The Top Spots to Take a Break at the Magic Kingdom

We've all been there. Fighting our way through the crowds at the Magic Kingdom when it's hot and you're melting and you're just about thisclose to a "Calgon take me a way" moment. In that instance it might seem as if you'll never escape the crowds and you'll just get swept up in a sea of Mouse Ear-wearing humanity. But there is hope. There are places to take a break and escape for just a few minutes.

Where is your favorite place to take a break at the Magic Kingdom?

One of our absolute favorite "escape routes" is actually right off the middle of Main Street U.S.A. If you're looking at Cinderella Castle from the middle of the street there's an alley on the right, just past the Main Street Jewelers. Many guests walk right past this little oasis but every now and then you'll see someone go that way, usually to play Sorcerers of the Magic Kingdom (there's a window in the alley for the game).

Our suggestion is to grab a snack from the Main Street Confectionery or even the Main Street Bakery, duck down the alley and just take a break. You'll find a few tables scattered about or you can just sit on the curb. Either way you'll be out of the crowds. Just be sure to look up at the windows as they feature names like all the windows on Main Street. And if you listen very closely you might hear the "lessons" happening inside the building.

A quiet alley off Main Street U.S.A.

As you get closer to Cinderella Castle you'll notice that the Hub area has been completely refurbished and there's a lot more real estate for guests to use. The grassy areas are reserved at night for FastPass+ fireworks and parade viewing, but for most of the day you can pick a spot in the grass and chill out. It's a great place to enjoy a sundae from the Plaza Ice Cream Parlor.

If you're looking for a spot to sit, recharge, and enjoy a quick meal we have a few favorite. First is Casey's Corner. Now, if you hit this place right at lunch time it won't be fun or relaxing. But if you visit in the "off hours" it's likely that you'll find smaller crowds and even an umbrella table outside. Grab a hot dog, some fries with cheese, and watch the world go by.

Another favorite spot is over in Fantasyland at Gaston's Tavern. There are several umbrella tables located outside the tavern and they're a good place to sit for a while. Order a LeFou's Brew from the tavern (and a giant cinnamon roll) and just relax.

We love Gaston's Tavern!

If you're headed toward Liberty Square, we suggest stopping at Sleepy Hollow for a funnel cake and a break. You'll find a good deal of shaded seating at Sleepy Hollow and it's a great place for a midday treat.

And if you aren't yet finished taking a break after your funnel cake we recommend heading over to the Hall of Presidents for the show.

This is one of our favorite attractions because (1) it's air conditioned and (2) you get to sit for an extended period of time. It's also a good place for the younger members of your group to take a nap since it is cool and dark inside.

The Hall of Presidents is a great place to recharge!

If you're looking for a place to kick back and relax while visiting Tomorrowland we have two favorites. The first is the Tomorrowland Transit Authority PeopleMover. It might be just a 10-minute ride but you can't be the views! As great as this attraction is during the day we love it more at dusk just as Cinderella Castle starts to change colors.

And of course the best place to relax and recharge in Tomorrowland has to be the Carousel of Progress. This fan-favorite attraction will give you a place to rest your weary feet, soak up the A/C, and you'll have the song stuck in your head for the rest of the day.

It's a great big beautiful tomorrow at Carousel of Progress

There are many more spots around the Magic Kingdom where you can take a break, enjoy a snack, and get recharged before heading back into the crowds. These are just a few of our favorites. We'd love to hear your favorite spot to relax at the Magic Kingdom. Let us know in the comments!