Break suggestions near Magic Kingdom

[rlthomas7]

We have a trip planned in November where we will spend the day at the Magic Kingdom, and then stay for the Christmas party. We have an 8:30 ADR at Be Our Guest, we plan to watch the 2:00 parade and have an ADR at Liberty Tree Tavern at 2:30. So I'm looking for an off-site break from around 3:30 - 5:00. Could we hang out on the beach at the Polynesian or Grand Floridian? Is there another off-site option that is easy to reach by monorail or boat for a quick rest (preferably in a comfy chair?) We are staying at Animal Kingdom Lodge, so it's way too short of a time to try to get there and back.

 

[fab1976]

The lobby at Wilderness Lodge has lots of comfy seats! Some rocking chairs too that look out the window towards the lake. There are even little cozy spots on the upper floors of the lobby too that are nice to sit in for a break. You can catch a boat over there from the Magic Kingdom.

 

[DisneyWishes14]

You could hang out at any of the monorail resorts or take a boat to WL or Ft. W. The easiest thing to do is, probably, to walk over to CR and sit on the first, second or fourth floor over there. It's not as beautiful as the Poly, GF or WL, though! If you are looking for something quiet, I would boat over to WL and sit in the lobby (it's gorgeous!) or even go to the sitting room at BRV where there are comfy chairs, a fireplace and some of Walt's original train cars from his backyard.

 

[HopperFan]

Another vote for WL. I would head over to Geyser Point for a few drinks and relaxing. Between the boat rides and your relaxing time that should fill your gap just fine and re-energize you for party. If it's cool outside lots of quiet spots in hotel, some spots in or above lobby area.

 

[rlthomas7]

Thanks all! I've never been to WL, so this might be a good excuse to visit.

 

[Sue M]

Yes the lobby has some nice rocking chairs in front of the fireplace. Some places I like to take breaks inside MK is riding the people mover. If it’s not busy they’ll just let you stay on. Going to Carousel of Progress. I actually enjoy this attraction but it’s also great for a break, and power nap. Comfy theatre seats! Grabbing a bench and people watch.

 

[Nancyg56]

If you choose to stay in the park I think Toms Island is a nice relaxing spot as well. We also take the Steam Train around the park and just enjoy the ride.

 

[sunsetbeachgal]

Yikes what a long day! To be at BOG for your 8:30 breakfast res. I’m assuming you will need to be on the bus by 7:15 AM or so, then basically you are going straight through with only short breaks here and there until late night?

Just a thought, Had you considered leaving MK to go back to your resort after lunch or after the parade, then not getting back to the party until 7 Pm? This would give you several hours to relax, get off your feet, take a swim, take a nap, etc.

 

[rlthomas7]

We are definitely "go all day" types on Disney vacations, so the long day doesn't bother me, but maybe I'll try to do a longer mid-day break. I think I'll have a better idea what can be rearranged once I do Fast Passes next month.

Thanks again all!

 

[sunsetbeachgal]

I’ve also been told that the ride lines are very short during the parties. We are doing a similar day to what you are, doing our MK day plus the Halloween party on the same day. Planning to relax at resort in morning and arrive at MK in afternoon for a 2:15 BOG lunch reservation. I have fast passes for the rides that are not open during the party, between 4 and 6 pm, then staying for party.

 

[gillep]

Definitely agree with those who suggest WL, it is a beautiful resort and we really like Geyser Point. We also like to go to The Poly and The Grand, you can walk between the two which is really nice. We tried to rest in The Contemporary once, but it just didn't have that restful feel that we were looking for.

 

[MomOTwins]

If you have never been to Trader Sam's at the Polynesian, I would highly recommend it for a fun and unique experience. They have mocktails too for non-drinkers/kids in your party, but what you are really going there for is the special effects.

 

[Luv Bunnies]

Our favorite MK break on our last trip was the Contemporary. We took the Monorail over and had lunch at the quick service restaurant which was very quiet compared to the MK crowds. We used the very clean restrooms with no lines. We browsed the shops, and hung out in some comfy chairs for a bit. When we got back to MK, it was like culture shock, but it was nice to get away from the crowds and heat for a couple of hours.

 

[BalooFan]

Personally, I would head for the lobby at GF. There are lots of comfortable couches and at that time the pianist would be playing. WL is nice, but I prefer the calmer environment (IMO) of GF. Depending on when you’re going in November, the large gingerbread house might be under construction or up in the GF lobby, if that is of any interest.

 

[soccermom54]

My first choice would absolutely be Wilderness Lodge lobby. Second choice Polynesian lobby and get a Dole Whip to make everything better.