10 Things to Do on a Day Off From the Parks

If you’re like so many other families vacationing at the most magical place on earth, you’re traveling with children, and occasionally it’s nice to take a break from the parks during your trip. It’s ok—lots of families choose to do this. And thankfully, Disney World offers a proverbial buffet of activities to do without stepping a foot inside one of its four theme parks. Here are 10 of those things you can enjoy with your family on a day off from the parks—and still have a wonderfully magical time. No ticket needed!

1. Go shopping at Disney Springs.

There are over 100 different stores, shops and boutiques at Disney Springs. You can find anything! There are shops that sell Disney World souvenirs, housewares, apparel, toys, collectibles, Christmas ornaments and decorations and more! If you can’t find it at Disney Springs, you probably can’t find it anywhere around the Disney World Resort.

2. Have dinner at a resort hotel.

There are some amazing restaurants in the parks at Walt Disney World. But there are also some wonderful restaurants at Disney’s Resort hotels. And you don’t have to be staying at the hotel to enjoy dinner there. But you’ll most likely need a dining reservation in advance. Make yours by calling (407) WDW-DINE or by accessing the My Disney Experienceapp. Disney dining reservations can be made up to 180 days in advance.

3. Play miniature golf.

There are places near the Disney World Resort hotels where families can go to play miniature golf—miniature golf with a fun Disney feel to it! Choose from Winter Summerland or Fantasia Gardens. Both are wonderfully-themed mini-golf courses and accessible via Disney’s free bus transportation system.

4. Float high above Disney Springs.

At Disney Springs near Starbucks, you can enjoy the Characters in Flight Aerophile tethered helium balloon. The balloon ascends 40 stories in the air and stays in the air for about 10 minutes. While you’re there, you will enjoy 360-degree views of the Walt Disney World Resort. The Aerophile balloon is a great way to see some amazing sights while enjoying a day away from the parks.