We’ve taken many a trip to Disney World with our family, but we recently went for the first time without our kids to celebrate our 18th anniversary. Five nights in Walt Disney World. Just the two of us. No children. And you know what? It was SPECTACULAR! We found that there was just as much to enjoy as a couple and plenty to do at Disney for adults.
There’s a reason after all, that Disney World is continuously ranked in the Top 10 for Honeymoon destinations every year. Of course, it would be the perfect place for an anniversary or any kind of grown up getaway. We had so much fun in fact that we thought we’d pass along a bit of our best tips and ideas for an adults only vacation at Disney World to hopefully inspire you to make the most of the Disney magic sans kids yourself.
Disclosure –As the travel industry reopens following COVID-19 shutdowns, Mom Abroad suggests that you talk to your doctor, follow health officials’ guidance and research local travel restrictions before booking your next trip. We will be here to help you prepare, whether it is next month or next year. As with all Mom Abroad articles we’ve striven to be as comprehensive and current as possible, but the situation is evolving and may change from the time this article is published. Please refer to the official Walt Disney World website for the most up-to-date information on changes and health and safety requirements.
Any and all opinions expressed are that of Mom Abroad. No compensation was received for this post. However please note that some of the links in this post are affiliate links. Meaning, at no additional cost to you, I will earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase using the link.
1. MAKE IT ALL ABOUT YOU
Everything about a Disney vacation is centered around our kids, right? How you’ll get there, where you’ll stay. Which park you’ll visit in which order, and how long you’ll stay at each. Make this trip all about YOU. What do you want to do? Eat? See? Ride? Get your photo taken? Do whatever blows your pixie-dusted hair back and indulge in some things you never would with your kids in tow. If you’d rather ride Jungle Cruise than Rock and Roller Coaster and much prefer character dining to non, don’t overthink it for a second.
2. VISIT WHILE THE KIDS ARE IN SCHOOL
The best times to visit Disney World for an adults-only trip are when schools are in session. All of September, late October through early November, late April, and early May (up to just before Memorial Day weekend) are all great times to go if you want fewer crowds and less kids around. January and February are also a decent time to visit, particularly due to cooler weather. Just be sure to double check when popular fall breaks, winter breaks, and spring breaks occur, and other huge Disney events such as cheer competitions.
3. STAY ON PROPERTY
Now that you know when to go, let’s discuss where you should stay for your adults-only trip to Disney World. We recommend picking a property on site at Disney World. There are distinct advantages to staying at an on-site Disney resort, and they’re available in a variety of price ranges. Benefits include Extra Magic Hours – additional hours that the parks are open only to Disney hotel guests – and the ability to open your hotel room and pay for dining and merchandise with your magic band bracelet.
4. SPLURGE ON A LUXURY RESORT
I know when it comes to our kids they don’t care whether we stay in a five star resort or modest motel so as long as there is a pool. But keep in mind that for an adults-only Disney trip you might want to indulge in more upscale and quieter surroundings. Especially if you plan to spend a more significant amount of time at your resort than you would on a go-go-go visit with your kids.
If you’re looking for a budget option, we recommend Pop Century Resort. While the value resorts are more popular with families that have kids, this resort is a bit nicer than the other value resorts. Plus, the retro theme is fun and nostalgic for adults.
If your budget is more ample we would opt for either a Moderate category resort like Port Orleans. Both Riverside, and French Quarter are dripping with detail, and romance. For the ultimate in adult-friendly Disney accommodations go for the Grand Floridian, a Victorian-era themed resort with a full spa and several signature dining restaurants.
For a more laid-back yet still posh feel, we love The Polynesian Village Resort. Home to a recently renovated pool, new bar, beach area, and over-the-water villas, this tropical resort not only has great views of the Magic Kingdom there’s even a Polynesian luau show, complete with a delicious dinner with drinks included.
