Disney in a Minute: What is The Emporium?

The Emporium is the largest shopping venue at Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom. As you face Cinderella Castle, the Emporium occupies the entire left side of Main Street, from the Harmony Barbershop to Casey’s Corner.

The Emporium offers an extensive array of Disney merchandise, making it a one-stop shop for souvenirs and gifts – from classic Mickey ears and t-shirts to collectible pins, toys, housewares, stationery items, pet care items, and seasonal offerings. With items priced from a few dollars to several hundred dollars, you’ll encounter something to fit into any budget.

In addition to branded merchandise, the Emporium also stocks some travel basics. Sunscreen and bottled beverages are typically out on shelves, but if you need something like bandaids or aspirin, ask at the register. They often have a small stash of comfort items behind the counter.

The Emporium has been a staple of Main Street since Magic Kingdom’s opening day in 1971. Its design draws inspiration from turn-of-the-century department stores, complete with ornate fixtures and display windows that change with the seasons. Originally occupying just one section of the current building, the Emporium has been expanded a few times over the years. The most significant expansion took place in 2001, when a retheming of the Main Street shops nearly doubled the Emporium’s footprint.

While the Emporium is the largest store in Magic Kingdom, there are comparable shopping venues in other Disney World locations. Creations Shop (formerly Mouse Gear) in EPCOT and World of Disney at Disney Springs are even larger than the Emporium and Mickey’s of Hollywood in Hollywood Studios and Island Mercantile in Animal Kingdom have a similar scope. However, The Emporium remains unique in its Victorian theming and prime Magic Kingdom location.

Pro tip: If you’re trying to get down Main Street during a parade, walking through the Emporium is a great way to bypass the crowds. Similarly, if you’re caught in a downpour, walking through the Emporium can give you a respite from the rain.

We’re here with a series of quick posts, “Disney in a Minute,” bite-sized nuggets of information that can better help you understand a Disney term or planning topic. Enjoy!