Frontierland, as we know it today, is a great example of how well Disney weaves the old with the new. It was around on opening day and much of what was originally opened has stood the test of time, but the additions of Splash Mountain and Big Thunder Mountain Railroad have defined this area for the past 25 years.
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In the Park Detail series, we will be taking a much more in-depth look at each of the 4 theme parks of Walt Disney World. This series is meant to inform our readers on what is available and where you can find it at each park. We will break it up into sections, so that you can easily find information quickly.
A Land that Cannot be Forgotten
Many people have the mentality of just hitting the mountains in Frontierland and getting out of the area as fast as they can. This can be a useful strategy if you are trying to do Magic Kingdom one day, but overlooking this area on a time and again basis will rob you of many of the attractions that Walt Disney held close to this park. Areas like the shooting range and Tom Sawyer island harken days past, and Country Bear Jamboree provides a comical show with air conditioning to escape the Florida sun.
The Rides - Frontierland offers 2 of the most sought after rides for most Magic Kingdom visitors. Splash Mountain and Big Thunder Mountain Railroad are both rides that can command 1 hour plus wait times and for good reason.
Splash Mountain is a log flume ride that covers 10 minutes of classic Disney animatronics and water fun. The tagline "You will get wet, you might get soaked", holds true to form, especially during the summer when they turn on more of the water features. This ride is getting ready for a refurbishment and re-theming to the style of Princess and the Frog, but there has not been a timeline given for the start of this project.
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad is a mine
train style roller coaster that offers a classic feel for this type of ride. Winding through an abandoned, and possibly haunted, mining town, Big Thunder Mountain offers sway hills, switchbacks, and head choppers that will make any coaster fan happy.
The Attractions - Many people miss the charm of Frontierland as they run to and from the mountain rides in the back section of this area. Tom Sawyer Island offers a walk through throw back to the time of the title character. Many interactive areas await once you take the raft ride over to the island. Country Bear Jamboree is a very, uhhhhh, unique show that offers some impressive animatronics and, oh yes, air conditioning. It is a great place to take a load off and cool down as the bears serenade guests. The Shooting Arcade allows your sharpshooter of any age the ability to show their skill in a local fair style shooting gallery.
Shopping is also an attraction in this area as the largest pin store in the Magic Kingdom is located in Frontierland, right before it transitions to Liberty Square. The Frontier Trading Post offers the pin collector in your party everything from mystery packs to some of the most sought after collector's edition pins in the Disney realm.
Finding Food in the Frontier - Frontierland offers 3 food options that are currently available on a limited open basis. Pecos Bill's Tall Tale Inn and Cafe offers an elaborate nacho bar and some southwestern flair. Westward Ho offers some more traditional fare, chicken sandwiches and corn dogs, with Disney spin. Finally, Golden Oak Outpost offers a limited Quick Service menu and is located in the transition from Adventureland to Frontierland.
Although the Mountains get most of the talk in this area, Frontierland offers a lot more than people think and can allow you to spend a lot of time away from the crowds, if you are willing to explore this area. It also offers a couple of chances to cool off on a hot day and, arguably, the best roller coaster in all of Walt Disney World. Next time you are looking for something to do, spend some time in this area. You will not be disappointed.
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