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5 Places to Watch ‘Happily Ever After’ That Aren’t Main Street, U.S.A.

Happily Ever After at Magic Kingdom
Credit: Disney

Orlando’s Walt Disney World Resort is known for many things, especially the spectacular fireworks displays found throughout the theme parks. The parks offer unique nighttime shows: Fantasmic! at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, EPCOT Forever, and Happily Ever After at Magic Kingdom.

Happily Ever After returned following Walt Disney World’s 50th Anniversary Celebration in May 2023. The show is a favorite of many Disney fans, but the main viewing location on Main Street, U.S.A., can become very crowded and overwhelming. Though they aren’t as well known, today we are sharing five places to watch Happily Ever After and avoid the crowds of Main Street, U.S.A.

Related: The BEST Quiet Places to Escape Crowds at Disney World

5. Astro Orbiter

Astro Orbiter attraction at dusk where to watch happily ever after

Credit: Disney

When you’re getting ready to watch Happily Ever After at Magic Kingdom, your first thought probably isn’t to head to Tomorrowland. However, maybe it should be. As the park crowds head toward Main Street, U.S.A., head toward Tomorrowland instead. Tomorrowland’s Astro Orbiter allows you to fly high in a rocket, offering a unique viewing location to catch Happily Ever After. Enjoy an aerial view of the fireworks without any crowds.

4. Disney’s Contemporary Resort

Pool at Contemporary

Credit: Disney

Disney’s resort hotels offer a delightful change of pace to enjoy Magic Kingdom’s Happily Ever After. Before the nighttime fireworks, jump on the monorail and travel to Disney’s Contemporary Resort. You’ll find a balcony on the resort’s fourth floor just outside of Fantasia and Bayview Gifts. This balcony offers a spectacular view of Happily Ever After, including the show’s soundtrack, so you don’t miss a thing.

3. Dumbo

Mickey

Credit: Disney

For another crowd-free viewing area, head toward Magic Kingdom’s Fantasyland to find Dumbo, Disney’s famous flying elephant. This magical attraction allows you to soar over Fantasyland and offers a beautiful view of Happily Ever After.

Related: Disney Adult Steals Magical Moment From Child

2. Big Thunder Mountain

Big Thunder Mountain Railroad

Credit: Disney

Are you ready for “the wildest ride in the wilderness?” Hold on tight because we are heading to Frontierland for our next location to watch Happily Ever After. Big Thunder Mountain, Magic Kingdom’s Old Western thrill ride, offers a unique and exciting way to enjoy the nighttime fireworks. Watch the enchanting story light up the sky as you ride through the hills of the Wild West.

1. Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort

Disney Polynesian Village Resort Happily Ever After viewing

Credit: Disney

Our final location to catch Magic Kingdom’s nighttime spectacular is Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort. As you end your park day at Magic Kingdom, hop on the resort monorail or resort ferry boat to travel across Seven Seas Lagoon to the Polynesian Village Resort. This resort offers a lovely beach just past the Lava Pool, where you can enjoy Happily Ever After. The show’s music is played along the beach so that you can enjoy the full experience without the crowds of Main Street, U.S.A.

Related: The Top 12 Underrated Disney Movies You Forgot About — Ranked Worst to Best

About Megan Losey

As a Disney foodie, I love writing about Disney food and snacks. Some of my favorites are the Carrot Cake Cookie from Trolley Car Cafe, the Mickey Beignets from Port Orleans French Quarter, and the Apple Blossom from Port Orleans Riverside. When I'm visiting the parks, you can find me on Main Street taking in the good vibe of Magic Kingdom or relaxing with a drink at the Polynesian watching the fireworks from the beach. As a previous Cast Member, I will always have a special place in my heart for the Magic Kingdom, especially Main Street U.S.A.