Activities Outside the Walt Disney World Parks
Shop, dine, and laugh together at Disney Springs—120 acres of family fun.
There’s More to Disney Than the Parks!
Did you know there’s more to Walt Disney World than its famous theme parks? When most people think of Disney World, they picture Cinderella Castle at Magic Kingdom—but this property, which is roughly the size of San Francisco, offers far more than rides and parades. From beautiful resorts to world-class golf courses, there’s something for everyone to enjoy without ever stepping into a park.
Resort Hopping: Explore Without a Park Ticket
Say hello to your favorite characters at Disney’s beautiful resort hotels.
Staying at a Walt Disney World Resort hotel is one of the best choices you can make on your Disney vacation. But here’s something many guests don’t realize—you can visit and explore nearly all Disney resorts without staying there!
This free and fun activity, known as Resort Hopping, allows you to explore multiple Disney resorts using Disney transportation. For example, the monorail resorts—Disney’s Polynesian Village, Disney’s Contemporary, and Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa—are all connected by the iconic monorail loop around Seven Seas Lagoon. Guests can ride the monorail to visit each resort, even if they aren’t staying there!
Transportation options like the Disney Skyliner, Friendship Boats, and Disney buses make it easy to visit different resorts and enjoy dining, shopping, and entertainment experiences. On my most recent trip, I stayed at Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort, which connects to the parks by bus. From there, I took the bus to Disney’s Hollywood Studios, hopped on the Skyliner, and spent the afternoon exploring Caribbean Beach, Riviera, Art of Animation, and Pop Century Resorts—no park ticket required!
Resort hopping is also perfect for dining reservations, since many beloved restaurants—like ‘Ohana and Chef Mickey’s—are located in resorts rather than parks.
Not sure which resort to visit first? Our guide to Disney Resort Hotels will help you find the perfect fit for your family.
Tee Off at Disney’s Golf and Mini Golf Courses
Tee off surrounded by Disney magic on one of the resort’s world-class golf courses.
Not many guests know that Walt Disney World is home to four professional golf courses:
Disney’s Palm Golf Course (9 holes)
Disney’s Magnolia Golf Course (11–18 holes)
Disney’s Lake Buena Vista Golf Course (18 holes)
Disney’s Oak Trail Golf Course (9 holes, walking course)
These beautifully maintained courses are open to the public and can be booked for an additional cost—perfect for golfers looking to add a little sport to their Disney stay.
If you prefer something more whimsical, Disney’s miniature golf courses are perfect for families:
Fantasia Gardens & Fairways Mini Golf, near the Swan and Dolphin Resorts, offers two 18-hole courses—one themed after Fantasia and another modeled after a championship layout.
Winter Summerland Mini Golf, near Blizzard Beach, also features two 18-hole courses with festive themes: the Winter course sparkles with snowy charm, while the Summer course is a tropical holiday twist complete with melted snowmen and palm trees.
Shop, Dine, and Play at Disney Springs
Discover the sparkle of Disney Springs during the holidays.
Covering 120 acres, Disney Springs is a destination all its own. You’ll find world-class shopping at favorites like World of Disney, LEGO, Sephora, and Under Armour, along with incredible dining—from casual bites to five-star restaurants.
There’s also live entertainment, blockbuster movies at the AMC Theater, and family fun around every corner. Sports fans shouldn’t miss the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex, which hosts tournaments and events throughout the year, including the Walt Disney World Marathon Expo.
Hidden Gems and Unique Experiences
Relax and recharge at Senses Spa for a little extra magic between park days.
Walt Disney World is filled with hidden adventures for guests who love to explore beyond the parks. You can try horseback riding, bike rentals, running trails, boat rentals, fishing excursions, or even a private fireworks cruise.
And if relaxation is more your speed, visit Senses Spa, located at Disney’s Grand Floridian and Saratoga Springs Resorts, for a little pampering between park days.
Discover the Magic Beyond the Parks
Explore the charm of Disney’s Fort Wilderness, where adventure and relaxation meet.
There’s so much more to Walt Disney World than attractions and rides. Whether you’re resort hopping, golfing, shopping, or uncovering hidden gems, you’ll find countless ways to make your Disney vacation even more magical.
If you’d like to explore these activities or plan the perfect mix of park time and relaxation, let Castaway Destinations help you design a Disney vacation that fits your family perfectly.
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