By Dr. Jenna Liphart Rhoads
The hustle and bustle of Magic Kingdom certainly adds to the magic of the park at Walt Disney World Resorts, but occasionally guests are ready to seek out a quiet oasis away from the crowds. This is particularly true during high crowd times, such as Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s. If you are unfamiliar with the layout of Magic Kingdom, or have not done any exploring of your own off the beaten path, you may find it difficult to find a quiet spot. Well don’t worry, because we have done all of the exploring and are ready to share our “secret” quiet spots in Magic Kingdom that allow guests to find a respite from the crowds during a busy day.
Columbia Harbor House upstairs: Columbia Harbor House is a quick-service restaurant found in Liberty Square that is open for lunch and dinner. This fish and seafood restaurant has an upstairs dining area that most patrons generally do not flock to. The staircase can be found in the main ordering area of the restaurant. Guests can look out the window to people-watch and get a birds-eye view of the area.
Back inside Corner of Pinocchio Village Haus: This quick-service restaurant is located in Fantasyland next to “it’s a small world” and is open for lunch and dinner. Guests who walk to the back, left corner of the dining area will be treated to sparse crowds and get a surprise view of the “it’s a small world” ride. In this area, there are even signs for guests to hold up for the people below.
Fantasyland near Gaston’s Tavern: Gaston’s Tavern is located at the back of Fantasyland behind Be Our Guest Restaurant and offers themed snacks, including the famed giant cinnamon roll. The dining venue is open from 9am-7pm (most days) but the quiet sitting area outside is open while the park is. Here you’ll find tables and chairs with umbrellas, shaded benches, a water bottle filling station, and clean, themed bathrooms.
Fantasyland next to Pete’s Silly Sideshow: On the opposite side of Fantasyland, you can find a newly constructed quiet area in a Big Top tent next to Pete’s Silly Sideshow. This spot is completely shaded and has plenty of benches for relaxing and taking a break from the heat and crowds.
Adventureland Tortuga Tavern: Prior to 11am, quick-service venue Tortuga Tavern is closed but the dining area is open and available for guests to sit and relax in the shade. This respite spot is located across from Pirates of the Caribbean ride in Adventureland. Pro tip: grab Dole Whip from around the corner at Aloha Isle and enjoy a mid-morning sweet treat.
Behind Ye Olde Christmas Shoppe: This shaded spot has tables and chairs and can be found directly behind the Ye Olde Christmas Shoppe in Liberty Square. It is a great area to bring a snack to from the nearby Spring Roll Cart or Sleepy Hollow.
Tom Sawyer’s Island: Located in Frontierland, this attraction must be accessed via the rafts that are piloted by WDW cast members. While on the island, guests can explore the caves, walk the paths and bridges, play on the playground, and take views of the Magic Kingdom from a different vantage point. This laid-back spot offers plenty of shade and bathrooms for guests.
Hopefully you’ll be able to check out these “secret” quiet spots the next time you are in the Magic Kingdom and are able to take a break to enjoy the scenery. Disney World is always adding new, exciting attractions to the parks so check back to see if there are any new spots!
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!
