It’s often said that there are so many options at Disney outside of the parks that I’ve considered doing a Disney trip with that as the goal—staying out of the parks. While I haven’t done a complete trip, yet, with that mission, I did have the opportunity a couple of times this year to test it out. In February, we were there a Thursday through a Monday and went to the parks only 1 day. I was there again in April for 2 days and only did activities outside of the parks on that trip as well. So what are some options to consider?
- Starting with one of the obvious—Disney Springs! Disney Springs has grown into such a shopping and entertainment mecca, that it can take up a good part of your day. From strolling in and around the shops, visiting one or two of the eateries, stopping to watch live performers in the area, to enjoying the evening at the lounges—there is so much to do! Some of our favorite stops include Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar, the Coca-Cola Store and
Meeting the Polar Bear at the Coca Cola Store rooftop beverage bar, Uniqlo, and, of course, the World of Disney.
- Visiting other resorts. Some resorts lend themselves well to exploring the grounds and seeing the sites—such as Animal Kingdom Lodge with safari animals roaming the savannas. Disney’s Polynesian resort takes you away to a tropical paradise—lounging in hammocks, walking along the beach, and enjoying the beautiful scenery. The resorts also have restaurants that provide that good-ole Disney feel to them. Sanaa at Animal
Sanaa–Beautiful decor and great food! Kingdom Lodge is a new-found favorite for us. While the menu may seem too eclectic for us picky eaters, the food is amazing—give it a try! A couple of the resorts have character meals as well—giving you the opportunity to see your pals and princesses outside of the parks. Some of these include Cape May Café character breakfast at Disney’s Beach Club Resort, Chef Mickey’s at the Contemporary, ‘Ohana breakfast at the Polynesian, and 1900 Park Fare breakfast or dinner at the Grand Floridian. Finally, enjoy the longest-running
dinner show, the Hoop-Dee-Doo Revue at Ft. Wilderness Campground. We went for the
Cast of the Hoop Dee Doo Revue first time on our April trip and we’ll be returning on future trips for sure!
- The BoardWalk area at the BoardWalk Inn. This area offers up quite a bit in the afternoon and evening for people of all ages. From midway games to amazing how-do-they-do-that street performers, to restaurants, ice cream shops, bakeries, and shopping—this is the place to be! One of the places we enjoyed during our trip was Jellyrolls—a dueling piano bar. This will be a must-do on future trips! Guests 21 and over sit in amazement over the extremely talented pianists and join along in all the fun sing-a-longs!
- Finally, if you’re staying onsite, enjoy your resort’s pool! Relax for the day—walk around your resort and take in all the Disney details. Hang out at the pool and enjoy the offerings at the pool-side restaurants and bars. Strike up a conversation with a cast member and ask about their experiences with Disney. Most resorts offer night-time movies and activities at the pool as well.
So there you have it—there IS so much to do outside of the parks! This list certainly isn’t exhaustive, but it can get you going. This gives us the opportunity to “do Disney” while saving money on park tickets from time to time. Whether it’s in the parks our outside of them, let me help you plan a fun Disney vacation for your family, you and your friends, or maybe just a solo trip! Contact me through email at paige@themagicforless.com, or through Facebook.
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