Thursday's Tip

A full day at Walt Disney World--especially one including Extra Magic Hours--can wear out even the most robust and vibrant guests. Families with young children almost always require some sort of mid-day break. For many, this means commuting back to a resort room for a nap. And while that may be best for some families, the idea never really appealed to this squeeze-every-bit-of-fun-and-get-your-money's-worth type of gal! Still, some sort of break is necessary for most of us. While I've already shared my favorite nap spots in this post, today's Thursday's Tip will focus on calm, sedate places (and even attractions) where even us "old folks" can catch our breath without feeling like we're missing out on any of the Disney fun. Here are my favorites:

• Take in a show. There are several choices in each of the four main parks, but my favorites include Finding Nemo, the Musical (Animal Kingdom) and American Idol Experience (Disney's Hollywood Studios) because they're both indoor, air-conditioned theatres.AIE is a little noisy and bright, but it has incredibly comfy seating. In a pinch, we'll watch the Country Bear Jamboree (Magic Kingdom), but my husband sort of despises this one, so it's not quite as relaxing.


• Hop on a slow-moving, long-lasting attraction. Some good choices include the Great Movie Ride (DHS), the half-ride/half-attraction Carousel of Progress (MK), The Walt Disney World Railroad (MK), Liberty Square Riverboat (MK), Living with the Land (Epcot), and Spaceship Earth (Epcot). There aren't many great alternatives in Animal Kingdom, since most of these attractions are outdoors and, therefore, hot.  The Wildlife Express Train is probably your best best there.


• Grab a snack and sit in the shade. Nearly all the pavillions in the World Showcase of Epcot have food kiosks that sell snacks or sweets that are native to their countries, with seating nearby. (A favorite: have a croissant from France and eat it by the beautiful fountain!) In the Magic Kingdom, there are shaded tables at the Sunshine Tree Terrace, or you can grab a Dole Swirl from the nearby Aloha Isle. I love the Carrot Cake Cookie from the Writer's Stop in Disney's Hollywood Studios, and there's plenty of seating inside or nearby outside. And while shade is harder to come by at Animal Kingdom, you can grab a drink from the Asian Slush Cart and head for the trees. There are usually fences or boulders around that you can lean on if you don't find a cool seat. Then there are our favorite Mickey Ice Cream bars, found throughout the parks at various carts. Good anytime, anywhere.


• Follow a trail off the beaten path. There actually are a few out-of-the-way spots around the Disney Parks. These are usually in the "corners" of the parks--areas that don't necessarily lead to an attraction and are, therefore, less traveled. You'll often find a park bench or two, just waiting for weary travelers.

These are some of my favorite spots to take a break. What are yours?