Accommodation Options and What to Expect at Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida
For many families visiting Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida is a dream come true. Adults and children both enjoy a variety of activities and amenities at Walt Disney World.
However, in order to enjoy the park, you need to find a place to stay. There are almost as many accommodation options at Walt Disney World. Let’s take a look at what to expect and offer a few tips to help you decide where to stay.
Resort Location
Disney World Resort hotels are located all around the property and are positioned near the individual theme parks. If you plan on spending more of your time at any particular theme park you may decide that it makes sense to stay near that park.
If you’re getting an all parks pass then you can enter and leave the theme park without having to wait in long lines. That means you can head back to your hotel for a swim and a nap before returning to the park for evening activities.
You can find resorts in The Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, Epcot, Downtown Disney and the ESPN Wide World of Sports Area.
Resort Category
Do you have a preference when it comes to accommodations? For example, do you love camping and the lodge experience or do you prefer the feel of a seaside resort?
Disney accommodations are divided into moderate, luxury, and value resort hotels. You can also enjoy villas and a camping experience.
There are family friendly resorts and resorts designed for adults who appreciate luxury and high end accommodations. And of course you can enjoy the best of both worlds at a moderate resort.
What to Expect
At any Disney resort, regardless of the nightly rate you can expect to be treated like a welcomed guest. You can also expect a wide variety of dining options in and around your hotel and transportation options around the park.
Resorts all have pools so bring your swimsuit. Each resort has their own activities and events so check with the hotel staff to find out what is in store for you. Enjoy nightly concerts and family friendly events as well as behind the scenes opportunities.
Each resort can help you plan your stay and provide you with the reservation assistance and ticketing assistance that you and your family need. Disney has a reputation for top quality guest accommodations, they’re committed to making your stay memorable.
Avoiding The Crowds – When Is The Best Times To Go To Disney World?
Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida is a destination for both young and old. In addition to providing something for every age, there’s also something for every interest. If you’re thinking about a trip to this famed amusement park, it’s helpful to know when it’s the best time to go.
Florida Weather
Orlando, Florida is a balmy climate. During the summer months, it can get quite warm and incredibly humid. Temperatures in the 90’s with 80% humidity are common.
If you enjoy this type of weather you’ll likely find the lines are shorter in July and August, the hottest months of the year. However, also be prepared for daily afternoon showers.
If you prefer a more moderate temperature then the fall and spring months can be perfect. The temperature is usually in the 60’s and 70’s and the humidity is manageable.
Winter can be a great time to enjoy warmer weather if you’re from a colder climate, however it can still get cold in Orlando during December and January and you may not be able to wear shorts comfortably.
Crowds
Disney World is a family destination which means it is more crowded during the times when children aren’t in school. So spring and winter break are going to be incredibly busy. The least busy times to go include:
* Late January and early February – Right after the winter holiday break.
* Late April – Right after Spring Break
* Early December – Before winter breaks
* Labor Day until just before the Thanksgiving holiday
Events
Finally, consider taking a look at the events during the month you’re interested in going. For example, the Walt Disney World Marathon is an extremely popular event and the park can get quite crowded. However, if you’re interested in participating then it can be a great time to go.
If you’re interested in flowers and botanical gardens then visiting the park in March through May will allow you to take part in the International Flower & Garden Festival held at Epcot.
And if you’re a foodie then you might prefer to attend the Wine & Dine festival or the Eat to the Beat concert series in the Fall at Epcot. Events can add to the crowds, however they can make the trip more interesting.
While there’s no bad time to visit Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida, there are definitely times that may provide the most interest or value to you. Take a look at your calendar and explore the possibilities.
Behind the Scenes Opportunities at Walt Disney World
Have you ever wondered what goes on behind the scenes at Walt Disney World and the other theme parks? Maybe you’ve heard the rumors about the underground tunnels and wondered if they were true. The folks at Disney are happy to share their background world with you. Just take one of their many behind the scenes tours.
There are literally dozens of opportunities to get an insider view of what makes Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida so spectacular. Let’s take a look at some of the extra special opportunities.
