Is Disney World for adults what you are seeking? You’ll want to consider these five Disney World adult experiences.
When you think of Walt Disney World, you might envision a land of cotton candy, bubble wands, and princesses playing make-believe – in other words, a place that’s ideal for young children, but lacking in appeal for grown-ups. I’m here to let you know that in reality, Disney World isn’t just for kids. While Disney parks certainly are family-friendly destinations, they also offer plenty of attractions and experiences for adults to enjoy. Here are five reasons you’ll love visiting Disney World as an adult.
1. World Class Dining
You may be surprised to learn that Disney World hosts an incredible selection of gourmet dining options for adults – and we aren’t talking about churros and corn dog nuggets (although I can also recommend the best places to find those). Disney’s culinary experts elevate theme-park dining to a new level throughout the resort’s signature dining locations, known for presenting both excellent food and a beautiful atmosphere.
At California Grill, located on the 15th floor of Disney’s Contemporary Resort, you can enjoy a delicious dinner– and then step out onto the balcony to view fireworks from the Magic Kingdom. Across Seven Seas Lagoon, at the Grand Floridian, several fine dining spots would make for an excellent date night, including Citricos and Victoria & Albert’s, both of which are among eight Disney World restaurants featured in the Michelin Guide.
Many of Disney’s premier dining establishments feature a taste of international flavors. With a menu inspired by travel and adventure, Tiffin’s, located in Disney’s Animal Kingdom park, showcases cuisine from all over the world. The restaurants of Epcot’s World Showcase also provide guests with the opportunity to sample dishes from nations across the globe– with highlights including Japan’s Takumi-Tei, France’s Monsieur Paul, and Canada’s Le Cellier Steakhouse.
2. Unique Bars and Lounges
Whether you prefer a cocktail or a mocktail, Disney World’s impeccably themed bars and lounges have something for everyone.
In Epcot’s World Showcase, you can “drink around the world” with stops at Mexico’s La Cava del Tequila, the United Kingdom’s Rose & Crown Pub, and Italy’s Tutto Gusto Wine Cellar, all of which feature beverages and ambiances meant to evoke their respective countries.
If you take an evening to lounge-hop around the Magic Kingdom resorts, you’ll find several distinctive spots, including the elegant Enchanted Rose, inspired by Beauty and the Beast, and Disney World’s own lively tiki bar, Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto.
Several bars on property are so immersively themed that you’ll feel as if you’ve stepped into the movies upon entry. At Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar, inspired by the Indiana Jones franchise, you can nibble on Snakebite Sliders while you sip a Shorty’s Singapore Sling. In Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, a visit to Oga’s Cantina may involve bubbling libations, intergalactic guests, and dance beats courtesy of a droid DJ.
3. Elevated Accomdations
While a few of Disney’s resort hotels are decidedly kid-centric (not that there’s anything wrong with a giant Ursula statue), there are a number of more sophisticated options for adults to enjoy.
The Yacht and Beach Club Resorts feature coastal theming, a relaxing atmosphere, and close proximity to both Epcot’s World Showcase and Disney’s Boardwalk area, which make them ideal choices for adults looking to enjoy nightlife or a special event, like Epcot’s International Food and Wine Festival, during their stay.
Disney World’s flagship hotel, the Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, exudes an aura of opulence with its Victorian theming and newly redesigned rooms. It’s also home to a full-service spa and some of Disney’s finest restaurants and lounges.
The newest deluxe resort hotel on property, Disney’s Riviera Resort, may be particularly well-suited for adult Disney World guests. With architecture and design inspired by the European Riviera, a stunning waterfront setting, and elegant accommodations, a sense of quiet luxury emanates from all areas of this resort.
4. Unforgettable Experiences
Walt Disney World offers an abundance of unique experiences that are ideally suited for adult enjoyment. The Wild Africa Trek, in Disney’s Animal Kingdom, is a private VIP safari through backstage areas that provides up-close views of wildlife. Disney After Hours events allow guests to explore near-empty parks at night, well after kids’ bedtimes. Epcot’s Behind the Seeds Tour, perfect for gardeners and nature enthusiasts, guides guests through Disney’s greenhouses in the Land Pavilion.
At Disney Springs, guests can browse boutiques, dine on the waterfront, and enjoy live entertainment, including rock shows at the House of Blues, traditional Irish music and dancing at Raglan Road, and Disney World’s exclusive Cirque du Soleil show, Drawn to Life. You can even take flight in a helium balloon or cruise around Lake Buena Vista in an amphicar. Nearby, avid golfers can play a round at any of the four golf courses on property.
5. A Chance to Embrace Your Inner Child
Disney World is not just for kids, but it is for the kid inside of us all. What better time to reconnect with your more playful and imaginative side than a Disney vacation? By all means, enjoy Disney World’s array of sophisticated adult offerings. But also take time to ride Big Thunder Mountain Railroad with your hands in the air, wave at your favorite princess in the parade, and treat yourself to some cotton candy. You might just rediscover a part of yourself that you haven’t seen in a while– and if that’s not magic, then what is?
Written By Travel Expert: Margaret Gilliland margaret@theenchantedtraveler.com
Ready for an adult Disney World vacation without all of stress of planning and with customized plans for your stay? Schedule your free consultation to begin!
Leave a Reply
