When planning a trip to Disneyland Paris, Main Street U.S.A. is the first enchanted realm you can discover at the entrance of the Disney park. This is a main street inspired by the town of Marceline, where Walt Disney lived. Thus, you really feel like you’re traveling back in time and living in an American town in the 20th century. Although it has few attractions, Main Street is lined with many restaurants and shops. Without further ado, let me take you on this beautiful adventure on Main Street Disneyland Park.
A typical boulevard from the 1920s.
What constitutes the charm of Main Street is certainly the small details that make a big difference. Indeed, you can find gas lamp streetlights throughout the boulevard, names inscribed on the windows, red cobblestones on the sidewalks, covered arcades to protect you from the weather… Everything affirms a nostalgic journey into an imaginary world. If you want my opinion, this street bears a strong resemblance to Main Street at the Magic Kingdom (Walt Disney World).
Indeed, it is worth noting that Main Street U.S.A. can be divided into 3 major parts: Town Square (the entrance of the park), Main Street (the actual main street), and Central Plaza (the park square at the foot of the castle). During my stay at Disneyland, I arrived at Town Square after taking the Disneyland Railroad, the train that serves Disneyland Park.
At the entrance, you can discover City Hall, the Town Hall above which the traditional American flag proudly flies. It’s a VIP location and is often closed to the public except to commemorate an event in honor of Walt, such as “The Walt Disney Story” or “Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln.” During these festive events, the boulevard serves as a parade route.
The shops and restaurants of Main Street.
It’s important to note that the main street doesn’t have many attractions, as it was primarily designed to provide a glimpse of Disney magic. However, various shops and restaurants line the avenue. You can explore it on foot or via four vintage vehicles.
Indeed, it is entirely possible to purchase some great souvenirs from your stay at Disneyland Paris. Here is my selection of the best Disney shops:
- The Emporium, which is also the largest shop in the park. Whether you’re traveling with family, as a couple, or with friends, both young and old can easily find what they’re looking for!
- If you have a sweet tooth like me, I recommend the Boardwalk Candy Palace. You can taste candies, sweets, and many other treats there. It’s a kind of old-fashioned candy store.
- Furthermore, if you are a lover of decoration and table arts, Lilly’s Boutique is the right place. This boutique is also visited to pay tribute to Walt Disney’s wife.
As for dining options at Disney, the choices are vast. For example, you can choose Gibson Girl Ice Cream Parlor for a sweet break, Market House (Starbucks) to enjoy an Americano coffee float, Carnation Café for table service, and Plaza Inn for an all-you-can-eat buffet. These are all great places to enjoy a good Disney meal.
The attractions of Main Street Disneyland.
Regarding the attractions in Main Street U.S.A., I suggest taking a steam train tour of the park. Indeed, four out of the eight lands have a Disneyland Railroad Station. Unfortunately, I did not have the opportunity to experience this wonderful adventure during my stay at Disneyland Paris.
However, I really enjoyed the Horse-Drawn Streetcars, a horse-drawn tram that allows you to explore the boulevard in a different way. Alternatively, you can also board the Main Street Vehicles, roaring vehicles dating back to the 1920s.
And why not attend the show “Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln” which takes place at the Opera House or visit The Disney Gallery? The latter is an exhibition of Walt Disney Imagineering’s work.
Personally, I really enjoyed the Dapper Dans Disneyland show, which features barbers who perform on MainStreet every day, especially in front of the Corner Cafe.
By the way, gentlemen, I also recommend stepping into Dapper Dan’s Hair Cut, the perfect place for a traditional beard shave or a haircut. You’ll get to experience something unique!
For cinema lovers, head to Main Street Cinema to watch the famous Steamboat Willie. In fact, there are 6 Disney short films screened in this cinema every day. I recommend it when the weather is not very favorable!
Finally, history enthusiasts can visit Discovery Arcade. The ideal place to discover 20th-century inventions through models.
For me, Main Street U.S.A. at Disneyland Park is the best land. To conclude, please note that you have to take Main Street to access the Sleeping Beauty Castle and the other areas of the park such as Adventureland, Fantasyland, Frontierland, and Discoveryland. Each of these Disney enchanted realms offers a different atmosphere.