By Dr. Jenna Liphart Rhoads
Some “hidden” gems at Walt Disney World are the playgrounds within Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, and EPCOT. Most guests are not aware of the playgrounds until they stumble upon them at the end of a ride or while walking around the parks. These playgrounds are perfect for letting kids let off steam while adults can sit and relax. The playgrounds do not require special admission (beyond park admission) or Genie+ access, and two of these playgrounds are even inside with air conditioning!
Animal Kingdom: The Boneyard in DinoLand U.S.A. is an outdoor, open-air play area perfect for kids age 10 and under. This play area is designed to resemble a dinosaur bone digging site. Kids can help uncover dinosaur bones and other fun prehistoric surprises, and burn-off energy on the slides, rope bridges, and in caves. The Boneyard has shaded seating areas and is close to bathrooms and refreshments.
EPCOT: The Advanced Training Lab indoor playground can be found at the exit of the ride Mission:SPACE. To access this play area, guests can either ride the attraction first or they can simply enter through the exit of the ride. The Advanced Training Lab has an interactive playground where young children can crawl through wormholes, named the Space Base. This area also has digital games for older children (and adults) where they can pretend to fly over Mars or create digital postcards from outer space. This play area is an excellent spot to take a rest from the Florida sunshine and heat midday.
The second playground at EPCOT is the Green Landing Family Play Zone located between the Creations Shop and Test Track attraction. This area hosts traditional playground equipment surrounded by trees and flowers and has plenty of shaded seating for adults to take a break. There are restrooms and several refreshment stalls nearby as well. This is a great snack break spot!
Magic Kingdom: Tom Sawyer Island is located in Frontierland near Big Thunder Mountain and is accessible by raft. The island is a tranquil spot away from the busy crowds and not only has a shaded wooden playground for guests to enjoy, but paths and caves to explore as well. Views from the island offer a unique perspective of the Magic Kingdom. The island has restrooms and a shaded picnic area too.
Casey Jr. Splash ‘N’ Soak Station is open seasonally in the Storybook Circus area of Fantasyland across from Goofy’s Barnstormer. Guests can cool down in this refreshing water play area. There are plenty of benches around the perimeter of the play area for adults to supervise the fun without getting wet. Big Top Treats is also nearby for those looking for a snack to add to their splashing around!
The Dumbo The Flying Elephant ride hosts an indoor, air-conditioned playground of its own under the big-top tent. This playground can be accessed by those waiting in line for their turn to take to the skies with Dumbo. There are two play areas; one for children ages 1-3 and another for children ages 4-8. Adults are given a buzzer to alert them when it is their turn to ride while kids burn off energy.
The exciting playgrounds and play areas that are available at Walt Disney World allow kids to continue to have fun while adults can take a rest. Whether you want to enjoy the fresh air and Florida sunshine, or take a reprieve from the heat, there is an option for everyone.
For more on-site tips to make your Disney vacation the most magical it can be, please contact us at Royal Carriage Vacations about planning your magical Disney vacation!
