When it comes to Walt Disney World, there’s no shortage of enchanting experiences. Yet, nestled high within Cinderella Castle at the Magic Kingdom lies a place so exclusive, most visitors will never lay eyes on it. The Cinderella Castle Suite, originally envisioned as Walt Disney’s personal retreat, has transformed over the decades into one of the most coveted accommodations in the world — and one of Disney’s best-kept secrets.
A Dream That Walt Never Lived to See
The suite’s story begins with Walt Disney himself, who planned to use it as a private residence for his family during their visits to Orlando. Sadly, Walt passed away before the project was completed. For years, the unfinished space served as little more than a storage area and office space for Disney employees.
It wasn’t until 2006, during the Year of a Million Dreams campaign, that the suite was brought to life as a fairy-tale-inspired hideaway. Since then, it has become a symbol of ultimate Disney magic, tantalizing fans who dream of stepping into Cinderella’s world.
How Much Does It Cost to Stay in the Cinderella Castle Suite?
Here’s the catch: money can’t buy you a night here. Disney has reportedly turned down offers as high as $40,000 for a single stay. The suite isn’t available for public booking, making it one of the most exclusive hotel rooms in the world.
How to Score a Stay in the Suite
The Cinderella Castle Suite is not reserved for celebrities or dignitaries — though stars like Mariah Carey, Tom Cruise, and Kevin Jonas have enjoyed its splendor in the past. These days, access to the suite is strictly limited. The only way to spend a night there is through special promotions, charity auctions, or rare sweepstakes. For example, in June 2022, a Disney employee and their family won an overnight stay through an internal sweepstakes.
Occasionally, Disney partners with organizations like Make-A-Wish to grant a stay as part of larger charity efforts. In May 2023, a Make-A-Wish recipient and her family were treated to an overnight stay to commemorate the organization’s 150,000th granted wish.
What’s Inside the Cinderella Castle Suite?
If you’re lucky enough to visit, you’ll find that the Cinderella Castle Suite is more intimate than sprawling, but its luxurious details make it truly unforgettable. Designed to resemble a 17th-century French chateau, the suite features a foyer, a parlor, a bedchamber, and a bathroom, all dripping with opulent touches.
•The Foyer: Guests are greeted by a mosaic tile floor adorned with Cinderella’s pumpkin coach. A glass slipper is displayed as a whimsical nod to the beloved tale.
•The Parlor: This cozy space features stained-glass windows depicting scenes from Cinderella, a Victorian-style rotary phone, and an antique writing desk. Bookshelves are filled with volumes “borrowed” from Belle’s library.
•The Bathroom: The bathroom’s pièce de résistance is a spa tub surrounded by mosaic artwork inspired by Cinderella. Switch off the lights, and the ceiling transforms into a glittering night sky.
•The Bedchamber: The room boasts two queen canopy beds with embroidered headboards bearing Cinderella’s royal crest. Above the fireplace hangs a portrait of Cinderella that magically doubles as a flat-screen TV.
Can You Tour the Suite?
Unfortunately, the suite isn’t open to public tours. However, photos reveal its intricate craftsmanship, from coffered ceilings to 4-karat gold moldings. While you won’t find sweeping views of the Magic Kingdom from its windows, the stained glass serves as a decorative, storybook-like touch.
Other Ways to Experience Cinderella Castle
For those unable to snag a night in the suite, there are still magical ways to experience the castle’s interior:
•Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique: Located inside Cinderella Castle, this enchanting salon offers makeovers for kids aged 3-12. Decked out in Cinderella blue decor, it’s a delightful way for little ones to feel like royalty.
•Cinderella’s Royal Table: Dine in a regal banquet hall with stone archways, chandeliers, and stained-glass windows. Guests can enjoy breakfast, lunch, or dinner alongside beloved Disney Princesses. Menu highlights include caramel apple-stuffed French toast, beef tenderloin, and decadent desserts like coffee pots de crème.
The Magic Beyond Reach
The Cinderella Castle Suite embodies the essence of Disney magic — something rare, elusive, and priceless. While most of us can only dream of sleeping in this royal retreat, just knowing it exists adds a sprinkle of wonder to every visit to the Magic Kingdom.
For now, keep an eye out for special promotions, contests, or charity auctions. Who knows? The clock might strike midnight, and you could find yourself stepping into a dream come true.
