UPDATE: President's Visit to MK Confirmed

In regard to my post on Tuesday, the White House has confirmed that President Obama will be visiting Walt Disney World, specifically Main Street USA in the Magic Kingdom, on Thursday, January 19. His speech begins at 12:35 p.m. and he will introduce a new strategy to improve travel and tourism, as well as elaborating on his "We Can't Wait" initiative for creating jobs.

But here's the catch: if you're visiting the MK and hoping to catch the Prez's speech, you're out of luck. In fact, without an official White House invitation, you can expect to be routed around Main Street altogether (Disney will use Cast backstage areas to enter the Park) from prior to open until after the President makes his departure. Guests who enter the MK with a single-day, single-park ticket and are unhappy with the closure will be offered entrance to another of the Disney Parks.  All tours in the Magic Kingdom have been cancelled, as have Advanced Dining Reservations (ADRs) for Tony's Town Square on Main Street. And while Disney expects to honor most other ADRs,guests should be prepared to change any and all plans.

If you plan to be at WDW on Thursday, my official recommendation is to visit another Park. There is little to no chance of catching a glimpse of the President, and you will likely loose a lot of time jumping through the hoops required by his security detail.

Friday Photo

Ah, the Mayor of Main Street USA. And let's not forget about women's rights! One of the delightful surprises when you first enter the Magic Kingdom are the characters that greet you. I'm not talking about Mickey, Minnie, and the gang, but rather the humans who inhabit Main Street. They add yet another layer of magic to the whole Disney experience. Next time you're strolling into the MK, take some time to visit with the lively characters along your path and enjoy their company.