
If you read the phrase “Walt Disney World” the first thing that probably comes to mind is Cinderella’s Castle or Mickey Mouse. A few seconds later and your thinking Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Hollywood Studios and Animal Kingdom. Those images are followed by visions of Disney Springs, character greetings, parades, shows and the various nighttime spectaculars. Of course you thought of these things, they are magical thoughts and memories, but it’s what you didn’t think of that I’m interested in. Continue reading to learn about 10 Experiences You Must Do Outside The Walt Disney World Theme Parks.
10. Catch and Release Fishing – Select Walt Disney World Resorts
Cast your line and reel in big fun on select waterways experience bass fishing at it’s finest. With 2 and 4 hour excursions offered these experiences come complete with everything you need including a One-year membership to Bass Anglers Sportsman Society. Reservations can be made up to 180 days in advance, just call (407) 939- Bass to reserve your time.
9. Wilderness Back Trail Adventure – The Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort
Get your Segway legs and “Go Wild” on 2 wheels as you explore the natural landscape of Florida. Climb aboard your X2 all terrain vehicle and master its maneuverability before heading out along scenic back roads. Your 2-hour circuit will navigate paved paths and woodland trails and include stops at Tri-Cirlce- D- Ranch, Disney’s Wilderness Lodge and Bay Lake. This is a great excursion for families with older children. All riders must be at least 16 years of age or older with a valid photo ID and will be asked to sign a waiver. Due to Segway design specifications, riders must weigh 100 to 250 pounds to participate. Everyone should be able to stand for the duration of the tour and of course for safety, helmets are required.
8. Jellyrolls – Disney’s Boardwalk
Restricted to the 21 and over, Jellyrolls is one of the hottest nightspots in the Orlando area. The fun never stops at this piano bar — witness dueling piano maestros who will keep you rocking until 2 a.m. Raise your glass and enter your request as you try to stump them to play songs on queue. Word has it, they know every song and can play anything. Jellyrolls has limited seating and is quite popular with guest and locals, so arrive early to grab a table.
7. Amphicars – The Boathouse Restaurant, Disney Springs
Hop inside a rare vintage Amphicar that drives on land and floats in water! Make a splash as you enter the lagoon of Disney Springs for a 20 minute tour around the area. With a price tag of $125 per car, it is absolutely worth it considering this is the only place IN THE WORLD where you can experience this attractions. Your tour comes complete with a Captain guide who will ensure the best photo ops and point out notable Disney Spring landmarks. If you happen to have lunch at The Boathouse, you can receive a voucher for $25 off your Amphicar ride. The Amphicar tours are available daily from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. and walk up reservations can be made at the Ship’s Store which sits adjacent to The Boathouse Restaurant.
6. Movies Under the Stars – Walt Disney World Resorts
Have a movie night and enjoy relaxing evening entertainment that’s fun for the whole family. On select nights, guest of the Walt Disney World Resort hotels are offered complementary movie screenings of beloved Disney films. This is a great way to slow down and have some close family time. It’s also the perfect trick to send the little ones off to sleep before gearing up for a big day at the park in the morning. For movie schedules and listings, check with the Front Desk at your Walt Disney World Resort Hotel.
5. Italian Water Taxi Cruise – The Boathouse Restaurant, Disney Springs
If you are looking to wow your significant other, then this is one experience you must not pass up. The Captain’s Italian Water Taxi, The Venezia is a 40-foot vessel that can host up to 16 guest + a Captain and server. Each cruise includes a chocolate-covered strawberry and champagne toast making this cruise a perfect and affordable way to celebrate an anniversary, engagement or any special occasion. Prices are per- person and are based on your choice of a 30 minute or hours long tour. The Venezia is also available to rent for private functions. For reservations and more information, visit the Ship’s Store.
4. Characters In Flight
Soar high in the sky in a helium balloon covered with classic flying Disney characters. Custom-built for Disney by Aérophile, the Aéro30 ascends to a height of 400 feet and is the world’s largest tethered helium balloon. Float on air as you take in the breathtaking 360-degree view of Disney Springs. Gaze outward to eye themed resorts and the icons of each park – view the beautiful landscape of Florida up to 10 miles away. The balloons basket can hoist up to 29 people plus one Aérophile-certified pilot per “flight.”; but those numbers and operating hours of the balloon could be affected by wind speeds. Characters In Flight will not fly if winds exceed 22 mph or if there is a storm, so be sure to check the weather forecast prior to including in your day plans.
3. Motorized Boat Rentals – Select Walt Disney World Resorts
If you’ve ever dreamed of being the Captain of your own boat, well here’s your chance. The marina’s of Disney’s Wilderness Lodge, Disney’s Contemporary Resort, Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort and Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa offer any would-be Skipper the chance to earn his or her Sea legs when you rent your very own motorized boat. Guest as young as 12 years old can take control of a Sea Raycer, a mini power-boat that holds 2 people. For larger groups of 6 to 10 people the Boston Whaler Montauk and Sun Tracker pontoon boats are the perfect size to take on the water. Driver’s for these two crafts must be at least 18 years of age, but no experience is required for any of the rentals.
Bonus Tip!
BONUS TIP: Consider planning and booking your next Disney trip with an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner you can trust like Mickey Travels. They’ll help you get the best Disney travel deal, share expert advice and their services are totally FREE! It’s genius! Discover More >
2. Cirque Du Soleil, La Nouba – Disney Springs, West Side
Guests of all ages will be mesmerized by this show that makes the impossible, possible! In the farthest back corner of Disney Springs sits Le Théâtre which was constructed especially for Cirque du Soleil’s resident spectacle La Nouba. Step inside a world of the extraordinary to witness performers from all over the world as they take on feats of incredible strength and breathtaking beauty. Gaze in amazement as acrobats, singers, trapeze artists, jugglers and clowns representing 15 countries weave dreams onstage and mystify with daring acts of grace. With only a few selected blackout dates, La Nouba offers showings Tuesdays through Saturdays at 6:00 PM and 9:00 PM. Entertainment and performance dates are subject to change, but this show is usually never completely sold out — so its ok to wait until the week prior to your arrival to purchase tickets.
1. Sammy Duvall’s Watersports – Disney’s Contemporary Resort
If your ready to take it up a notch then the marina at Disney’s Contemporary Resort is where you need to be. Make big waves when you take to the water and transform your extreme watersports’ dreams into a wild and crazy reality. Courtesy of the “fun-tastic” crew at Sammy Duvall’s Watersports Centre you are about to have the time of your life! Take in a birds eye view when you soar above the Magic Kingdom, or shred across the lagoon behind a speed boat. Grab a buddy and dare to pilot an inner tube or feed your speed monster when you take the controls of your water-scooter and chart a new course. Be it water skiing or parasailing, personal water craft or water-tubing — whatever you choose to make your splasharific dreams come true, Sammy DuVall’s has got you!
BONUS TIP: Consider planning and booking your next Disney trip with an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner you can trust like Mickey Travels. They’ll help you get the best Walt Disney World deal, share expert advice and their services are totally FREE! It’s genius!
You may also like:
13 Inscrutable Requirements To Be A Princess In Disney Parks
7 Walt Disney world Experiences We Really Miss
10 Things That May Be A Complete Waste Of Your Money at Disney