There’s More to Disney World Than Just Theme Parks
If you love the “Disney Bubble” but need a relaxing vacation, you can have both! Many guests spend a majority of their vacation time in the theme parks, missing out on many other amazing Disney activities outside of the parks.
Disney Springs
Head over to Disney Springs for a wide variety of shopping experiences and dining opportunities. Retail locations offer everything from theme park merchandise to higher-end brands.
Dining experiences range from quick-service options like Earl of Sandwich to delicious table service offerings like The Boathouse and STK Orlando.
If you’re on the hunt for sweet treats, Goofy’s Candy Company has ready-made and made-to-order options.
Make sure you try out Gideon’s Bakehouse; their half-pound cookies are incredible! They also offer cake slices and iced coffee.
Check in at Gideon’s before going to shop – when the line reaches a certain length, they start a virtual queue. Get on the list and they’ll text you when it’s time to get in line!
Disney Springs is also home to Drawn to Life presented by Cirque du Soleil and Disney. This show is a unique experience for adults and children, combining acrobatics and animation.
Splittsville is another great place to gather as a family and with friends. You can reserve a lane for your group to bowl, or just enjoy some of the delicious food! Advance reservations are available for both options.
Miniature Golf
Disney World has two mini golf experiences on property: Fantasia Gardens near Disney’s Boardwalk Resort and Winter Summerland located at Disney’s Blizzard Beach waterpark.
Winter Summerland hosts two 18-hole miniature golf courses: The Summer Course and the Winter Course.
The Summer Course combines Christmas and beach favorites like snowmen an inner tubes. You can travel to the North Pole on the Winter course, but make sure you watch out for Squirty the Snowman!
Fantasia Gardens and Fairways Miniature Golf also has two 18-hole courses to choose from. If your group has kids or beginners, Fantasia Gardens and its whimsical character is for you!
For the avid golfer, check out the Fairways Course. This course resembles a standard golf course and will breed some serious competition, if you’re up for the challenge.
Golfing at Disney
Also for the golfers, there are a number of golf course options. Disney’s 18-hole golf courses are operated by Arnold Palmer Golf Management.
Disney’s Palm Golf Course, Disney’s Lake Buena Vista Golf Course, and Disney’s Magnolia Golf Course are the three 18-hole courses on property. Golf carts are included in the greens fees.
Disney’s Magnolia Golf Course is currently closed for an extensive redesign, but will reopen soon.
For a family outing, Disney’s Oak Trail is a 9-hole walking-only course. It also has a 9-hole Foot Golf course!
Resort Dining
In addition to the dining available at Disney Springs, Moderate, Deluxe, and Deluxe Villa Resorts also have table service options, including some character dining!
Topolino’s Terrace at Disney’s Riviera Resort, Chef Mickey’s at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, and ‘Ohana at Disney’s Polynesian Resort all offer character dining at breakfast.
For a delicious family-style dinner and a fun, interactive show, try Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue. This dinner show is located at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort.
See fireworks without entering a theme park by making a late dinner reservation at restaurants like ‘Ohana or the California Grill.
Disney’s Boardwalk
Visit Disney’s Boardwalk for unique dining options like Flying Fish. In the evenings, enjoy Boardwalk-style games along the water.
For the adults in the group, spend an evening out at Jelly Rolls! At this dueling piano bar, you will be blown away by the talented musicians. Anyone can make a song request, and the crowd is always welcome to sing along!
Your Disney Resort
Lastly, spend some time enjoying your resort. More often than not, guests never have a chance to see all their resort has to offer because they’ve been so busy in the parks. Visit the pool, shop, and enjoy the food and drinks!
Each Disney resort has a unique theme; try one you’ve never stayed at before!
To plan your next non-park Disney Vacation, let MickeyTravels help!