Quiet places
Need a quiet spot at Walt Disney World? Look for the old smoking areas!
Introversion Insight:
Susan Cain wrote one of the best books about introversion called Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking. In it she talks about creating “restorative niches” in your life. These are places you go when you want to return to your true self. In our noisy, extroverted world, we’ve learned how to act more extroverted and get out of our comfort zones—but only if we have the accompanying restorative niches to balance it all out.
On May 1, 2019, Disney Parks banned smoking inside the parks. As a result, all these off-the-beaten-path, tucked-way smoking areas were now empty. Disney inadvertently created what I’m affectionately calling D•Introvert Zones, quiet areas where introverts can take a breather and escape the crowds!
Leading up to the smoking ban, Disney had reduced the number of smoking areas, and as of 2019, eleven areas remained. Some of these areas have been repurposed, but many of them remain accessible and are surprisingly quiet. Let’s go over each area.
Magic Kingdom
Tomorrowland: Near Space Mountain
- Shaded area with benches
- One of the quietest, tucked-away spots in my experience
Tip: Get some Joffrey’s coffee nearby and enjoy it in this area.
Frontierland: Near Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
- Scenic area next to the water
- Not as tucked away
Because everyone passes this area as they exit Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, it may not be as quiet or empty.
Disney’s Animal Kingdom
Africa/Asia: Pathway in between
- Scenic pathway
- Covered area with tables and chairs
Tip: Get some fries at Mr. Kamal’s nearby and take it up to this area.
DinoLand U.S.A.: Near DINOSAUR
- Secluded pathway
- Not always accessible
Cast Members are sometimes positioned just to the right of the DINOSAUR entrance, blocking access to this area.
Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Sunset Boulevard: Near The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror exit
- Shaded area with benches
- Tucked-away spot
Tip: Get some Joffrey’s coffee nearby and enjoy it in this area.
Grand Avenue: End of street before Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge entrance
- Mostly standing room
- May be used for character meet-and-greets
EPCOT
World Nature: Across from The Land Pavilion
- Scenic area by water with monorail overhead
- Some benches
World Discovery: Across from Mission: SPACE
- Multiple benches
- Tucked-away spots
Tip: Get some Joffrey’s coffee nearby and enjoy it in this area.
World Showcase: Between France and United Kingdom Pavilions
- Scenic area by water
- One of the quietest, tucked-away spots in my experience
- May be used for special events
World Showcase: Italy Pavilion
- Mostly standing room
- Not very tucked away
World Showcase: Between China and Norway Pavilions
- Standing room
- Not very tucked away
Need a quiet indoor spot at EPCOT? Take a gallery stroll!
Introversion Insight:
Susan Cain wrote one of the best books about introversion called Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking. In it she talks about creating “restorative niches” in your life. These are places you go when you want to return to your true self. In our noisy, extroverted world, we’ve learned how to act more extroverted and get out of our comfort zones—but only if we have the accompanying restorative niches to balance it all out.
Florida can get hot, especially in the summer. I would never tell you not to visit Walt Disney World, but if there’s a time I’d highly discourage you from visiting, it’s in the summer. It’s toasty. But magic can still be found in the sunscreen you’re sweating into your eyeballs.
These restorative niches Susan Cain wrote about—they can be quiet spots, but maybe just as important, they are cool spots. Never underestimate the recharging power of air-conditioning.
Sure, you can find AC if you want to go on Soarin’ Around the World, watch Canada Far and Wide in Circle-Vision 360, dine at Connections Eatery, or get in line to meet Anna and Elsa at Royal Sommerhus. But what if you just want a quiet spot with AC without rides, shows, restaurants, or characters?
Take a gallery stroll!
