Family bicycles at the Boardwalk
  • On Aug 4, 2023
    Fabiana from NJ Asked Please note that experiences, policies, pricing and other offerings are subject to change and may have changed since the date of this answer.

    What are the best free things to do around the property without a hotel or park ticket? We're stopping in Port Canaveral on a cruise and don't have enough times to go into the parks, but still want to enjoy the property!

    Hi Fabiana,

    Thank you so much for visiting planDisney with your question. I am so glad that you are going to be able to experience Walt Disney World, even if only for a brief amount of time. I am happy to share with you some ways to experience Walt Disney World without the need for a theme park ticket.

    The first area that comes to mind is Disney Springs. This is a large shopping, entertainment, and nightlife area at Walt Disney World. While of course you would need to pay for shopping or dining, you can walk around the area with no admissions charge. There is also often entertainment happening for free outside. Disney Springs is along a lovely waterfront that you can take in and enjoy.

    Another area that you could explore with no admission charge is Disney's BoardWalk. This is a slightly lower-key area that is themed after early 1900's mid-Atlantic seaside beach resorts. Again, there is dining and shopping that would have an additional cost; however, you could stroll along Crescent Lake and take in all of the ambiance for free.

    I do have a couple of options of experiences that are fun and do not require theme park admission, but do have a cost associated. These are all bookable on the day of your visit, so you do not even need to decide to do them ahead of time. If you visit Disney Springs, you could take a ride in a tethered hot air balloon. Run by Aerophile - The World Leader in Balloon Flight, this experience offers panoramic views of Walt Disney World. If you visit Disney's BoardWalk, you can rent a surrey bike for a fun way to get around Crescent Lake. Just be forewarned that these do take a lot of energy to pedal! Finally, you could consider miniature golf at Walt Disney World. These courses, Winter Summerland Miniature Golf and Fantasia Gardens and Fairways Miniature Golf both offer an enjoyable way to spend some time with Disney themes.

    I hope that these ideas are helpful for you, Fabiana. I am sure that you will be able to experience some Disney magic on your brief visit to Walt Disney World. Please feel free to come back to planDisney if you have any further questions!

    ~ Mona Leigh
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Meet the Panelist: Mona Leigh, Maryland

I am a wife and mother who works in children's technology design and research. When I'm not at work or with my family, I'm often planning a Walt Disney World trip for my family or friends. I'm a Disney Vacation Club Member, and am excited to help you plan your Disney vacation!  Learn More About Mona Leigh

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