5. EMBRACE YOUR INNER CHILD
Doing Disney World without your kids doesn’t mean you can’t embrace your inner child. Go ahead and hop on a Magic Carpet, take a turn on Triceratops Spin or pop on over to Peter’s Pan’s flight. While not every ride in Disney World is going to knock your socks off, you should never skip a ride you think is just for children. Disney World is a place for kids and kids at heart and truth is, this might be your best chance to savor the scenery and storytelling like never before.
While you’re at it go ahead and dance to music while you wait in line, wave to the character’s with abandon, eat something ridiculous and sugary and just generally give yourself permission to dream big, be silly and have fun.
6. INDULGE IN AN ADULT BEVERAGE
Yes, you can imbibe when you’re visiting Disney with your kids. You might feel you need to (no judgement from us) but visiting Disney without kids offers you a guilt-free opportunity to enjoy a cocktail. Or two.
Disney prides itself on theming, and every bar and restaurant has a specialty drink selection. If you want to sample several then try a flight filled with smaller-sized beverages of your choice.
At Magic Kingdom you can only find adult drinks at Be Our Guest and Gaston’s Tavern but the other three theme parks offer plenty of choices. Among our favorites are the sweet and fruity Rum Blossom at Pongu Pongu Café and the King’s Cooler at Tamu Tamu refreshments inside Animal Kingdom.
At Hollywood Studios you won’t want to miss Oga’s Cantina. This Star Wars themed bar serves up other-worldly libations in vibrant colors and flavors. Don’t miss the spicy Bloody Rancor, the Outer Rim, the Jedi Mind Trick, or the Fuzzy Tauntaun which comes topped with a “buzz” foam that makes your lips and tongue tingle.
Epcot features so many great adult drinks that we’ll get to more about it in a bit but a stand out we love is the La Cava del Tequila bar tucked away inside the Mexico Pavilion. This small saloon serves the best Margaritas on property. Outside the parks our favorite Walt Disney World bar is Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto at The Polynesian Village Resort. This popular tiki-themed watering hole is actually adults-only after 8 PM. Sit out in the open air or inside the lounge, sip spiked Dole Whips and keep your eyes peeled for eye-popping surprises whenever certain drinks are served. We also really enjoy Jock Lindsay’s Hangar Bar at Disney Springs, for it’s well crafted drinks, and perfect execution of Indiana Jones themed detailing.
7. DRINKING AROUND THE WORLD
Drinking Around the World is probably the most quintessential activity at Disney World for adults. The full challenge of Drinking Around the World is to have one alcoholic beverage (beer, wine, mixed drink, etc.) at each of the eleven countries in Epcot’s World Showcase. Clearly, this is an activity that you must engage in responsibly! If you already recognize that this is too much for you, pick a handful of countries that you want to highlight for your own Drinking Around the World adventure or split a drink and share. Alternatively, you could make it a point to buy a snack or dessert in each country or one of the many non-alcoholic beverages. Check our complete guide to the All the Best Snacks at Epcot World Showcase which includes many of our top picks for drinks.
Regardless of if you plan to drink around the world or snack around the world, you should set aside a day to explore the World Showcase. Each pavilion is full of delicious treats, fabulous drinks, unique cultural experiences, and more!
8. MONORAIL BAR CRAWL
Another unofficial, though widely worn, trip through the drinking world of Disney is the Monorail Bar Crawl. Disney’s monorail system is a fast and easy way to travel from the theme parks to three on-site hotels: The Grand Floridian Resort and Spa, the Polynesian and the Contemporary Resort.
It’s also a fantastic way to enjoy some drinks along with live music and beautiful scenery. Simply board the monorail, and then hop off again at each resort stop to grab a beverage or a bite to eat at one of the hotel’s bars or lounges. Some of the resorts have several. Each with it’s own theme, signature drinks and appetizers.
This excursion is especially easy if you are staying at one of the resorts on the Monorail line but otherwise you can take a bus to Disney’s other properties or grab an Uber back to your resort.