Backstage Magic – This is the big daddy of all of the behind the scenes opportunities. It’s a 7-hour tour that gives you a tour of all four theme parks. The tour includes a look at the inner workings of The American Adventure in Epcot, a trip through the underground tunnels beneath Main Street USA in the Magic Kingdom.
In Disney’s Hollywood Studios you’ll learn how the Imagineers created the frightening Twilight Zone Tower of Terror and see how they create the Jammin’ Jungle Parade at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Reservations are required and lunch is included.
Backstage Safari – Do you love animals and nature? The Backstage Safari takes you through a three hour look at how Disney Cast Members take care of the more than 1,500 inhabitants of Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park.
You’ll get to tour the animal nutrition center, explore the housing area, visit the veterinary hospital and learn how Disney promotes global wildlife conservation and animal well-being.
Disney’s Dolphins in Depth – This adventure is limited to eight people per day. During this three hour tour, you’ll get to meet the dolphins of The Seas with Nemo & Friends Pavilion at Epcot.
After learning about their behavior, you can take a souvenir photo, meet the trainers, and talk with the researchers who work with the dolphins. You’ll also have the opportunity to get into the water and interact with the dolphins and sit in on a training session.
If you’re interested in dolphins or marine life then this is a fantastic opportunity to get up close and personal.
These are just a few of the many unique opportunities to explore the inner workings of Walt Disney World and the Disney Theme Parks. Learn about how the many plants are grown and tended to throughout the park.
Explore the Living Seas in Epcot, or learn about the Park’s many trains and transportation system. Reservations are required for all tours and many include meals or snacks.
Beyond The Rides – Often Overlooked Attractions at Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida
There are so many amazing and wonderful things to do at Walt Disney World. It’s easy to get focused on the big deal rides. If you want to get your vacation’s worth, take a look at the wealth of opportunity beyond the rides.
Behind the Scenes
Walt Disney World offers a few different behind the scenes opportunities. Each park has their own tour to show you what goes on in the engineering, planning, and management of the park.
For example, Wild Africa Trek, is a three-hour, wildlife experience led by experienced wildlife experts. It allows you to explore the inside of Disney’s Animal Kingdom. It also includes an African inspired gourmet meal.
Cruising
You can take a fun cruise that actually combines a behind the scenes experience with a relaxing cruise. Or you can rent a pontoon boat and watch the fireworks, aka Disney Illuminations, from the water. It’s an experience you won’t’ forget.
Sports
Like to play miniature golf? There are several opportunities to enjoy this activity as well as many other sporting adventures. You can go fishing from any of the marinas or hire a private guide and go bass fishing in the lakes of the Walt Disney World Resort.
Learn to surf at Typhoon Lagoon, or get an Indy race car driving lesson at the Walt Disney World Speedway. Rent a bike, go for a hike, or enjoy a morning jog on the trails that wind through the resorts. Finally, you can kick back and relax at the ESPN Zone in the Disney Marketplace.
Shows, Shopping & More
That’s not the end of it. There are opportunities to shop to your heart’s content at the Disney marketplace, The Boardwalk, and Downtown Disney. You can enjoy a Cirque de Soleil show, a movie, or an outdoor movie.
The Fireworks and laser light show are free to enjoy and are particularly fun from a coffee shop. And if you’re looking for a way to capture your memories, you can even attend a scrapbooking workshop to preserve your memories.
And you can find a free concert at night in the resorts and in and around downtown Disney and the marketplace.
There are plenty of things to keep you and your family busy at Walt Disney World. Eat, stroll, and look behind the scenes for opportunities to explore and learn. Make the most of your vacation.
Fine Dining Opportunities at Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida
You can find a great burger and French fries around every corner at Walt Disney World. You can find exceptional ice cream, coffee and sandwiches too.
However, what many people don’t know is that there are a handful of fine dining opportunities that will please any foodie.
Jiko
Jiko is a fine dining restaurant in the Luxury Animal Kingdom Lodge. Jiko means The Cooking Place and it opened in 2001. It seats 235 people and the focal points of the restaurant, and the cause for the amazing aroma that fills the air, are two wood burning stoves. You can watch chefs prepare appetizers in the open show kitchen.
