Where to watch Illuminations

[dachsie]

Where is the best place to watch Illuminations if you don't have a FP?

 

[mesaboy2]

Many spots around the lagoon, and preferably upwind of it.

 

[dachsie]

no favorite places?

 

[mickeymom22]

We enjoyed watching it from the QS restaurant in Mexico. We got a table and enjoyed a drink and nachos.

 

[CAS239]

Pretty much anywhere with a clear view. We like it from the Morocco area

 

[Cramden]

Where's a decent backup spot if you don't feel like camping out for an hour or so to get a prime location. We're staying at the Yacht Club so would it behoove us to be nearer to the International Gateway?

Thanks!

 

[CAS239]

Where's a decent backup spot if you don't feel like camping out for an hour or so to get a prime location. We're staying at the Yacht Club so would it behoove us to be nearer to the International Gateway?

Thanks!

There's so many good views we normally just walk around the showcase until a few minutes before Illuminations and have always had good views. I don't see any point in camping out a spot far in advance unless it's NYE Illuminations

 

[winthropf]

No need for FP. Anywhere around the lagoon that doesn't have trees on an island blocking the view of the center of the lagoon. Most important, make sure the wind is at your back when looking at the center of the lagoon. Most of the fireworks are ground level and smokey. If you are downwind of the lagoon, all of the smoke will drift right to you.

 

[Alesia]

no favorite places?

As long as you have a clear view of the center of the lagoon and the wind isn't blowing in your face, one place is as good as another.

 

[NH-to-FL]

Where's a decent backup spot if you don't feel like camping out for an hour or so to get a prime location. We're staying at the Yacht Club so would it behoove us to be nearer to the International Gateway?

When we stayed at the Boardwalk we watched Illuminations from the middle of the bridge between UK and France. It is right above where the Illumination Cruise boats dock. You still have to get there pretty early to get the spot but it has a good view and is an easy exit at the end of the show.

 

[MamaMaleficent2016]

Honestly, I don't understand FP for this. I have never staked out a spot for this show. Truly anywhere !!!! It's one of the easiest to watch. Heck we've watched it while walking home through the showcase!

 

[BeArilyn]

I have a reservation at La Hacienda to watch the fireworks. Do I even need this if they are easy to watch? I would rather eat at San Angel Inn.

 

[MamaMaleficent2016]

While it is lovely to watch the Illuminations while dining you certainly don't need a specific dining reservation just for a good view. I prefer San Angel Inn, as well! Whatever you decide, I hope you enjoy.

 

[Robo]

I have a reservation at La Hacienda to watch the fireworks. Do I even need this if they are easy to watch? I would rather eat at San Angel Inn.

Being that there is no guarantee that you will even be able to see IllumiNations from your table at Hacienda, then yes, cancel.

 

[Cramden]

Thanks for the answers. Glad we won't have to park in a particular spot waiting for the show. I worried too much about every little detail of our last trip so I'd like to let this one just "happen" a bit more spontaneously.

 

[Cramden]

Hey 10 posts! I can get rid of that question mark!

 

[Dan Murphy]

Honestly, I don't understand FP for this.

So Disney can make some fastpass choices in a park sorely lacking of choices.

 

[Dug720]

Wherever is opposite from the wind. Main reason I would never FP+ this one - it's not like there is a wind screen to prevent the smoke from blowing that way.