Walt Disney World is one of the most magical vacation destinations for families, offering something special for every generation. Whether you’re traveling with toddlers, teens, or grandparents, everyone can share in the magic that Walt Disney originally envisioned—a place where adults and kids alike can experience joy together.
For grandparents, visiting Walt Disney World with their grandchildren can create unforgettable memories. From riding iconic attractions to sharing sweet treats, there are countless magical moments waiting to be experienced.
Here are the top 10 experiences grandparents will love sharing with their grandkids at Walt Disney World.
1. Riding Attractions Together
One of the best things about Walt Disney World is that there are attractions that guests of all ages can enjoy together. Grandparents will love the opportunity to experience classic rides with their grandchildren, creating cherished memories along the way.
Some great multi-generational rides include it’s a small world, Haunted Mansion, Na’vi River Journey, and Living with the Land. These attractions are gentle enough for all ages yet packed with Disney magic that everyone will appreciate. Don’t forget to enjoy the thrill of feeling like a kid again on rides like Peter Pan’s Flight or Dumbo the Flying Elephant!
2. Watching Live Shows
Grandparents who prefer to skip the rides can still be part of the Disney magic by watching live shows with their grandkids. Walt Disney World has plenty of spectacular shows that everyone can enjoy together.
From singing along to “Let It Go” at Frozen Sing-Along Celebration to dancing at the Festival of the Lion King in Animal Kingdom, these live performances are a hit with all ages. The immersive storytelling and incredible performances will captivate grandparents just as much as the little ones.
3. Character Meet and Greets
There’s nothing quite as magical as watching children light up when they meet their favorite Disney characters in real life. Grandparents will treasure the joy on their grandchildren’s faces as they hug Mickey Mouse, wave to Elsa, or meet a beloved Disney Princess.
Watching the little ones interact with characters they’ve only seen on TV or in books will be a heartwarming experience that grandparents will hold dear forever.
4. Sharing Sweet Treats
While parents might worry about messy snacks, grandparents can embrace the joy that comes with sticky hands and chocolate-covered smiles. Treats like Mickey-shaped ice cream bars, funnel cakes, or Dole Whip are Walt Disney World staples that everyone should try.
Grandparents will love indulging their grandchildren and watching them enjoy every bite of their favorite Disney snacks. Plus, those sticky faces make for adorable photos!
5. Enjoying Disney Transportation
Even getting around Walt Disney World can be part of the magic! Whether it’s riding the monorail, hopping on a skyliner, or taking a relaxing boat ride, Disney transportation offers plenty of fun for all ages.
Grandparents will love sharing these simple moments of joy with their grandkids, whether it’s watching their excitement on the monorail or chatting about the day’s adventures while cruising on a boat. For little ones, even Disney transportation can feel like an exciting ride!
6. Relaxing at the Disney Resort
Staying at a Disney Resort offers endless opportunities for families to bond and relax together. Grandparents will love spending downtime at the Resort, whether it’s by the pool or participating in fun activities like arts and crafts, roasting marshmallows, or enjoying evening movies under the stars.
Watching the grandkids splash around in the pool or taking part in a craft activity together is a great way to slow down and soak in the magic of Disney outside the Parks.
7. Spoiling Grandkids in Gift Shops
What grandparent doesn’t love spoiling their grandchildren? Walt Disney World is full of gift shops offering everything from plush toys to themed clothing, and grandparents will have a blast letting the kids pick out a special souvenir.
Whether it’s a giant Mickey plush, a pair of Minnie ears, or a fun t-shirt, this is a great opportunity for grandparents to create lasting memories by treating their grandkids to something they’ll treasure long after their Disney vacation is over.
8. Watching Nighttime Spectaculars
Disney’s nighttime shows are truly magical, and there’s something extra special about sharing these moments with family. Grandparents will love watching their grandchildren’s faces light up in wonder during shows like Happily Ever After at Magic Kingdom, Fantasmic! at Disney’s Hollywood Studios or Luminous The Symphony of Us at EPCOT.
These shows combine fireworks, music, and storytelling to create an unforgettable experience that the entire family will remember for years to come.
9. Enjoying Family Meals at Disney Restaurants
Dining together at one of Disney’s many incredible restaurants is a great way for grandparents to bond with their grandkids. Walt Disney World has plenty of family-friendly dining options that are both fun and delicious.
Restaurants like Chef Mickey’s, Whispering Canyon Cafe, and the Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Lodge offer not just great food but also plenty of entertainment. These dining experiences will keep the whole family smiling and laughing while enjoying a delicious meal together.
10. Capturing Magical Family Photos
Lastly, no Walt Disney World vacation is complete without family photos that will last a lifetime. Grandparents will love taking group pictures with their grandkids in front of iconic Disney landmarks like Cinderella Castle or the Tree of Life.
Don’t forget to take advantage of Disney’s Memory Maker, which allows you to capture and download all the professional photos taken by Disney’s photographers throughout your trip. These photos will serve as a beautiful reminder of the magic shared between grandparents and grandchildren at Walt Disney World.
Create Lasting Memories at Walt Disney World
Walt Disney World is more than just a vacation destination—it’s a place where generations can come together and share in the magic. Whether it’s riding classic attractions, indulging in sweet treats, or watching the awe in their grandkids’ eyes during a nighttime spectacular, grandparents will love every moment spent with their grandchildren at Walt Disney World.
So if you’re planning a trip, be sure to soak in these special experiences and make memories that will last forever!
