There are a lot of different ways to do Walt Disney World. Every group is different, and there are so many options when it comes to making a trip your own and adding in those things that are going to make it feel magical to YOU. But one of the top pieces of advice that I think rings true for every group is to make sure that you are planning enough time for breaks throughout your days.
Those breaks can look different for different people. Sometimes that may look like a full rest day, sometimes it might look like taking a midday break back at your resort. But whether or not you choose either of those strategies, I also think it’s really important to have a plan for ways to take a break while you are inside the parks.
In this post, I’m giving you a breakdown of the best places to take a break at Disney World.
Best Spots to Take A Break at Magic Kingdom
Magic Kingdom is arguably the park that creates the most sensory overload. It has the most attractions, and it can be overwhelming if you’re trying to do everything. The good news is there are actually a lot of great places to take a break while you’re visiting. Here are some of my favorites:
Carousel of Progress
The Carousel of Progress is a great attraction to take a break in Tomorrowland at Magic Kingdom . It’s basically a big rotating theater that takes you through different time periods, showcasing how technology has evolved over the years. You follow the same family throughout the different scenes and see how their lives change with the times. But beware, the theme song might be stuck in your head for days!
Peoplemover
The PeopleMover at Magic Kingdom is one of my favorite rides that takes you on a leisurely tour of Tomorrowland. You get to sit back and relax while you soak up the sights of the futuristic landscape. Plus, it’s a great way to take a break from all the walking and standing in line. Just hop on and enjoy the ride!
Hall of Presidents
The Hall of Presidents at Magic Kingdom is where you can get up close and personal with some of the leaders in American history. You can sit back and relax while you watch the animatronic presidents come to life and tell their tales. It’s a must-visit spot if you’re looking to take a break at Magic Kingdom!
Mickey’s PhilharMagic
Taking a break at Mickey’s PhilharMagic in Magic Kingdom is a great way to relax and enjoy some air conditioning. You get to sit down in a comfy seat and watch a fun 3D show with Mickey and his friends. Plus, the theater is usually not too crowded, so it’s a nice escape from the busyness of the park.
Tom Sawyer Island
Tom Sawyer Island is an often overlooked spot that is great for taking a break. The island offers a chance to relax, enjoy nature, and escape the crowds and noise of the park. Visitors can sit on benches and watch the river go by. It also offers space for little ones to run, climb, and explore.
Seating Area near the Tangled Bathrooms
If you’re looking for a spot to sit and relax where you can also charge your phone, you may want to check out the seating area near the Tangled bathrooms. There’s also a cute little scavenger hunt here where you can find the hidden Pascals.
Best Spots to Take a Break at EPCOT
EPCOT is probably my favorite of the Disney parks. But there is a lot to see and do, and there is a LOT of walking. But between rides and quieter spots throughout the World Showcase, there are plenty of spots to take a break and rest.
Living With the Land
Living with the Land offers a relaxing boat ride through greenhouses showcasing sustainable agriculture and innovative farming techniques. It’s part dark ride and part educational boat ride. It’s a peaceful ride away from the crowds and noise of the park, making it a perfect spot to unwind and recharge before continuing your EPCOT adventure.
Spaceship Earth
Spaceship Earth is another ride that provides a great chance to take a break. It’s a slow-moving ride that takes you through the history of human communication and technology. The ride is inside the iconic sphere, and provides a cool and relaxing atmosphere.
The Seas with Nemo and Friends
Another great attraction that I recommend when you’re looking to take a break at EPCOT is The Seas with Nemo and Friends. It features a ride that takes visitors on an underwater adventure with Nemo, Dory, and their friends. The ride ends at a big aquarium you can explore while you enjoy the air conditioning. While you’re there you can also check out the free scavenger hunt.
Playground near Creations Shop
Another great spot to take a break that is often overlooked is the outdoor playground near the Creations shop. This can be a lifesaver especially if you have little ones who need some space to run around and play.
Gran Fiesta Tour
If you’re looking for a spot to take a break while you’re touring the World Showcase, one of my favorite rides is the Gran Fiesta Tour inside the Mexico pavilion. This is another boat ride that provides an opportunity to sit down and enjoy some cooler air.
The American Adventure Pavilion
Another good spot to take a break in the World Showcase is the American Adventure Pavilion. The pavilion is air-conditioned and provides plenty of seating. You can also check out the American Adventure show while you’re there.
Best Spots to Take a Break at Hollywood Studios
Hollywood Studios is a busy park with many attractions that tend to have long lines. It can be a little more challenging to find a place away from the crowds to take a break, but there are some great places if you know where to look.
Baseline Taphouse
One of my favorite spots to take a break at Hollywood studios is Baseline Taphouse. You can grab a drink and a snack, and enjoy their outdoor seating area. It’s a great spot for people-watching, and they have a good beer selection.
Beauty and the Beast Stage Show
The Beauty and the Beast stage show provides a chance to relax and enjoy a great performance. You can sit back and enjoy the singing, dancing, and costumes while taking a break from walking and waiting in lines.
Indiana Jones Stunt Spectacular
The Indiana Jones Stunt Spectacular at Hollywood Studios is a live-action show featuring thrilling stunts and special effects inspired by the Indiana Jones film franchise. You’ll have the chance to sit down in a large theater and enjoy the show. I recommend picking up a drink and a snack to enjoy while you’re there.
Muppet Vision 3D
Muppet Vision 3D is a great attraction to enjoy when you need a break from the heat of the day. It’s held in an air-conditioned theater, and the wait times for this attraction tend to be low. I usually recommend visiting during mid-day when crowd levels in the parks, and temperatures are high.
Star Wars Launch Bay
Another area that is great for avoiding crowds and heat is Star Wars Launch Bay. Here you can explore exhibits featuring props and memorabilia from the films. The best part is this spot is hardly ever crowded, and it’s a great place to enjoy some air conditioning.
Best Spots to Take a Break at Animal Kingdom
Animal Kingdom is a large park, with a lot of walking. So it’s wise to plan time for breaks in your day while you are there. Here are a few of my favorite spots to rest while I’m exploring Animal Kingdom.
Finding Nemo: The Big Blue…And Beyond
If you’re looking for a break from the hustle and bustle of the park, don’t miss Finding Nemo: The Big Blue…And Beyond stage show. Relax in the comfortable theater as you watch delightful puppets of your favorite characters accompanied by some great music. The show runs multiple times daily, so check out the schedule on your My Disney Experience app.
Nomad Lounge
The Nomad Lounge is a cozy and relaxing spot to enjoy drinks and small bites. Located by the entrance to Pandora – The World of Avatar, the lounge features indoor and outdoor seating with views of the park’s lush scenery. The menu offers a variety of unique cocktails, beer, and wine, as well as small plates inspired by flavors from around the world.
Rafiki’s Planet Watch
If you’re searching for a way to unwind during your visit to Animal Kingdom, consider taking the train to the Conservation Station and Rafiki’s Planet Watch. Not only does the location offer plenty of things to do and air conditioning to keep you cool, but the train ride itself is an enjoyable break.
That wraps up my list of the best places to take a break while you’re at Disney World. Leave a comment and let me know your favorites or any that didn’t make my list.
