Though geared toward children, many theme park areas look startlingly different from a child’s perspective.
Theme parks are filled with exciting sights to take in, but it’s easy to forget that the smallest guests have a different vantage point from adults. These pictures offer some striking examples of how theme parks can look drastically different to a child.
1. Safety features get in the way
Disney’s Boardwalk.
A beautiful view across the water at Disney’s Boardwalk is instantly obstructed by the railings along the water if you’re not tall enough to see over them. If you notice your kids standing right up against fencing like this, they’re probably not driven by a desire to frighten you with images of them falling in the water. Peering right through the gaps in the railing is the only way to get an unobstructed view of the sights you’re marvelling at.
2. Small pleasures become big feats
Club Cool at Epcot.
Grabbing a drink at Epcot’s Club Cool is all about tasting the flavors when you’re already accustomed to the process of filling a cup. For small hands, the chance to operate a machine with manageable kid-sized cups is irresistable. Finding out they can do it by themselves may turn into an unexpected highlight in the day.
3. Low railings can ruin the show
Epcot’s Fountain of Nations.
The railing around the Fountain of Nations at Epcot is right at the eye level of children around the 40-inch height mark. It’s difficult to find the perfect viewing spot for features like this that are right in the middle of heavy traffic in and out of the park, but it’s worth taking some time to move forward or back, or simply pick your kids up, so stunning sights like this aren’t lost.
4. Queues become endless
Seuss Trolley Train Ride Queue.
When all you can see are the legs in front of you, the line ahead looks like it has no end. Since every theme park vacation will involve some down time standing in line, come prepared with something to entertain the kids when they’re stuck with a view like this.
5. Icons are obstructed
Hogwarts Castle.
In massive crowds, like those around Hogwarts Castle at Islands of Adventure, it’s not always easy to get a clear look at the big attractions in the area. Pull off to the side and hold children up if you have to so they can take in the area the same way you’re able to.
6. Decorative walls are just annoying
The Three Broomsticks.
To an adult, the walls along the streets of Hogsmeade at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter help direct traffic and even offer a handy place to sit. For children, they can cut off some exciting sights. Keep in mind that they can’t glance over the top and see the window displays and shop fronts the same way you can. You’ll all enjoy a much better view when you take the time to go around and see things up close.
7. Unexpected delights can emerge
Butterfly Garden at Epcot’s Flower and Garden Festival.
Experiencing the world from a child’s point of view isn’t always disappointing. In this butterfly garden at Epcot’s Flower and Garden Festival, pint-sized fairy homes are tucked away in the bushes, right at the eye level of small children. Adults who are looking upwards to see the colorful butterflies can miss these charming details entirely if they’re not careful.
8. Colorful displays are more engaging
Displays in the Animation Building at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
From a higher adult perspective, some of the details in these displays are easily lost. Children are at the perfect height to enjoy the bright pictures and exciting characters at their own level. You may have to crouch down to read these cards, but they’re right where they should be for little eyes.
9. Stage shows are larger than life
The Hogwarts Frog Choir.
A few feet can make a big difference when you’re watching a stage show. This is particularly true when characters come forward to the edge of the stage. This unique vantage point doesn’t take away from the experience, but it can make it a little more overwhelming when the action gets intense (as in the Durmstrang acrobatics).
As you’re rushing through your day, take some time to slow down and think about how the parks will look for everyone in your party. Children can find some surprising delights located at their level, but they’ll also experience many sights from behind a railing or fence. Take a knee and see what they’re seeing to make sure everyone is enjoying the highlights of the day.
