When planning a Walt Disney World vacation, much of your time is spent preparing for your park visits. Did you know that there are unique activities at Disney resorts that you could be missing? Below are my top 5 unique resort activities to do at Walt Disney World.
5. Disney Resorts “Movies Under the Stars.”
- Ages: All Ages
- Cost: Free!
A great way to end the night after a big day at the Disney parks is to settle in at your favorite Disney resort for Movies Under the Stars. Most Disney resorts play Disney movies outside under the stars several times a week. Be sure to check with your concierge desk for dates, times, and movies. Movie locations vary depending on the resort. Disney’s Movies Under the Stars are free but don’t forget the popcorn!
4. Pilot Your Own Adventure
- Ages: All Ages
- Cost: Varies based on the type of boat rental
Whether you have the need for speed or want a relaxing day trip, several Disney Resorts have a boat that’s right for you. Canoe and Kayak rentals are available at The Campsites at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort for $13.00 per hour (tax not included). Walt Disney Resort Marinas have powerboats available for rent. The Sun Tracker Pontoon boats seat up to 10 guests and cost $45.00 per hour (tax not included). Drivers must be at least 18 years of age. You can also charter a private watercraft for a specialty cruise from one of the marinas. Marina locations include Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, Disney’s Beach Club Resort, Disney’s Beach Club Villas, Disney’s Contemporary Resort, Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, and Disney’s Yacht Club Resort, and The Villas at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa.
3. Fort Wilderness Archery Experience
- Ages: 7 years of age and up
- Cost: $45.00 per person (tax not included)
“Ready, Aim, Release, Bull’s-eye”! At Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort, archery guides teach guests how to hold and fire a compound bow during the Fort Wilderness Archery Experience. This 75-minute session is devoted to firing at range targets. Class sizes are limited to 10 guests, ensuring a unique and personalized experience. There is a designated viewing area for friends and family that is a safe distance from the archers. Reservations are highly recommended, but walk-ups are welcome as space allows.
2. Tri-Circle D Ranch at The Campsites at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort
- Horseback Riding Ages: 9 years of age and up
- Horseback Riding Cost: $55.00 per person (tax not included)
- Pony Ride Ages: 2 years and up, under 80 pounds, no taller than 48 inches, and able to hang on themselves
- Pony Ride Cost: $8.00 per person (tax not included)
The “Happiest Horses on Earth” are found at the Tri-Circle D Ranch located at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground. Take a ranch tour and learn about Disney’s horses, including Appaloosas, Arabians, Belgians, Clydesdales, paint horses, Percherons, quarter, and Shetland ponies. Guests 9 years of age and up can ride the trails and explore the beauty surrounding The Cabins and Campsites of Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort. Pony rides are available for guests two years and up, under 80 pounds, no taller than 48 inches, and can hang on by themselves.
1. Starlight Safari at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge
- Ages: 8 years of age or older; if under the age of 18, must be accompanied by a participating adult who is 18 years of age or older
- Cost: $89.00 per person (tax not included)
“As the Sun Sets, the Savanna Awakens.” This immersive safari adventure is a must if you have the time and money! For our 35th wedding anniversary, we went on the Starlight Safari and had a great time! Similar to the Kilimanjaro Safari at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park, this safari takes place after the sun goes down. As you ride in the open-sided vehicle, you will search for 30 species of African wildlife. A night vision device is provided. Reservations are required, and the tour lasts approximately one hour. Guests are warned that the experience is a ride in a rugged safari vehicle over an open savanna. You do not have to be a guest at Animal Kingdom Lodge to participate in the tour.
Have you tried any of these unique Disney resort activities? Let us know in the comments!
Are you looking to visit a Disney Vacation Club resort to experience one of these activities? See how DVC Shop can help you book your stay through our rentals!
Feature Photo: Disney
Written by
Tracy Engstrand
“All our dreams can come true if we have the courage to pursue them.” – Walt Disney Tracy not only believes this but lives her life trying to exemplify Walt’s positive attitude. Walt Disney World is a destination for Tracy and her family at least twice a year and it’s a new adventure every time. Her favorite resort at the present time is Animal Kingdom Lodge, and her #1 bucket list item is an Alaskan Disney Cruise.
