Introvert hack: book a Garden Rocks Concert Series Dining Package
Introversion Insight:
Introverts are planners. They want to be prepared for what the world has in store for them. Let’s avoid surprises at all costs, please. Uncertainty can make an introvert anxious. While we’re at it, let’s avoid crowds. Large groups of people can drain an introvert’s social battery quickly.
The Garden Rocks Concert Series takes place each year at EPCOT’s International Flower & Garden Festival. These concerts are included in your EPCOT park admission.
2023 show schedule
Glass Ceiling
March 1 & 2
Steve Augeri, former Journey lead vocalist
March 3 & 4
Daughtry
March 5 & 6
Audio Exchange
March 7–9
Tommy DeCarlo
March 10 & 11
Smash Mouth
March 12 & 13
Element
March 14–16
Mike DelGuidice
March 17 & 18
Blue Oyster Cult
March 19 & 20
The Vybe
March 21–23
Berlin
March 24 & 25
The Pointer Sisters
March 26 & 27
The Female Collective
March 28–30
Luis Figueroa
March 31
Piso 21
April 1 & 2
Melina León
April 3
Epic Live!
April 4–6
STARSHIP featuring Mickey Thomas
April 7 & 8
Don Felder, formerly of The Eagles
April 9 & 10
Foreigners Journey
April 11–13
Blue October
April 14 & 15
Switchfoot
April 16 & 17
Evolution: Motown
April 18–20
A Flock of Seagulls
April 21 & 22
Jo Dee Messina
April 23 & 24
The Hooligans
April 25–27
Ambrosia with Peter Beckett, the voice of Player
April 28 & 29
Kool & The Gang
April 30 & May 1
Finesse
May 2–4
Herman's Hermits starring Peter Noone
May 5–8
Latin Ambition
May 9–11
The Orchestra starring former members of ELO
May 12–15
506 Crew
May 16–18
A.J. Croce: Croce Plays Croce
May 19 & 20
Casting Crowns
May 21 & 22
M-80s
May 23 to 25
Jason Scheff, longtime lead singer of Chicago
May 26 & 27
Rick Springfield
May 28 & 29
The Champagne Orchestra
May 30–June 1
Plain White T's
June 2–5
Glass Ceiling
June 6–8
The Spinners
June 9 & 10
The Commodores
June 11 & 12
Element
June 13–15
Vertical Horizon
June 16 & 17
Tony Orlando
June 18 & 19
Foreigners Journey
June 20–22
Simple Plan
June 23–26
Epic Live!
June 27–29
Living Colour
June 30 & July 1
Wang Chung
July 2 & 3
Evolution: Motown
July 4 & 5
For each of these dates, there are three performances: 5:30 p.m. 6:45 p.m., and 8 p.m.
You can also add an optional dining package. Let’s see how it works and why it might be a good option for introverts.
How it works
Decide which musician and restaurant
If you’re planning a Walt Disney World vacation, your dates may not revolve around a single act’s performance at Garden Rocks. (Or maybe they do because you’re a big Rick Springfield fan. Don’t forget to pack your Jessie’s Girl T-shirt.) It may just be the luck of the draw based on when you’ll be at the parks—and more specifically when your EPCOT day is.
Keep in mind dining packages are only available Friday through Monday.
Once you know your date and musician, it’s time to pick your restaurant. For 2023, you have eight to choose from:
I’d recommend Le Cellier. (We did Coral Reef just to check it off our list.)
Compare prices
Is the Garden Rocks Dining Package a good deal? No, not really. Even if you pick the most expensive items on the menu, you may not come out ahead. But you're not booking a dining package because of the value. More on that soon.
Adult prices below are for ages 10 and up; child prices are for ages 3 to 9.
