Best places to watch illuminations?

[brutus]

I have heard about the Rose & Crown (7:45 APR's???), anyone found any great (hidden) spots?

 

[Mickey1122]

A note about Rose and Crown--You don't need a patio table, they will take you out to a special viewing are if you ask. There really would be more good spots if there weren't trees in the way. Anywhere where you can see the barges is pretty good, except the second floor of the dept store in Japan is not nearly as good as it is supposed to be.

 

[STEAMBOAT209]

An excellant spot is on the Speciality Cruise, we have done that 3 times now, but other than booking the cruise, we always like viewing Illuminatins from the bridge closest to the IG.

 

[disgram]

We have always gone to a spot near the lake by Mexico's Cantina. My DGDs can sit there and not have anyone push in front of them. They can see very well through the gates. We have been there in October, March and even at Christmas time and not had a problem. We will be there in August so we will see how it is then!!!!

 

[cabanafrau]

Don't forget to check the wind direction before you select a spot. I've seen lots of disappointed folks disappear in clouds of smoke, only to miss lots of the action when their perfect spot becomes a little murky. Stay upwind for sure!

 

[swankybeth]

I also like by the Mexican cantina. IMHO the best spot in just to the left of the ring carver/margarita stand. There are also good spots in Italy, if they don't close off the area by the bridge, I'd recommend that.

 

[WillCAD]

I like to watch Illuminations from somewhere in the World Showcase.

Actually, I don't have a favorite spot, but I did find a nice place recently - Kringla.

On my trip last May, I was not in the mood to watch the whole show, so just before the lights went down, I stopped at the Kringla of Cafe in Norway to get a Veiled Maiden, and when I came outside, I sat on the stone wall at the edge of the dining area, next to the Viking ship.

The view from here is partially obstructed by trees; all you can really see is the center of the lagoon. But it's a great place to sit, relax, and enjoy the music and part of the show, without being jostled by the crowds or being forced to stake out a spot for 45 minutes.

 

[Cannot_Wait_4Disney]

I've found a good spot to try for if you're kind of late and it's only about 15-30 minutes before the show is Germany. Its view is more distant, but unobstructed. The drawback is after the show, you may as well bum around the open shops awhile afterwards. because you will be behind the crowds.

Do not watch from China or Morocco. The View is obstructed by the Islands. Also watch the trees no matter where you choose. They can obstruct the view of the skyrockets. This is particularly troublesome near the wheelchair access viewing area near Rose and Crown.

Look directly at the barges. Is the wind in your face? If so that's not a good area tonight. Of course if you're me, the wind shifts so as to be in my face all the way around the sucker. If I move, it moves right with me. Just like when I'm BBQing.