9. REALLY RELAX
A Walt Disney World vacation doesn’t have to be a hectic rush of activity and long lines. For adults, it can also be an opportunity to really relax and unwind. Spend some time at you’re your hotel pool, laze around in one the chairs on the beach while reading a book or take an extra-long bubble bath. Even within the parks, find a peaceful spot like the courtyards in Morocco or the gardens in Japan at Epcot and just sit and savor the atmosphere.
10. GET PAMPERED BY THE PROS
Take our recommendation to relax to the next level with a visit to one of Disney’s three full-service spas. Located at the Walt Disney World Dolphin, the Grand Floridian, and Saratoga Springs Resort. Treatments include facials, massages (including couples’ massages!), body wraps, manicures, and pedicures. From fitness facilities to saunas and salons you’re sure to leave revitalized and ready for more fun to come.
11. TAKE A WALK
The Walt Disney World Resort is home to miles of well-maintained walkways making it a perfect spot to take a stroll. Walk along the sandy beaches of Bay Lake or wander around World Showcase. Don’t be afraid to go explore the ample paths and walkways. Sunset is an especially beautiful time to stroll in Florida.
12. TAKE A BOAT RIDE
Another way to appreciate the beauty of Disney World is to take a boat ride across the Seven Seas Lagoon. You can charter a boat or hop on one of Disney’s free modes of transportation whether it’s the Ferry to Magic Kingdom, one of the resorts or the Friendship Boats at Epcot.
13. DON’T SPEND YOUR ENTIRE DAY AT THE PARKS
You don’t need to spend all day in a park to make sure you’re getting your money’s worth! Sleep in, spend your morning by the pool and arrive at the parks after lunch or get there early and head back to your resort for an afternoon nap before hitting up Disney Springs in the evening for dinner and drinks.
14. USE THE MY DISNEY EXPERIENCE APP TO ENHANCE YOUR VISIT
Make the most out of your Adults-Only get away with Disney’s My Disney Experience App. Your dashboard to all things related to your getaway. You can skip the front desk at your resort by checking in online using the app and even unlock your resort room door. While at the parks you can use the app to mobile order food, check in for table service restaurants, navigate the parks and see attraction wait times. You can also use the app to make dining reservations and to view and download PhotoPass images –more on that in a bit!
15. PLAN YOUR TRIP AROUND SOMETHING SPECIAL
Not only is Walt Disney World a great place to visit on any ole ordinary grown-up getaway, it’s an especially fun place for a celebration! Consider planning your adults only Disney trip around a special event whether it’s an anniversary like we did, a birthday, or an achievement. Be sure to let Disney know exactly what it is that you are celebrating when you make reservations. This is easiest to do over the phone, but you can also tell the Cast members when you arrive that you are celebrating. Extra magic is not guaranteed but we’ve experienced it ourselves and can attest that it is awesome!
16. ASK FOR A CELEBRATORY BUTTON
Another way to “advertise” what you are celebrating is with a free Disney button. So if there is anything you happen to be celebrating…even if that’s just your “First Visit” to Disney without your kids be sure to stop by Guest Services and get yourself a celebration button. These pins have gotten us everything from friendly well-wishes to free desserts. Plus, you can bring it home and keep at as a memento to remember your special kid-free Disney vacation for years to come.
17. PRACTICE YOUR PHOTOGRAPHY
Disney World is a photographer’s paradise! On a Walt Disney World vacation without kids, there is a freedom to slow down and capture your surroundings on camera. Whether you pursue photography as a hobby or just snap some pics with your smartphone it’s a great opportunity to practice your skills on the dreamscapes of the Walt Disney World Resort.
18. GET IN THE PICS YOURSELF –EARLY
A grown-up getaway to Disney World is also a chance for you to get out from behind that camera and take center stage yourself. Make use of Disney PhotoPass photographers to capture some memories of your trip to Disney World without kids. The photographers get into a groove in mid-morning, which means you’ll get the same poses all afternoon long. If you start early, the Cast Members are still adventurous and better yet you’ll still be fresh-faced and looking fabulous. If you opt for one of the Disney PhotoPass packages, your images will be available for download mere moments later and ready for you to share all your kid-free fun!
