Disney vacations are wonderful experiences that are full of magic and fun for the entire family. Disney World is truly its own world with its 4 theme parks, 2 water parks, Disney Springs, and many resorts. Many guests don’t realize that there’s so much to do outside of the Disney parks, and that you can spend an entire vacation on Disney property without even buying a park ticket. Weekend trips to Disney World are great because you can find plenty of entertainment outside of the parks. If you’re thinking of taking a quick trip to Disney World then continue reading on how to fill a weekend at Disney without entering a park.
Stay DVC
DVC resorts are deluxe resorts that make you feel like you are visiting a home away from home. These resorts not only offer spacious villas and accommodations, but also fun recreational activities. Guests of DVC resorts can expect to enjoy luxury pools with waterslides, splash playgrounds, and hosted poolside activities. Each DVC resort will have its own dining options, both quick-service and table-service restaurants. DVC resorts like Saratoga Springs, Old Key West, and Disney’s Boardwalk will have surrey bike rentals that the entire family can enjoy. Many DVC resorts like Disney’s Polynesian Resort and Grand Floridian will have walking paths or jogging trails for guests to explore. Lounges and bars are also a feature of DVC resorts, like Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto at Disney’s Polynesian Resort. Some DVC resorts like Animal Kingdom Lodge even have Community Halls where guests can rent DVDS, play boardgames, and participate in arts and crafts.

Explore the Monorail and Skyliner Resorts
Another activity that can easy fill an entire day is exploring the resorts along the monorail line and Skyliner route. Guests can take a bus to Magic Kingdom where they can board the monorail and have fun getting off at each stop. Disney’s Polynesian Resort, Disney’s Grand Floridian, and Disney’s Contemporary are all resorts that are accessible via monorail. These resorts have their own shops, lounges and bars, and restaurants to enjoy. The Skyliner can be accessed from Hollywood Studios, and allows guests to explore Disney’s Riviera Resort, Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort, Disney’s Pop Century and Disney’s Art of Animation resort.

Shop at Disney Springs
Disney Springs is Disney World’s massive shopping and entertainment center that is free to enter. Guests can enjoy shopping at luxury and high-end stores, as well as other fun stores like World of Disney, and Lego. Disney Springs is also home to many restaurants and bars, some guest favorites include T-Rex Cafe and Jock Lindsay’s Hangar Bar.

Experience Disney Dining
Did you know that there are dozens of restaurants to experience on Disney property that aren’t located inside the theme parks? Guests can even experience character dining without ever entering a park with restaurants like 1900 Park Fare, Topolino’s Terrace (breakfast only), and Chef Mickey’s. Character dining is a great way to add some additional magic into your short trip without buying a park ticket!

Have you ever taken a trip to Disney without entering a park? How do you fill your time? Let us know in the comments below!
Featured Photo: Emily Murray.