- Akershus Royal Banquet Hall: $74 | $48
- Biergarten Restaurant: $60 | $34
- Coral Reef Restaurant: $69 | $27
- Garden Grill Restaurant: $66 | $43
- Le Cellier Steakhouse: $95 | $36
- Regal Eagle Smokehouse: Craft Drafts & Barbecue: $35 | $20
- Rose & Crown Dining Room: $59 | $25
- Spice Road Table: $47 | $20
Make the reservation
You can book your dining package online, through the My Disney Experience app, or by phone (407.939.3463) for lunch or dinner up to 60 days in advance. Keep in mind the reservation time has to be 2.5 hours before showtime. So if you opt for dinner, it may be an early dinner. The system will automatically pick your showtime when booking online. If you’d like a different showtime, it’s best to call.
If you want to wing it, you can also try for a same-day dining package at Regal Eagle Smokehouse. Visit the restaurant that day to see what’s available.
Dine at restaurant
I hope you’re hungry because the dining package includes a nonalcoholic beverage, an appetizer, entrée, and dessert for each person.
For Akershus, Biergarten, and Garden Grill, it includes a nonalcoholic beverage and full buffet/family-style meal for each person.
For Spice Road, each person receives a nonalcoholic beverage and two small plates. The table receives a shared dessert platter.
You’ll order from the restaurant’s regular menu. There isn’t a special Garden Rocks menu. Your server will know you have the dining package and can explain your options, if needed.
Attend concert
You’ll be given your show tickets at the restaurant at the end of your meal. The tickets say to arrive 15 minutes before showtime; however, if it’s a popular musician or you just want to be as close to the front as possible, I would show up 30 minutes before.
The Garden Rocks Dining Package guarantees you a seat, but it doesn’t guarantee you a certain row or seat.
Concerts take place at the American Garden Theatre in the American Adventure Pavilion. There are two queues. If you’re facing the theatre, the queue on your right is standby. The queue on your left is just for dining package guests like you. The queues are clearly identified with large signs.
Once you show the Cast Member your ticket, you’ll be directed to the section reserved for dining package guests. It’s first come, first served, so pick where you want to sit. This section is typically the front left section, so you’ll have a good seat for the show.
Why the dining package is for introverts
So what are you really paying for? For D•Introverts, it’s peace of mind. You have a guaranteed seat for the show, so you’ve eliminated the potential worry and anxiety of not knowing if you’ll get in. This is especially helpful when it’s a popular musician since capacity may be reached for the standby sections.
Speaking of standby, you don’t have to camp out early in a long standby queue that’s only partially shaded. So you’ll avoid that crowd and have more time to roam World Showcase. Win and win! It’s a much more relaxed, VIP experience. And as you know, it’s always nice if you can have less stress during an already stressful vacation.
“I want to build a lightsaber at Disney, but I’m an introvert.”
Introversion Insight:
Introverts are planners. They want to be prepared for what the world has in store for them. Let’s avoid surprises at all costs, please. They like knowing how to do things, especially around other people. At the same time, doing something new, getting out of your comfort zone, and acting like an extrovert can be a lot of fun.
Are you or your introverted child a little apprehensive about building a lightsaber at Savi’s Workshop in Disney’s Hollywood Studios (DHS) or Disneyland (DL)? I get you. You’re in the spotlight, and now you have to build something in front of other people? Oof. As a D•Introvert, audience-participation attractions—like Savi’s—can be intimidating.
This is one of those moments in life when you act like an extrovert for the sake of doing something you really want to do. May the Force be with you! And to help you feel more prepared—and reassure you it’s not so bad—I’m going to break down the experience of building a custom lightsaber at Savi’s Workshop in DHS.
Warning: As you might expect, potential SPOILERS ahead!
Check in
Look for a “Gatherer” (Cast Member) standing out front of the workshop and give them your name. You can check in up to 15 minutes before your reservation. Each builder can bring one guest.
Pick your hilt theme
They’ll give you a laminated card that describes the four available hilt themes.
You’re then directed to the courtyard area to review which theme you want. If you want to see physical replicas of each theme, pull out the nearby cabinet drawers.
Purchase your lightsaber
A second Gatherer will come over and direct you to the registers. This is when you’ll need to know which hilt theme you’re purchasing.
You’ll buy your lightsaber and receive credentials and a pin. Go ahead and put the pin on your shirt and head toward the gate to the right of the registers.
