I don’t feel like going to the parks today. What can I do?
We get this question a lot as we help families plan a trip to Walt Disney World. A Walt Disney World vacation is a magical experience, but it is exhausting always being on the go. Many families enjoy taking a day during their vacation to skip the parks and explore other activities. Walt Disney World is so much more than theme parks! On a recent visit I had some time to really explore the area outside of the parks and found so many fun activities for families.
Experience Disney Springs
Let’s start at Disney Springs, an entertainment, shopping and dining center inspired by Florida’s waterfront towns, historic architecture and natural beauty. Disney Springs features four distinct neighborhoods to explore and always has a variety of activities and events.
If you have never gone to a movie theater where you could dine while you were watching your movie, you have to try it! Even if you are a movie theater traditionalist, you’ll love it and can go for popcorn, candy and soda. They have an extensive full menu for lunch and dinner. From salads, burgers and wings to a margarita or a glass of wine, they have it all. Did I mention the seats are super comfortable!?
If it’s Sunday, I highly recommend the Sunday Gospel Brunch at the House of Blues. A yummy smorgasbord of salads, entrées and desserts is available while you listen to gospel and worship music from a very talented ensemble. Even while waiting in line we were serenaded by an extremely talented duo.
The shopping at Disney Springs is amazing! They sell everything from tiny trinkets to high-end jewelry and clothing. Be sure to stop by the World of Disney store, the largest Disney character store in the world. There is something for everyone here!
Other activities at Disney Springs include bowling (you can also dine and bowl) and The Void where you can experience virtual reality at its finest.
Visit the Horses at Fort Wilderness
If you head over to Fort Wilderness you can see where the horses that are used at the Disney parks are stabled. My family loves animals so we enjoyed meandering through the stables and visiting with the beautiful horses.
Explore on the Monorail
The monorail can be an experience all by itself. What kid doesn’t love riding on a train! Get a seat by the window, enjoy the air conditioning, and check out the sites as you travel the entire loop. Hop off at the Grand Floridian, the Polynesian or the Contemporary and you can browse their gift shops and common areas. The unique themes and artwork in each property’s common areas are fascinating to check out. While you are there, grab lunch at a quick or table service restaurant in one of the hotels. You won’t be disappointed!
Spend the Day at Typhoon Lagoon or Blizzard Beach
Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach are always fun options. If you want to sit in the shade, plan to arrive when they open. You can take on the waterslides, float in the lazy river, swim in the wave pool or just people watch. You can do as much or as little as you want. After all, you are on vacation!
Play Miniature Golf
Did you know that there are two miniature golf courses right outside of Blizzard Beach? Winter Summerland offers two 18 hole miniature golf courses complete with the Disney details and theme music. It’s a great way to enjoy some family fun time for an hour or so.
Relax at the Resort
Another great way to spend the day is to just stay at your resort. All of the Walt Disney World resorts offer beautiful pools and relaxing places to walk around and unwind.
No matter what you decide to do at Walt Disney World, I’d love to help plan your vacation at the most magical place on earth!
Contact Tammy to book your vacation!
