Some Of The ‘Best Kept Secret’ Activities At Walt Disney World

For most Disney World guests, going to the resort is all about the rides, the characters, and the food. However, there is so much more to do here that many guests miss out on. Ranging from free to a little pricy, there’s something new to experience every time you visit.

10. ‘Characters Take Flight’ Ride

If you usually stick to the parks during your Disney trip and don’t make it to Disney Springs, or only go for the shopping, you’re missing out on a fun and affordable activity. Have you ever seen the hot air balloon in Disney Springs Westside? You can actually ride in it! For $12 for kids and $18 for adults, you can ascend about 400 feet and get a bird’s eye view for about 8-10 minutes. Get the camera ready!

9. Frontierland Shootin’ Arcade

In Frontierland at Magic Kingdom, there’s a fun activity that you probably walk past without noticing it’s there. It’s the Fronteirland Shootin’ Arcade and it only costs $1 to play. Guests of all ages can take rifles and shoot at targets that move and uncover additional targets. It’s all electronic, so nothing actually shoots out of the guns making them safe for kids. Changes machines are nearby if needed.

8. Harmony Barber Shop

Didn’t have time to get a haircut before your vacation? You can actually get this done at Disney World on Main Street in Magic Kingdom. If it’s your child’s first haircut, the certified team there goes the extra mile. You may even get a sprinkle of fairy dust when you’re finished! It’s about $18 for children and $19 for adults with a charge of $10 for those who make a reservation, but don’t show up.

7. Surfing

The wave pool at Typhoon Lagoon isn’t just for swimming. If you’re interested in learning to surf, classes are conducted at this Disney waterpark before it opens. Learn the basics if you’ve never been on a surf board before for $135 per person. If you’re a seasoned pro and want your own private surfing session, you can schedule time either before or after the park is open, but it will cost over $1000.

6. Camp Fires

Disney Resorts are known for having that little something extra. Many resorts offer camp fires scattered throughout the property where you can roast marshmallows, make S’mores, or join a camp fire sing-a-long. Fort Wilderness has the best camp fire activities as you’ll also get to spend time with characters like Chip N’ Dale. This is a free activity, but the fixin’s to roast cost extra. (Tip: Bring your own supplies for s’mores!)

5. Water Sports

Disney’s Contemporary Resort isn’t just home to the only resort that has a monorail going through it. It’s also where you can sign up for some fun water sports. Try wake boarding ($165), waterskiing ($165), tubing ($165), parasailing ($95-$170), and more. Boat rentals can also be found here and at resorts near bodies of water like Port Orleans.

4. Archery

Learn to shoot an arrow like Robin Hood or Merida at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort. Those 7 years and up can participate in target practice and learn from the experts on how to shoot using a bow and arrow. The cost is $39 per person for an hour and a half session. Reservations are recommended.

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3. Tri-Circle D Ranch

While you’re at Fort Wilderness, you might as well stop by the Tri-Circle D Ranch near the campsites. Here you can find the horses you usually see on Main Street when they’re taking a break. You’ll also find other animals here. Carriage rides are available at $45 per carriage and wagon rides are $5 for children and $8 for adults. Guests 9 years and older can also go horseback riding for $46 per person.

2. Snorkeling in Epcot

Did you know you can go snorkeling at the Living Seas in Epcot? Guests 8 years and older have the opportunity to get up close and personal with the park’s fish and other aquatic animals. Prices range from $140-$145 per person for a two and a half hour session, however, you’re only snorkeling for about a half hour. You do get a behind-the-scenes tour.

1. Night Safari

You may be familiar with the Kilimanjaro Safari at Animal Kingdom, but did you know there’s an option for a night time safari? This activity is found at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge and is open exclusively to guests staying at this particular resort. For $70 per person, you get an hour-long expedition starting at 10pm and a set of night-vision goggles to help you see the animals better.

No matter your budget or interest, Disney World is full of fun activities for the whole family. You don’t have to limit yourself to the same attractions each trip. Try something different and create new memories.

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