Great Spots to Relax at Walt Disney World: Epcot

Huh?  Relax at Walt Disney World?

No, seriously.  It’s the best.  Instead of running ourselves ragged and subsequently dragging screaming or sleeping kids around the park at all hours of the day and night, we have learned that the best plan of attack is to take things slow.  You’ll learn that about us if you stick around here, but I’ll start as clear as possible.  Sometimes, even (especially?) with kids, some of your best memories will be made not while running from mountain to mountain in the Magic Kingdom, but while hanging out, taking in everything around you.  Find the other pieces of this series here: Magic Kingdom   |   Hollywood Studios

Now Epcot, if you ask me, has about a thousand places to relax.  Despite the hustle and bustle of my favorite park, World Showcase alone has eleven pavilions, each with their own places tucked away that are just perfect for sitting – and a bit of people-watching, if that’s your thing.  But you came here looking for specifics, and I’m happy to oblige 🙂

• Benches overlooking World Showcase Lagoon in front of the Germany Pavilion. With your back to the crowds behind you and an impeccable view of the Lagoon and Spaceship Earth, this is one of our favorite places to sit.  The moment is made especially enjoyable with a milk chocolate caramel square from Karamell Kuche.  Thank me later.
• UK Pavilion courtyard (by the hedge maze and gazebo stage).  When British Revolution isn’t playing, this place is virtually empty.  Kids can enjoy the hedge maze while grownups rest weary feet.  (And when British Revolution is playing? It’s a super fun, hopping concert environment that’s fun for the whole family, too!)
• Cava del Tequila, inside the Mexico Pavilion. Inside the pyramid in the Mexico pavilion can be a bit hectic at certain times. When it’s not, though, this is a lovely place to grab some chips and queso or a margarita and relax in the (air-conditioned) “evening air” of a Mexico city.
  

  C. Disney Food Blog

• Upstairs at The Seas pavilion.  Did you know there is a huge viewing area above the busy aquariums and play areas after exiting The Seas with Nemo and Friends or Turtle Talk?  There is, and it’s rarely (never?) crowded.  If watching tranquil, beautiful sea animals in a dimly lit, quiet environment is relaxing, this is your spot.  And if you’re lucky, you might catch a fun, interactive dolphin show!
• Baby Care Centers.  This one is on every list.  As mentioned, it’s my hidden gem of advice for anyone with small kids.  Even if nobody needs a diaper change or a nursing session, don’t overlook these rooms in each of the four parks.  They’re air-conditioned, staffed with friendly cast members, full of toys and coloring pages and a break for over-stimulated kids (and their grown-ups!).
• Honorable Mention: Melody Gardens.  May it rest in peace 😉  EDIT 3/22/14: Despite Disney announcing the closure of this lovely little tucked away place, we saw high school groups performing there this past weekend.  I was thrilled!

With a park as big and as diverse as Epcot, I certainly couldn’t cover everything.  What is your favorite quiet place there?