Update: If you're building a lightsaber at Disney's Hollywood Studios, full payment is due at the time of booking now.
Get excited (and maybe nervous because that's how you roll)
A Gatherer will let you through the gate into a holding area outside the workshop’s entrance. You’ll wait here a few minutes as it fills in. Everyone in the holding area will be going through the experience at the same time.
When it’s time, you’ll enter the workshop single file, first builder then their guest, second builder then their guest, etc. Be sure your pin is prominently displayed and your credentials are held chest high as you go in.
Build your lightsaber
You’re directed to your building station where you’ll place your credentials. The first thing you’ll do is pick the color of your kyber crystal. Red, blue, green, and violet are available through Savi’s Workshop.
You’ll then be presented with the rest of the components. A Gatherer will explain how many of each component you’ll need. In our experience, there was one Gatherer for every two builders, so you’ll have a mostly devoted person helping you the whole way through.
The actual assembly is fairly easy. For two of the pieces, you’ll need to line up the markings by color, blue with the blue and red with the red. I think the toughest part was fitting the kyber crystal in. You don’t have to worry about connecting the lightsaber blade. The Gatherer will do that for you.
You did it! You just built your custom lightsaber. Now relax, be in the moment, and enjoy the theatrics of it all. At a certain point, you’ll activate your lightsaber (switch it on) and raise it high.
One last thing: They’ll give you a carrying case as you exit. You’ll insert the lightsaber blade first into the case.
Have fun with your magical sword, Trekkie!
Savi’s Workshop – Handbuilt Lightsabers
Location: Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at DHS or DL
Price: $249.99 (DHS) or $219.99 (DL)
Discounts Available: No
How to Book: Online (DHS or DL), walk-ins may be available
Duration: ~30 minutes
Party Size: Builder with one guest allowed
Park Admission Required: Yes
Cancellation Policy: Up to 1 day before
An introvert’s guide to TRON: Lightcycle / Run
Introversion Insight:
Introverts are planners. They want to be prepared for what the world has in store for them. Let’s avoid surprises at all costs, please. They like knowing how to do things, especially around other people.
Welcome, users, to the digital frontier(land)!
This guide will help you prepare for your Lightcycle race across the Grid (a.k.a. Tomorrowland in Magic Kingdom Park). We’ll mention all those things that are important to introverts: the queue, the boarding process—including the new ride lockers—the amount of thrill, the music, and the details.
Queue
Let’s talk logistics. The queue and boarding process matters. We’ve all been on that ride where we’ve felt like cattle being corralled from one room to the next. I’m happy to report TRON: Lightcycle / Run has very little of that. Much of the queue is actually outside. Part of it is shaded under the large canopy, a small part has umbrellas, and a good chunk of it is in the sun. (Don't forget your water and sunscreen!) There’s not much to look at besides the Lightcycles when they race by on the outdoor track.
Tip: At night, the canopy lights up. I’d recommend riding then.
You’ll find an organized single-file entry into the show building itself. The queue continues this way, so you won’t have people trying to get in front of you and breaking up your party.
You then reach the preshow room—the only preshow room I might add. It’s a small and intimate room, which means not as many people will be corralled in there with you. And the preshow is short, so you don’t have to spend too much time with them.
One cluster moment for the ride is exiting the preshow room. A door on the right will magically open when the preshow ends, and people will funnel out.
Tip: Either stand on the right side so you’re one of the first people to exit, or linger back and let everyone else exit the room before you.
Lockers
TRON Lightcycle / Run is the first Disney Parks attraction to use ride lockers. And you’ll need to use them for anything larger than a cell phone. The ride vehicle has a compartment for small items only, like a cell phone, wallet, or glasses.
You’ll walk up to a room full of lockers. Find one that’s lit up and tap your MagicBand or park ticket admission card. (MagicMobile on your phone won’t work.) The door will open, you’ll place your items inside, and shut the door. It locks itself and can only be reopened when exiting with your MagicBand or park ticket admission card. Make note of your locker number.
