Outside the Parks

There’s so much to do at Disney World outside of the theme parks! Here are just a few ways to enjoy magical experiences:

Disney Springs

Disney Springs allows guests to enjoy shopping, dining, and entertainment. With more than 100 shops and over 60 restaurants as well as a movie theater, bowling alley, and Cirque de Soleil, there is plenty to keep you busy.

Restaurants include table-service restaurants like The Boathouse, Chef Art Smith’s Homestead, House of Blues, Morimoto Asia, Paddlefish, and T-REX. Guests can also enjoy quick-service restaurants like the Polite Pig, D-Luxe Burger, and Earl of Sandwich. CityWorks has great food along with lots of screens for watching sports. My favorites are The Boathouse and CityWorks!

Top shopping spots include Disney favorites like World of Disney, Art of Disney, Disney’s Days of Christmas, and Disney Style. Anthropologie, Free People, Johnny Was, Kate Spade New York, the LEGO Store, M&M’s, and the NBA Store are other popular choices.

Golf and Miniature Golf

Winterland Summerland Miniature Golf was designed by Santa himself! After landing in Florida, Santa’s elves built a sand course called Summerland and a snow course called Winterland. This is definitely the easier of the two courses and is a great choice for children. Fantasia Gardens and Fairways Miniature Golf emphasizes skill over chance. It is based on the classic Disney film Fantasia and challenges guests with twirling obstacles, fanciful fountains, and musical surprises. 

Miniature golf tee times can be reserved by calling (407) WDW-PLAY. 

World-class golf courses are through Disneyworld. Tee times can be made by calling (407) WDW-GOLF.

Water Parks

Disney World has two water parks. They’re both amazingly themed and offer a great mix of fantastic water attractions and special Disney touches, including characters. Blizzard Beach is built around the tale of a mythical ski resort that is melted by warm water into a fun water park. Typhoon Lagoon is a tropical paradise transformed by a legendary storm. Tickets can be purchased separately from park tickets or as part of a Park Hopper Plus option. Vacations by Shannon can add either of these to your vacation package.

Disney’s Boardwalk

Disney’s Boardwalk is a promenade with delicious restaurants, unique shops, and exciting nightlife. Jellyrolls features dueling pianos. Favorite restaurants include Trattoria al Forno and Flying Fish.