Morocco: Gallery of Arts and History
- “Race Against the Sun: Ancient Technique to Modern Competition” – exhibit showcasing life and events in the Sahara
- Limited benches
Japan: Bijutsu-kan Gallery
- “Kawaii: Japan’s Cute Culture” – items representing the kawaii pop-culture aesthetic
- Limited benches
China: House of the Whispering Willows
- Costumes, drawing, photos, and artwork of the Shanghai Disney Resort
- One highly coveted bench near the exit
- Additional benches if you walk through to the Reflections of China side
Norway: Stave Church Gallery
- Artifacts and exhibit about the Vikings
- Small, cozy space
- Standing room only
Honorable mention – Mexico: Folk Art Gallery
- “Remember Me!” – La Celebración del Día de Muertos” – exhibit with art from Mexican artists inspired by Disney•Pixar’s Coco
- Standing room only
Note: This tends to be a high-traffic area, so it’s not necessarily a quiet spot.
Need a quiet spot (with AC!) at Disney's Hollywood Studios?
Six introvert spots with AC at Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Introversion Insight:
Susan Cain wrote one of the best books about introversion called Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking. In it she talks about creating “restorative niches” in your life. These are places you go when you want to return to your true self. In our noisy, extroverted world, we’ve learned how to act more extroverted and get out of our comfort zones—but only if we have the accompanying restorative niches to balance it all out.
Florida can get hot, especially in the summer. I would never tell you not to visit Walt Disney World, but if there’s a time I’d highly discourage you from visiting, it’s in the summer. It’s toasty. But magic can still be found in the sunscreen you’re sweating into your eyeballs.
These restorative niches Susan Cain wrote about—they can be quiet spots—but maybe just as importantly, they are cool spots. Never underestimate the recharging power of air-conditioning.
And it may seem like it’s in short supply at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Sure, you can find AC if you want to go on Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance, watch For the First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration, dine at The Hollywood Brown Derby, or get in line to meet Minnie Mouse inside Red Carpet Dreams. But what if you just want a quiet spot with AC without rides, shows, restaurants, or characters?
Here are six relatively quiet spots with AC that will help you recharge and stay cool at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
Star Wars Launch Bay
- Large indoor area with lots of dark nooks and crannies
- Some benches
- Exhibits to look at
Walt Disney Presents
- Limited benches
- Exhibits to look at
Tower Hotel Gifts
(The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror™ exit)
- Limited benches
- Merchandise to look at
Note: You’ll be walking against some traffic if you go all the way back inside as most everyone else will be exiting.
Vacation Fun exit
- Limited benches
- Photo ops
Note: The entrance to the exit area is just to the right of the theater’s entrance. Look for the red and yellow doors. When the theater lets out, you’ll be joined by the guests exiting; however, most don’t stick around too long.
Rock Around the Shop (Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith exit)
- No seating
- Merchandise to look at
Note: The entrance is just to the right of the KRNR The Rock Station food truck. You’ll be walking against traffic as most everyone else will be exiting.
Jessie’s Trading Post (Toy Story Mania! exit)
- No seating
- Merchandise to look at
Note: Look for the Pixar Ball in Toy Story Land. The entrance is just to the left of the ball down a long pathway. You’ll be walking against traffic as most everyone else will be exiting.
Honorable mentions
In case you need a restorative niche that has AC as well as liquid courage/extroversion (alcohol), look no further than Tune-In Lounge and BaseLine Tap House. I didn’t list these two earlier because they involve ordering something. (Yes, you can sit inside these establishments and not order anything, but I try to be a courtesy D•Introvert.)
Tune-In Lounge doesn’t have a lot of seating, but it does have retro decor that will transport you to the 1950s. BaseLine Tap House has limited indoor seating and the best background music loop.
Need a quiet spot (with AC!) at EPCOT?
When introverts plan an afternoon at Disney’s Animal Kingdom
Introversion Insight:
A noisy, extroverted human world can be a lot to take in for an introvert. They may find ways to recharge by connecting with animals, listening to music, or decorating their personal space in earth tones. Did I just describe the perfect scenario?!
Escaping the hustle and bustle of a Disney Park doesn’t have to mean finding a quiet corner to sit in. Carve out a couple hours for this introvert break idea at Disney’s Animal Kingdom.