19. INDULGE YOUR INNER SUPER FAN
Again, this all about tapping into your inner child. How many of us have a favorite Disney film or character? An adult Walt Disney World vacation is a chance to indulge in some shameless fandom. With Marvel and Star Wars now under the Disney Umbrella there’s even more to geek out about. Galaxy’s Edge in particular is a Star Wars fan’s paradise. The entire land is filled with Easter eggs and interactive activities. (Check out our Ultimate Guide to Everything Star Wars at Disney Hollywood Studios).
20. ENJOY THE WILDLIFE
Walt Disney World is a dream destination for those of us with a soft spot for animals. But even kids who are keen on animals too tend to have short attention spans. As an adult, enjoy the luxury of some unhurried animal watching, especially at Animal Kingdom. Meander through the Maharajah Jungle Trek and Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail or go on Kilimanjaro Safari more than once. No two safaris are exactly the same.
21. ENJOY THE “BORING” ATTRACTIONS
Maybe you’ve always wanted to slow it down and enjoy the Hall of Presidents or Carousel of Progress, but your kids can’t be trusted to sit quietly through the entire 20-minute show. Or perhaps you’ve always wanted to stroll through the cultural exhibits and 360 degree movies in Epcot’s World Showcase, such as Reflections of China.
Or maybe you just want to take a slow ride around Tom Sawyer Island on the Liberty Belle steamboat. Kids can enjoy these attractions, but they are definitely geared more toward teenagers and adults. Being kid-free at Disney means you’re able to check out these attractions that little ones might deem too “boring.”
22. DISNEY BOUND TOGETHER
Only kids under 14 can wear full-fledged costumes to Disney but that doesn’t mean that adults miss out on the fashionable fun here. “Disneybounding” is a subtler way to cosplay by using everyday clothing inspired by Disney Characters. For our adults-only anniversary getaway we had fun focusing on some Disney Duos like Minnie and Mickey and wearing items from the Disney Dress Shop vintage inspired line.
23. EXPERIENCE ONE OF EPCOT’S FESTIVALS
Epcot plays host to amazing festivals throughout the year, including the Festival of the Arts in the early part of the year, Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival in the Spring and early Summer, Epcot International Food & Wine Festival in the fall, and the International Festival for the Holidays to round out the year.
While each of these festivals is special in its own way, all of the festivals feature outdoor booths with small plates tasting menus and exclusive beverages. There are various forms of entertainment — including concert line-ups, culinary demonstrations, seminars and even scavenger hunts. If you are visiting during one of the festival periods –and we definitely think you should – leave yourself plenty of time for a slow wander “around the world” to savor all the special food and entertainment they have to offer.
24. HAVE LUNCH AT A LOUNGE
Disney offers a ton of great counter service options for your mid-day meal but for a kid-free trip to Disney we recommended having lunch at a lounge. These laidback locations don’t take reservations, but they do feature a full range of drinks paired with pretty hearty appetizers and small plates. The Nomad Lounge at Animal Kingdom offers inventive cocktails like Tempting Tigress or Snow Leopard Salvation. Over at Hollywood Studios you can grab an ice-cold beer at Base Line Tap House paired perfectly with a giant Bavarian pretzel or people watch while dining from the patio at the Brown Derby Lounge on their famous Cobb Salad and mini-Margarita flight. For a quick bite to eat at Epcot, head to Tutto Gusto Wine Cellar for a charcuterie plate and glass of wine. Your taste buds will thank you!
25. SORCERERS OF THE MAGIC KINGDOM
Looking for something to do for adults at Magic Kingdom? How about an interactive scavenger hunt? It’s free to play with park at admission. You simply sign up for a quest at the Main Street Firehouse. Disney Cast members will give you a map of the game play area that will help you navigate through the park while playing. Each “sorcerer” is also given a pack of 5 spell cards and a portal key card that will serve as your master key to the game. Cast Members will walk you through the easy process and give you instructions on how to use your cards. Each mission takes 20 to 30 minutes, sometimes longer depending on the degree of difficulty. This is a wonderful way to explore new areas of the Magic Kingdom and discover special surprises along the way.
