Hiya, Dave, and thanks for stopping by planDisney! You'll be arriving for some Walt Disney World Resort magic in just a couple of days, so let's explore ways you can make memories on arrival day.
While there are currently no ticket options for partial days, I have heard that some conference attendees can purchase evening tickets to the theme parks. If you happen to be part of a group like that, you could reach out to your event coordinator for options. If not, I have some suggestions for making your arrival the best day ever!
My husband and I have recently become fans of the water parks.
Disney's Blizzard Beach Water Park offers sandy beaches, lounge chairs, and a lazy river if you're in the mood to relax and soak in some sun. For the more adventurous guest, you can careen down Summit Plummet or Teamboat Springs. You'll see plenty of Disney touches and might even spot a favorite character.
And next door to Blizzard Beach is
Disney's Winter Summerland Miniature Golf Course. The holiday touches are especially whimsical in the Florida sun. I may or may not have out-scored my husband on the Winter Course; I'm not sure he'll ever go back with me!
Another way to spend your first day in the Disney bubble is to
book a meal at a Disney Resort Hotel. I recommend trying a restaurant on the monorail loop so you can enjoy a spin around the resorts. One of my favorites is
Narcoossee's at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort and Spa. My friends and I recently snagged a dinner reservation there the day before, and that meal was a highlight of our trip. We even watched Happily Ever After from the restaurant!
You can also immerse yourself in the magic by heading to
Disney Springs. I love browsing for souvenirs at World of Disney, sipping a drink at Jock Lindsey's Hangar Bar, and dining at spots like Frontera Cocina. I even took a ride on the
Aerophile balloon a few months ago. That view is what dreams are made of.
Finally, if you're staying at a Disney Resort Hotel, you can explore all of its offerings, even before your room is ready. Most resorts offer leisure pools and hot tubs for unwinding and getting into vacation mode. Look for showers and changing facilities near the main pool. Pool bars and food courts have quick, delicious options, and many resorts offer complimentary activities such as outdoor movies and crafts.
Dave, I hope I've given you some ideas for starting your vacation with a bang! Have a fantastic time, and please come back to
planDisney anytime.
Magic awaits,
Elaine