We like to be at the start of the parade route, at the edge of Fantasyland. We tend to stand just outside Bella Note counter service. Once the parade has gone past we then go backwards into Fantasyland to do some rides
Another vote for the start of the route. Anywhere between it's a small world and Bella Note is great for us, good view and often still possible to stand at the front/first row. And you don't waste to much time waiting for it to pass by and by the time it's passed you, you can get to the rides quickly because the rest of the park is still watching the parade go by.
We stood in front of Bella Note as well, we didn't wait more than 20 minutes and got a spot right up front. Another bonus of this spot is that it is near bathrooms too if you need them.
Glad you managed to get a good spot! I always find the people are friendlier at the start of the parade route - must be because they're all people from these types of forums that have been given the advice to stand there!