The menu includes a delightful blend of traditional African, Indian and Mediterranean cuisine. All dishes are infused with the bold flavors and spices of the region. The wine list is award-winning and features one of the largest selections of South African wines in North America.
Reservations are recommended and can be made up to 180 days in advance. There is a dress code. Men can wear khakis, slacks, jeans or dress shorts and collared shirts.
Sport coats are optional. Women may wear Capri pants, skirts, dresses, jeans or dress shorts. Tank tops, swimsuits, torn clothing and offensive t-shirts are not welcome or permitted.
Victoria & Albert’s
Victoria & Albert’s is located at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa. It’s a destination restaurant for people inside and out of Disney. This renowned restaurant has consistently been the recipient of the most prestigious award in fine dining, the AAA Five Diamond.
The wine list includes a selection of over 500 wines and they’re continually ranked with ‘Best Award of Excellence’ from Wine Spectator.
The menu is created daily and your two and a half hour dining experience begins when you walk into the magnificent Victorian dining room. There are two nightly seatings that offer a fixed price seven course dinner which can include a wine pairing.
These two restaurants are just the beginning of what’s available for foodies who enjoy fine dining experiences. Check out the California Grill at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, The Coral Reef at The Living Seas in Epcot and a wide variety of ethnic food experiences at Epcot’s World Showcase.
Snacks are abundant and stretch far beyond the traditional French fries or chips. If you love food, Walt Disney World in Orlando Florida can be a fabulous dining adventure.
How to Get Around at Walt Disney World – Transportation Options
There’s only one way to get around Walt Disney World. You have to walk, right? Actually, while walking is a fine way to move through the parks, there are many other modes of transportation.
Monorail – The Monorail runs through the Magic Kingdom and connects the resorts with the park and the ticket and transportation center. It connects the Magic Kingdom theme park, with the contemporary resort, the Grand Floridian Resort & Spa and the Polynesian Resort.
Bus – The Disney Theme Park is most easily traveled by bus. The bus system runs throughout the parks and to each and every resort on the property. They run from one hour before the theme park opens until an hour after it closes.
Busses also run until 2:00 am from the Downtown Disney area. Busses are air conditioned and can be a delightful respite on a hot day.
Boat – You might be surprised to learn that boat is one of the most common means for people to get around in Walt Disney World, the connecting theme parks, and the park’s resorts.
You can take a Ferry Boat from the Magic Kingdom to the ticket center. You can also take a ferry boat from the following resorts to Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios:
* Disney’s Boardwalk Inn and Villas Resort
* Disney’s Beach Club Resort
* Disney’s Yacht Club Resort
* Walt Disney World Swan Hotel
* Walt Disney World Dolphin Hotel
Ferry Boats also go from the following resorts to Downtown Disney:
* Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter
* Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside
* Disney’s Old Key West Resort
* Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort
And a good old fashioned water launch will take people to the Magic Kingdom from:
* Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa
* Disney’s Polynesian Resort
* Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground
* Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
You can also walk, jog, or bicycle from resort to resort on many of the walking paths. All transportation is complimentary for ticket holders and park pass holders.
Bus and boat stops are clearly marked and transportation runs continuously throughout the day. It’s common to need to change busses to reach your desired hotel or theme park.
When you’re at Walt Disney World take the time to enjoy all of the modes of transportation that are available. They’re part of what makes a Disney vacation special and can be a comfortable and interesting way to get from one point to another.
Packing For Your Vacation to Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida
For many, a vacation to Walt Disney World is a dream come true. Children and adults both love the wealth of activities available at the world famed amusement park. As your vacation approaches you may be contemplating what to pack. The following list will help you plan and pack so you can focus on enjoying your vacation.
Seasonal Considerations
Orlando, Florida is a warm and humid climate. That means in most months of the year that shorts are appropriate. In fact, even in the traditionally colder months of December, January, and February you may find the temperatures are moderate enough for shorts and summer clothing.
However, if you are visiting the park during these months then know that it does get colder at night and you’ll likely want pants and a jacket.
During the particularly warmer months of the year, June, July, and August be prepared for heat. It’s normally in the upper 80’s and 90’s with humidity above 80%. You’ll want to pack for the heat including a swimsuit or two so you can take a dip during the heat of the day.
