Flitterin’: Top Ten Places to Stop and Smell The Roses at Magic Kingdom

“It’s time for flitterin,’ 

Dustin’ off the trunk and flitterin’ far, 

Where the grass is greener, 

Now and then, comes the time again, 

For flitterin.’”

— Sherman Brothers

Fans of the classic Disney film Summer Magic will recognize this tune, Flitterin’, in the instrumental version audible in the background of Main Street U.S.A in the Magic Kingdom. Some guests may not have heard this song before while visiting the park, and I’ll admit, neither did I on my first trip. People often make a dash down Main Street to head to their first fast pass of the day or to race to get in line for a headline attraction, without taking time to notice the atmosphere. 

Guests are often rushing from one place to another to check off their list and keep to a schedule. I often do the same; I love a good schedule and checklist. Eventually, I was forced to slow down to actually notice the little details. As a Summer Magic fan, I was surprised to spot the name of Beulah’s postmaster, town constable, and general store proprietor, Osh Popham, on a storefront window of the Emporium. Now, I make it a point to stop by the window on every visit. It’s a relatively minor detail, but this little nod to a Disney classic movie always brings a smile.

Over the past few months, I have sincerely missed the parks. Our summer plans were changed when the pandemic hit and Disney became a no-go for ours and many other families. Unlike some who can’t wait to get back to the parks to ride their favorite attractions, that’s not what I’m longing for right now. For me, it’s the atmosphere of Main Street U.S.A. I would love to just spend a day sitting on a bench on Main Street, soaking up the atmosphere while watching the Trolley Show, listening to the Dapper Dans, or the piano player outside of Casey’s Corner. I’d love to meander those pristine sidewalks while browsing the shop windows, admiring the displays in each one.

My favorite place to soak up the Main Street Atmosphere is a tucked away table in the back of Center Street. I adore grabbing a coffee and a pretty cupcake and taking a break at one of the red cushioned chairs underneath an umbrella table. Not only is this niche location tucked away from the hustle and bustle, but it also has some subtle hidden gems of ambience that you might miss unless you are listening for it. (I’m talking about the music lessons you can hear coming from the upstairs window.)

In today’s world, guests are often seeking out of the way places to escape crowds or to sit and enjoy a snack. Here are my top ten places at the Magic Kingdom to stop and smell the roses. 

10.

Tony’s Town Square restaurant. Request a table on the porch overlooking Town Square. I love enjoying a meal while taking in the sights of Magic Kingdom. Once the Festival of Fantasy Parade starts up again, this is a great place to have a late lunch and enjoy the festivities.

9.

Hub grass mid morning-picnic spot with very little people, kids can run around, stretch out and relax. This is also a great spot for a picnic.

8.

Swiss Family Robinson Treehouse-Often not crowded, offers view of the castle from top, bamboo water feature is tranquil to watch and listen to.

7.

Skipper Canteen-ask for S.E.A. Room, request butterfly booth, often quiet, low crowds, easy to get a reservation, the 1940s music gives off the Jungle Cruise vibe along with the punny cast members, very chill place to relax and escape the hustle and bustle of the park. Hop a ride aboard the Jungle Cruise before or after your meal to complete the experience.

6.

Upstairs at Columbia Harbour House-I know this one has been talked about a lot in the Disney community, but it’s still worth mentioning, when the upstairs dining room is open, find a window seat and look out at Liberty Square or part of Fantasyland, often quiet, low crowds, nice respite.

5.

People Mover (when open) relaxing, often low crowds, views of Tomorrowland. Maybe you’ll catch a glimpse of Space Mountain with the lights on!

4.

Rocking chairs in Liberty Square on a tucked away porch next to where Muppets Presents Great Moments in History used to perform.

3.

Tom Sawyer Island-grab a rocking chair by the water and watch the Mark Twain Riverboat make its rounds on the Rivers of America or Big Thunder barreling down the mountain off in the distance.

2.

Aunt Polly’s seating area overlooking Haunted Mansion on Tom Sawyer’s Island-very relaxing and quiet. Take in the views of Magic Kingdom from a different perspective. This is also a great spot for taking pictures or enjoying a snack.

1.

Center Street, umbrella table tucked in the back-grab a snack and soak in the atmosphere.

I’m looking forward to the day when I can visit Magic Kingdom. I know I’ll never take the parks for granted again, especially the simple little details. On my next visit you’ll find me on Center Street tucked away enjoying a snack and being present in the moment.