As DVC members, we often find enjoyment outside the Disney parks. “Resort Only” stays as many members call them are gaining popularity among DVC members as a way to both spend more time relaxing on vacation and save money on park tickets. Even on trips you spend in the parks, it’s always nice to find some alternative activities or things to do at Disney to get away from the hustle and bustle of the parks. With that said, here are some alternative ways to experience Disney world outside the parks.
Special Note: If driving, parking can be tricky at some of these resorts. We recommend taking free Disney transportation whenever possible.
Disney Springs
Everyone is familiar with Disney Springs. However, there is much more to do there aside from shopping and dining. Here are some of our favorites.
- Fly above the skyline on the Disney’s Aerophile hot air balloon.
- Challenge your friends to a bowling match at Splitsville Luxury Lanes.
- Boat through Lake Buena Vista in a Vintage Amphicar.
- Take in dinner and a movie together with plush seating at the AMC Movies at Disney Springs location.
- Experience the Drawn to Life Cirque du Soleil Show .
- Listen to live music and see entertainment at a variety of locations including the Advent Health Waterside Stage, Exposition Park, Riverboat Square, Reglan Road Patio Stage, and more.
Disney Resorts
Even if you’re not staying at a Disney resort, you can still take advantage of many experiences. Accessibility to the resorts has changed, however, there are still ways to visit. You can visit any resort on property with an advanced dining reservation. In addition, you can take Disney transportation. If driving, can park for free at Disney Springs, then take a bus to your resort destination. Some non-dining experiences, like those you book in advance, will allow you to park at the resort. Let’s dive into some exciting adventures you can have at the resorts.
- Stroll along Disney’s Boardwalk taking in the nightly entertainment and games.
- Relax in the Grand Floridan lobby listening to the Pianist who plays most evenings.
- Head over to Fort Wilderness to visit Tri-Circle-D Ranch or learn to shoot arrows at the Archery Experience.
- Also at Fort Wilderness, you can go Horseback Riding or rent a Kayak.
- Observe the animals at the multiple savanna overlooks at Animal Kingdom Lodge. You could also partake in one of the Starlight Safari adventures.
- Rent a Surrey Bike offered at resorts like BoardWalk, Old Key West and Saratoga Springs to bike around exploring the scenery.
- Enjoy a scenic walk or run on one of many jogging and walking trails located at the Disney resorts.
- Taste a variety of snacks and drinks through a pug crawl of the monorail resorts, or visit resorts along the Disney Skyliner.
- Watch Magic Kingdom fireworks from resort viewing locations such as the Polynesian Beach, Grand Floridan Marina, or the Contemporary Observation Deck just to name a few.
- Rent a boat from one of many resort marinas to explore the beautiful waterways.
- Watch Epcot fireworks from the Boardwalk . You can also see them from lounges at resorts like Riviera Resort and Grand Destino at Coronado Springs.
- See the Electrical Water Pagent from one of the Magic Kingdom area resorts.
- During Christmas, explore the holiday decorations. Some of my favorites include Animal Kingdom Lodge Jambo House, Wilderness Lodge, and Grand Floridan.
- Visit a spa! At Disney, you can visit the Grand Floridian Spa. For additional options, you can visit the Madara Spa at the Swan & Dolphin. The Four Seasons also has a spa.
Other Experiences
Outside of Disney Springs and the Resorts, there are still more experiences to be had.
- Challenge your family or friends at a Disney-themed game of miniature golf at Fantasia Gardens or Winter Summerland.
- There are no shortages of real golf courses around Disney either. Check out Disney’s Palm Golf Course, Magnolia Golf Course, Lake Buena Vista Golf Course, and Oak Trail Golf Course.
- Go Fishing! Disney offers fishing excursions at a variety of locations.
- Get in touch with nature, Disney style. About 40 minutes from Disney World, you will find the Disney Wilderness Preserve. Here, you can hike, bird watch, and enjoy Florida’s native plants and animals.
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