If you don’t have a MagicBand or park ticket admission card, you can ask a Cast Member for a locker card.
Here’s another potential cluster moment as people crowd around to find a locker. There are plenty of lockers, though, so feel free to walk farther into the room and pick a locker on that end. And the room itself is nice and spacious. (Note: It’s possible Cast Members may direct you to a locker or locker section.)
Tip: Don’t worry if you forget your locker number. When you exit the ride, there’s a kiosk where you can tap your MagicBand or park ticket admission card to retrieve your locker number.
Boarding process
It’s time to race against some Programs. When you approach the Lightcycles, you’ll notice loading instructions for A and B, with corresponding letters on the floor. Person A will walk around the Lightcycles and board their Lightcycle from the left side. Person B will walk straight out and board their Lightcycle from the right side.
Note: The side of the Lightcycle you board is reversed if you're boarding on the other track of the loading area. Arrows on the floor will guide you regardless of the track you're sent to.
You hop on the ride vehicle like you would a bike. (If you’ve been on Avatar Flight of Passage, it’s similar.) Lean all the way forward so your chest is against the vehicle. Grab the handles in front of you and pull back to lock them in place. You’ll feel the back restraint behind you.
Race
And you’re off! The ride is fast near the beginning, so be prepared. But as it goes on, I think the thrill level is manageable. Your forward position on the ride vehicle is unique and adds to the Lightcycle effect, but I also found it to be awkward. I had a hard time relaxing in that position, and the handlebars rubbed against the palms of my hands to where they were sore in the end. (What? I guess I have soft hands, haha.)
Because of your position, it’s awkward if you try to raise your arms like you normally would on a roller coaster, so it’s best to keep your hands on the handlebars. You may also want to look around you as you’re racing, but it’s most comfortable for your head and neck if you look forward. The ride is quite short, so you won’t be in this position for long.
Music
D•Introverts tend to connect with an attraction because of the music. TRON Lightcycle / Run has recognizable background music from the TRON: Legacy movie but in a subtler way. The vibe is there, but I didn’t feel like I was stepping straight into the End of Line nightclub. But maybe that’s part of what’s missing, which leads me to…
Details
The dark ride itself has lights and screens to simulate the race, but the queue inside and out is fairly plain, except for the actual loading area. Overall, the attraction has a clean, sleek design that is TRON-esque, but it feels empty. I would have liked more nods to the movie, more details to look at while waiting, and more Daft Punk.
All that to say, I do enjoy this attraction. And from an introvert’s perspective, its organized queue and boarding process, the music, and the level of thrill make it a worthy new addition to your Magic Kingdom day.
I hope you feel more prepared after reading this guide. Let me know if you have questions.
END OF LINE
TRON Lightcycle / Run
Opening date: April 4, 2023
Location: Tomorrowland, Magic Kingdom Park
Height: 48 inches or taller
How to ride: Standby queue or Lightning Lane Single Pass
Five things introverts should do before their Disney Parks vacation
Introversion Insight:
Introverts are planners. They want to be prepared for what the world has in store for them. They like clear expectations. Let’s avoid surprises at all costs, please. They like knowing how to do things, especially around other people.
Planning ahead offers introverts peace of mind, especially when we’re navigating a busy theme park. Whether you’re an introvert, or you’ll be traveling with introverts, do these five things before leaving.
Download and learn the mobile app
We are in the age of apps—and Disney Parks are no exception. Walt Disney World Resort’s app is called My Disney Experience. Disneyland Resort’s app is just called Disneyland. (They have separate apps, but you use the same Disney account login.)
You can still find physical guidemaps at the parks, but the apps have maps plus a lot more.
- Dining reservations
- Mobile food orders
- PhotoPass photos
- Wait times
- Show times
Download, log in, and learn the app before leaving home. It is mostly user friendly, but there’s something that happens to my brain when I’m hot, tired, and surrounded by people. I feel this invisible pressure that makes it harder for me to focus on a task—in this case the park’s app. Anybody else?
If you plan on using Genie+ during your trip, brush up on this relatively new service. It’s a beast in and of itself.
