There are a million things to do at Disney World and it feels like there are a million and one visitors around every corner. Yes, Disney is probably one of the most fun places you’ll ever experience, but boy, can it be overwhelming. With huge crowds, special-effects-filled rides, more humidity than you’re used to, and surprises at every turn, Disney can sometimes feel like, well, a lot.
But don’t worry—whether you (or your kids) are exhausted, overstimulated, or just need a quiet moment from the magical madness, there are plenty of places in the park to take a breather. From low-key attractions to secret hideaways, here are 10 quiet places to rest your head in the Disney World parks.
World Celebration Garden and Pavilion, Epcot
The Horror Mom Team and the Walt Disney Statue in the Garden of the World Pavilion.
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Near the entrance to EPCOT you can find the World Celebration Garden. It’s remote enough that you won’t encounter too many other park visitors. And, with plenty of benches and phone charging stations, it’s a great place to recharge, both literally and figuratively. You can even take a break with Walt Disney himself, sitting on one of the benches next to his statue (hello, photo ops!). These gardens are actually specially designed places for everyone to take a break from the excitement.
The gardens are outdoors, though, so if you need a break from the Florida sun, head to the nearby World Celebrations Pavilion. Although the gazebo is much busier than the gardens, there are plenty of shops and food options to kill some time until you cool off.
Coexist with the land, the future world
Honestly, this ride almost put me to sleep like a baby at the end of a very fun day. Located in the Land Pavilion, the attraction includes a soothing boat ride where soothing voices tell you soothing facts about how Disney World implements permaculture practices in the parks for a full 15 minutes. Isn’t it exciting? No, this is perfect. I could have ridden it twice.
Water Journey, Future World
If your kids have been riding roller coasters all day, this new Moana-inspired attraction is a great place to continue the fun in a low-key way. The water tour consists of a path through Motonui where children and adults alike can interact with the magical water features. Wave and watch the water jump! Or, if you don’t want to get too wet, there’s a “dry path” option for each function. Either way, it’s a quiet, quick place to chill and take a break away from the crowds.
Walt Disney Presents, Hollywood Studios
There are few places to hide from the sun at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, so the Walt Disney Presents provides a much-needed opportunity. This mini-museum tells the story of Walt Disney and all of his creations—with enough familiar themes that even kids who hate museums will find it interesting. Additionally, the museum screens a 15-minute documentary, so you can take a seat in a nice, chill theater.
People Mover, Magic Kingdom
Statistically, people movers will put your kids to sleep.
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I’m not sure if that’s its intended purpose, but people movers Feel It’s like it’s designed to put kids to sleep. The ride takes passengers on an elevated journey through Tomorrowland, if you can call it that. You can take a break from the park crowds and enjoy the sights below. It’s also a great activity for younger kids, while their older kids can check out more intense attractions like nearby Space Mountain.
It’s a small world, the Magic Kingdom
Everyone is familiar with the classic “It’s a Small World” ride, but you may not know how long it is. These boats actually take a full 10 minutes to travel around the world, making this the perfect spot to cool off from the summer heat. These dolls are cute, but hey, sometimes we just need a little rocking to fall asleep and take a 10-minute nap while the weird doll sings the most repetitive song ever. bonus? There are very few lines for this ride, so it’s easy to jump on without even noticing.
Casey Jr. Splash ‘N’ Soak Station, Magic Kingdom
This splash pad is a great place for kids to cool off. Located in a quiet corner of the park, near the classic Dumbo ride, your kids can burn off some energy by running around the paddling pool while parents take a moment to regroup. It’s located next to the bathroom, making it easy to change into your swimsuit.
Explore island trails, animal kingdom
The trails surrounding the Tree of Life are ideal for a cool walk.
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The trails around the Animal Kingdom Tree of Life have many benefits for them. Tree-covered, off-road away from the crowds, and wildlife around every corner. Take a walk and listen to the sounds of nature – you might even see flamingos, turtles and more.
Animated Experience, Animal Kingdom
The animation experience is hidden in Animal Kingdom and gives park guests the chance to learn how to draw their favorite characters from real Disney animators. The 25-minute long lessons will be taught by different characters on a rotating basis, so you can even return later for another unique experience. Not only is this an escape from the excitement of a typical theme park, but you’ll also gain a new skill.
Baby care center, all parks
All Disney World parks have baby care centers for parents to change and feed their youngest children. However, it is also a great place for those who really need a break. It’s quiet and cool, and the center even plays movies inside. If you or your kids are feeling overwhelmed, this is the place to go, watch a few minutes of a movie, drink some water, and make the most of your Disney experience.
