Things to Do at Disney at Night Without a Park Ticket

Visiting the theme parks is such an amazing part of a trip to Walt Disney World. But sometimes it is good to shake up the routine and get away from the crowds. Here is a list of seven things to do at Walt Disney World outside of the theme parks!

Resort Hopping

Nighttime vibes at Disney resorts are so much fun! No matter if you are staying in a Disney resort or not, the activities are open for anyone. While everyone else is in the parks for fireworks and parades, head to a resort in which to participate. My personal favorite is spending an evening in the Magic Kingdom resorts around the monorail line.

The Polynesian Village Resort offers 30-minute Just Dance sessions a few times a week – the only resort at Disney World that offers that activity! This is also a great place to watch the Magic Kingdom fireworks from the beach. Most resorts do offer free marshmallows to roast over a fire every evening. They also have kits for s’mores if you choose to do that. There are also movies shown under the stars, so check out the schedule and catch a Disney movie with your family.

Another great place to head is Disney’s Riviera Resort. This is connected to the Disney Skyliner, so you could hop over to Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort and even Disney’s BoardWalk area. You never know what new activities you will find!

Lounges

Disney lounges are a HIDDEN GEM of an experience. Going back to the resort hopping around the Magic Kingdom monorail line, a fun evening activity to do is a progressive dinner. Start at the Contemporary at Steakhouse 71 Lounge and work your way around to the Grand Floridian. If you are on a Disney vacation during an important sports event, you will not find any broadcasting inside of the parks. The lounges are going to be where to sit and enjoy them!

Not every Disney resort has a lounge, but in most Moderate or Deluxe resort hotel you will find one. It provides an opportunity to kick back, relax enjoy a drink, and even a good conversation. A few good ones to note – Ale & Compass at Yacht Club, Hangar Bar at Disney Springs, and Geyser Point Bar & Grill at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge. A lot of these lounges Take the time to check these out!

Carriage Rides

Looking for a romantic activity around Walt Disney World? Head over to a resort for a scenic carriage ride! Port Orleans French Quarter takes Guests around the Sassagoula river and over the cobblestone streets across the resort. At Fort Wilderness, a carriage ride will take you through the tree-lined roads around the large resort. Celebrating an anniversary or looking for a fun date night activity? This is a great option for you!

Tip: when younat Port Orleans, head over to Riverside and see the famous Yehaa Bob! He is a wacky piano player who brings unforgettable entertainment to families most nights of the week. He is a LEGEND!

Disney’s BoardWalk Entertainment

Have you ever been to Disney’s BoardWalk area at night? It brings a unique experience not found anywhere else in Orlando. The theming is inspired by turn-of-the-century boardwalks in coastal cities like Atlantic City. There are carnival-style games, hot dogs, pizza, and some great live entertainment! Through the weekend you can find magicians and other street performers hanging out and interacting with Guests. You can even rent a Surrey bike built for four people!

There is also a great selection of restaurants and other lounges. My favorite is the Belle Vue Lounge inside Disney’s BoardWalk Resort. Another fun atmosphere to check out is the AbracadaBar just outside on the boardwalk.

If you really want to go all out, head over to the dueling pianos at Jellyrolls! This spot is a hidden gem and is SO MUCH FUN. There are incredibly talented pianists playing all types of music, taking requests from the audience. If you haven’t taken the time to head over here, carve a spot out in your next Disney vacation!

Miniature Golf

I will be honest – the miniature golf courses at Walt Disney World don’t have much shade. Playing during the day in the middle of the summer can be miserable. But at night it is such a fun activity! There are a few different options for mini golf – my favorite is the Winter Summerland courses over by Blizzard Beach. One of the most difficult courses in the world can be found at Fantasia Gardens. This was designed to be a miniature of a full golf course. Head over there for a little bit of a challenge!

Disney Springs

This might be one of the most popular and diverse nighttime destinations at Walt Disney World. Disney Springs provides an array of delicious restaurants, fun themed bars, excellent shopping, and live entertainment. In the evening you will find musicians scattered around different parts of Disney Springs, providing many types of musical experiences. Plus you can find a full Cirque du Soleil show in the large white tent!

Not only does Disney Springs house the largest Disney merchandise location (World of Disney), there are stores like Zara, Anthropologie, and Free People. There is something for everyone here, and it is much more convenient than the outlet malls.

Talk about having a crazy number of amazing food options in one place! There is a great variety of restaurants and bars to spend time at. You’ll want to come back time and time again to experience it all!

Pool

Honestly the most magical time to play in a pool is at night. Take the time to hang out at your resort’s pool and enjoy all that area has to offer! Even if it is chilly outside, the pools are all heated. PLUS many of the resorts offer a hot tub for your enjoyment!