Credit: DisneyWalt Disney World has been such a huge part of my life ever since I was a baby. I’ve had multiple members of my family that worked as Cast Members around property, and in 2016 I even had the chance to work for the Disney company myself at Pop Century Resort!
Through all of my experiences visiting Orlando and the Disney parks, I genuinely believe that there is a special magic about being in this area. I know that I personally always feel an overwhelming sense of joy and home when I’m in Orlando. It’s for that reason that I think everyone should retire near Walt Disney World!
Living close to the parks
One of the main benefits that I see with retiring near Walt Disney World, is the ability to be in such close proximity to the parks! Florida residents have the opportunity to get discounted annual passes and can come and go to the Disney parks as they please. Having this freedom allows you to take advantage of relaxed park outings without the fear of missing out on attractions, if you don’t have time to take advantage of everything in one day!
Enjoying beautiful weather year-round
Florida is known for its beautiful warm weather year-round! There is even a population of people who fly down to Florida during the winter months, specifically to live in the warm weather, when it’s snowy back in their northern hometowns.
Celebrating holidays at all of the Orlando theme parks
Holidays are a blast in the Orlando area! While there isn’t snow outside to play in, there are all kinds of specific seasonal events and festivals both out in town and at the various local theme parks. Disney celebrates year-round with everything from Epcot’s Flower and Garden Festival in the Spring, to Halloween and Christmas parties in the fall!
Being only a quick drive to other awesome cities in Florida
Florida is such a big state — but by living in Central Florida, there are some unique and beautiful cities you can visit that are only a quick drive away. A few awesome ones to visit are Saint Augustine for its historic charm, Miami for its food and nightlife and Tampa, for its beautiful beaches and fun social activities.
The chance to be a seasonal or part time cast member
If you wanted to spread the Disney magic yourself at Walt Disney Parks and Resorts or if you are a fan of Universal Resort, you could take a part time or seasonal job working as a cast member! You get the benefit of having a main-gate pass for yourself, comp tickets for your family or friends and the joy of spreading the Disney magic in a community that we all love so dearly!
Amazing local dining
Living so close to Disney property allows you to have access to world class dining experiences! Amazing food with flavors from around the world, beautiful restaurant atmospheres and top notch customer service, are all staples of dining at a Disney restaurant. Not only do you have the option to explore Disney’s shopping and dining district, Disney Springs, but you can also book dinner shows, character breakfasts and more at the surrounding Disney resorts.
Nearby beaches
Orlando is a quick drive to various pleasant beaches! If you’re looking to getaway for a weekend, Clearwater beach is less than two hours away. Last year, this beach was even voted the top beach in the United States!
Beautiful local golf courses
Disney property is home to multiple beautiful golf courses, which are available for those who enjoy golfing or would love to take up the sport. These 18-hole courses also offers a players club and a junior golf program to teach kids! This could be an amazing bonding opportunity to take kids or grandkids to when you retire!
A wide range of entertainment options
There are all kinds of amazing entertainment options in the area! Disney property has a few fun entertainment options that could make for a great evening out. One of my favorites is a wild, comical and warm dinner show that runs at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort– The Hoop Dee Doo Musical Revue.
Getting to enjoy fireworks every day
Not everyone may be a fan of this one, but I think there is something incredibly nostalgic about Disney fireworks. I’ve noticed when driving around Orlando at night, there are certain places off property where you can not only hear, but see the fireworks. Why not make retirement a little more magical?
Want to live on Walt Disney World Property?
If you’re looking for a place to retire that is not only in the Orlando area but is on Disney property, the Golden Oak community might be for you. This gated community is just a quick drive to any of the theme parks and the Disney Springs area! To learn more about it, check out this article HERE.
Would you retire in Florida near Walt Disney World?