Step 1: Visit Nomad Lounge for drink #1
Nomad Lounge is a great introvert spot in and of itself. It’s a relaxing environment decorated in warm colors and cushy chairs. You have indoor and outdoor seating to choose from. (My favorite is outside near the Discovery River. You may even spot some characters on boats.)
And because music can be a means of escape for a lot of introverts, I must mention the background music (BGM). You’ll love it. In fact, here’s the BGM loop (White Lotus vibes incoming).
But you came here for more than just music and ambiance. You came for some liquid courage or extroversion (a.k.a. alcohol)! The inventive specialty cocktails are where it’s at, but they also have beer and wine.
Beer fans, Nomad is one of the few locations where you can find the Kungaloosh Spiced Excursion Ale, brewed exclusively for Walt Disney World. Take the edge off and relax from the crowds.
Step 2: Order drink #2 to go
Take Nomad Lounge with you! You can order drinks to go, and that’s a crucial next step in this D•Introvert idea. Order your second drink to go and head toward the front of the park.
Step 3: Explore Oasis Exhibits
Have you been to the Oasis? You have! It’s right at the front of the park. You speed-walk right through it as you’re elbowing children to get to Flight of Passage before everyone else. Not many slow down to check it out, but you are—with a drink in hand.
You have your liquid courage, and for the extroverts in the group, they have their…boredom buster? That’s what I’m going to call it. The quiet trails, relaxing waterfalls, lush flora, and sometimes hard-to-spot creatures may not offer a lot of stimulation for extroverts. But you’ll find this second drink does wonders for your loved ones.
Introverts often feel a connection to animals. (I may or may not like my dogs more than most humans.) So if you make use of your keen introvert eye, you may get to hang out with a wallaby, anteater, babirusa (warthog-ish), muntjac (deer-ish), ducks, and swans.
Tip: Some may disagree, but I think earlier in the day is best for spotting these animals. I’ve tried in the late afternoon, and I’m pretty sure some of them were already off exhibit.
Second Tip: Enjoy Nomad Lounge early so you don’t end up at the Oasis late in the day.
I hope you can try out this introvert idea on your next park day at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Let me know how it goes!
Nomad Lounge
Location: Discovery Island at Animal Kingdom
(next to Tiffins Restaurant)
Hours: 10:30 or 11 a.m. - park close
How to Reserve: Join walk-up list in My Disney Experience app or visit in person
*If in person, you may request indoor or outdoor seating and to-go drinks at bar.
Park Admission Required: Yes
Looking for another introvert idea at Disney's Animal Kingdom? Here's part two.
Top five quiet spots at Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Introversion Insight:
Susan Cain wrote one of the best books about introversion called Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking. In it she talks about creating “restorative niches” in your life. These are places you go when you want to return to your true self. In our noisy, extroverted world, we’ve learned how to act more extroverted and get out of our comfort zones—but only if we have the accompanying restorative niches to balance it all out.
Back home, I bet you have a quiet space you retreat to. Those can be harder to find while on vacation, or more specifically at Walt Disney World. We love the parks because they truly feel like safe havens from the noisy real world we live in, but they’re also loud, crowded, and draining.
I’m always scoping out quiet or often overlooked areas of the parks where I can recharge or just distance myself from the action for a few minutes without leaving the parks. I’m happy to share these five spots at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
To the right of Hollywood Studios archway
- Long bench
- Shaded from sun
- Conveniently located alcohol cart
Back in Pixar Place
- Multiple nooks, crannies, and benches
- Shaded from sun
- Covered from rain
- Conveniently located coffee
Behind Joffrey's at Tower of Terror exit
- Multiple benches
- Shaded from sun
- Conveniently located coffee
Note: The spot right behind Joffrey’s may not be as quiet. Opt for a bench on the sides.
