Things To Do Beyond the Disney Theme Parks

Did you know that Disney is more then just the parks?? Many times, families visit Disney World but don’t always get park tickets for the full stay. Maybe it’s the arrival day, departure day, or just a day in the middle to relax and enjoy some “down time”.

Aside from the water parks and shopping at Disney Springs, there are tons of things that Disney offers that you don’t need a park ticket for! Here is a list to some but not ALL things that you can do BEYOND the parks!

Visit the resorts just to see them – the resorts are truly beautiful, and if you are a creature of habit and stay at the same place, it might be fun to venture around and see some of the other offerings.  A great way to visit a new resort is to make a dinner reservation there and enjoy some of the food offerings.  Before or after eating you can stroll around, take photos, and take in all the beauty each resort has to offer. From theming to entertainment be sure to catch the details and look for those hidden Mickey’s.  Some of my favorites to visit are Polynesian, Animal Kingdom Lodge, and Port Orleans, and Boardwalk.  If you’re visiting during Christmas resort hopping is even more special because you get to see all the Christmas decorations and Gingerbread houses.

Watch the animals at Animal Kingdom Lodge – You don’t have to be in the Animal Kingdom to see animals.  Animal Kingdom Lodge is arguably one of my family’s favorite resorts, because nothing beats seeing a giraffe or zebra outside the window of your hotel!  There are viewing areas to watch the animals, and throughout the day they have activities for kids, many of which are educational. (this helps with the mom guilt when you pull your children out of school to visit Walt Disney World) If you’re hungry I highly recommend eating lunch or dinner at Sanaa, where you can get good food as well as  view of the animals while you eat.

Water sports – over at the Contemporary there are actually some water sports you can try, run through Sammy Duvall.  Parasailing and hang gliding are very popular, and something fun to try! Also, at the Yacht and Beach Club, Polynesian, and Wilderness Lodge you can rent different types of boats in all sizes for different size groups.

Hidden Mickey Hunts: Did you know you can do a hidden Mickey hunt in the resorts? All you must do is go to the concierge desk and ask for the papers. Once you have received them you and your family and friends can wonder through the resort following the clues to help. This would be such a fun and free thing to enjoy outside of the parks. When you are done grab a quick meal and enjoy the scenery around you.

Visit the Boardwalk – the Boardwalk is a fun and free place to visit and is especially good at night. It is themed after the Jersey Shore and has lots of restaurants if you’re looking for dinner, but there are some other fun things to do there too.  On certain nights Atlantic Dance Hall is open with a DJ if you’re interested in dancing, one of the highlights at the Boardwalk is Jellyrolls, a dueling piano bar, and often there are many entertainers doing some fun carnival like games and activities that the crowd can join in.

Although I have listed quite a few options there is still so much more that Disney Property can offer. Be sure to stay tuned for my next article of Visiting Disney and Beyond!

As always, I am here to help with any of your Disney needs and would love to help plan your next Disney Vacation! [email protected]