Main Street, U.S.A. is often the forgotten land. We might browse through some stores, watch a parade, or grab a baked good, but I think for most of us, the walk up Main Street is simply a way to get to the rides. In my new series, Meet Me Down on Main Street, I am going to slow us down and take a closer look at the details waiting to be discovered. Come stroll with me as we explore Walt Disney’s dream. Today we are visiting Town Square.
Town Square is the first thing you see on Main Street, U.S.A. once you have passed the train station. It includes the center green with the flag pole and the surrounding buildings. Take a moment when you first enter to wander around Town Square. You’ll notice that the buildings are not stores, but instead represent buildings found in any turn-of-the-century town, such as the Fire Station and City Hall. Be sure to visit City Hall and pick up a free celebration pin. Show off the reason you are taking a Disney vacation.
In the center of Town Square the American flag proudly waves. Every evening at 5 p.m. a flag retreat ceremony is performed with the help of Guests serving in the military. This patriotic moment is worth scheduling into your day.
5 Fun Facts about Town Square:
1) At Disneyland a light shines out of the top window of the Fire Station. This is in honor of Walt Disney. He had a family apartment above the Fire Station and would hang a light in the window whenever they were in residence.
2) At the Magic Kingdom there is a barber shop on the edge of Town Square. The Harmony Barber Shop is open for business and will give you a haircut or just sprinkle you with pixie dust.
3) Town Square is the place to go to get character autographs. By early afternoon there are often three or four characters waiting to meet you.
4) At the Magic Kingdom Town Square is a great place to stand and watch the fireworks show, Wishes. You have a great view of the castle and since you are close to the entrance you can be out of the park and on your way before everyone else.
5) Parades usually start in Town Square so it is an ideal place to stand and watch. You’ll get to see everything and then you’ll be able to shop or ride an attraction while everyone else is still waiting for the parade to reach them. The last time I was there I stood in front of the Harmony Barber Shop. There were very few Guests around and I had great views of the parade.
Goofy Tip: Looking for a backdrop for great family pictures? Most people think of the castle, but consider taking some pictures in Town Square. City Hall has a grand porch with steps so you can group your family together. The Fire Station has old-time fire equipment that makes a unique backdrop. And as mentioned above there are lots of character meet and greets, complete with a Cast Member who will gladly take a picture of your whole group with your camera.