Study the park maps
Speaking of maps, you can find interactive maps within the app. You can also download PDFs online. Vacations can be fun but stressful if you don’t know where you’re going, and the parks are big. Spend some time reviewing the maps before leaving to get the lay of the land. You’ll also save yourself some time.
Figure out transportation
On a related note, how do you get from point A to point B on the map? Transportation may not be as overwhelming at Disneyland Resort since destinations are closer together, but Walt Disney World Resort is another story. It’s like a mini-city with buses, monorails, boats, and gondolas.
Spend some time mapping out where you’ll be going and how you’ll be getting there. Tip: Use the Get Directions feature in the My Disney Experience app. Just pull up a location, tap Get Directions, and enter where you want to go.
Build table-service restaurants into schedule
Make some table-service restaurant reservations. After a while, you may get sick of quick-service food, but maybe more importantly, table-service restaurants are more introvert friendly. They allow you to slow down. They often have a more relaxing atmosphere.
And one huge perk? They seat you so you don’t have to hunt for a table. (Does your anxiety go through the roof when you’re wandering through a crowded restaurant with a tray full of food, trying to find an empty and clean table? No, just me?!)
Request an extra PTO day
For me, my PTO days are precious, but I always try to request one extra PTO day at the end of my vacation time. Why do this? It gives you a whole day at home to decompress, recharge, and settle back into your normal routine—not to mention time for laundry. Going from an action-packed Disney Parks vacation straight into (most likely) an action-packed workday can be tough for introverts. Build in that buffer.
Good luck planning, D•Introverts! You’re going to have a great time. Let me know if you have any questions.
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.
Five introvert tips while on your Disney Parks vacation
Introversion Insight:
Introverts are planners. They want to be prepared for what the world has in store for them. They like clear expectations. Let’s avoid surprises at all costs, please. They like knowing how to do things, especially around other people.
You’ve researched and planned your Disney Parks trip for months now (I know you, D•Introvert). It’s finally time to go! Here are five tips to consider while at the parks.
Walk and talk
Small-talk conversations can be hard for introverts. You may be perfectly fine with silence, but the others in your group may turn it into awkward silence while you’re waiting in line for Seven Dwarfs Mine Train. This may sound weird to an extrovert, but think of topics ahead of time—even create a list on your phone that you can consult when conversation gets tough.
Another idea is to walk and talk. Instead of sitting around a table, keep walking. You may actually find it’s easier to have a conversation while walking. You don’t have to make eye contact as much, so your brain can more easily concentrate on what you want to say.
Consume liquid extroversion
Did you know Disney Parks pour and brew liquid extroversion? It’s truly a magical place. I call alcohol and coffee liquid extroversion (or sometimes liquid courage). A drink or two can take the edge off your anxiety about socializing, crowds, and attractions.
Help your travel party understand you
Do people ever ask you if you’re having a good time? In your head, you’re thinking, “Duh, of course I am. I’m at a Disney Park.” But it might not be obvious on your straight face. Or maybe you're just being your quiet normal self.
To an extrovert, they may think you’re not enjoying a ride or show because you’re not outwardly expressing your emotions. They need more reassurance that you’re having a good time. I think it’s completely fair to reassure them, but make sure they understand how you experience the parks.
Express who you are
It’s totally okay to stay quiet, reflect, and analyze what you’re experiencing. It’s what we do best as D•Introverts. But I need to remind myself: it’s also okay to show my enjoyment publicly! And this leads me into my last tip…
Don’t be self-conscious
Let’s go back to where you’re waiting in line with your travel party. Do you ever feel self-conscious of what others may think if they overhear what you’re saying to your group? Even though it’s not true, you might think you’re being too loud or what you’re saying is lame to the person overhearing.
One thing I love about Disney Parks is the fact that they are no judgment zones. All walks of life enter the parks, truly. You can feel comfortable being your introverted self inside a Disney Park.
Well, you’re all set. Put those comfortable shoes on and enjoy your Disney day! Let me know if you have any questions.
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.
