Walt Disney World's Magic Kingdom has introduced a new experience in Storybook Circus that's perfect for families with young children.
Presented by Scentsy, "Smellephants on Parade" revolves around a playful scavenger hunt that's easy to navigate and tests your powers of smell and detective work.
Upon entering Storybook Circus, guests are greeted by a casting call from Timothy Q. Mouse, inviting them to take on the role of a "Whiff-sistant" for Dumbo's latest act. This isn't a role that requires any audition, just a keen nose and a sense of adventure.
The journey begins at a ticket booth in front of Big Top Souvenirs, where guests receive a detailed map and a sheet of stickers to track their discoveries. The artwork is very well produced and printed on heavy stock glossy paper, a perfect souvenir of your "Whiff-sistant" experience.
The hunt involves locating eight Smellephant statues, each designed to emit a different aroma reminiscent of classic circus treats like popcorn, cotton candy, and churros.
The experience of finding and identifying these smells isn't as straightforward as you might expect. The scents are continuously active and not localized just to the statues; they drift through the air, carried by the breeze, which means that sometimes the most potent smell might not be where you expect it to be. This aspect adds a layer of unpredictability to the hunt.
Some fragrances are more pronounced than others, making identifying each Smellephant a challenge based on individual perception. Parents, you may have to resort to matching the sticker's artwork to the statue—just don't tell the kids!
All eight Smellephants are located within Storybook Circus, so there isn't much walking. You should expect to complete the challenge in 15 minutes. The map provides clear clues, making the hunt accessible and not too challenging.
The thematic posters and decorations added around the train station at Storybook Circus add to the experience. Cans of scents are stacked up in the goods received area—a nice touch.
Overall, "Smellephants on Parade" offers a charming and interactive way to explore Storybook Circus. It's a kid-friendly adventure that plays with the senses while providing a light-hearted activity for families visiting Magic Kingdom.
While Disney doesn't offer a prize for completing the hunt, the nearby Storybook Treats provides plenty of options to purchase a celebratory snack.
"Smellephants on Parade" operates from 10 am to 6 pm daily, and the hunt is included in regular theme park admission.
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