26. TRAVEL LIGHT
This is your chance to be unburdened by a diaper bag, half a dozen water bottles or that giant plush Pluto that junior just had to bring with to the parks. So, shuck your Sherpa status and stick to the basics like wallet, keys, poncho, mobile charger and travel size sunscreen. Fanny packs are your friend, and with no kids around to tell you they aren’t cool (they are making a solid comeback!) you can carry everything you need for the day around your waist. I’m also a big fan of dresses with pockets!
27. ATTEND A SPECIAL EVENT
Disney is always offering special events! If you’re visiting during one of the holidays check out Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party (select dates between mid-August and October 31) or Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party (select dates between early November until just before Christmas). These events often take place in the evenings once the park has closed to daily visitors.
If you’re looking for less crowds, consider an afterhours event like Villains After Dark or Magic Mornings at Magic Kingdom. Another very adult option when it comes to special events are the many runDisney events hosted in the parks and on property throughout the year. With entertainment, beloved characters, and Disney magic at every mile, runDisney races are memorable experiences for runners of every skill level. They’re also the only opportunity for runners and Disney fans alike to run through the Walt Disney World Resort, with the Walt Disney World Marathon taking runners through all four theme parks! Keep in mind that events like the Disney Princess Half Marathon and Star Wars Rival Run are very popular and fill up quickly.
28. DON’T MISS THE BOARD WALK
Make some time to see Disney’s Boardwalk. Whether you go during the day for a break from the park or in the evening to enjoy the nightlife, there is plenty to do and see in this underrated area. Themed like a turn of the century, seaside boardwalk you’ll find shopping and street performers along with an assortment of restaurants such as Trattoria al Forno an excellent choice for a character breakfast and Flying Fish, ideal for a seafood dinner. The Boardwalk comes to life at night with the Atlantic Dance Hall, a nightclub that plays music from the 80s, 90s, and today. Jellyrolls is a 21 and over only dueling piano bar known for its quirky performers and audience sing alongs.
Don’t miss AbracadaBar a magician-themed lounge serving signature cocktails and other assorted alcoholic beverages that will have you under it’s spell.
29. SLEEP IN AND LINGER LATE
Everybody says the best advice is to get to the park early. Those people weren’t visiting Disney without kids. Go ahead and sleep in. Have brunch at your hotel or better yet, order room service. Hit the hotel pool, watch a little T.V., take your time to connect. Then when families head back for the all-important mid-day nap you’ll be fresh and ready to ride until the parks close down.
Know that attractions don’t actually shut down at the exact moment the park closes. It’s only the lines to attractions that stop admitting guests at the time the park closes. This means that if you are in line for a ride at the time that the park officially closes, in most cases, you get to stay in line and finish that ride. Stores also remain open up to an hour after park closing most nights.
30. PLAY DISNEY PARKS
You can turn wait time into play time with the “Play Disney Parks” mobile phone app. The app offers a range of activities including themed games, Disney trivia, digital achievements music and more. The locations for the achievements and the games are indicated on stylish maps of each of the parks that are included in the Play Disney Parks app. For example, you can design your own rocket ship while waiting in line for Space Mountain or make Tinkerbelle magically appear in a lantern in the que for Peter Pan’s Flight. Play Disney Parks is available for free to download from the App Store and Google Play for both Apple iOS and Android platforms.
31. MAKE ADVANCE DINING RESERVATIONS
One thing that’s become increasingly difficult at Disney is spontaneity. Especially when it comes to their more upscale eateries. To snag a table at one of the popular sit-down restaurants you will need to plan ahead. Reservations can be made up to 60 days in advance and you can cancel those reservations up until 24 hours before your seating. After the 24 hour mark any changes will be billed a $10 per person cancelation fee. Visit or use the mobile My Disney Experience app to make dining reservations.
