One of the most important things you can do to keep your family and yourself feeling good throughout a day at Disneyland is to take a few breaks and just rest to renew your energy. If you would rather rest in the parks than out, here are not one, but two Top 5 lists for you! 

Here are some relaxing places in the park that you can sit and relax as long as you’d like:

Liam loving the Water Ball.

1. Tomorrowland Water Ball – A favorite of all kids (and some adults), this fun little area around the Water Ball in the center of Tomorrowland, directly in front of Redd Rocket’s Pizza & Pasta, is a great place to rest on a bench under a shade tree and watch your kids enjoy pushing away at that ball (and only getting minorly wet).

2. Hungry Bear Restaurant Deck – Mentioned previously by Lisa, this restaurant is a great place to grab a bite, but also a terrific place to just sit and relax. There is an upper level where you can order your food and sit under an awning, but it’s the lower deck is my pick for taking a rest. Directly under the upper deck, the lower deck is a bit cooler as it has more shade, generally less busy, and has a more secluded, relaxed feel. It’s right on the water and perfect for watching boats, canoes, and ducks float by.

Liam and his cousin pumped about the “pirate” ship.

Enjoying Dole Whips in front of the  Tiki  Room on our honeymoon – we  were so young!

3. Enchanted Tiki Room Courtyard – Directly in front of the Tiki room theater (and behind the Dole Whip stand) the courtyard is just as enchanting with it’s lovely Hawaii theme and the entertaining pre-show. It’s small, and can get crowded the closer it gets to show time – but it’s a great place to sit down (particularly with a Dole Whip in hand) and enjoy the magic of Disney.

4. Main Street Hub – At the heart of the park, located directly in front of Sleeping Beauty’s Castle, you can find the iconic Partner’s statue of Walt and Mickey holding hands. This is one of the most magical places to take a rest in the whole park. The Hub is beautifully landscaped year-round, and there are many benches to take advantage of all with an exceptional view.

Is there any better bench to sit on?

 

5. New Orleans Square Fountain Courtyard – My absolutely favorite spot to sit, relax, and people watch is located in front of the New Orleans Square/Frontierland train depot, there is a lovely shady area where you can find several benches situated around a picturesque fountain. Although this area is right in the middle of things – flanked by the Haunted Mansion on one side, and the French Market Restaurant and Mint Julep Bar on the other – it’s a relatively quiet spot. I’d highly recommend relaxing here with a Mint Julep of your own!

Now, a list of the best attractions to see and ride while getting a little rest:

1. it’s a small world / Pirates of the Caribbean. It’s a tie between these two because they are so similar – both are slow moving boat rides through the air-conditioned indoors. The only difference is that Pirates is a little less kid friendly in theme. These attractions typically last between 10-15 minutes.

2. Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room. Chairs are provided in this small indoor theatre. Some children may be frightened by thunder and lightening. The show lasts about 14 minutes. 

3. Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln. There are rows of seating in this large indoor theatre. This show is aimed at adults, and will not likely hold the attention of a small child (but as an adult it’s one of my favs!). The show is about 15 minutes long.

4. Mark Twain Riverboat. There are very few seats available, but you are welcome to sit yourself down on the deck (floor) next to the rail and enjoy the view that way. The loop around the Rivers of America lasts about 14 minutes.

5. Disneyland Railroad. This is my favorite restful attraction! Bench seating is provided on each railroad car. Strollers are allowed if folded,  or you can park them outside of each train station (one in Toontown, Tomorrowland, Frontierland/New Orleans Square, and Main Street). If you make the “Grand Circle Tour”, this calm ride lasts about 18 minutes.

photo by Randy Crane

A relaxing ride the whole family can enjoy!

Read more from Jessica on her blog, Idahome. You can also find her on Facebook, Twitter, or on Instagram.