Illuminations veiwing

[topmonkeygirl]

I have ressies for Le Cellier at 7:30, Illuminations is at 9:30. Where is a good spot near Le Cellier for viewing Illuminations. Of all the times I've been to The World I've never seen Illuminations, and don't know where the good spots are. Thanks for any help.

 

[Robo]

I have ressies for Le Cellier at 7:30, Illuminations is at 9:30. Where is a good spot near Le Cellier for viewing Illuminations. Of all the times I've been to The World I've never seen Illuminations, and don't know where the good spots are. Thanks for any help.

There are so many places to view IllumiNations at Epcot's World Showcase
that are wonderful in their own way that its futile to try to list them... so I will.

• Near the twin gift shops at the entrance to WS from FW
(Since you're there during the Holidays the above area will likely be
taken over by (reserved for) Candlelight Processional Dinner Pkg. guests.

• Bridge between UK and France
• Norway area
• Upper level (outside front terrace) of the Matsu No Ma Lounge in Japan
• Italy, near the Gondolas
• Mexico, at the outdoor Cantina
• Mexico, bridge to the right of oudoor Cantina (as you face the lagoon.)
• UK, the Rose & Crown outdoor dining area (ressies required.)
• UK, just to the left of the Rose & Crown (as you face the lagoon.)
• Many, many more great spots.

Be sure to avoid any tree branches that block your overhead view,
and watch out for any "islands" in the water
that block your view of the "center" of the lagoon.

Best Tip:
Don't stand down-wind of the fireworks.
Their SMOKE will ruin the show.
So, If the wind is blowing into your face as you look towards the Lagoon, you are in the wrong spot.

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[wolf29]

I'd like to piggyback in and ask a related question. We'll be arriving one day early, so won't have park tix yet our first night this year. We plan on checking out the Boardwalk entertainment our first evening there. Is it possible to see Illuminations, even partially if you are near the International Gateway entrance to EPCOT?

 

[Robo]

I'd like to piggyback in and ask a related question. We'll be arriving one day early, so won't have park tix yet our first night this year. We plan on checking out the Boardwalk entertainment our first evening there.



Is it possible to see Illuminations, even partially if you are near the International Gateway entrance to EPCOT?

MOST of effects of IllumiNations take place ON (or just a few feet above) the surface of the water of the WS lagoon.
Except for the very first "Comet" firework effect, and several other major "sky-blasts", IllumiNations can't really be enjoyed from outside Epcot's World Showcase. A good 1/3rd of the show does not involve fireworks but a large "video-globe" towed across the water and tiny lights imbedded into the buildings of WS.
One favorite outside spot to view the few "sky-blasts" is on the bridge** coming toward Epcot's International Gateway from the Boardwalk Resort. You can't hear any of the music track, which is a very important part of the show.
You can't see very much either, and there will be very long periods of time where you see nothing at all.
There are a few villas at the Boardwalk that have (obstructed) views, and there are limited views from a beach at CBR, but as stated above... you will not see very much, and what you DO see can't legitimately be called "IllumiNations."
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Boardwalk Area > FACING Epcot's Int'l. Gateway, seen upper-left with the Rose-colored Rooftops.

The bridge** I mentioned above is in the far-left, center of the shot.

 

[wolf29]

Thanks Robo. That's as I remembered, just haven't spent much time around Boardwalk to be certain. We'll most likely head over to MK and watch Wishes from Poly Beach or CR.

 

[ExpatDisneyLover]

I really like to watch from right where Mexico and Norway come together - great view - and I've tried lots of places around the lagoon - I keep going back to that spot.

 

[topmonkeygirl]

Thanks Robo for the advice and the map, that makes things alot clearer. Keep up the good work, you help alot of people on here.

 

[Geoff_M]

By far our favorite place for Illuminations is the bridge between UK and France. Get there around 30-40 minutes beforehand and you should be able to grab a spot on the railing. Before the show starts, look straight down and you'll see the Illuminations Cruise boats tied up full of people paying $$$ for the same view. The area between the "twin" gift shops is good... if you can get up front or don't have kids. The times we've tried that spot, things were great until the show started and everyone that was seated on the ground waiting stood up. Our kids couldn't see a thing once all the adults stood up.