Why Disney World Isn’t JUST for “Disney Adults”

Sometimes, the most magical place on Earth gets unfair criticism. The internet loves to tease “Disney Adults.”

Supposedly, these people only watch Disney movies, eat Mickey-shaped food, and wear mouse ears everywhere — even to work. And obviously, they only travel to Walt Disney World for vacation. 

Photo: Disney

As a self-proclaimed Disney Adult, this isn’t true. I do have non-Disney-related interests and I only wear my ears in the parks. 

But most importantly, I successfully converted my husband to love WDW, despite his average Disney nostalgia. 

Credit: Disney

I firmly believe that Disney World is an incredible vacation for everyone. (It might even be better for grown-ups.) 

Check out my favorite reasons why Disney will win over any adult, regardless of their Disney bias. 

Photo: DisneyStore.com

Paradise for Foodies

You’ll see plenty of soft pretzels and hot dogs, but the Disney culinary scene is much more. With hundreds of dining options, there are plenty of restaurants that rely on food, not theming. 

Some of my favorite, non-character-themed restaurants include:

• Sanaa – The Animal Kingdom Lodge (order the bread service and check out these desserts)
• California Grill – The Contemporary Resort 
• Monsieur Paul – Epcot’s France Pavilion
• The Brown Derby – Hollywood Studios (the tableside-tossed cobb salad is a must)
• Victoria & Albert’s – The Grand Floridian Resort and Spa (Michelin-star dining)
• Morimoto Asia – Disney Springs 
• Summer House on the Lake – Disney Springs 
• The Edison – Disney Springs (go later in the evening for cabaret-style entertainment)

Hollywood Brown Derby Desserts

And we haven’t even gotten to the food festivals! Epcot features three unique food festivals throughout the year.

These festivals have booths serving specialty cocktails, draft beer, and exotic small bites. Snacking here can easily replace a meal.

Disney World is truly a haven for food lovers. 

Cocktails, Anyone?

Like food, Disney World is a hub for excellent 21+ approved beverages. 

Things have significantly changed since WDW’s opening. Now, all of the parks and most restaurants serve alcohol. 

Disney

There are many ways to experience Disney’s finest libations. Ideas include “drinking around the world” at EPCOT’s World Showcase, doing a monorail bar crawl, or partaking in a food festival.

Some of my favorite Disney World bars include:

• The Enchanted Rose (The Grand Floridian Resort and Spa)
• Oga’s Cantina (Galaxy’s Edge in Hollywood Studios)
• The Lounge at Space 220 (Epcot)
• Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto (The Polynesian Village Resort)

Guests can also book a tequila tasting at La Cava del Tequila in the Mexico Pavilion or a wine tasting (led by a Sommelier) at Wine Bar George. 

Don’t be fooled. Disney takes their specialty beverages very seriously. 

Image Credit: Wine Bar George

Salut! 

Rest and Relaxation

Disney Adults may hit the parks for rope drop, but that’s not necessary. Disney also has plenty of opportunities to lounge by the pool.

Every on-site hotel includes a pool area. (The pool area shared by the Yacht and Beach Club even has a lazy river and waterslides.)

Stormalong Bay

All pool areas include bars, ample seating, and activities to distract the children. 

For a truly luxurious day, you can book treatments at the Senses Spa inside the Grand Floridian. I’ve enjoyed an afternoon or two getting a massage and lounging on the heated chairs.

Block out a day or two in the schedule, and you’ll find that Disney can be rejuvenating. 

Thrilling Attractions

While Disney has family-friendly rides, don’t listen to the skeptics. Disney has a great roster of exciting coasters/thrill rides.

Although many are IP-themed, no fandom is required to enjoy these great attractions. 

Photo: Chloe Rice/Disney

My favorite thrill-seeker rides include:

• Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind (Epcot)
• Test Track (Epcot)
• The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror (Hollywood Studios) 
• Rise of the Resistance (Hollywood Studios)
• TRON Light Cycle Run (Magic Kingdom)
• Space Mountain (Magic Kingdom)
• Expedition Everest – Legend of the Forbidden Mountain (Animal Kingdom)
• Avatar Flight of Passage (Animal Kingdom)

Tower of Terror

But rest assured, Disney is so much more than “it’s a small world.”

The Disney Difference

When it comes to Disney, you aren’t just a customer, you’re a guest. For decades, they’ve excelled in service that outperforms the most glamorous destinations. 

From janitors to restaurant hostesses, Disney Cast Members (employees) are consistently smiling and helpful. They are trained to not only solve problems, but to make your day magical.

Turning frustrating incidents into heartwarming moments is their specialty. 

Also, whether or not you love Disney, you probably love smooth trips. And who doesn’t love a well-run destination? 

Cake Bake Shop Bakery Cast Members

Disney’s staff of Imagineers work tirelessly to improve foot traffic, ensure areas are properly staffed, and keep nuts and bolts behind the curtain. (Prepare to be amazed at how quickly Disney can clear out Magic Kingdom after fireworks!) 

My husband (who was not a Disney Adult) was so impressed by their civil engineering that he couldn’t stop raving about it afterward. 

Casey’s Corner Cast Members

It proves you don’t have to be a Disney fan to appreciate a Disney-themed establishment.  

With so many things to love, Disney World is the perfect vacation for everyone in your life. I wish you the best of luck in planning this fail-proof trip! 

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Feature Image: Disney