Are you ready for thrilling attractions, classic rides that make enchanted worlds come alive, world-class entertainment, nonstop adventures, and a never-ending list of top-notch dining and shopping establishments? Are you ready for scenic waterways, lush foliage and landscaping, and areas off the beaten path? Walt Disney World offers the best of both worlds! When you’re ready to take a break from the hustle and bustle and need a quieter spot, check out my list of the best places to find some peacefulness all over Walt Disney World.
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1. Tom Sawyer’s Island
Float on a log raft across the Rivers of America to reach an island of adventure. Narrow passageways, hidden caves, creaky bridges, and an old fort are all part of this overlooked section of Frontierland. There are areas to explore all over the island, but there are plenty of great shady nooks to sit down and relax too. You’re still very much in the Magic Kingdom, but it’s a great place to get away from the crowds and noise.
2. Tomorrowland Transit Authority PeopleMover
High above the Tomorrowland section of the Magic Kingdom runs the Tomorrowland Transit Authority PeopleMover. It’s a fan favorite for many reasons, including nostalgia, the great views of the Magic Kingdom, and the ability to sit back and relax as it glides through a tour of the Tomorrowland area. There is some comical narration throughout the ride, it’s easy to tune it out and just enjoy the escape from the crowds below.
3. Canada Pavilion in Epcot’s World Showcase
Wandering through the World Showcase promenade in Epcot is a pretty lively experience. As you stroll from country to country, the music of each pavilion sets the stage for each different country’s culture. There are also performers in several of the countries that put on fun and often comical acts or play music for guests to enjoy. When I’m looking for a place to escape some of the excitement, I head for the Canada pavilion. Situated between the United Kingdom and Mexico, this area includes the stunning “Canada Far and Wide in Circle-Vision 360” movie, the delicious Le Cellier Steakhouse, several kiosks with merchandise and beverages, and Northwest Mercantile, a quaint gift shop filled with all things Canadian, including snacks, hockey apparel, toys, and other fun souvenirs. Check out the lovely gardens and cottage near the front of the pavilion and enjoy the peace and beauty of the area. Don’t forget to head towards the back of the pavilion for a look at the huge rocks and waterfall. There are several platforms around the waterfall to stop and take a picture or simply enjoy the picturesque spot.
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4. The United Kingdom Pavilion
After your trip to Canada, continue walking to the United Kingdom Pavilion, the very next country in Epcot’s World Showcase. Famous for its fish and chips, cute shops, and Rose & Crown Pub and Dining Room. Follow the cobblestone streets to the back of the pavilion and relax on a bench by the gazebo, gardens, and hedge maze. A band that plays popular music from the United Kingdom performs in this spot a few times a day, but when the music is over, this is the perfect spot to enjoy some quiet time in a beautiful setting.
5. The Oasis
The next time you’re exploring the Animal Kingdom, take a few minutes to enjoy the quiet and calmness of the Oasis. It’s the first area guests approach as they enter the park, yet many rush right past it on the to the thrilling attractions in other areas of the park. I heartily recommend walking down the winding pathways through lush trees and plants, bright flowers, and flowing water. Amidst all of this tropical beauty are exotic animals like African Spoonbills, macaws, anteaters, and iguanas.
6. Wildlife Express Train
Hop the Wildlife Express Train in the Harambe section of Harambe, Africa for a trip to Rafiki’s Planet Watch in Disney’s Animal Kingdom. The trip itself only takes seven minutes, but it’s a great opportunity to relax and enjoy a quiet trip while seeing some of the areas where the animals are housed and cared for. Once you get to Rafiki’s Planet Watch, the trails that lead to the main area are shady, quiet, and full of information displays to satisfy your curiosity about the natural world.
7. Grand Avenue of Disney’s Hollywood Studios
While the MuppetVision 3-D show is definitely NOT a quiet spot, the area around this attraction allows for some quietness. It’s a Wonderful Shop, a Christmas shop, and the Stage One Company Store are in this area, and it’s typically a good place to get out of the hustle and bustle of the park.
8. Walt Disney Presents
Step into this air-conditioned attraction and step back in time to discover fascinating details about the legacy of Walt Disney. I love looking at the miniature models of the first attractions in Disneyland, artifacts from Walt Disney’s career, and replicas of attractions that are coming soon. It’s a great spot to escape the heat and enjoy a quiet review of the past, present, and future of Walt’s Disney dream. Check out the theater for a sneak peek at upcoming Disney movies.
9. Walking Trails in Disney’s Animal Kingdom
Both the Gorilla Falls Expedition Trail in the Africa section and Maharajah Jungle Trek in the Asia section of Disney’s Animal Kingdom offer excellent animal viewing in a very peaceful and lush setting. I recommend visiting both of these trails in the early morning before the heat of the day and when they are the least busy.