Hi, Greg! Welcome to the Disney Parks Moms Panel! What a fun question!
Although there are no designated picnic areas within Walt Disney World Resort Theme Parks, you are more than welcome to pack a lunch, as long as you follow a few
simple rules. These include only bringing foods that do not need to be warmed up, no glass bottles or containers, and no alcohol. I am more than happy to suggest a few locations throughout the Disney Theme Parks where you can stop and take a moment to enjoy your lunch. Here are some suggestions:
Magic Kingdom Park: “Hub grass” in front of Cinderella Castle at the end of Main Street, U.S.A. Here, you will find some nice artificial grass to sit and enjoy your meal, although there isn’t much shade. You could also use the outdoor seating by Plaza Ice Cream Parlour.
Epcot: The outdoor seating at Electric Umbrella would probably best suit your “near entrance, close to lockers” criteria, however, I would much rather pick a spot around World Showcase Lagoon to have a beautiful view!
Disney’s Hollywood Studios: The seating area near Min and Bill’s Dockside Diner would be where I would head and it isn’t too far from the Disney Theme Park entrance.
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park: If you are looking for somewhere close to the lockers and entrance, I would honestly pick a bench near the entrance as if you venture further in the Disney Theme Park, you are going to be going a little bit of a distance. Alternatively, on the far-side of Discovery River, there is a nice seating area with the backdrop of the Tree of Life, where I often sit and enjoy a cold beverage. This would be my pick!
Remember that if the weather isn’t cooperating with your plans, you can also select to eat inside any Quick Service location. Have a magical vacation,
Jen