Comfort
In addition to the basic amusement park clothes that you’ll want like shorts and t-shirts, you may also want to pack the following items:
* Comfortable shoes – You’ll do a lot of walking and standing at the park
* Hat – Protect yourself from the sun
* Windbreaker/Sweatshirt – It can be cool in the evenings
* Sunglasses – Protect your eyes from the sun
* Dressier Clothing – Walt Disney World has some fine dining restaurants that require different attire. If you plan on visiting one of these restaurants make sure you have appropriate clothing.
* Swimsuit – Enjoy the many pools and water parks
* Poncho – It tends to rain in the afternoon in Florida during the warmer months. Bring a poncho. The park sells them but they’re quite expensive.
Accessories
* Camera – Record the memories from the trip.
* Autograph book – Do you have children? They’ll want to get autographs from Mickey Mouse. It can be a fun activity for children.
* Water bottle – It’s hot and you can get thirsty quickly. The cost of drinks can add up quickly. If you want to save money, consider bringing a bottle for water.
* Snacks – Easy to carry snacks ensure you don’t bust the budget and you don’t get hungry.
* Chargers – Carry a cell phone or note pad? You’ll want to remember your wall adapter and charger.
* Small first aid kit – Disney has excellent first aid stations but if you can take care of a cut or blister yourself, why not avoid the hassle?
Packing for Disney isn’t tricky. The weather is relatively moderate and accommodations are easily found. If you forget something, chances are you’ll be able to but it at the park. Pack well and you can avoid any unexpected purchases and potential discomfort.
Things for Adults to Do At Walt Disney World
When most people think of Walt Disney World, they generally envision smiling children holding hands with Mickey Mouse. And to be sure, that’s something that millions of children do every year. However, there’s a lot for adults can do at the Magic Kingdom and Walt Disney World Theme Parks.
Eat
Walt Disney World Theme Parks are a food lover’s dream. In addition to being able to eat from a variety of countries at World Showcase, there are a culinary delights throughout the park.
For example, you can eat at the Lodge in Animal Kingdom and enjoy African cuisine or stop by the New Orleans resort for Beignets and a cup of coffee. Five star restaurants, extensive wine lists, and hot dogs in Cinderella’s castle. It’s just one way for adults to enjoy Disney.
Live Music and Entertainment
Downtown Disney is packed with restaurants and night clubs that come alive at night. Enjoy dueling pianos, bands, and live entertainment. You can also enjoy cocktails at a variety of bars and restaurants. Cap it off with the Illuminations Laser Light show and fireworks to make a memorable evening from beginning to end.
Shop
The Disney Marketplace is a collection of stores and boutiques. It’s much more than stores selling Mickey Mouse t-shirts. You can purchase everything from resort wear to jewelry to electronics.
Bath products, personal items, and specialty gifts are also part of the many offerings. The Disney Marketplace also has restaurants and activities.
Spa Luxury
Do you enjoy a good spa treatment? Many of the resorts offer top quality spa treatments including massage, facials, and hair and nail treatments. You can also enjoy many of their fitness centers. There are dozens of spas on the Disney property, here are a few to consider:
* La Vida Health Club – Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort
* Mandara Spa – Walt Disney World Dolphin Hotel
* Muscles & Bustles Health Club – Disney’s Boardwalk Villas
* Olympiad Fitness Center – Disney’s Contemporary Resort
* Senses – A Disney Spa at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort
* Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
Finally, you can run a marathon or half marathon at one of the many weekend races held at Walt Disney World. You can come to watch competitions like the Division One College Championship basketball game.
And if you’re ready to tie the knot the Magic Kingdom is a great place to get married. At Walt Disney World, there’s an abundance of activities to choose from for both children and adults alike.
Tips for Saving Money at Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida
Think Walt Disney World has to be an expensive vacation? Think again. With a few smart tips, tactics, and strategies you can save a bundle and still enjoy a fabulous vacation.
Hotels and Accommodations
Visiting Walt Disney World during the hot months of the year and the colder months can mean smaller crowds. This is when hotels have rooms available and may offer them at a lower rate. Additionally, if you can visit during the week, rather than the weekend you can save money on a nightly rate.
