Beyond the Parks: Five Easily Overlooked Disney Experiences

When you think Disney, the first thing that comes to your mind is the theme parks. But what people don’t realize is that there is so much more Walt Disney World has to offer than just the four theme parks and two water parks. Check out these fun activities the next time you’re visiting the World.

1 – Movies Under the Stars

There are various different Disney resorts that offer “Movies Under the Stars.” When you check into your hotel, just ask and see if there is a movie schedule for the resort you are staying at. Resorts from Fort Wilderness Campground to Old Key West to the All Star Resorts all offer a movie schedule. Grab your family, your friends, or even your spouse, pick a spot to sit and relax, and enjoy one of Disney’s films either on the beach or along the poolside. It is the perfect nighttime activity to just sit, relax, and spend time with your loved ones.

2 – Miniature Golf

Yes, that’s right, Disney offers mini golf! You can choose from either Fantasia Gardens Miniature Golf or Winter Summerland Miniature Golf for an afternoon activity with your friends or family. It even makes for the perfect date with your spouse!

3 – Sammy Duvall’s Watersports

If you are looking for an adventurous activity, this is the way to go. You can check out parasailing, water skiing, wakeboarding, or even tubing! These sports go out of the Contemporary (and yes, even if you are not staying at the Contemporary, you can check out these activities) and go all along the waters in the Magic Kingdom area. If you choose to go parasailing, you can experience a bird’s eye view of the Magic Kingdom area without even getting wet! If you choose to go a different route, you can either go freestyle on your own personal watercraft or you can take a tour around the waters and gain some knowledge about the World!

4 – Poolside Activities

If you are looking for a relaxing afternoon activity, your resort offers several different poolside activities throughout the entire afternoon. Resorts offer things like trivia, bingo, lawn games, charades, and so much more! These activities can be enjoyed by all ages, so don’t feel discouraged if you are not in a party with little ones!

Have fun at the pool.
Have fun at the pool.

5 – Disney Springs

This, alone, includes a day’s worth of activities. From shopping to dining to DisneyQuest (an indoor, interactive theme park) there is so much to choose from, no matter what your age is. Disney Springs also offers Cirque du Soleil, a bowling alley, and a movie theater! Whether you are looking for the perfect date night or something to do with the kids, Disney Springs is the place to go!

Disney Springs offers a huge array of fun.
Disney Springs offers a huge array of fun.

The next time you are at Walt Disney World, remember, there is so much more they offer than just the theme parks and water parks. Check out one of the activities the resort has to offer, try one of the water sports or miniature golf spots, or even take an entire day and spend it in Disney Springs. Walt Disney World is more than just rides. It is a world of magic.

What is your favorite Disney World activity outside the parks?