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.
