Whether you are a tourist or an Orlando local, the most iconic thing to do in this Floridian city is to visit the Disney World parks. However, if this is not a possibility, you can still have a good time without park tickets. So, what can you do? In this article, I will be sharing fun and unique experiences to try on Walt Disney World property. While some of the activities may be free, others incur additional fees. All in all, these are sure to keep you and your family entertained. Let’s get started!
1. Rent a Boat
A fun way to soak up Florida’s sunny rays, is to rent a pontoon boat at one of these DVC resort marinas: Disney’s Grand Floridian, Disney’s Cotemporary resort, Disney’s Yacht Club and Disney’s Beach club. The great thing about these rentals is that they don’t require a reservation. So, if you choose to do this spontaneously, you can! Just keep in mind it’s a first-come, first-serve basis, so if a boat is unavailable, you may have to wait until the previous party is finished to take a ride. The boat rentals are approximately $49 per 30 minutes, and you can fit up to 10 people (If you are an Annual passholder, you can get a discount). Kids must wear life jackets (provided) and you must be 18 years or older to drive the boat (You must show a valid driver’s license). This is a cool way to enjoy your vacation without having to spend the day at a park.
2. Mini Golf
There are two mini golf locations at Walt Disney World: Fantasia Gardens & Fairways and Winter Summerland. Both are 18-hole courses and are $19 per adult, $12 per child. Fantasia Gardens is a couple steps away from the Swan and Dolphin hotel. For Winter Summerland, it is located on the property of Disney’s Blizzard Beach water park. Even if you are not the best at golf, this is a distinctive way to show off your competitive spirit with your loved ones. It’s especially made for families and golf beginners, so don’t think you need to be a pro to enjoy this activity.
3. Resort Hopping
A great chunk of Walt Disney World’s beauty comes from the resorts which are nostalgic for some guests and unforgettable for others. There is a mix of DVC and non-DVC resorts you can visit on property. You can visit a Hawaiian paradise at Disney’s Polynesian resort or an elegant Victorian heaven at Disney’s Grand Floridian resort and spa. You can trek the African jungles at Animal Kingdom Lodge or embark on a colonial American adventure at Wilderness Lodge. If you prefer a Spanish and Mexican theming, Coronado Springs is the perfect choice. For those island lovers, Disney’s Caribbean beach is the way to go. How about an escape to France & Italy? Disney’s Riviera resort is heavily detailed in European décor. You can try different foods from different cultures as well as immerse yourself in the hotel’s ambiance, which are all exceptionally themed. Hopping to and from these resorts, while using Disney transportation, is a great way to explore Walt Disney World’s property.
4. Arcade
For those game enthusiasts or if you are looking to compete in an intense game of Air hockey (my fave), the arcade is the place to go! Arcades are found throughout all the Disney hotels, whether in the lobby or close to the pool area. That means, depending on where you stay, you may have an arcade close by. Here you can pay to play the games of your choosing and compete against your friends or family members. Playing these will take up a lot of time and energy, so I highly suggest doing this for non-park days.
5. Horse Drawn Carriage Ride
Available at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort-Riverside and at Fort Wilderness resort, this is a special activity for the whole family. For $65, (4 adults or 2 adults and 3 children) and for 25 minutes, you can take a stroll around the picturesque walkway with views of lakes, trees, and wildlife. Disney recommends making reservations in advance, but you can walk up and request a spot, based on availability. Carriage rides start at 5:30 pm and end at 9:30 pm. This is yet another enjoyable and refreshing activity to try if you cannot make it to the parks.
6. Campfire & Movies
Hot, roasted marshmallows and creamy milk chocolate, yum! This delicious treat is available only for those staying at moderate or deluxe resorts, however sometimes Cast members will sprinkle a little extra Disney magic and let visitors have a treat. The marshmallows are free however the chocolate and graham crackers incur an extra price. The Disney resort programs team also love to play a Disney movie, “Under the Stars;” this means that the cast member’s set up an area for you to sit outside and watch the film chosen for that day. This is a cute and comforting activity for all ages, especially if you want to relax and enjoy the atmosphere.
Visiting Orlando, Florida, specifically Walt Disney World property, is an experience all on its own. You do not need to go to the parks every day to have an adventure. If you are looking for activities to try without a Disney Park ticket, these are all great to do solo or with others. I hope, dear reader, this article gave you some insight on ideas and plans to participate in, to make the most out of your vacation!
Featured Photo: Emily Murray.
Written by
Maria Mora
For as long as Maria can remember, there was always a Disney movie playing in her house. Whether it was The Little Mermaid, Dumbo, or Tarzan, she became enthralled with all things Disney. She has visited the Disney Parks over 100 times and on different continents! Her love of Disney goes hand in hand with her love of reading, which has motivated her through the years to become a zealous writer. She hopes that whatever she does helps her community. After all, with a little faith, trust, and pixie dust, anything is possible!
