Best quiet places to escape the crowds?

[ImarriedGrumpy]

So my Grumpy husband is reluctantly allowing himself to be dragged to WDW for his first visit, but he keeps repeating that he hates (HATES!) crowds of people. Unfortunately we will be there over Memorial Day weekend (thanks to work schedules), and with all the festivities this year I'm anticipating some significant crowds.

Does anyone have suggestions on the best spots in each park to escape from the crowds for a bit? Doesn't have to be an indoor, AC place - just a quiet(ish) nook or cranny somewhere to park a Grumpy with his book for a half hour or so away from most of the people. I've already informed him that when he gets really cranky I'm taking him back to WL for a nap...

Thanks!!

 

[kandmwedding]

Lots of places in Epcot to do this, especially the World Showcase. Canada, the UK and Morocco all come to mind.

 

[TXBelle]

In the MK, next to the tea cups is a window service refreshment stand called Enchanted Grove. They sell great lemonade slushes and Strawberry Swirls. To the right of the stand, there is a quiet covered area that is air conditioned with a table and chairs. This is a good spot. Another quiet spot is in the wooded area in Liberty Town Square behind the Christmas shop. The area is shaded. Also there are rocking chairs on a raised porch next to the Hall of Presidents that are also nice. I think your DH will be surprised at how many quiet spots he will be able to find in all of the theme parks.

We will see you soon at WL! We leave in 22 days.

 

[Simba's Mom]

I think the area in back of the Christmas shoppe is now a designated smoking area. As a non-smoker, I think it's too bad! I loved that area.

 

[DisneyDuo]

Another nice place to get away from the crowds, especially if it's hot out, is to go explore resorts like Beach Club, Boardwalk, Animal Kingdom Lodge, Grand Floridian, etc., and relax in their public areas. Most have beautiful parlors or lobbies with comfy couches, perfect for a bit of quiet time.

Lin

 

[FFerret]

What is it about grumpy husbands??? Mr. FFerret is right up there among the Grumpiest of the Land. We have a special needs child, but it was Mr. FFerret doing the meltdowns when we went!

Another hidden "road less travelled" connects Tomorrowland with the Toontown Railroad stop; take a sharp left when you get off the train. It's supposed to be pretty quiet, with a few benches.

I'm loving this thread; taking as many notes as I can!

 

[ruebeesoho]

At the MK the area behind the Christmas store is nice. Part of it is a smoking section, but not all of it. Also, the camera shop near the front entrance of MK has a small theatre behind it that shows old cartoons.

In AK the path to Tarzan rocks was pretty quiet and shaded.

I know there are more, but I can't think of them right now. Explore and have fun!! I'm sure you'll find plenty of places for him to relax.

 

[disneyaggie]

My two favorite spots to "get away from the crowds" . . .

1) At MK, go to Cosmic Ray's Starlight Cafe around 1:30 pm to 2:00 pm. Sit outside on the covered patio. You overlook water below with ducks, you can see the castle to your right and tomorrowland to your left. It is very peaceful.

2) At EPCOT, there is a little English garden in the UK. If you stand at the Fish and Chips kiosk, your back is to the garden! It is soooo peaceful and nice.

Aaahhh!

 

[ImarriedGrumpy]

Wow - great ideas! Thanks, everyone! I think I'll mark Grumpy DH's park maps with all these quiet spots so he knows he can "escape" as needed. The funny thing is that he's determined to "see & do everything so we get our money's worth"! This should be a very interesting Disney trip!

 

[ImarriedGrumpy]

Just a note to say thanks for all the ideas - I had a list of them and each day at the parks I marked my husband's map with all the quiet spots. He brought a book with him (Cesar's Wars, of all things!) and every so often he'd retreat to a quiet spot with his book while the rest of us went on a ride.

He still had his grumpy moments, but he worked hard at not letting his grumpiness leak out and spoil anyone's fun.

So thanks, again, for all the great tips! I know my DH appreciated them!

 

[TinkerBellz33]

I agree with the previous poster about exploring the resorts...When the MK gets to hectic, head on over to the CR or GF and get some lunch, or a drink at one of the many bars...he might not be so grumpy after that....