Entering into the Magic Kingdom is exciting and often a bit overwhelming — in a good way! Though it may feel like the same street each time you arrive, there is much more to Main Street, USA than you may think you know. Whether you are an Annual Passholder who feels like Disneyland is your second home, or if you’re planning a first visit sometime soon, here are the top five  things that you should know about Main Street:

1. Walt Disney’s Apartment is in Town Square
Walt Disney kept an apartment above the Main Street Fire Station next to City Hall. As one of the first buildings built, it gave him a bird’s eye view from which to oversee Disneyland’s construction. Once the park opened, the apartment served as a place for Walt to entertain friends and watch guests’ reactions as they entered and exited the park.

2. Charge Electronic Devices at the Lockers
With our current connection to technology — and the ease of communication with others by using such devices — it is common that we drain the batteries more quickly than we plan. Cell phones and walkie talkies are great ways to stay connected while at Disneyland, especially when splitting up to go on separate rides or to go into different shops. However, a dead cell phone isn’t much use. Disneyland has found a solution to that problem by adding charging lockers that are equipped with chargers for all types of electronic devices. For $2 an hour, you can securely charge you phone, laptop, or any other kind of electronic device that may be trying to end the day too soon. Lockers are located behind the fruit cart on Main Street.

3. Mickey and His Friends Stay Out of the Rain — But Stay On Main Street
Though rain often scares many people and Disney characters back to their warm homes, Mickey and his friends don’t always leave Main Street when it rains — they just find creative ways to stay dry. During my last rainy day visit to the park, I found Mickey hanging out in the lobby of the Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln attraction! We were able to take a DRY picture with our favorite mouse. I have also seen Pinocchio, Donald, and Minnie tucked away under several of the awnings along Main Street. If rain is in your Disneyland trip forecast, make sure to ask around to find out where your favorite characters likes to stay dry — they may be closer than you think!

4.The Flag Retreat Ceremony Takes Place Every Day in Town Square
As you may have read in one of Lisa’s recent posts, the flag retreat ceremony is one of the many patriotic traditions that Disneyland continues to do — and it happens every day. Before sunset, usually around 4:30 or so, Disneyland Security Cast Members head to the flag pole on Main Street and remove the flag in this patriotic display. During the ceremony, you will hear the National Anthem — usually performed by the Disneyland Band and the Dapper Dans. If you’re shopping in any of the shops that face Town Square during the flag retreat, don’t be surprised if you have to wait a few minutes to pay. Cast Members often stop to honor the ceremony by facing the flag and pausing sales transactions. While you’re there, make sure to read Walt’s opening speech, which is on a plaque next to the flag pole.

5. As The Seasons Change, So Do the Windows on Main Street
It’s no secret that Disneyland likes to celebrate and decorate for the holidays, but have you ever noticed how frequently the window displays on Main Street change throughout the year? Though the park doesn’t always decorate for holidays like Valentine’s Day or St. Patrick’s Day, you’ll find evidence of the holiday in the streets along Main Street. Each beautiful display celebrates whatever season, holiday, or merchandise that is happening on any given day. So be sure to do a little “window shopping” the next time you take a stroll down Main Street!