Casey Jr. Splash ‘n’ Soak Station
Casey Jr., the famous train from the 1941 classic Dumbo, has arrived and found its place in the heart of Storybook Circus at Magic Kingdom! This attraction, part of the extensive Fantasyland expansion, debuted in June 2012, replacing Donald’s Boat from the former Mickey’s Toontown Fair.
This interactive splash pad, themed after a circus train, provides endless fun with water sprays and mists from whimsical animal characters, making it a must-visit spot for families in the park.
Opened: June 2012
Type: Interactive water play area
Height Requirement: None
Suitable for: All ages
When to Visit: Anytime during park hours, especially during the hottest parts of the day
Single Rider Lane: No
On-Ride Photos: No
Lightning Lane Available: Not applicable
Eligible for Early Entry: Yes
Eligible for Extended Evening Hours: Yes
Backstory
Casey Jr. Splash ‘n’ Soak Station draws its inspiration from the iconic train in Disney’s 1941 animated classic Dumbo. In the movie, Casey Jr. is the spirited locomotive that transports Dumbo and the circus troupe across the country.
By incorporating the nostalgic charm of Casey Jr. and the whimsical circus theme, Disney Imagineers created a fun and engaging environment where young guests can splash and play. This imaginative space allows kids to interact with various water features, such as “steam” from the train engine and sprays from animal figures, bringing the beloved train and its adventurous spirit to life in the heart of Storybook Circus.
Casey Jr. Splash ‘n’ Soak Station provides a fun way for kids to cool off in the Florida heat with various interactive water features. These include mist from the engine and water sprays from animal figures like a monkey, elephant, and camel.
Every 10 minutes, Casey Jr. “sets off,” enhancing the sounds of the locomotive and increasing the mist from the engine.
Separated boxcars flank the main train, creating paths where children can run through the water. The entire setup mimics a train turntable, adding to the whimsical atmosphere.
Benches around the area offer parents a place to sit and watch, although the young trees nearby don’t provide much shade yet.
Special Considerations
Casey Jr. Splash ‘n’ Soak Station is designed to be inclusive and accessible for guests with mobility needs. Guests can remain in their wheelchairs or Electric Conveyance Vehicles (ECVs) while enjoying the splash zone. There are no barriers to entry, making it easy for everyone to participate in the fun.
All in the Details
Themed Design: The area is meticulously themed to resemble a circus train turntable, with the colorful Casey Jr. engine as the centerpiece. The train cars, designed to look like classic circus boxcars, are separated and positioned around the splash area, creating paths for children to explore.
Interactive Water Features: The attraction includes a variety of interactive water elements. The engine emits mist and “steam,” while animal figures such as a monkey, elephant, and camel spray water, adding a dynamic and engaging experience for kids.
Regular “Journeys”: Every 10 minutes, Casey Jr. “sets off” on a pretend journey, with the sounds of the locomotive and the misting from the engine increasing, enhancing the immersive experience.
Seating and Shade: Low benches surround the water play area, providing parents with a place to sit and watch their children. However, the young trees around the area offer limited shade, so additional sun protection might be necessary.
Tips
Bring Swimsuits: Kids will get thoroughly soaked, so having swimsuits or a change of clothes is a must. The nearby roundhouse-themed bathrooms are spacious and include a family restroom, making changes convenient.
Protect Electronics: Even spectators can get wet from errant sprays, so it’s wise to protect electronic devices.
Casey Jr. Railroad Mercantile: This nearby cart, sells essentials like towels, water shoes, sunscreen, and hats, although it doesn’t stock swimsuits.
Also, Big Top Souvenirs in Storybook Circus offers a variety of merchandise for all ages, similar to the selection at the Emporium on Main Street, U.S.A.
Train Car Numbers: Each train car is numbered to reflect the opening year of each Walt Disney World park:
71 — Magic Kingdom
82 — Epcot
89 — Hollywood Studios (formerly MGM Studios)
98 — Animal Kingdom
Hidden Mickey: A Hidden Mickey can be spotted in the giraffe painting on the boxcar with the monkey and giraffes. Look in the clouds behind the larger giraffe for the three-circle icon.
Historical Reference: Casey Jr. is inspired by Casey Jones, a famous railroad engineer who died in a train collision in 1900. Jones was also featured in the 1950 Disney short *The Brave Engineer*.
Voice Talent: While the train is male, Casey Jr. has been voiced by female actors in animated versions, with Cathy Cavadini currently providing the voice.
