10 Walt Disney World Spots For Those Looking For a Bit of Downtime
We’ve all been there, you are enjoying magical moment after magical moment at Walt Disney World until the blisters kick in, something you ate makes you feel a bit off, the heat starts to get to you or the kids simply cannot walk another step. Thankfully, Walt Disney World does have some great go-to locations for those looking to take a break from it all.
Check out some of our favorite spots to go for a little bit of Disney downtime!
Carousel of Progress – Magic Kingdom
This Tomorrowland attraction has always been a popular one with Disney fans but is slightly under-the-radar for first-time visitors. It consists of a rotating theatre that showcases an animatronic family progressing through four generations with a look at how technology has changed throughout the years. It’s one of the park’s older attractions which means that you can typically walk right on. The theater is cool, dark and air-conditioned. The show lasts about 21 minutes giving you just enough times to rest those weary feet!
The Hall of Presidents – Magic Kingdom
This Liberty Square animatronic destination has been the go-to nap spot for many a weary Disney traveller. It features a 25-minute show about the U.S. Constitution and features all of the presidents from U.S. history. Performance times run throughout the day. Again, there’s rarely a line making this a good refuge from the all-too-common Florida afternoon deluge or sweltering afternoon temperatures.
Tomorrowland Transit Authority PeopleMover – Magic Kingdom
The PeopleMover made it’s Tomorrowland back in 1967 was designed as a futuristic mode of transportation whisking guests around on an elevated outdoor tram. From PeopleMover you can enjoy some pretty fantastic views of Tomorrowland. The tour is lightly narrated and does offer some pretty fun views of Space Mountain and Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin. The ride generates a cool breeze and is covered meaning that it’s a great spot to get out of the rain or get some shade. The ride is 10 minutes long and because it’s constantly loading the lines tend to be short throughout the day.
Les Halles Boulangerie-Patisserie -Epcot
For those looking to take a break on the decadent side, make this Parisian pastry shop at the French Pavilion in Epcot your go-to spot. There’s a lot to love about this charming little French bakery. The menu is brimming with delights including macarons, eclairs, petite fruit tarts, cappuccino and even a glass of wine. It’s nestled toward the rear of the France Showcase making it a comfy spot to escape the hustle and bustle.
Bijutsu-kan Gallery – Epcot
This lovely little out-of-the-way gallery is nestled in the back of the Japan Showcase. It’s currently hosting a colorful exhibition on Japanese Cute Culture. It’s indoors, air-conditioned and has some nice bench spots to sit and take in your surroundings. I can’t think of a better spot to take a cat nap!
Monorail – Walt Disney World Resort
One of Disney World’s most iconic modes of transportation, the monorail connects two Walt Disney World theme parks (Magic Kingdom and Epcot) and three Walt Disney World Resorts (Polynesian, Contemporary and Grand Floridian.) The track spans 13 miles and it runs consistently throughout the day from 30 minutes before the park opens to an hour after close. If you’re looking for a breather from the theme park crowds seek out a relatively empty car, sit back and relax.
Animal Kingdom Lodge – Walt Disney World
If you’re looking to spend a day away from the theme parks, this resort is the perfect play to spent a few hours! The resort itself is relaxing, dimly lit with lots of cozy nooks and crannies! There’s also a picturesque animal viewing area outside where you can relax on a bench while watching zebras and giraffes slowly saunter by. There’s also amazing eateries, a relaxing lounge and one of my favorite resort gift shops!
Conservation Station – Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park
This area of Animal Kingdom is very remote, you actually need to hop on a train to get there. That means its definitely not as busy as other areas of the parks. The Conservation Station provides a behind-the-scenes look at how veterinarians take care of the park’s incredible animals. There’s a rehabilitation center and even a nursery for the baby animals. Conservation Station does offer some nice indoor spaces where you can relax and unwind. I’ve seen a lot of parents bring their toddlers here for a quick nap!
Walt Disney – One Man’s Dream – Disney’s Hollywood Studios
This walkthrough attraction is one of the few quieter places to get awau the heaving crowds heading to Toy Story Land or Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. The museum features a lot of historical memorabilia and a 15-minute film about Walt. This makes for a nice out of the sun diversion where kids can take a bit of nap and parents can rest those feet!
Epcot Experience – Epcot
Disney recently opened a new exhibition in the Odyssey Pavilion located between Test Track and the Mexican Pavilion. With a state-of-the-art exhibit and 360-degree film you can gain some awesome insights into the past, present and future of this stunning theme park. This location is perfect for being away from the Epcot hustle and bustle and there’s even a snack counter where you can pick up a quick bite or drink without the heavy crowds. This is the perfect place to do something educational while taking a break from it all!
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