20 Hidden Ways to Relax at Walt Disney World Outside of Theme Parks

in Disney, Travel, Walt Disney World

Walt Disney World mini golf

Credit: Disney

Vacations are supposed to be all about fun and relaxation.  On any given trip to the Walt Disney World Resort, in central Florida, it’s easy to get wrapped up in the thrills and adventures the six amazing theme parks that the resort has to offer.

So, what about the relaxation part?  The Walt Disney World resort has you covered there, too.  To help with planning a more relaxing Disney vacation, we’ve rounded up 20 ways to enhance your stay.

01. Archery

The Fort Wilderness Resort offers several ways to find fun that you may not have originally thought of.  An archery lesson is just one of several options.  It’s almost like going back to summer camp.

02. Balloon Ride

Tucked away in the middle of Disney Springs, Aerophile offers guests the opportunity to soar above it all and take in some breathtaking views of the resort.

 03. Bike Rentals

Several of the resorts on property maintain a fleet of bicycles for rental.  These two wheeled self-powered vehicles can be used to explore the bike trails around the resort. Helmets are included in the rental.  Check out a full list of rental locations here.

04. Boating 

Disney’s Contemporary resort hotel offers two ways to enjoy the water:  either on a personal watercraft or cruising on one of three different motor boats available to rent.

05. Bowling

Disney Springs is home to Splitsville. Enjoy an afternoon or evening of bowling at this upscale establishment.

06. Concerts

House of Blues, at Disney Springs, serves up some amazing eats in addition to being a great venue for live music.

07. Dancing

While Pleasure Island’s night clubs might be a thing of the past, Atlantic Dance Hall at Disney’s Boardwalk is still standing.  The large dance hall offers  and, of course a full bar.


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08. Family Photo Portrait Session

You’ve heard of Photo Pass and seen the taupe vested photographers in the parks, but did you know that Disney’s photographers also snap professional portraits?  These can be booked for a number of occasions by contacting guest services.

09. Fishing

Many of Walt Disney World’s resort hotels are situated on a lake front.  This means those who are into ichthyology can charter an excursion for some reel fun.

10. Golf

Did you know that the Disney has 4 world class golf courses at their Florida resort?  For those who want to sharpen their swing, professional golf lessons are available.

11. Horse Drawn Carriage Ride

A romantic, relaxing ride resides at either Disney’s Port Orleans or Fort Wilderness resorts.  Step back in time and enjoy a leisurely  journey and take in some of Florida’s natural wonders via a horse drawn carriage.  Towards the end of the year Holiday Sleigh Rides are also available.

12. Horseback Riding

Tri-Circle-D Ranch, at Fort Wilderness Resort, is home to pony rides, wagon rides and horseback trail excursion.  The ranch and stables is home to several breeds of horses and ponies.

13. Kayak or Canoe Adventure

Fort Wilderness Resort also offers guests a chance to explore the resorts waterways at a more leisurely paddle powered pace via Kayak or Canoe.

14. Mini Golf

Walt Disney World is home to a pair of unique miniature golf courses.  Golfers preferring their playtime to be of the putt-putt variety can answer the challenge of either a “Fantasia” themed course or enjoy the Winter-Summerland location.

15. Movies

There are a couple ways to enjoy a feature film at the Florida project (WDW).  Either pop into the AMC theaters at Disney Springs, or enjoy movie under stars (offered at several of the resorts on property).


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16. Surrey Bike

This old time transport is a great way to explore as a team.  The four wheeled bikes can be rented at several of the resorts at Walt Disney World.  Choose from a two person, four person or six person pedal powered machine.

17. Tennis/Tennis Lessons

Many of the hotels at WDW include tennis courts and offer guests the opportunity to book professional tennis lessons.

18. Video Game Arcades

Just about every hotel at the Florida resort includes a video game arcade for those wanting an electronic challenge.

19. Wanyami Safari

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge has an amazing adventure for guests.  Private safaris and great grub (courtesy of Jiko – the eating place) allow guests a glance into the wildlife and exotic animals that share a home with Disney’s Animal Kingdom.

20. Water Skiing

Disney’s Contemporary Resort has a great way to cool off and enjoy the Florida sunshine.  Single or traditional double ski options are offered.

These twenty tempting, lesser known opportunities for fun at the Walt Disney World Resort are just a small sample of the scores of vacation opportunities that Disney has to offer for its guests.  Special tours, personalized experiences (from fireworks boat cruises to special treatment at the spa), and dozens of dining diversions can also be found.

Interested in any of these adventures? Be sure to let your reservation cast member know when you book your room or check with your hotel concierge/front desk.

Source and Images: Walt Disney World website and Disney Springs website

in Disney, Travel, Walt Disney World

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