“We’re going to Disney World!” Those five words can mean untold joy for millions (and millions), from parents of young children to Super Bowl winners. Where else can you dine with a princess, fly on a banshee, ride a pirate ship, and end the day with Happily Ever After Fireworks over Cinderella’s Castle? But as every parent who’s ever pushed a stroller there knows, the “most magical place on earth” can also be the most exhausting spot on the planet—with high humidity, at that.
It’s no wonder, because Walt Disney World Resort, aka WDW, is not a small world, after all. It’s a massive, sprawling kingdom unto itself with four theme parks, two water parks, entertainment venues, a shopping district and more than 25 themed resort hotels (yes, 25), not to mention a relative handful of non-Disney hotels. All this, and the resort has still only used about half of its 39 square miles of land. Whew!
So, before all that magic turns into madness for your family, Renee Gorman, an independent travel agent with Magical Moments Vacations, suggests you take a breather—a palate cleanser, so to speak—during your time at the park.
FAMILY-FRIENDLY WDW ACTIVITIES … THAT AREN’T IN A THEME PARK
Dine at a Disney resort—or two.
See the wonderful world of Disney by way of breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinner. Pick a few of your favorite resorts and head to one of their lounges. Grab a quick bite, maybe a cocktail, then take the Monorail or Skyliner and head over to the next spot. Renee’s recommendations include Steakhouse 71 at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, and Wine Bar George at Disney Springs. You can also dine with the dinosaurs at the T-Rex restaurant (also Disney Springs). Prefer to sit down to a meal with the princesses? Renee recommends making reservations as soon as possible (usually open 60 days prior to your stay).
Putter around with some miniature golf.
Good things come in pairs, which is why there are TWO miniature golf locations at Walt Disney World Resort—Fantasia Gardens, inspired by Disney’s animated classic, and Winter Summerland, Santa’s off-season golf retreat. Who knew? Now, you do—it’s also good to know that when you stay on a Disney property, you get one complimentary session of miniature golf.
Shop, dine and play like a local at Disney Springs.
Even though Disney Springs is part of Walt Disney World, you don’t need a ticket or reservation to enter. With 97 shops, 69 dining options and 22 attractions, shows and events, Disney Springs offers a nearly endless array of activities—including live music, gourmet meals, Vintage Amphicar rides, or World of Disney store shopping.
Catch a few fish or go on a horse ride.
Casting about for something relaxing to do? Take a break from the crowds with a guided fishing excursion, or simply fish from the dock at one of Disney’s lakes. Pontoon boat rental is also available at Wilderness Lodge. There’s also horseback riding at Circle D Ranch, which is where all of the park’s performing horses live. You can sign up for pony rides at your hotel or call directly.
Watch a movie under the stars.
Find a quiet moment of Disney magic by cozying up with a tasty treat and to enjoy a classic Disney movie at the end of a long day in the park. Almost all the resorts offer movies under the stars, and you don’t even have stay at that particular spot to watch the screening.
At Walt Disney World, the magic never stops—but sometimes you need to. A well-timed break can really enhance your Disney experience and the memories you make there. And when you return to the park, don’t worry. Mickey, Minnie and all the wonderful world of Disney will still be waiting.
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