32. SATISFY YOUR SWEET TOOTH
Calories don’t count on vacation, especially when there are no little ones around to set a good example for. So, go ahead and indulge in some of the delicious treats that Disney World has to offer. Whether it’s an iconic Dole Whip or a gourmet churro there is no shortage of delectable desserts to choose from.
33. HAVE BACK UP BATTERIES OR POWER BANKS
Between using the Disneyland app to check wait times and mobile order, taking pictures and posting about your fabulous kid-free Disney trip on social media you will burn through your phone’s battery faster than usual. Having a portable power bank on hand will come in handy for a recharge! You should also consider bringing a back-up battery for your camera.
34. TRY THE HIGHWAY IN THE SKY DINE AROUND
Another culinary experience offered on property that will knock your socks off is the Highway in the Sky Dine Around. Providing five courses across three different Disney resort destinations, this classy dinner crawl combines the incredible views from the Monorail paired with savory and sweet dishes and world-class cocktails.
The progressive dining adventures kicks off with appetizers and drinks at the Polynesian, followed by the main course at the Grand Floridian, and concluding with an assortment of desserts, cordials, and coffee at the Contemporary. This exclusive experience is limited to 25 people and is only available Monday through Thursday so you definitely need to book well in advance.
35. SPRINGE FOR SPECIAL SOUVENIRS
Disney gives you ample opportunity to bring home a bit of the magic. We highly recommend having a one-of-a-kind silhouette or caricature made by one of Disney’s incredibly talented artists.
You’ll also want to remember to bring a little something home for your kiddos to lessen the blow that you visited Disney World without them.
36. TRADE PINS
Pin Trading is another super fun way to take a little Disneyana home with you. These small enamel pins come in hundreds of different styles and can be purchased all over Disney properties. But buying them is only half the fun! The real joy is in trading them for a worthy swap. You can find a board of available pins behind the counter at several stores. Just remember than only Disney pins can be traded and every trade is a pin for pin exchange.
37. EAT DINNER AT A SIGNATURE RESTAURANT
No chicken nuggets on this trip! Not when Disney is home to so many killer dining options for dinner and not when you can enjoy them kid-free! We recommend splurging on one of the fifteen 15 Signature restaurants across the Walt Disney World property including in the parks, resorts, and shopping areas. At Disney Springs alone, you can enjoy cuisine from SIX James Beard award-winning chefs.
If you are looking for exotic flavors and exquisite service try Jiko – The Cooking Place, at Animal Kingdom Lodge. Or plan a romantic French affair in the intimate Monsieur Paul in Epcot. If you’re in the mood for a juicy steak, you’ll also find Le Cellier in Epcot’s World Showcase at the Canada Pavilion.
Be Our Guest is our top pick for the best restaurant in Magic Kingdom for adults. This sit-down restaurant is set inside the Beast’s castle, complete with a fancy menu reminiscent of the Be Our Guest musical scene in Disney’s Beauty & the Beast. And yes, you should try the Grey Stuff and it really is delicious. Hands down, the best restaurant for adults at Animal Kingdom is Tiffin’s. The inventive menu at Tiffin’s features global-inspired fare with a focus on sustainable dishes and cocktails from around the world. At Hollywood Studio’s you’ll want to head to the Brown Derby for their signature Cobb Salad.
For incredible views and a huge fine wine selection opt for the California Grill located in Disney’s Contemporary Resort. If you time your reservation just right, you can view the “Happily Ever After” fireworks show at Magic Kingdom right from your table!
Ultra-foodies can even splurge on the ultimate Disney dinner date at the AAA Five-Diamond rated Victoria and Albert’s at the Grand Floridian resort! Arguably the best and most romantic restaurant on the property, Victoria and Albert’s features a prix fixe menu experience starting at $185 per person. The dining experience is only available to guests ages 10 and up so it’s certainly geared towards adults. And with only 14 tables reservations can be hard to nab. Keep in mind too that this restaurant, has a dress code, so you’ll need a jacket and tie for the men and either a dress or pant suit for the ladies.
