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Why Skipping the Thrill Rides Might Make Your Disney Trip Better

Walt Disney World is home to some of the most thrilling attractions in the world. With rides like Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind and TRON Lightcycle / Run, Disney has raised the bar for high-speed excitement.

While thrill-seekers embrace these exhilarating coasters, what about guests who prefer a more relaxed experience? Fortunately, there’s plenty to do while your group braves the more intense rides.

Whether you enjoy exploring, relaxing, or indulging in delicious treats, here are some fantastic ways to maximize your time at Walt Disney World while others enjoy the thrill rides.

Indulge in a Delicious Snack

No matter where you are in Walt Disney World, you’ll find a variety of delicious snacks to enjoy. While your thrill-seeking friends ride their favorite attractions, why not take a break and treat yourself?

Whether you’re in the mood for a refreshing Dole Whip, a classic Mickey-shaped pretzel, or a warm chocolate chip cookie from Gideon’s Bakehouse at Disney Springs, there are endless snack options to explore.

Use the My Disney Experience app to locate snack carts and quick-service locations near you. This is the perfect time to slow down and savor something delicious while waiting for your group to return.

Relax in a Cozy Lounge

A great way to wait for thrill riders is by visiting one of the many lounges at Walt Disney World Resort. While Magic Kingdom has fewer lounge options, the other parks offer excellent spots to relax and unwind.

  • Nomad Lounge (Disney’s Animal Kingdom): Enjoy craft cocktails and small plates while soaking in the tranquil atmosphere.
  • Baseline Tap House (Disney’s Hollywood Studios): A great place for a cold brew and a Bavarian pretzel while waiting for others to ride the Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster.
  • Brown Derby Lounge (Disney’s Hollywood Studios): Sip on a signature cocktail and enjoy some appetizers in this outdoor lounge.
  • Spice Road Table (EPCOT): This Mediterranean-inspired lounge overlooks the World Showcase Lagoon and offers flavorful small plates and refreshing drinks.
  • Enchanted Rose (Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa): Just a short monorail ride from Magic Kingdom, this upscale lounge is inspired by Beauty and the Beast.
Outdoor restaurant seating area with tables covered in black tablecloths, red umbrellas providing shade, and matching red chairs. The tables have candles and menus. Greenery and a decorative fence line the patio at Disney's Hollywood Studios, creating a cozy dining atmosphere.
Credit: Disney

Whether you’re in the mood for a refreshing beverage or a light meal, these lounges offer the perfect respite from the hustle and bustle of the parks.

Go Shopping

Disney is known for its incredible shopping experiences, and what better time to explore the stores than while waiting for thrill-seekers? Instead of rushing through shops, browse the unique merchandise available throughout the parks.

  • Creations Shop (EPCOT): A must-visit for trendy Disney apparel and souvenirs.
  • Emporium (Magic Kingdom): The largest store in Magic Kingdom, featuring everything from apparel to home decor.
  • Mickey’s of Hollywood (Hollywood Studios): A great place to find Disney-themed clothing and accessories.
  • Discovery Trading Company (Animal Kingdom): Offers a selection of adventure-themed Disney merchandise.
  • World of Disney (Disney Springs): The largest Disney store in the world, offering an extensive selection of apparel, accessories, home decor, and collectibles.

Many attractions have gift shops near their exits, making browsing easy while waiting for your group.

Explore Other Attractions

Just because you’re not riding the big thrills doesn’t mean you have to sit and wait. Walt Disney World has numerous attractions that provide fun without high-intensity thrills.

Consider checking out these attractions while your group tackles the coasters:

  • Magic Kingdom: Ride the PeopleMover, enjoy the classic Carousel of Progress, or take a relaxing boat ride on It’s a Small World.
  • EPCOT: Visit The Seas with Nemo & Friends, explore Spaceship Earth, or take a scenic boat ride in Living with the Land.
  • Disney’s Hollywood Studios: Immerse yourself in the charm of MuppetVision 3D, which closes soon, or take a nostalgic ride through Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway.
  • Disney’s Animal Kingdom: Wander through Maharajah Jungle Trek or Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail while others ride Expedition Everest or Avatar Flight of Passage.

There are always incredible experiences nearby without the intensity of thrill rides.

Capture Magical Moments

Take this time to explore the parks with your camera or smartphone. Disney parks offer endless opportunities for stunning photos, from Cinderella Castle to the vibrant details of EPCOT’s World Showcase.

You can also visit PhotoPass photographers stationed throughout the parks for professional snapshots. Whether taking scenic shots, capturing character interactions, or snapping selfies, photography is a fun and creative way to enjoy your time.

Plan Your Next Adventure

One of the best ways to use your waiting time productively is to plan your next move. Open the My Disney Experience app to check real-time wait times, find nearby attractions, and decide where to go next.

Here are a few things to plan:

  • Dining Reservations: Secure a table at a favorite restaurant or place a mobile order for quick service.
  • Attraction Wait Times: Find rides with shorter lines to maximize your time.
  • Showtimes: Check when entertainment like Festival of the Lion King or Happily Ever After will occur so you don’t miss out.

Using your downtime efficiently can help you maximize your Disney day!

People Enjoy the Atmosphere

With thousands of guests visiting Walt Disney World daily, people-watching can be an entertaining way to pass the time. Find a comfortable spot and observe the magical moments happening all around you.

If you’re with little ones, turn it into a fun game like I-Spy by spotting different Disney-themed outfits, Minnie ears, or even hidden Mickeys!

Let Kids Play

If you’re waiting with little ones, take advantage of play areas available throughout the parks.

  • Magic Kingdom: The hub grass near Cinderella Castle is great for kids to run around.
  • EPCOT: The play areas near The Seas with Nemo & Friends and inside Imagination! The pavilion offers fun activities for younger guests.
  • Disney’s Animal Kingdom: The Boneyard is a fantastic play area for children to explore while others ride thrilling attractions.

Letting kids burn off energy while waiting makes a much more enjoyable experience for the entire family.

A view of Cinderella Castle at dusk in Walt Disney World Free. The castle is illuminated with blue and gold lights, surrounded by people. Trees and lampposts are visible, with the sky gradually transitioning to night. The scene captures a moment of magic and wonder.
Credit: Inside the Magic

Enjoy the Magic at Your Own Pace

While thrill rides are an exciting part of Walt Disney World, they aren’t the only way to experience the magic.

Whether relaxing with a snack, exploring shops, or taking in the scenery, there’s always something magical to do.

So next time your group rushes off to the latest high-speed attraction, embrace the opportunity to enjoy Disney in a whole new way!

With so many fun and relaxing activities, you’ll never feel like you’re just waiting—you’ll be making memories of your own!

Eva Miller

Eva was born and raised in the beautiful state of Oregon but has since relocated and lives in New York City. Since she was young, Eva has loved to perform in musicals, especially Disney ones! Through performing, Disney’s music became the soundtrack of her childhood. Today, Eva loves to write about all the exciting happenings for the Walt Disney Company. In her free time, Eva loves to travel, spend time in nature, and go to Broadway shows. Her favorite Disney movie is 'Lilo and Stitch,' and her favorite Park is Disney's Animal Kingdom.

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