The Walt Disney World Resort has so much to offer that it’s almost impossible to experience everything in just one vacation. Many guests focus solely on the four main parks, but there are endless activities, Disney Resort hotels, and the lively Disney Springs waiting to be explored. From staycations to hidden gems within the resorts, here are three unique ways to maximize your time at Walt Disney World and create memories that go beyond the attractions.
1. Indulge in a Disney Staycation
For Disney fans, a staycation within Walt Disney World is a magical break from the parks and a chance to soak in the full Disney experience at one of the beautiful Disney Resort hotels. If you’ve been dreaming of staying in every Disney hotel, a staycation could be the perfect way to start checking them off your list. Here’s why we love incorporating a staycation into our Disney trips:
- Immerse Yourself in the Disney Magic: Each Disney Resort has a distinct theme, from the tropical paradise at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort to the rustic charm of Disney’s Wilderness Lodge. By planning a staycation, you get to truly dive into the unique atmosphere, decor, and amenities that make each resort special.
- Take a Day to Recharge: A Disney vacation is exciting but also requires a lot of energy. With early mornings and late-night fireworks, it can be tiring. A staycation gives you a chance to enjoy some downtime at the resort’s pool, relax in the hot tub, or even book a spa treatment if you’re staying at one of Disney’s Deluxe Resorts.
- Experience Deluxe Resort Perks: Staying at a Disney Deluxe Resort or Deluxe Villa for just one night can provide you with special perks like Extended Evening Theme Park Hours. This bonus access allows you to experience the parks with fewer crowds, giving you more time to enjoy top attractions.
If you’re already staying at a Value or Moderate Resort, booking a single night at a Deluxe Resort for a mini staycation adds a little luxury to your trip. Check-in early, take advantage of the amenities, and enjoy a quiet evening at the hotel before heading back to the parks or your original hotel.
2. Take a Midday Detour to Explore a Disney Resort
The parks can get crowded and hot, especially around midday, so why not escape the hustle and bustle with a relaxing detour to one of the nearby Disney Resorts? Here’s how you can make the most of your midday break:
Hop on the First Bus That Arrives: Sometimes, the easiest way to choose a destination is to let chance decide! Head to the bus terminal and take the first resort-bound bus that arrives. This spontaneous adventure is a great way to discover resorts you might not otherwise explore.
- Join in the Resort’s Unique Activities: Once you arrive, head to the Front Desk and ask about the resort’s daily activities. Many Disney hotels offer scavenger hunts, Hidden Mickey searches, and other fun events that showcase the resort’s theme. For example, Disney’s Wilderness Lodge has a unique scavenger hunt that gives you insight into the resort’s rustic, Pacific Northwest theming.
- Enjoy a Quick Bite or Drink: Many Disney Resorts have excellent quick-service options. Grab a Mickey waffle or try a specialty dessert like the Dole Whip at Pineapple Lanai at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort. Some resorts even have walk-in availability at table-service restaurants, making it easy to grab a delicious meal without a reservation.
After exploring the resort, take the bus back to the nearest park or to Disney Springs for a quick transfer back to your own hotel. This detour is a fantastic way to recharge while adding another unique Disney experience to your vacation.
3. Park Hop with a Disney Resort Break in Between
If you have a Park Hopper ticket, adding a resort visit between parks is a creative way to explore more of the Disney Resorts and take a breather from the theme park excitement. Here are some suggested stops based on the parks you’re hopping between:
Between Magic Kingdom and EPCOT: Make a pit stop at one of the Monorail Resorts like Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, Disney’s Contemporary Resort, or Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort. Each of these resorts offers beautiful views, unique shopping, and themed lounges, like the Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto at the Polynesian. These locations are also excellent for snapping photos with Cinderella Castle or Spaceship Earth in the background.
- Between Magic Kingdom and Hollywood Studios or Animal Kingdom: Check out Disney’s Wilderness Lodge. This resort offers a peaceful, woodsy escape just a quick boat ride away from Magic Kingdom. You can also take a quiet stroll on the nature trails or enjoy a quick bite at Geyser Point Bar & Grill, which has a relaxed, open-air seating area with views of Bay Lake.
- Between EPCOT and Hollywood Studios: This is one of the easiest park hops for resort-hopping since several Disney Resorts are located along Crescent Lake between the two parks. Disney’s Yacht & Beach Club Resorts, Disney’s BoardWalk Inn, and Disney’s Riviera Resort are all within easy walking or Skyliner distance. These resorts offer delicious dining options, from the famous Beaches & Cream Soda Shop at the Beach Club to Trattoria al Forno at the BoardWalk, which is perfect for a leisurely lunch before heading to your next park.
- Between Animal Kingdom and Other Parks: Consider stopping at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, a resort where you can explore African-inspired architecture, delicious dining, and even animal viewing areas. With savannas that feature giraffes, zebras, and other animals, this resort lets you experience a mini safari right outside the parks. You can also grab lunch at The Mara or Boma, where African-inspired flavors add a little adventure to your day.
- Disney Springs and Beyond: If your schedule includes time at Disney Springs, consider visiting nearby resorts like Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa, Disney’s Old Key West Resort, or the Port Orleans Resorts (French Quarter and Riverside). These resorts offer tranquil atmospheres and are only a short boat ride away from Disney Springs, making them the ideal places to relax and recharge after shopping or dining at the Springs.
Embrace the Magic Outside the Parks on Your Disney Vacation
While most Disney vacations revolve around the attractions and iconic experiences within the parks, taking time to explore the resorts and Disney Springs adds another layer of magic to your stay. Each Disney Resort hotel offers immersive theming, unique activities, and hidden treasures that create memorable moments beyond the parks.
Whether it’s a staycation for a night at a Deluxe Resort, an unexpected detour to explore a nearby hotel, or a resort break while park hopping, each of these experiences lets you enjoy the enchantment of Disney in new and exciting ways. So, next time you’re planning your Walt Disney World itinerary, make room for these creative ways to explore the magic outside the parks. You may even find yourself starting new Disney traditions that become must-dos for every trip!
Which Disney Resort Exploration Will You Try? Have you tried a Disney staycation or taken a detour to explore a new resort? Let us know your favorite ways to explore Walt Disney World, and get ready to add a touch of extra magic to your next visit!