38. BRAVE THE THRILLS RIDES
An adults-only Disney trip means never having to worry about anyone being tall enough to ride, but it still takes a bit of courage to reach the peaks of Walt Disney World Resort’s most thrilling and innovative attractions. Climb to the height of excitement on Expedition Everest, take a breathtaking 3D voyage on Avatar Flight of Passage, and experience intergalactic awe on new Star Wars themed Rise of the Resistance. This is your chance to go all-in on Rock ‘n’ Rollercoaster Starring Aerosmith, or experience the drops of The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror without having to do a rider switch or skip the attraction entirely because your little one is too short or too scared.
39. RIDE SOLO
To minimize your wait times time for these top billing attractions, use the Single Rider lines when available. Since most people ride in groups of two or more, if there is an extra spot available the attendants will ask for a single rider to fill up the seats from an uneven party. The single rider lines are always shorter and move faster than the regular queue.
40. APPRECIATE THE DETAILS
Each Disney World attraction, restaurant and resort has an extensive back story you might have missed during a Disney World family vacation. Take time to notice details like the names in the windows of the shops on Main Street or the intricate mosaics and carvings in the castle and the Tree of Life. Pay attention to the sounds and sights all around you.
Being able to appreciate these details are a luxury of traveling to Disney without kids. When we visit with our kids we are often looking to keep moving and occupied and end up jumping from attraction to attraction. You realize when you visit Disney World without kids just how much of the experience you overlooked in the hustle and bustle. Take in the details this time, and don’t be afraid to be still. You never know what may become your new favorite aspect of the parks.
41. LOOK FOR HIDDEN MICKEYS
This goes along with looking at the details and is such a fun thing to notice! Disney imagineers and artists will oftentimes stamp their work with a Mickey silhouette. These hidden Mickeys can be found throughout the entire Disney World Resort – in attraction queues, inside attractions, on store signs and more. It is fun to see how many hidden Mickeys you can find.
42. RAMP UP THE ROMANCE
There are tons of opportunities for romance at Disney World. Especially among the restaurants whether it’s sharing a plate of Spaghetti like Lady and the Tramp at Tony’s on Town Square or watching the moonlight shine on Bay Lake from Narcoossee’s, every couple can find something that provides that special “magic” atmosphere.
But the romance doesn’t stop at dinner dates. Consider a horse-drawn carriage ride around Port Orleans Riverside resort, book a private fireworks cruise, or simply snuggle together on Spaceship Earth then take a walk hand-in-hand around World Showcase. A Walt Disney World vacation is a terrific opportunity to reconnect as a couple and have some fun together.
43. TAKE A TOUR
Get an inside peek at what makes Disney so magical with a special behind the scenes tour! From crossing crocodile-ridden waters on Wild Africa Trek at Animal Kingdom to going into the famous Utilidor “tunnels” underneath Magic Kingdom on the Keys to the Kingdom, there’s sure to be a tour that suits your interests! Most of Disney’s tours only allow participants ages 16 and older, to preserve the magic for younger guests. This makes them a perfect activity for an adults-only Disney trip.
Epcot in particular has an awesome variety of tours. Try Behind the Seeds at the Land Pavillion, The unDISCOVERed Future World, World Showcase: DestiNations Discovered or even go Scuba diving in the Living Seas.
If your budget allows then indulge in your very own V.I.P. tour experience. Explore the parks with your own VIP Tour Guide during a customizable experience filled with attractive benefits such as pre-arrival planning, front of the line access and insight about the parks from your highly knowledgeable VIP Tour Guide.
44. SEE THE SHOWS
It’s easy to focus all your attention on attractions and food that you miss out on Disney’s superlative shows. Not only are the live shows extremely well done they will give you a chance to get off your feet and relax. Even the smaller shows can be well worth your time. Especially the entertainment along Main Street USA. You can catch the lovely trolley show, or the very talented Dapper Dan’s modeled after a traditional Barbershop Quartet.
