Top 10+ Things To Do At Disney World Resorts (2024)
Planning a trip to Walt Disney World is always exciting, especially when you pick out your resort for the week. It can be especially important if you plan resort days: days where you skip the parks and just take advantage of all the things to do at Disney World Resorts. We’ve got a list of options in this comprehensive guide for the top things to do at Disney resorts- some you may not even know about!
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Welcome Home! Top Things To Do At Disney World Resorts (2024)
Whether you’re a first-time guest or a returning visitor, Disney World is sure to offer plenty of adventure.
From thrilling rides and attractions to magical shows and events, there’s something for everyone at the theme parks and Disney resorts.
If you’re looking for a day filled with fun and excitement- but don’t plan to hit the theme parks– then head over to the front desk to ask your cast members what types of activities are planned during your stay at the most magical place on Earth.
Activities at Disney World Resorts: Things To Do On Non-Park Days
First, it’s important to know that when you’re staying on property as a Disney resort guest at any Disney World hotel, you can resort hop between the different resorts.
You can’t always drive into the other resorts (parking spaces are limited at most locations) but taking Disney transportation such as the buses, monorails, boats, or Skyliner- or using Uber/Lyft in Orlando– is fairly easy.
Each themed resort offers fun things to do that are unique to that particular location, and most are free of additional cost.
For example, Disney’s Wilderness Lodge is home to a nightly campfire and an opportunity to roast marshmallows and make s’mores with the whole family.
Some other resorts offer this and sell the Smores kits for about $10.
Also, don’t forget about special events like character dining or other exclusive meet-and-greet opportunities.
At select dining locations, you can take pictures with and receive autographs from Disney characters such as Mickey Mouse, Goofy, or Pluto.
Our favorite is Topolino’s at the Riviera Resort but you really can’t go wrong with Minnie’s Beach Bash at the Beach Club Resort, Chef Mickey’s at the Contemporary Resort, or the Story Book Dining at Wilderness Lodge Resort.
Take a look around each resort for other fun activities like movies under the stars or themed pool parties during your stay!
Now, let’s dive into the top things to do at Walt Disney World Hotels:
1. Things to do at Disney World Resorts: Explore the resort.
Take time to explore the resort, including its stunning grounds and scenic views. Enjoy a leisurely stroll around the property and take in the atmosphere of your chosen destination.
2. Enjoy the themed pools.
Most Walt Disney World resorts have themed pools with slides, splash pads, and fun activities. Additionally, there are a variety of cabanas, lounge chairs, and other amenities at some resort pools for guests to take advantage of.
3. Things to do at Disney World Resorts: Visit the lobby.
The lobby is the perfect place to relax after a long day in the parks. Here you can browse souvenirs or just enjoy some downtime with family and friends.
Each lobby will have a TV station with wee little chairs for the kids to chill out and watch Disney cartoons as well!
4. Indulge in dining delights.
Walt Disney World Hotels offer a wide range of dining options to tantalize your taste buds.
From quick-service eateries to fine dining establishments, there’s something for everyone.
Be sure to try the famous Mickey-shaped treats and character dining experiences.
5. Dive into shopping galore: Things to do at Disney World Resorts.
Explore the various shopping at the merchandise shops within the hotels. Discover unique Disney-themed souvenirs, apparel, and collectibles to bring a piece of the magic home.
6. Experience unique entertainment.
Catch spectacular live entertainment throughout the resorts.
From the live music at the nighttime extravaganza that is Jellyrolls, the Boardwalk Inn’s piano bar, to the mesmerizing live animals on the savanna at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, these free activities will leave you in awe.
7. Embrace photo opportunities.
Capture your favorite Disney characters in unforgettable photos throughout your resort.
One of our favorites is a picture with Cinderella’s glass slipper typically located in the lobby of the Grand Floridian Hotel.
Keep an eye out for surprise character appearances at dining locations and artwork displayed as only Disney can.
8. Things to do at Disney World Resorts: Find Hidden Mickeys
Keep an eye out for hidden Mickey Mouse symbols hidden throughout the hotels.
These subtle nods to the iconic character can be found in the decor and even pavement designs! Hidden Mickey tip: look at the carpets and curtains!
9. Enjoy the Electrical Water Pageant And Fireworks From Some Resorts
Guests staying at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort and the Grand Floridian Resort can enjoy the nightly sights and sounds of this nostalgic water parade from the shores of the Seven Seas Lagoon.
If you are visiting the resorts for dinner, be sure to stick around to watch this precious water parade that’s been floating by since opening day!
These resorts also have excellent fireworks views, as do many others.
You can see fireworks from some locations at The Riviera, Coronado Springs Gran Destino Tower, Yacht Club, Beach Club and Boardwalk Inn as well.
10. Yoga At The Disney World Resort Hotels
Sometimes you can enjoy a yoga experience at the Walt Disney World Resorts.
These are typically reserved for guests staying at the resort, but check with yours to see if it’s being offered.
11. Ask About Special Art Classes At Your Disney World Resort Hotel
We have seen different art class offerings advertised in Disney World resort hotels- so be sure to ask a cast member in the lobby if there’s anything special happening during your stay.
While we didn’t have time to take this ceramics painting class, we loved that it was being offered at the Contemporary during a recent stay.
As you can see, Walt Disney World Hotels offers endless opportunities to create magical memories that will last a lifetime even within your hotel.
A stay at Walt Disney World guarantees a magical and unforgettable experience.
From thrilling rides inside the parks to Disney World Hotel character encounters, delicious dining options to unique entertainment, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
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Patty Holliday has been running Disney since 2011. She knows just about every tip, trick, and hack there is to cover the runDisney Magical Miles at Disney World and Disneyland. She knows every mile isn’t *always* magical- but with training, tips, and a little bit of pixie dust, they can be a lot of fun! You can also find her at noguiltlife.com and noguiltfangirl.com
