The Best Spots to Take a Break at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

When you're touring any of the theme parks at the Walt Disney World Resort there are many reasons to take a break. Maybe you're feet are weary, or the crowds are unbearable, or the heat is relentless, or the rain is pouring down. Whatever the reason it's always a good idea to plan a break (or two or three) into your touring plan no matter what park you're visiting.

Gaze at the Sorcerer's Hat while you can!

We recently discussed our favorite spots to relax at Epcot and today we're heading over to Disney's Hollywood Studios. The park is smaller in scope and walking distance but we still like to find a good spot to sit down and enjoy a short break.

9. Beauty and the Beast Live on Stage: There are a couple of things that helped this live show make it on the list of "best places to relax." First, you can sit down for a short time, and second the area is covered which makes it a great place for shade (or shelter from the raindrops). Also, it's difficult to get tired of the tale as old as time no matter how many times you've seen it.

8. Magic of Disney Animation: This attraction is located in the Animation Courtyard in a building that once housed Walt Disney Feature Animation Florida. Guests can enjoy interactive activities including The Sound Stage, Digital Ink and Paint, and You're a Character. You can also meet Sorcerer Mickey, Princess Sophia, and even Hiro and Baymax. There are comfy benches throughout the building, and it's also a good spot to wait out a rain shower.

The Magic of Disney Animation is a great rest stop!

7. Studio Catering Co: This quick service location is a great place to stop for a quick bite to eat and to find some much-needed shade on those warm Florida days. The restaurant has ample shaded seating and a full-service bar! So even if you aren't hungry you can still sip on a grownup beverage while you're taking a break.

6. Tune-In Lounge: Speaking of adult beverages, one of our favorite lounges is located inside the 50s Prime Time Cafe. The Tune-In Lounge is sort of a well-kept secret (until now!) at the Studios. Not only can you find a great place to take a break and enjoy a 50s-themed cocktail, you can also order from the 50s Prime Time Cafe menu without and Advanced Dining Reservation. That's a win-win!

The Tune-In Lounge is a favorite spot

5. One Man's Dream: Sure this is a walk-through attraction but it's a good place to get away from the crowds (as it is rarely too busy inside) while getting a glimpse into the magic of Walt Disney's imagination. Take a leisurely stroll through the exhibit and then enjoy the short movie about Walt's life while giving your feet a break.

4. Sunset Ranch Market: You'll find a lot of umbrella covered tables and several spots to grab a quick snack including Rosie's All-American Cafe, Toluca Legs Turkey Co., Anaheim Produce, and Hollywood Scoops. This is also a good spot to relax while the braver members of your group visit The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror.

Gaze at Gertie the Dinosaur while resting your feet

3. Benches around Echo Lake: There are quite a few benches all over Disney's Hollywood Studios but we're fond of those located near Echo Lake. We just love to look out at Gertie the Dinosaur while taking a break. It's also a good place to grab a bite at Min and Bill's Dockside Diner or Dinosaur Gertie's Ice Cream of Extinction.

2. Tables outside the ABC Commissary: While the Commissary isn't tops on our list of places to grab a quick service meal, we do love the tables that line the sidewalk outside the restaurant. You can take some time to enjoy a cool drink while people watching (a fun way to pass the time at any theme park). And it's also a good place to relax while enjoying a snack from our favorite spot.

Grab a carrot cake cookie and just chill out

1. The Writer's Stop: This is the top spot to take a break in our book. This quaint little shop transports you from the bustling streets of the Studios into a charming book store. It's also home to our favorite snack at the Studios, the Carrot Cake Cookie! Step inside, order a coffee and a cookie and if you're lucky you can snag a table in the back. Or take your snack outside and grab a table outside the Commissary. Either way you'll feel relaxed.

There are many other relaxing spots at the Studios, and we'd love to hear about your favorite spot to take a short break.

Leave us a comment and let us know where you "take 5" at the Studios.

Thanks to the Disney Food Blog for use of their photo!