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside. These princess-themed rooms are located in Magnolia Bend, a southern mansion that looks onto the Sassagoula River. Here you’ll find magical headboards that display fireworks, royal details, and tributes to your favorite Disney princesses throughout the room (is that a magic carpet I see?).
Accommodations:
- Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
- Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside: Royal Guest Rooms
Attractions
Cinderella Castle is the feature attraction at Magic Kingdom. From the moment you enter the parks and walk down Main Street you won’t be able to take your eyes off it. While it’s not a “ride”, you can walk through it (and around it). In the archway underneath the castle you’ll find beautiful murals telling the story of Cinderella. Nearby you’ll also find the Cinderella Wishing Well and her wishing well statue.
Tip: Get Memory Maker and ask PhotoPass photographers to capture your little princess by the wishing well or Cinderella’s statue.
Located just behind Cinderella Castle is the Prince Charming Regal Carrousel. Choose your steed and enjoy classic organ music as you ride.
Other princess-themed attractions in Magic Kingdom include Enchanted Tales with Belle, Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, and Under the Sea – Journey of the Little Mermaid.
Taking inspiration from her native country of France, be sure to visit the France pavilion in Epcot’s World Showcase. Here you’ll find Impressions de France, a film featuring the music, art, and history of the nation. Stroll around the pavilion to explore shops, treats, and other French details.
Attractions:
- Cinderella Castle (Magic Kingdom)
- Prince Charming Regal Carrousel (Magic Kingdom)
- Impressions de France (Epcot)
Characters
Cinderella offers meet & greets at only one location – Princess Fairytale Hall in Magic Kingdom. She typically greets guests with one of her princess friends (lately Elena of Avalor). On the other side of Princess Fairytale Hall you can meet Rapunzel and Tiana. Cinderella is excited to meet you and loves to sign autographs, take photos, and teach young princes and princesses how to bow and curtsy in her ball gown.
Tip: Make sure you choose the correct line for the princesses you want to meet. Cinderella and Elena meet separately from Rapunzel and Tiana (you’ll have to wait in line twice to meet all four of them).
You can also see Cinderella with her Prince Charming in the Festival of Fantasy Parade.
Characters
Entertainment
Often overlooked, the Royal Majesty Makers in Fantasyland offer lessons for princes and princesses in training. They are the official consultants of Cinderella’s court. The show occurs several times daily and children are invited to participate. They may even have a chance to practice for the royal ball!
Don’t miss the Festival of Fantasy Parade. This afternoon tradition features many of your favorite Disney characters. I love the Cinderella float. Be sure to wave as they go by!
If you’re there early enough for the welcome show, Let the Magic Begin, you may also spot the Fairy Godmother herself.
Entertainment:
Dining
Character Dining
For a true Cinderella fan, you need to make a reservation at Cinderella’s Royal Table. This restaurant is located INSIDE Cinderella’s Castle. Cinderella herself is waiting to greet you before you enjoy a delicious meal of French-inspired cuisine. You’ll also have the opportunity to meet up to four other princesses. It is the perfect experience for a first visit.
Tip: As you can imagine, Cinderella’s Royal Table is very popular. Reservations can be made 180 days before your arrival. If you can’t find a table at first, keep checking daily or have your vacation planner check for you.
You can also find Cinderella and Prince Charming at Cinderella’s Happily Ever After Dinner at 1900 Park Fare. This restaurant is located in the Grand Floridian and also features other Cinderella characters, such as the stepsisters or Lady Tremaine.
Cinderella sometimes appears at Akershus Royal Banquet Hall in Epcot, along with four other princesses. While it’s not a guarantee, this experience is great for any princess fan.
Another great option, although technically not a character meal, is Be Our Guest Restaurant. This too is French-inspired and the ballroom is spectacular. You may even get to meet the Beast at dinnertime.
Character Dining:
Unique Dining
For other Cinderella-inspired meals, you have plenty of options. I love the Grand Floridian Cafe – it’s simple, but elegant and offers a great breakfast.
If you’re in Disney Springs, be sure to stop by Amorette’s Patisserie for stunning French pastries.
In the France pavilion of Epcot you’ll find several examples of French cuisine. Monsieur Paul and Chefs de France offer table-service meals with authentic dishes. For snacks and treats, stop by L’Artisan des Glaces (ice cream), Crepes des Chefs de France (crepes), or Les Halles Boulangerie-Patisserie (pastries).
