Where is the best place on the dining plan to eat and watch Illuminations?

Question

We're going mid-May so I really have to get on this. I tried Tempura in Japan but they don't take the advanced dining crap they try to pass off as reservations.
I can't eat weirdo food; I need some normal chicken dishes...and suggestions?
Thanks!!
P.S. If there's just someplace good you think we can watch Illuminations from and we don't need to eat at Epcot, please let me know!

Answer 1

You may want to try Rose and Crown's. If you can get a seat outside, that would be a good option. This is probably one of the best choices for dining during IllumiNations.

Aside from that there are various places around the park where you can get a good view. However, I'm assuming that you are wanting to try and avoid crowds, so if this is the case you won't be able to avoid crowds if you are in one of the viewing areas.

Beach club also offers some good views. The beach is one place, though you do miss quite a bit from that particular location. The other place would be on the bridge to the Boardwalk, probably one of the best areas, plus you don't have all the crowds and things. Also on the beach at Caribbean Beach.

Another option would be an IllumiNations cruise. They do cost extra, but they are well worth the money, a really unique experience. However, being so close, I don't know if anything will be available for your dates. But, it is always worth checking to make sure. I've included a link with info.

These are just a few options, there are many good places to view the fireworks, it will kind of depend on where you will be, but you should be able to find a good place to watch.

Have a great time!

Answer 2

Rose and Crown is definately your best bet if you want to sit down and eat and watch the show. Reservations are tough though, especially to sit outside.

There are also outside eating areas in Mexico, France and I think the little Africa area also, but the view may not be 100% because they are not as close to the lake area as Rose and Crown. You might want to scope them out ahead of time if you can. If memory serves the cafe in Mexico should have the best view. These areas don't take reservations either so you'd need to get there way early to have a seat for the show.

Lastly, you can just get some food and find a bench or grassy area and go picnic style. There are tons of locations around the lake that give you a good view of the show.

If not fighting a huge crowd is an important factor, park your car (if you are using one) by the Boardwalky/Beach Club area, view the show somewhere around France/UK and then duck out the back entrance at the conclusion. There will be a lot less people that way. If you are talking Disney transportation, check their schedules, there are only buses going to the Boardwalk area and there may not be a bus to go directly back to your hotel at that hour (you may need to "connect" through another park or Downtown Disney) so it might not be worth it to go that way.

Have fun!!!!