To the right of Hollywood Brown Derby Lounge
- Multiple tables with chairs and umbrellas
- Shaded from sun
- Covered from rain
In front of Lightning McQueen’s Racing Academy
- Multiple benches
- Not shaded or covered
More quiet spots
Top five quiet spots at EPCOT
Introversion Insight:
Susan Cain wrote one of the best books about introversion called Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking. In it she talks about creating “restorative niches” in your life. These are places you go when you want to return to your true self. In our noisy, extroverted world, we’ve learned how to act more extroverted and get out of our comfort zones—but only if we have the accompanying restorative niches to balance it all out.
Back home, I bet you have a quiet space you retreat to. Those can be harder to find while on vacation, or more specifically at Walt Disney World. We love the parks because they truly feel like safe havens from the noisy real world we live in, but they’re also loud, crowded, and draining.
I’m always scoping out quiet or often overlooked areas of the parks where I can recharge or just distance myself from the action for a few minutes without leaving the parks. I’m happy to share these five spots at EPCOT.
Katsura Grill outdoor seating area
- Multiple tables with chairs
- Shaded from sun
Back in Morocco
- Multiple spots: benches or tables with chairs
- Immersive theming
By the exit of Disney & Pixar Short Film Festival
- One covered bench
- Shaded from sun
- Covered from rain
To the right of Mission: SPACE
- Long benches
- Shaded from sun
Walkway over to the Odyssey
- Benches with umbrellas
- Shaded from sun
- Covered from rain
More quiet spots
Magic Kingdom
Disney's Animal Kingdom
Disney's Hollywood Studios
Top five quiet spots at Magic Kingdom
Introversion Insight:
Susan Cain wrote one of the best books about introversion called Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking. In it she talks about creating “restorative niches” in your life. These are places you go when you want to return to your true self. In our noisy, extroverted world, we’ve learned how to act more extroverted and get out of our comfort zones—but only if we have the accompanying restorative niches to balance it all out.
Back home, I bet you have a quiet space you retreat to. Those can be harder to find while on vacation, or more specifically at Walt Disney World. We love the parks because they truly feel like safe havens from the noisy real world we live in, but they’re also loud, crowded, and draining.
I’m always scoping out quiet or often overlooked areas of the parks where I can recharge or just distance myself from the action for a few minutes without leaving the parks. I’m happy to share these five spots at Magic Kingdom.
Inside Big Top Souvenirs
- Multiple tables with chairs
- Air-conditioned indoors
- Smell of sweets from Big Top Treats
Behind Ye Olde Christmas Shoppe
- Couple benches
- Shaded from sun
- Covered from rain
To the right of Space Mountain
- Long benches
- Shaded from sun
To the right of RocketTower Plaza Stage
- Couple benches
- View of the PeopleMover
Note: This spot may not always be quiet if the stage is being used.
To the right of Carousel of Progress
- One bench
- View of the PeopleMover
More quiet spots
Top five quiet spots at Disney’s Animal Kingdom
Introversion Insight:
Susan Cain wrote one of the best books about introversion called Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking. In it she talks about creating “restorative niches” in your life. These are places you go when you want to return to your true self. In our noisy, extroverted world, we’ve learned how to act more extroverted and get out of our comfort zones—but only if we have the accompanying restorative niches to balance it all out.
Back home, I bet you have a quiet space you retreat to. Those can be harder to find while on vacation, or more specifically at Walt Disney World. We love the parks because they truly feel like safe havens from the noisy real world we live in, but they’re also loud, crowded, and draining.
I’m always scoping out quiet or often overlooked areas of the parks where I can recharge or just distance myself from the action for a few minutes without leaving the parks. I’m happy to share these five spots at Disney’s Animal Kingdom.
Across from Feathered Friends in Flight! by the water
- Multiple tables with chairs
- Shaded from sun
- Covered from rain
- Water view with Tree of Life backdrop
Behind Tusker House
- Benches
- Separation wall from main walkway
Note: During the lunch and dinner rush, this area may become a waiting area for the Tusker House restaurant.
