THE KEYS TO THE KINGDOM
TOUR BY KAT WOLFE
Of all the temporarily unavailable experiences I am looking forward to returning , I can ’ t wait for the tours . Any time I can have an exclusive , unique , edutainment-filled experience with a Disney Cast Member , count me in .
At time of publication , all tours ( except the private VIP experiences ) are on hold due to COVID-19 safety protocols . But while the pandemic has put those vested Cast Members in plaid on pause , it can ’ t hurt to reminisce about one of the most rich experiences a true Disney fanatic can have : the Keys to the Kingdom tour .
Consider reading the following as an act of research , pre-planning if you will , so that when tours return , you ’ ll know which to book when you call 407-WDW-Tour .
Don ’ t forget to mention if you are an Annual Passholder , DVC Member , or Disney Chase Visa Card Holder when booking — there could be a discount for you . Visit the Disney website for the full list of tours offered .
IS IT FOR YOU ? The question most often asked about the Keys to the Kingdom tour is , “ Did it ruin the magic for you ?” Let ’ s address that right away .
I can ’ t get enough insider information , hidden details , secrets , history , anecdotes , or answers to “ How do they do that ?” The more revealed , the more I appreciate what my family has been enamored with for the last 40 + years . That said , if you become disenchanted by insider information , this likely isn ’ t the tour for you .
Your tour will gather here to begin . PHOTO BY LAURIE SAPP
Guests must be 16 or older to enjoy the Keys to the Kingdom tour , and it ’ s at least a 5-hour time investment . Anyone who has limited time in Magic Kingdom on their vacation may not want to spend so much of it on a tour .
And finally , there is a lot of walking , so consider your comfort level before you book .
MORE THAN UTILIDORS Meet your Keys to the Kingdom tour guide at the Town Square Theater 15 minutes prior to your scheduled time . Here , you ’ ll check in and receive your souvenir name badge , a bottle of water , and a headset to more easily hear your tour guide on attractions and in loud spaces .
PREVIOUS PAGE : This tour is great at illuminating new facets of the park we know and love . PHOTO BY LAURIE SAPP