Top 5: Spots to Sit & Rest in California Adventure

July 15, 2013 in All Posts, disney california adventure, Jessica, Tips & Tricks for Families, Top 5 by Jessica McConnel

I’ve mentioned before that taking little (or big) breaks throughout a long day at the Disney Parks can really make a difference in how you feel, and your energy level throughout the day. I shared some great places to go if you want to give your feet a rest at Disneyland, and now it’s California Adventure’s turn.

We both get re-energized,
chilling by the front gate.

1. The Front Entrance. Directly in front of the gates, just inside the park – there are some beautifully tiled benches in the shade, and many more benches up and down Buena Vista Street. If you’re going to sit still for a while, you want to have something to look at, and this is a prime people watching spot – let me tell you. It’s also a great spot to sit while you are waiting to meet someone, is close to the bathrooms, and is relatively quiet and less crowded.

2. Flo’s Cafe. You won’t find a better view in all of Carsland, maybe in all of the park, than you can get from the left side rooms in this restaurant. A great thing about park restaurants is that the majority of them have lots of seating, and side entrances – so you don’t have to order food to be inside (or in the outside dining area). This is a great spot to watch the cars zoom by and gaze at Cadillac Range, which is particularly spectacular by night. This location will be crowded during meal times.

Could there be a better view?

3. Mickey’s Fun Wheel. At about 15 minutes in length, this ride will give your feet a nice little rest while you get to spy on the parks and city of Anaheim below. Beware, it is quite high, but fairly slow moving. I don’t recommend the swinging baskets if you are taking children – the stationary ones are the way to go unless you like to be scared silly.

4. Animation Studios. This is one of my family’s absolutely favorite places to go to get out of the elements and take a load off for a while. I’ve taken sleeping kids in here to finish out their naps, and wiggly kids in to get some energy out – meanwhile, I get to sit on one of the cushy sofas and watch clips from my favorite Disney movies on the 360 degree movie screens. I absolutely recommend this space for rest, but even if you’re not needing a break, visit it just for the magic!

Entrance from the park into the hotel.

5. The Lobby at the Grand Californian Hotel. While technically not part of the theme park, it is attached to it, so I’m counting it! This another favorite spot to rest, to the point where we almost have to do it every time we visit. This hotel is just beyond words, and even if you’ve only ever been in the lobby, you’ll know what I mean. It’s breathtakingly beautiful inside and out – and the lobby is packed full of comfy, inviting chairs and sofas, just begging you to come and take a load off. If you happen to be there during the cooler months you’ll especially love taking a break in one of the rocking chairs in front of the fireplace!