Pathway behind Caravan Road kiosk
- Multiple tables with chairs
- Shaded from sun
- Covered from rain
To the left of Drinkwallah kiosk
- Multiple tables with chairs
- Shaded from sun
- Covered from rain
- Water view
On the right side of Fossil Fun Games
- One bench
- Shaded from sun
- Great for people watching
Note: This spot may not always be quiet if carnival games are being played.
More quiet spots
Early introverts get the worm at Disney Parks
Introversion Insight:
Introverts savor their alone time. It’s a way for them to recharge after being around a bunch of humans. But also, we’re just more comfortable in our skin when we’re alone (probably overthinking something I’m sure). And when we do venture out, getting out there early in the day is key.
Alone time while on a family or friend vacation to Walt Disney World or Disneyland—it may be hard to come by but not impossible. As much as you love your family and friends, you may get to the point where you wish you had your own space, especially if you’re sharing a hotel room. (Here’s your first tip: pay the extra money for your own room.)
Growing up I wasn’t much of a morning person. I think I dreaded mornings because it meant I had to leave the comfort of my bed and face a stressful school environment. But as an adult, I’ve discovered mornings are prime time for introverts! Have you ever rope dropped Costco? It’s exhilarating. People just don’t like to get up early.
Morning resort walks
But you do. Sleeping in on vacation? That’s for the foolish birds. Wake up early and before the rest of your travel party so you can walk around your Disney resort alone. (This is assuming you’re staying at a Disney resort. You really should.) One reason is they have great lobbies, shops, eateries, and walking paths. Go explore and scope out the place.
Park rope drops
Mornings aren’t just for coffee and contemplation.
And rope dropping isn’t just for Costco. If you want to avoid the crowds, arrive early at the park. Have you ever noticed how tired your brain feels as the day goes on? Our noisy, extroverted world is to blame. Start off right when you’re feeling at your best. You’ll enjoy the parks more mentally, and you’ll minimize crowds and lines.
How early should you arrive at the park? A half hour to an hour before official park opening time. This is because the parks actually open before the time you see. They’ll typically let you in to a certain point inside the park and hold you there until the published opening time.
Warning: Here’s a corralled cattle moment. Everyone will crowd as close as possible to the Cast Members blocking the way into the rest of the park. It’s tempting to stand back, but don’t. Brush shoulders with these people. (Since it’s early, their deodorant is freshly applied and working.) It will pay off because you’ll be part of the very first group to experience a ride. And you’ll continue to be the first group experiencing each subsequent ride or attraction. You’ll always be one step ahead of everyone else who foolishly entered the park right at the published opening time.
There’s also something reassuring about being in a space before the masses arrive. I bet you arrive early to events at home and work. You’ve learned you’re more comfortable when others join you in your space instead of you inserting yourself into an existing crowd. The same holds true at Disney Parks.
How to get a break from the EPCOT crowds
Introversion Insight:
A crowded, lively place is exciting and energizing for some. But for introverts, it can be exhausting. These places actually drain an introvert’s mental energy. This is where recharging comes in.
You’ve just spent half the day at EPCOT, traveling the world (showcase) no doubt. It’s probably crowded and loud—I’m looking at you, The Land pavilion. You’ve discovered EPCOT is probably your favorite park because it’s basically designed for introverts (but more on that another time.) As much as you enjoy it, you’re mentally tired. You need a recharge like a well-used ECV at the end of a day.
Make like CC Bloom in the movie Beaches and head to the boardwalk—Disney’s BoardWalk. Between the France and United Kingdom pavilions, you’ll find a park exit (and entrance) called International Gateway. Go through the gateway to find Disney’s BoardWalk area. A quiet and recharging walking loop awaits you. (You’ll find benches along the boardwalk too.) Heading clockwise, you’ll pass Disney’s BoardWalk Inn, Yacht Club Resort, Beach Club Resort, and finally your re-entry point for EPCOT, the International Gateway. You’ll be refreshed and ready to build an ugly-looking concept car on Test Track!
