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Exploring Disney World Outside of the Parks

Can I tell you how happy I am that summer is here?! I am so excited to have my kids out of school and we are ready to enjoy our long, summer days! When thinking about my summer plans, I can’t help but start to think about my next trip to Walt Disney World – and I bet you feel the same!



One of the first decisions to be made when planning a trip to Walt Disney World is to decide how many days to stay. Whether planning a long weekend or a once in a lifetime trip, determining the number of days you are staying is top of the to do list. When I help clients plan their Disney vacation, if time allows, I always recommend an extra day or two that is designated for non-park fun. When visiting the Walt Disney World Resort, there is so much to do outside of the parks that it makes sense to add another day of fun and/or relaxation! Many clients don’t realize that sometimes the cost to add one more day on to your park tickets may not be much more. You can always have the best of both worlds with the option of adding another park day, but being able to spend half of the day at the park and half of the day enjoying non-park activities for a fairly low cost. Remember, we are here to help you plan your best vacation!
 


This list could easily be pages long, but here are some of my favorite non-park activities on Disney Property:

Pools – Disney specializes in creating magic by focusing on the details, and when it comes to their pools – they don’t skimp! Whether you enjoying the sand-bottomed pool and 230 foot long shipwrecked water slide at Stormalong Bay at Disney’s Beach Club/Yacht Club or listening to tunes underwater and splashing with oversized set pieces in the Big Blue Pool at Disney’s Art of Animation, you won’t regret spending a relaxing (or wild and crazy) day at the pool.



Disney Springs – If you haven’t been to Disney Springs, you should go! It is on my must do list every time we visit Walt Disney World. Disney Springs (formerly referred to as Downtown Disney) is a retail, entertainment and dining center that features 4 distinct neighborhoods. The wonderfully delicious restaurants, great shopping (I can’t leave without stopping at Basin, the Savannah Bee Company and Tren-D), and entertainment could hold your attention all afternoon and into the evening! Disney Springs also has a movie theater, a bowling alley, and a new Star Wars Virtual Reality attraction called The Void. Disney Springs has so much to offer and is a great compliment to the long days at the parks. Complimentary transportation is provided between Disney Resorts and Disney Springs. If you choose to drive, free parking is offered.

Rest and Relaxation – Let’s be honest – days at the parks are full of excitement and activity and can wear you out. Taking a day in the middle of your trip to sleep in, visit one of the many spas on property, explore your resort, or take a walk on a trail can be very relaxing!

Table Service Dining or Character Dining– Did you know that some of the resorts offer upscale and character dining options that don’t require a park ticket? These may be great options for you to add into your non park day! Options such as Chef Mickey at Disney’s Contemporary Resort or 1900 Park Fare at the Grand Floridian Resort are a just couple of examples of an expansive list of options. Talk to your agent and they can help you select the best option for your family!

Outdoor Fun – There are so many outdoor activities that your family can experience at the Walt Disney World Resort. Taking a stroll on the Boardwalk, play miniature golf at Winter Summerland or Fantasia Gardens, visit the horses or the Chip & Dale Campfire Sing-along at Fort Wilderness, rent a bike, play golf at one of Disney’s 18-hole courses, rent a canoe, play tennis, or check out the animals at Animal Kingdom Lodge. This isn’t even an exhaustive list – just a few suggestions to get you thinking about the potential that a non park day can bring to your vacation!

How about you - what is your favorite non-park activity?

And as always, we would love to help you plan your next magical Disney vacation! You can contact your On The Road Travel agent through our website, or connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram!

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