Welcome back to My Disney Top Five. Last time I spoke about the top five things I need to see most when I finally go to Disneyland. Thanks for all of your responses. It seems I have a lot to see when I finally make it to Anaheim. This time, I’m heading back east to familiar territory; Walt Disney World. In particular, I’d like to discuss my top five quiet spots that exist down in the busiest tourist destination on earth. Some may think there aren’t any places to escape the madness in Disney World’s four theme parks. I’d have to disagree. One of the things Walt famously said about building on the expansive property in Central Florida was that “there’s enough land here to hold all the ideas and plans we can possibly imagine.” No truer words have been spoken.
There’s plenty of room at Walt Disney World. It’s twice the size of Manhattan Island; 47 square miles. There’s plenty of woodlands and natural habitat remaining despite four theme parks, two water parks,and…well, you know what’s there. The resorts are chock full of places to escape and find solitude, so I’m going to focus on finding peace and quiet within the parks. It does exist, and some places are downright tranquil. Hard to believe considering the resorts massive attendance and popularity with everyone on the planet. I love the attractions, the parades, and the spectacles that exist at every turn in Florida’s parks. What I love even more is the fact that the builders and designers paid heed to Walt’s desire for more space in his “new world” and included many quiet and unassuming spots to get away from it all while you’re getting away from it all.
So, here are my Top Five Places to Retreat to in the Walt Disney World Theme Parks.
5. Flame Tree Barbecue, Animal Kingdom
Hard to believe that a counter service restaurant would make my list, but this is my favorite place to eat in Animal Kingdom and one of my top places to eat anywhere in Walt Disney World. The food is good, but it’s the dining areas behind the Flame Tree that really impress. There are multiple levels, covered pavilions that are exquisitely decorated, a beautiful pond, and lakeside seating with a fantastic view of Everest. There’s a definite air of tranquility when I’m dining there among the birds under the canopy of trees. If you haven’t eaten there, or stopped and rested there, do so. You’ll love it.
Canada’s “rocky mountain” viewed from Victoria Gardens on the lowest level of the pavilion. Photo by Brian Bennett.
3. The Plaza Rose Garden, Magic Kingdom
My wife is a big gardener and a good one at that. One of her favorite things to grow are roses. It’s no surprise that we stroll through this beautiful garden when we visit the Magic Kingdom. The castle is right there. That waterfall near the entrance to Tomorrowland supplies the background music. You are essentially in the center of it all. The hub is the heart of all of Walt Disney World and yet when you stroll down through the rose garden, you have escaped it all while still being surrounded by it all. It’s pretty remarkable. Be sure to check out the old loading dock for The Swan Boats.
2. The Tree of Life, Animal Kingdom
There are so many places to escape in this wonderful park, but perhaps the most immersive and impressive are the Discovery Island Trails surrounding the massive Tree of Life. I’ve yet to encounter a crowd here and yet some of Disney World’s most elaborate work can be found there amongst the limbs and roots of the tree. The nearly 400 animal carvings, meandering paths, waterfalls, and animal encounters create a true haven. I’m always amazed at how few people take advantage of these fantastic trails.
And my Number One Place to Retreat to in the Walt Disney World Theme Parks is:
1. Tom Sawyer Island, Magic Kingdom
To be specific, there’s a set of rocking chairs off to the side of Fort Langhorn on Tom Sawyer’s Island. You can sit there and watch the trains on Big Thunder Mountain, see The Liberty Belle paddle by, or watch the ducks and ibises taking advantage of the natural setting. Spend some time there and rock your cares away, knowing you’re in one of your favorite places in the world and enjoy a few moments of inner and outer peace.
My daughter in my favorite rocking chair on Tom Sawyer Island. Photo by Chris Barry.
Given the pure acreage of Walt Disney World I’m sure I’m missing many great tranquil getaways. Just as Walt intended, there’s enough room in Florida to make all of our dreams come true. I’ve found my favorite little havens, let me hear yours.
I’ll see you next time with another Disney Top Five.