Find the schedule for shows on the My Disney Experience App, or on the marquees and signage boards throughout the parks.
45. CHECK OUT PANDORA AT NIGHT
Being a grown up means you get to stay up late. So it’s no surprise that at least one of our tips for an adults only Disney trip involves checking out the parks after dark. If you’re visiting Animal Kingdom on a day where it’s open late make sure to check out the glowing bio-luminescent land of Pandora. It’s spectacular by day, of course but on another whole level at night! Even the ground glows!
46. USE DISNEY TRANSPORTATION
Another benefit to staying on Disney Property is being able to use the extensive free transportation system. From buses, boats, the Monorail and even the new gondola “Skyliner” you’ll have lots of choices for getting around. Plus, this makes it easy to indulge in adult drinks responsibly.
47. DON’T MISS DISNEY SPRINGS
Outside of the parks there is plenty for adults to do too. Disney Springs is a shopping, restaurant, and entertainment complex on Walt Disney World property that you won’t want to miss.
The walkable promenade is broken up into four “neighborhoods,” each full of boutique shops, and popular chain stores featuring everything from apparel, accessories, and cosmetics to snacks and sweets. You’ll find, a movie theater, a bowling alley, a virtual reality experience, live music and more. There’s even a giant hot air balloon you can ride! More on that in a bit.
After dark, you can kick the night into high gear with themed restaurants, bars and nightlife from all over the world. We recommend Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar or Wine Bar George for drinks followed by The Boat House for dinner. Really though there are so many phenomenal choices for dining and entertainment from the Irish dancers at Raglan Road to the gravity defying acrobatics of Cirque du Soleil. Parking and admission to Disney Springs are free but you will want to make restaurant reservations in advance. While the complex is open to all ages, it is a decidedly adult destination within the Disney World realm.
48. RIDE IN AN AMPHICAR
The Boathouse at Disney Springs is home to one of the single coolest modes of transport ever created: the Amphicar. Besides being cool 1960’s convertibles these cars can actually drive into the water! Eight Amphicars are available for half-hour tours every day from 10am to 10pm, weather permitting, on a walk-up basis. Up to four people can share the private tour which runs $125 per car but you can receive $25 off your Amphicar tour if you eat lunch at The Boathouse and present your receipt of $50 or more.
49. AEROPHILE BALLOON
The Aerophile Balloon at Disney Springs is another one of those unique “bucket list” items perfect for an adults-only Disney trip. You will gently float 400 feet in the air over the Disney Springs area of the park, in the world’s largest tethered helium balloon. The peaceful yet exhilarating 10-minute experience is a relatively reasonable $20 per adult.
Maximum capacity is affected by wind speeds. The balloon will not fly if winds exceed 28 mph in the air, 18 mph on the ground or if there is a storm or lightning in the area. While flying guests will be treated to spectacular 360-degree views of up to 20 miles away. Views can vary depend on weather conditions at time of flight.
50. SPORTS AND RECREATION
Disney World offers four world class PGA-level golf courses and two miniature golf courses; Winter Summerland and Fantasia Gardens. From golf instruction to golf getaway packages, there’s a reason Disney Golf has been dubbed “The Happiest Place on Turf.” Disney’s waterways also offer myriad opportunities for boating, fishing, and watersports. Many Disney resorts also offer special activities like volleyball, basketball, tennis, and of course, swimming! Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon even offers surfing lessons in its enormous wave pool. Sports enthusiasts should also check out the ESPN Wide World of Sports complex or the NBA Experience at Disney Springs.
I hope we’ve convinced you to try at least a few days without kids at Disney World. It really is a totally different and yet completely awesome experience!
Want to read more about Disney parks around the world? Check out Mom Abroad’s other Disney guides…
What It’s Really Like to Visit Disney World During the Pandemic
The Ultimate Guide to Everything Star Wars at Disney Hollywood Studios
All the Best Snacks at Epcot World Showcase
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