Finally, look to stay off the Disney property to save money. Many top quality hotels surround the theme park and they provide shuttle service to and from the park. You can save a bundle staying off site and have a delightful vacation.
Meals and Dining
Meals and snacks can add up quickly at the theme park. Consider hitting the supermarket before you get to your hotel. Pack a cooler with snacks, fruit, water and even things to drink. You might look for a hotel that offers a free breakfast to save money on eating out.
And consider checking out the Disney Dining Plan. It’s a fixed price meal plan that’s available for all resort guests. You purchase a package of meal tickets. Each ticket is good for one meal at a Disney restaurant. Menu price doesn’t matter and Disney representatives say that the plan can save you up to 30% of your dining expenses.
Travel, Tickets, and Extras
There are any number of opportunities to spend money at Walt Disney World. You can stock up on souvenirs. Bring a camera and set aside enough for one souvenir per person. Set a price limit so you stick to your budget.
You can spend money on extra ticket items like a night at the movies at the Disney village. Budget the extras and enjoy the myriad of free Disney activities like the nightly fireworks.
You can save money by purchasing a multi-day pass which allows you to get into all of the parks on one pass. Skip the car rental too. In addition to offsite hotels offering free shuttles to the park, many hotels will pick you up at the airport for free.
Walt Disney World doesn’t have to break the bank. In fact, you can enjoy a fabulous vacation for much less than you think. Plan ahead, set a budget, and take advantage of the money saving opportunities available to you.
Walt Disney World Special Events – Plan Your Vacation Around these Amazing Opportunities
There’s so much to do and so many places to explore at Walt Disney World in Orlando Florida that you might not think you have time for anything else that if you plan your vacation around some of the special event you be treated to unique Disney experience
The Holiday Season
The holidays offer a special opportunity for Walt Disney World events. You can participate in the holiday tradition candlelight celebration. It’s an event that held nightly at the American Gardens Theater in Epcot.
You get to hear the story of Christmas told by celebrity narrator accompanies by a 50 piece orchestra and a mass choir. It’s something to be remembered.
The Christmas holiday season also brings Festival of the Seasons to downtown Disney. This holiday is geared specifically towards the children with live entertainment and photo opportunities with Santa. There’s lights, a twinkling tree and special events.
St. Patrick’s Day and Halloween are two other special events that Disney does well. Mickey’s not so scary Halloween Party is held at the Magic Kingdom. Kids can dress up in their favorite costume and go trick-or-treating throughout the Magic Kingdom Park.
Sporting Events
Sporting events also provide an opportunity for a special Disney experience. The Car Masters Weekend at downtown Disney is a Father’s Day weekend celebration. Events are dedicated to all things automotive, including Disney Pixar Cars, a car show with 150 vehicles, and an awards parade and ceremony.
If cars aren’t your thing, perhaps you prefer men’s basketball. The Old Spice Classic Division I Men’s Basketball Tournament is held at the Disney’s ESPN Worldwide of Sports Complex. It’s a 12 game early-season Division I college tournament that takes place over the Thanksgiving weekend.
Finally, let’s not forget the many marathons that are held on the Disney property throughout the year. The Wine and Dine Half Marathon weekend allows runners to race through three theme parks and enjoy a private after hours party at Epcot.
There is also the half marathon, a 5K and kid’s races to enjoy at this event. It’s held in early November.
You can also enjoy the Disney Princess half marathon weekend and the Walt Disney World Marathon weekend presented by CIGNA. The Walt Disney Marathon weekend is actually a winter special event that runs from January 2 to January 14. They’re a series of races that people can participate in.
Food, Wine and HGTV
The International Food and Wine Festival is held in the Epcot theme park between September 27 and November 11. It’s a food and wine lover’s paradise that includes entertainment international food and beverage marketplace and dining extremes of a celebrity chefs.
And let’s not forget the HGTV International Flower and Garden Festival that is held at the Epcot theme park. It features topiary display and an HGTV designer stage.
Walt Disney World has an abundance of festivals and celebrations. Find the one that interests you and schedule your vacation around that holiday or festival. Make the most of what Disney has to offer.