Unique Dining
- Amorette’s Patisserie
- Grand Floridian Cafe
- Monsieur Paul
- Chefs de France
- L’Artisan des Glaces
- Crepes de Chefs de France
- Les Halles Boulangerie-Patisserie
Shopping
Parents be warned – you can find incredible Cinderella souvenirs everywhere at the Disney Parks.
For beautiful princess gowns stop by Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique (either at Cinderella Castle or in Disney Springs), Castle Couture (behind Cinderella Castle), or the World of Disney store (in Disney Springs). You’ll also find every accessory you need to turn your child into a princess (or prince).
I love the Art of Disney store in Disney Springs – they feature beautiful paintings, prints, and figurines depicting the Disney characters and icons. I have a print of Cinderella Castle hanging over my desk.
In the France pavilion you’ll find plenty of authentic French merchandise. Shops include L’Espirit de la Provence, Les Vins de France, Plume et Palette, and Souvenirs de France. You’ll find L’Occitane en Provence in Disney Springs with French skincare products.
Two of my favorite shops are Glaskunst (in the Germany pavilion) and Crystal Arts (several locations). These feature beautiful crystal creations, including models of Cinderella castle and stunning tiaras.
Tip: Instead of spending money on an elaborate princess gown your child will grow out of, why not invest in a keepsake tiara? Perhaps she’ll even wear it on her wedding day 🙂
Shopping:
- Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique
- Castle Couture
- World of Disney
- Art of Disney
- L’Espirit de la Provence
- Les Vins de France
- Plume et Palette
- Souvenirs de France
- L’Occitane en Provence
- Glaskunst
- Crystal Arts by Arribas Brothers
Enchanting Extras & Activities
There are so many ways to make your Disney vacation extra special. While I don’t recommend choosing everything on this list (unless you’re staying longer than a week), choosing a few of these “Enchanting Extras” will make your trip unique.
Royal Makeovers
Every Cinderella needs a magical transformation from her Fairy Godmother. If your child is between ages 3-12 you can schedule a princess or a knight makeover at Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique. It has two locations – one in Disney Springs and one inside Cinderella Castle.
Tip: Schedule an appointment at Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique before a meal at Cinderella’s Royal Table for a truly magical experience.
You can also get a little pixie dust at Castle Couture, located next to Cinderella Castle.
Royal Makeovers:
- Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique – Cinderella Castle
- Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique – Disney Springs
- Castle Couture
Royal Events
Every princess needs a tea party. Choose from the Perfectly Princess Tea, featuring Aurora and special princess gifts, or a more mature Afternoon Tea at the Garden View Tea Room. Both of these events are located at the Grand Floridian.
For magical fireworks viewing fit for royalty, choose from the Fireworks Dessert Party with Plaza Garden Viewing or the Ferrytale Fireworks Sparking Dessert Cruise. Children and adults will love the unlimited treats.
You can also make your dinner at Cinderella’s Royal Table even more special by ordering the Cinderella Slipper Dessert. It is a chocolate “glass slipper” filled with mousse and berries. Note: You need to order it in advance!
Another idea is to reserve a horse-drawn carriage ride at either Port Orleans Resort – Riverside or Fort Wilderness. It’s not quite Cinderella’s carriage, but it’s a fun family activity with great views.
Royal Events:
- Perfectly Princess Tea Party
- Afternoon Tea at the Garden View Tea Room
- Fireworks Dessert Party with Plaza Garden Viewing
- Ferrytale Fireworks: A Sparkling Dessert Cruise
- Specialty Desserts
- Carriage Rides
Themed Gifts
Finally, you can work with Disney Floral & Gifts to prepare a Cinderella-themed surprise for your loved ones. They can be placed in your room before you arrive or placed at select table-service restaurants. Here are a few great options:
- A Royal Welcome
- Princess Treasures
- Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique Bouquet
- My Storybook Moment – Princess
- Cinderella’s Enchanted Bouquet
- Crown Her a Princess
- Proclaim Her a Princess
- Presenting Your Royal Princess
Themed vacations are my favorite. I love finding ways to bring classic characters to life in new ways and help families make unique memories. I love the story of Cinderella (who doesn’t?) and I hope this post has given you plenty of ideas for your next Disney vacation!
Wouldn’t it be nice to have help putting all these plans together? As you may know, I am a vacation planner specializing in all things Disney. My job is to serve as your personal Fairy Godmother and bring your dream Disney vacation to life. The best part? My services are 100% free to clients booking a Disney vacation package.
If you’d like to learn more about what I can do for your next Disney vacation, request a free consultation. Or, feel free to send me an email at jtullino@themouseexperts.com. I’ll be happy to help your family experience your most magical vacation yet!
