Good spot for Illuminations

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Can anyone tell me a really good spot for watching Illuminations. Last time we were so obscured from view that we gave up and left - we heard the sound and saw some lights but that was it. Lots of people were pushing in front of others - it really was a free for all. I was really dissappointed and don't want to miss it when we go back.

Also how early should we get there?

 

[sharon78]

Illuminations Cruise is a great idea,we shared one last time with 2 American Dis Familys,I cant remember how much we payed in the end but it wasnt a lot,there was 11 of us on it and split the cost equally plus tip.Just an idea for you
Other than that i think the best spots are taken early around 7.30-8pm people start to mark their spot,It also depends on how and where you want to exit the park,best spots being;between Japan and Morocco,UK,a lakeside table at Cantina de San Angel is also a good view

 

[Minniespal]

I agree with Sharon with regards to the Illuminations Cruise. There is a thread on the Theme Parks Attractions and Strategies Board were you can request or share with fellow Disers. We shared with two American families the last time and I'm sure we ended paying about £20 for the two of us. It was a fantastic way to see Illuminations and we had a wonderful time.

 

[Halo]

A cheaper option, with a better view, is to ADR at Rose & Crown.

A non-dining free alternative is the little park to the left of Rose & Crown.

The Illuminations Cruise is great but its not the best way to view the display - its IMHO simply a joy in its own right.

 

[Chris and Pooh]

A cheaper option, with a better view, is to ADR at Rose & Crown.

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Yes I agree though you cannot guarantee outside seating but if you are inside you can ask a CM to direct you and get a reasonable viwing position

 

[jen_uk]

I get there about an hour or so before and have always been able to get a good spot, we usually stand round by Canada, you need to get a space by the railings and don't let anyone push in front of you, the view should be unobstructed then. Hope this helps.

 

[gavvy]

The places I like are
The steps of Canada
The bridge just before Mexico
And the Bridge between UK and France.

But to be honest there are no really bad places to view, though its a good idea to take into account the wind direction unless you want to be covered in smoke!

 

[AlanUK]

Gavvy makes a good point in that you really need to find a spot upwind of where the fireworks are let off or risk you view being completely obscured by smoke

We usually find a spot somewhere around Canada the UK or France and get there nice and early to ensure a good view. Sadly during one visit the wind was blowing across in this direction and it spoilt our view which is why I now always think about the wind direction whenever I am watching fireworks.

 

[Cochise]

As a first timer i scoped the whole lagoon and targeted the left hand side at the top on the Canada steps (There is a wall in front and a nice height above anything) Unfortunately the family walking up them in front of us nabbed them. Could not believe it

 

[Shooby doo]

If you are early enough then just to the right of the Cantina at Mexico is good,we tend to head over to Japan which gives a great view of the lake,also this tends to be less crowded as it's probably furthest from the exits but hey if you've been there since 9:00 am what's another few minutes!
SD

 

[buffer]

Thank you all folks - some really helpful advice - I think I might try Rose & Crown - not sure about the cruise - I am terrified of water!!! Went on a cruise last year and couldn't go out on deck

 

[disneyholic family]

Thank you all folks - some really helpful advice - I think I might try Rose & Crown - not sure about the cruise - I am terrified of water!!! Went on a cruise last year and couldn't go out on deck

we thought the view from the illuminations cruise was one of the worst views we've had of illuminations, so i wouldn't worry about missing it if i were you.

The problem of people crowding in front of you is hard to avoid. We scout out a great view and then at the last minute a group of obnoxious rude types pushes their way in front of us.

so we don't bother with illuminations any more. we don't like it enough to bother with the crowds. We prefer Wishes, so we stick to fighting the crowds there .

 

[Ghost]

I still think This is a great place to see it from (LOOK at the pictures)

and the Rose & Crown is very good (but you might not get a seat near the waterside)