When you think of Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom, what comes to mind? Maybe it’s the enchanting castle, the whimsical characters, or the smell of delicious treats wafting through the air. Among the array of culinary delights, there’s a debate stirring the pot: Should McDonald’s replace Casey’s Corner Restaurant?
Picture it: You’re strolling down Main Street, U.S.A., basking in the nostalgic ambiance when hunger strikes. The classic charm of Casey’s Corner is that Magic Kingdom eatery nostalgia. But would the familiarity of McDonald’s golden arches hit the spot even better? Let’s hash it out, shall we?
The Classic Allure of Casey’s Corner
Casey’s Corner is a beloved institution at Magic Kingdom. Its Victorian-inspired facade and baseball-themed decor transport guests to a bygone era of Americana. As you step inside, the aroma of sizzling hot dogs and freshly baked buns beckons you closer.
What sets Casey’s apart is its undeniable charm. From the ragtime piano tunes to the vintage baseball memorabilia adorning the walls, every detail exudes nostalgia. Plus, where else can you indulge in a foot-long hot dog topped with gooey chili cheese?
Related: Big (and Welcomed) Changes Coming to Casey’s Corner at Disney
For many Disney enthusiasts, Casey’s Corner is more than just a restaurant—it’s a tradition. Families gather here to refuel and reminisce, making memories that last a lifetime. The thought of losing this iconic eatery is enough to bring a tear to Mickey’s eye.
McDonald’s: The Global Giant
On the flip side, we have the fast-food behemoth that is McDonald’s.
With its ubiquitous presence around the world, McDonald’s is synonymous with convenience and consistency. For some visitors, seeing those familiar golden arches is like finding an oasis in the desert.
Related: Disney and McDonalds Face BACKLASH Over Controversial Food Packaging
Imagine grabbing a piping hot Big Mac or sinking your teeth into a crispy chicken sandwich, all within arm’s reach of Cinderella Castle. McDonald’s offers a taste of home for weary travelers longing for familiar flavors amidst the fantasy of Disney.
But let’s not forget the potential downside.
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Critics argue that introducing McDonald’s to Magic Kingdom could dilute the park’s unique charm. After all, part of the Disney magic lies in its ability to transport guests to fantastical realms far removed from the everyday.
Not a Far-Fetched Idea?
While you may be thinking there is NO WAY Disney would ever bring a McDonald’s into the Magic Kingdom… remember when we said the same thing about Starbucks replacing Main Street Bakery at the Magic Kingdom?
Now known as the “Main Street Bakery Featuring Starbucks Coffee,” could there one day be a shift from Casey’s Corner to “Casey’s Corner Featuring McDonald’s?”
Plus, let’s not forget there is, in fact, a McDonald’s fast-food chain located on the Walt Disney World property just moments from the Disney All-Star Resorts.
The Verdict: A Balancing Act
So, should McDonald’s replace Casey’s Corner? It’s a tough call, but perhaps there’s a middle ground to be found. Instead of bidding farewell to Casey’s, why not explore opportunities for collaboration?
Imagine a hybrid concept where Casey’s Corner and McDonald’s join forces to create something truly magical. Picture gourmet hot dogs served alongside McDonald’s famous french fries or Mickey-shaped chicken nuggets with a side of nostalgia.
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Ultimately, the key lies in preserving the essence of Magic Kingdom while embracing innovation. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of Casey’s or a loyal McDonald’s aficionado, there’s room for both in the magical tapestry of Disney.
So, the next time you find yourself wandering down Main Street, U.S.A., pondering where to satisfy your cravings, remember this: Whether it’s the classic corn dog nuggets or a box of McNuggets, the real magic of Disney isn’t just in the food—it’s in the memories we create together.
In the end, perhaps it’s not about replacing one with the other but rather celebrating the diverse flavors that make Magic Kingdom truly enchanting. After all, in the wonderful world of Disney, there’s always room for one more happy meal.
Bon appétit, and may your taste buds be forever enchanted in the Happiest Place on Earth!
Would you like to see a McDonald’s replacement for Casey’s Corner? Let us know in the comments.
There used to be McDonald’s fries sold in Frontier land in a cart.
It would a terrible tragedy for McDonalds to be part of or all of Casey’s. They should put it in the location between main street and Tomorrowland that some lack of identity.
When at any Disney park, I try to leave the world outside. I think it would be tragic to have McDonald’s replace Casey’s or be in any other place in the park. And while we’re at it, you can remove Starbucks too!
Replace the Starbucks with a McDs and leave Casey’s as is. You’d have a better breakfast selection, and coffee drinks for the morning, and a fast, relatively cheaper lunch and dinner options to boot. Preserves Casey’s and improves the food situation in MK.
Alternatively you could add a McDs to the Sonny Eclipse as a station there, or replace it outright.
