Exit Strategy for MK after Spectro Parade

[Jo-Anne]

Let me start out by saying that my husband does not do well in crowds - which is why we visit in Sept - but I really want the kids to see the Spectromagic Parade at MK on our visit in late Sept. It appears it is showing on the Tues and Sat nights of our stay (Sept 28 & OCt 2). I had originally booked a PS at Crystal Palace for 6:40, parade at 8pm and wishes at 9. Not sure if this PS is too late for us to have nice supper with Characters and then find a spot on route? We have been many times in Sept, so we know crowds are low, but we've never attempted a night parade as I know my DH would get terribly frustrated trying to exit park after a parade. Anyone know how large the crowds are for night parades in Sept? We are staying at BCV. Any advice for parade viewing and exit strategy? How long is the wait for buses back to resorts? Thanks, Jo

 

[Ibelieveinfairies]

Jo-Anne,
The crowds exiting the park after Spectro and Wishes can be quite overwhelming if you don't know what to expect. Our strategy (after being caught in the sea of humanity once) is to just sit tight and people watch until the crowd clears out. You will find that if you have the patience to do that, the rush of people will clear out and you won't be in among them.
Other posters have suggested getting a spot by the Train Station and then you will be some of the first to leave and get on the transportation back to the hotels. Your PS time, however, wouldn't necessarily be good for staking out a spot on the balcony there at the train station because those spots are usually taken pretty early. HTH!

 

[beattyfamily]

I, too, will be attempting this for the first time on our trip the end of August.

How early do I need to stake out a spot? Where's a good curb spot for easy exit or easy GET OUT OF THE CROWD'S WAY!!??

Thanks!

 

[Ibelieveinfairies]

Well, I may be the exception, but I usually stake out a spot on the hub about an hour before the parade. We like to sit just inside the start of the hub (on the Tomorrowland side) so that my DH can take the kids to the arcade to play games while I guard our position. We rent a double stoller which I park directly behind me while I sit on a small blanket on the curb. The spot is nice because you get a good view of Tinkerbelle flying for the fireworks, it is right by a popcorn cart for treats/drinks, and a short walk to the bathrooms by the Plaza Pavillion.
This spot works well for just sitting and letting the crowds pass you by, as well. We usually just move back along the fence and people watch away...we'll play games together, as well, to pass the time until the crowds clear (Count how many Mickey ears you see, look for light up shoes, etc) and ooh and aah at the castle changing colors.
There are so many places to find a good spot; this is just our favorite!

 

[DebbieB]

I like watching the parade in Town Square and make a quick exit before the crowds.

With dinner at 6:40 and Spectro at 8:00, you're going to have a hard time finding a curb spot. If you don't mind standing on the sidewalk, you'll be OK. Otherwise, I would try to make dinner earlier.

 

[beattyfamily]

Originally posted by Ibelieveinfairies
Well, I may be the exception, but I usually stake out a spot on the hub about an hour before the parade. We like to sit just inside the start of the hub (on the Tomorrowland side) so that my DH can take the kids to the arcade to play games while I guard our position. We rent a double stoller which I park directly behind me while I sit on a small blanket on the curb. The spot is nice because you get a good view of Tinkerbelle flying for the fireworks, it is right by a popcorn cart for treats/drinks, and a short walk to the bathrooms by the Plaza Pavillion.
This spot works well for just sitting and letting the crowds pass you by, as well. We usually just move back along the fence and people watch away...we'll play games together, as well, to pass the time until the crowds clear (Count how many Mickey ears you see, look for light up shoes, etc) and ooh and aah at the castle changing colors.
There are so many places to find a good spot; this is just our favorite!

Wow, that's good news!! I thought that I might have to wait 1 1/2 to 2 hours!!

When you first said hub, I thought you meant near the entrance...what a dummy I am! Then I realized where you meant. That sounds good. I do prefer Main street to other areas. I just don't know the best spots yet.

What is the name of that circle area near the entrance then with grass? Sometimes characters are there for autographs. Does that area have a name?

How well can you see Wishes from your hub spot?

Where is the arcade?

Thank you!

 

[Ibelieveinfairies]

beattyfamily,

I don't know if that area you are referring to in the front of the train station has a name...I'm sure it does, I just can't think of what it is! lol

We have an excellent view of Wishes from our spot! And Spectro goes right smack in front of you if you sit on the Tomorrowland side of the hub and can be on the curb. The walking characters even interact with people on the sides, so being on the curb is sooo exciting! Wishes is great...I have to admit I cry! From where we sit, we can see the castle the fireworks....even Tinkerbelle flying right by us.

The arcade in Tomorrowland is just across from Space Mountain.

Have fun!

 

[Ibelieveinfairies]

Oh! That area you are referring to must be where DebbieB likes to be and says is Town Square...makes sense...right in front of Town Hall and is definitely like a Town Square!
I feel like "duh!"

 

[beattyfamily]

Originally posted by Ibelieveinfairies
beattyfamily,

I don't know if that area you are referring to in the front of the train station has a name...I'm sure it does, I just can't think of what it is! lol

We have an excellent view of Wishes from our spot! And Spectro goes right smack in front of you if you sit on the Tomorrowland side of the hub and can be on the curb. The walking characters even interact with people on the sides, so being on the curb is sooo exciting! Wishes is great...I have to admit I cry! From where we sit, we can see the castle the fireworks....even Tinkerbelle flying right by us.

The arcade in Tomorrowland is just across from Space Mountain.

Have fun!

Thank you for all the advice! Sounds like a good spot! I much much prefer curbs to no curbs. I have seen the day time parade in Liberty Square with no curb and only a rope and didn't enjoy myself. I felt like I got squeezed out easier and I couldn't sit quite as easily as I can on the curb. There's also something special about Main Street and the Castle!

Thanks again!