Top 10 Grown-Up Walt Disney World “Musts”

When you think of Walt Disney World, you may imagine a vacation destination for families. You would be correct. However, you might be surprised to see many couples, singles, and even groups of adults of all ages, traveling without children. Having gone to Disney many times with my wife, I can attest to the fact that Disney is full of fun for adults. Here is my Top 10 Grown-Up Walt Disney World “Musts”. Can you think of more?

1) Town car/limo – Yes, I know Disney’s Magical Express is “free”, but for a nice splurge, book a town car or limo from one of the many local car services. You will be met at the airport by a friendly driver, who will help you with your luggage, and then quickly whisk you away to your resort hotel. You will save significant time on both ends of your trip. Plus, you will receive personalized service. A round trip, with tip, will cost you ~$150.

2) Deluxe resorts – Families with children tend to stay at Disney’s value and moderate hotels more than the deluxe category. Therefore, adults staying at a Disney deluxe hotel will find it to be more quiet and relaxing. Plus, the amenities are myriad. From multiple sit-down restaurants, to spas, shopping and even golf, there is much to keep adults busy outside the theme parks.

3) Deluxe dining – Walt Disney World has dozens of fine sit-down restaurants, both in the theme parks and at the resort hotels. While most do not have a dress code, and you will see some families, many of the nicest restaurants cater to the adult palate. For a premier dining experience, try a nice evening at the award-winning Victoria & Albert’s at the Grand Floridian.

4) Behind the Scenes Tours – For those adults who have been to Disney before, a behind the scenes tour will give you a peek “off-stage”. Learn how the magic of Disney is made! Specific tours that cater to adults are the Backstage Safari Tour at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Dolphins in Depth at Epcot’s Living Seas and Keys to the Kingdom at the Magic Kingdom, which will give you a peek at the underground utilidors, where cast members scurry around the park.

5) Cirque du Soleil – Located in the Downtown Disney Area, this striking theater houses Cirque du Soleil-La Nouba. Outside it resembles an enormous circus tent. Inside, an elaborate mechanical stage includes movable cages, platforms and inventive sets, with world-class sound and lighting systems that create a dreamlike metamorphosis from performance to performance.

6) Take a boat ride – To appreciate the natural surroundings at Disney World, take a relaxing boat ride from the Magic Kingdom to Disney’s Wilderness Campgrounds or from the Port Orleans resorts to Downtown Disney.

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7) Fireworks cruise – Celebrate a special occasion or simply enjoy a relaxing cruise aboard a deluxe pontoon boat. Board at the Magic Kingdom Resort Marina to sail around Bay Lake and Seven Seas Lagoon, or depart from Bayside Marina at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort to glide along Crescent Lake. Experience the fireworks within Epcot when your pontoon boat sails up to the International Gateway near World Showcase Lagoon. Magic Kingdom cruises have synchronized audio on board to immerse you in the magic of the Wishes fireworks show.

8) Boardwalk area – Disney’s Boardwalk is home to a wide range of activities that differs from day to day. Two places that adults will enjoy are Jellyroll’s Dueling Pianos Bar and Atlantic Dance, where there’s a DJ dance party most nights. For sports fans, try the ESPN Club, featuring 100 screens of sports coverage.

9) Spas – Several of the Disney Deluxe resorts have spa services, including Saratoga Springs, The Dolphin and the Grand Floridian. Spa services generally include massage, facials, manicures, pedicures, body treatments, and couples’ services. Spa hours are generally 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., by appointment.

10) Festivals – In the spring, Epcot celebrates the Flower & Garden Festival, where guests can enjoy even more beautiful than normal floral designs, character topiaries, and opportunities to learn from gardening experts and celebrities. In the fall, Epcot hosts the International Food & Wine Festival, a global culinary journey celebrating celebrity chefs, and offering new marketplace tastes from around the world.

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Photo courtesy of Disney Photo Snapper