If you want a McDonalds, put it in Disney Springs. I think there was a McDonalds there years ago. They would have to enlarge the portions they give you compared to Casey’s. If I want McDonalds, have it at home. You can’t get a dog like Casey’s anyplace else and if so they are few and far between.
I think Casey’s Corner should stay. They have great hot dogs & lots of memories.
McDonald’s has cut back on the size of their burgers but not the price.
It would be a big mistake to put in a McDonalds.
Bob
I would hate to see Casey’s go away! Put McDonald’s next to Gideons Bakery!
Restaurantosaurus in Animal Kingdom used to be McDonalds. But they didn’t keep it that way.
Bring in Chipotle
Casey’s Corner needs to stay, so much a part of MK.
Casey’s over McD’s all day, every day!!! Not even a contest. And I agree…toss out Starbuck as well. Sucky overpriced coffee imo.
There is no way that a McDonald’s should replace Casey’s Corner. Just ridiculous…
NO WAY JOSE!!! Mc Donald’s does not belong in a magic kingdom. Sounds like a money issue, of course.
We don’t need McDonald’s at all. ! Leave Casey ‘s alone.
We don’t need MCDONALD’S EVERYWHERE. SORRY, keep them out. It’s enough already.
Let’s not forget that on May 23, 1996, a press release revealed a 10 year contract between McDonald’s and Walt Disney World that was to start on January1st, 1997. There were 6 locations in the parks where you could get at least McDonald’s Fries, with some offering more. The contract went until January 1, 2007 and McDonald’s presence removed by the end of 2008. McDonalds still has one location near All-Star Resorts. There used to be one in Downtown Disney but that closed April 30, 2010.
McDonald’s was also the sole sponsor of Dinoland U.S.A. and there were McDonalds logos all over the place on most things that had Dinoland on it.
Here were the 6 locations :
MGM/Hollywood Studios – Fairfax Fries – just Fries and Coca Cola Drinks. (now called Toluca Legs and sells Turkey Legs)
EPCOT – Refreshment Port which sold McDonalds Fries and Coca Cola Drinks. It also had Chicken McNuggets and the McFlurry with 3 blend in options – Nestles Crunch, Nestles Butterfinger or Orange. (still called Refreshment Port)
Animal Kingdom – Petrifries – McDonald fries and Coca Cola Drinks. (now called Trilo-Bites)
The most interesting of the locations was Restaurantosaurus – Here you could get a McDonalds happy Meal or a McDonalds 10 piece Chicken McNuggets with McDonald’s Fries. The other items (all which came with McDonald’s Fries) were Dino Sized Double Cheeseburger, a Cheeseburger, Hot Dog Osaurus, Mandarin Chicken Salad, and even a Vegetarian Burger. Oh, let us not forget that you could also get your choice of 2 beers (Think McBeers, lol) These were Bud Light and a special one called Safari Amber. This beer was brewed exclusively for Disney by Anheuser-Bush and could be purchased at the Animal Kingdom, Animal Kingdom Lodge and the African Themed Outpost at Epcot. (still called Restaurantosaurus)
Magic Kingdom which had 2 locations – The Village Fry Shoppe and you could purchase McDonald’s Fries and Coca Cola Drinks, along with Hot Dogs, Carrot Cake and Jello (interesting combination) They also sold both Regular Milk and also Soy Milk. (This is now called The Friar’s Nook)
The last location in Magic Kingdom was Frontierland Fries which sold, yes, McDonald’s Fries and Coca Cola drinks. This was
shaped like a wagon. This location was renamed and is called The Golden Oak Outpost, was completely changed and is now a brick building and you can get Princess Tiana’s famous Beignets – which are soo good.
Now to should Casey’s be replaced with McDonald’s. While I understand that Disney gets sponsorship money from the corporate sponsors and Disney is a business, the simple answer is this – NO WAY. LEAVE CASEY’S ALONE.
Casey’s as much an icon as the castle. It would be a shame to put a fast food chain there. The ball park theme is truly American. Sitting around eating a monster hot dog and listening to the piano player is classic Americana. Leave well enough alone. Disney food should only be something that you can get at Disney and not on every street corner!
Please no, we don’t need a McDonalds taking over Casey’s. There’s a McDonalds on property if anyone needs a fix.
Don’t even think about bring a McD to Disney properties…………incompatibility personified !!!!!!!!!!!!!
No McDonalds should not be in Magic Kingdom. The thought of bringing in a chain fast food is horrible. Their quality of food is poor.
I agree with everyone. Keep Casy’s.
Do not remove Casey’s. That is a must stop tradition for our family. You could put McDonald’s in a thousand other sites in any of the Parks.
Absolutely not. McDonald’s can not possibly replace Casey’s Corner. I wasn’t happy about Starbucks replacing the Main Street Bakery but at least they served the same sort of food, beverages and pastries. McDonald’s serves hamburgers not hot dogs. Diametrically opposed.