It’s true that Disney has some great playgrounds. Animal Kingdom’s play area, The Boneyard, is themed like a Dinosaur dig site complete with bones and some dinosaur education. Sure, the caves, rope bridges, and slides will keep your toddler busy, but this massive playground can leave parents even more worn out than before.
Fortunately, there are some alternatives that provide both comfort and relaxation for parents.
5. Germany Model Railroad
The Germany Model Railroad in Epcot’s World Showcase can be mesmerizing for little train fans. The authentic trains wind their way through a country-side scene. There are also pathways for observers to wander through to observe the train from different angles. This area isn’t very large, so grab a bench, enjoy a German beer, and watch your toddler enjoy the show.
4. The Lawn at Disney’s Boardwalk Inn
There is a large, open lawn area at Disney’s Boardwalk Inn on which kids of all ages can run free and play. They can make new friends, join a game of flag-football, do gymnastics, or just have some free-play time. Parents can rest on a nearby bench with kids in sight but without worrying about scraped knees.
3. The Seas with Nemo and Friends
The Seas with Nemo and Friends begins with a classic Disney dark ride in a clam shell. If your child is scared of these dark rides, you can bypass the ride and enter through the gift shop. If you go straight ahead, you’ll find massive saltwater aquariums teaming with many different kinds of fish, a few turtles and stingrays, a dolphin tank, and even a separate tank for manatees.
This area isn’t usually very busy, but it is air-conditioned! The circular design makes it easy for kids to wander around and stay in parents’ line of sight. There are also benches if you want to take a load off and Cast Members available to answer questions of more inquisitive youngsters.
2. Dumbo the Flying Elephant
Dumbo the Flying Elephant attraction in Magic Kingdom is also home to a new kind of queue. Rather than waiting in long lines, parents can grab a pager and head over to the circus-themed play area. Kids can play while parents enjoy the air-conditioning. When your pager goes off, that’s your signal to line up for the next elephant. If you ignore it, you’ll simply wait a little longer. There’s no harm in that, right?
1. Splash Pads
There are a few places to get wet in Disney World, and this can be a great way to cool off on the hottest days.
There are some fountains and even a misting tent at Epcot. Cool Wash near Test Track will cool you and the kids down without getting soaking wet. If that’s your goal, head over to Casey Jr. Splash and Soak play area. The fountains, sprayers, and other water features will surely get your kids soaked and entertain them for a long time. Just be prepared with a bathing suit and some water shoes or at least a change of clothes.
Where do your little ones like to burn energy while in Disney World?