When you think of visiting Disney World, you probably think about the parks–Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, EPCOT, and Hollywood Studios. But there is so much more to Walt Disney World than just the parks, which is one reason I never get bored no matter how many times I go back! From mini golf to crafts to shopping, you really won’t ever be out of things to do in Disney World. Here’s my list of things to do during a non-park day at Walt Disney World.
Mini Golf
There are two different locations of mini golf in Disney World–Winter Summerland and Fantasia Gardens & Fairways. Both locations have two 18-hole courses and they’re so much fun! I’m partial to the Winter Course at Winter Summerland because I love Santa and Christmas, but you really can’t go wrong. Fantasia Fairways is the most technically challenging, and probably not the best choice for the littlest vacationers. Make sure to show your Annual Pass or DVC membership card for a discount!
Mosaic Art
Did you know you can make your own Mickey or Minnie mosaic art on your Disney Vacation? This activity does require a reservation just like dining reservations and costs $25 per person As of right now, they offer it on Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays from 1-3pm. Make your way to the Coronado Springs Resort and visit the Dahlia Lounge to make your tiled craft. I chose to make a Minnie piece and my boyfriend made his Mickey piece. No need to worry if you’re not the next Picasso, this is an activity for (nearly) all ages and ability levels. If you’re traveling by plane, make sure you leave a safe spot in your luggage for your art because the “travel container” they give you is just a takeout box that doesn’t provide much cushion or protection. Other resorts have different crafts to do, too, so try them all!
Pool Day
This one is a no brainer–spend a day at your resort’s pool! I’m a Grand Floridian Gal but all of the hotels have wonderful pools. In the past, you were able to resort-hop the pools, but that is less of a viable option now that there are stricter policies in place for resort guests. Regardless of what pool you go to, you’ll have a good time. My honorable mentions are the Grand Floridian and the Beach & Yacht Club (the lazy river is the best!)
Disney Springs
Disney Springs is a well known option for a non-park Disney day, but it’s because there’s so much you can do. There’s shopping, and more shopping, the movie theatre, live music and entertainment, restaurants, bars, and more. See a Cirque du Soleil show, catch the latest theatrical release, or grab a bite to eat. I am on a mission to try all of the different restaurants in Disney Springs! It’s slow going because I don’t visit Disney Springs on all of my trips, but it’s a fun way to try something new on my trips. And don’t forget to stop at Disney’s Days of Christmas, the year round Christmas store filled with beautiful ornaments and holiday décor.
Looking for adult activities? Be sure to read my post on things for adults to do in Disney World!
Hoop Dee Doo Musical Revue
Hoop Dee Doo Revue is one of the absolute best experiences there is in Disney World! This is a 2 hour dinner show full of singing, dancing, laughter, and eating. Located at Pioneer Hall at the Fort Wilderness, this show is perfect for the family with its laidback vibe and scrumptious barbecue eats. There are 3 shows per night–doors open at 4, 6:15, and 8:30pm. It is one of the most expensive options on this list, but it’s a family favorite in my household and well worth it, in my opinion. Reservations are required.
Depending on which seating category you choose, this will cost you $66-$74 for adults (ages 10+) and $39-$44 for children (ages 3 to 9). Word of warning–the finale does include the audience scraping a metal washboard with spoons, so if anyone in your party has auditory stimulation sensitivities, it might be best to step out just before the finale. But, if that doesn’t bother you, the finale is incredibly fun, especially for little ones who like to make noise. I would definitely add this to your list of non-park Disney day activities!
While the parks are certainly a fun part of Disney World, there’s always other options. These are great for if you have a blackout date on an Annual Pass or military ticket, or if you want to save some money on a day of park tickets. I also like non-park days to give our bodies a break from the craziness that is park days!
