Matthew K.
Yelp
There's nothing like watching fireworks at the Magic Kingdom with a giant ice cream cone melting in your hands in that Florida heat! To some, that might sound awful, but to many, that image brings back countless memories of days spent with their families in the most magical place on earth. Ice cream is as American as it gets, which is why the Plaza Ice Cream Parlor is a park staple on the corner Main Street near Cinderella Castle. Have doubts? Just check the size of the line about 30 minutes before the evening fireworks show (currently "Happily Ever After"). Guaranteed there will be a line out the door 30+ guests long.
While nothing out of the ordinary, this ice cream parlor serves up all the classic favorites (fitting with the theme of turn-of-the-century small-town America). You'll find sundaes, cookie sandwiches, cones, floats, and even the famous kitchen sink (recommended for groups). Ice cream flavors include vanilla, chocolate, strawberry, mint chocolate chip, butter pecan, cookies 'n cream and more. Prices here aren't too bad (considering they are Disney prices), ranging from $3.49 for a kids cone to $5.79 for a sundae and $16.99 for the Kitchen Sink.
Looking to eat your ice cream inside? Don't count on it. This place is really just built for ordering, although there are a few tables and seats you can find just outside the shop. Also expect the line here to move fairly slowly. They do have an efficient system in place, but with such a small store, it's difficult to move people through quickly.
Otherwise, the flavor of the ice cream here is very good (probably as classic as it gets when it comes to flavor) and the ambiance very fitting.
Word of advice: avoid this place during peak evening hours (within an hour of the fireworks show before or after). The lines get very long! On my last visit, I got in line at 8:15pm (for a 9:00pm show) and had my ice cream around 8:40pm.
If you're looking for a truly classic ice cream experience, this is the place to go!