Hiya Michelle,
Welcome to planDisney! I'm excited to help you plan your upcoming Walt Disney World Resort vacation. Before my little one was born this summer, all I ever did was adult-only vacations at the Most Magical Place on Earth. Now that I have her, oh boy, what a difference a trip with little ones is versus a trip with your husband. Don't get me wrong, it may be bittersweet to visit the Most Magical Place on Earth without your Mouseketeers, but it does open up a whole new world.
So let me share this whole new world with you! Outside of the typical attractions, park hopping, and staying for extended hours, you can do so much more at Walt Disney World Resort. Let's start with dining and Enchanting Extras. Every one of my itineraries revolves around where I can dine, so I'm very passionate about this topic. Did you know that some of the most incredible
table service locations do not allow Guests under the age of 10? One that is on my to-do list is
Monsieur Paul at EPCOT. This gourmet French dining experience has only recently reopened and features reimagined multi-course meal that I've heard is out of this world. It is definitely more of a splurge but perfect for a special occasion. Want something a little more friendly to your wallet but special enough for your couple's getaway? One thing we loved to do was visit the
lounges at the Walt Disney World Resort Collection Hotels. Nothing is more relaxing after a long day of walking than sitting together over a nice cocktail and having a chance to connect (or just talk about your favorite parts of the day). My personal favorite lounge is the
Enchanted Rose at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort and Spa. It is so beautifully themed, and even though little ones can go, it is even better to enjoy it with just adults.
My other recommendation is to enjoy one of the offerings from the Enchanting Extras Collection. There are so many experiences that little ones either aren't old enough to experience or enjoy. If you love the water, why not try
EPCOT's Seas Adventures –Dolphins in Depth? How about a
Horse Drawn Carriage Ride at Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground? Another experience that I can't recommend enough is the
La Cava Experience. It is the ideal experience for those who want to learn and appreciate tequila.
I know I gave you quite a bit to think about, Michelle, but I have one final recommendation. There is freedom in traveling without children and an itinerary. One of the best vacations my significant other and I ever had was a spur-of-the-moment trip a few years ago. We woke up when we wanted, headed to the park, and just asked Cast Members what their favorite thing to do at the park was. Then we did it! We learned about so many new details in the Theme Parks, found hidden fireworks watch spots, and ate at places we never would've considered. It was the most magical vacation, and not a single minute was planned. I hope this was helpful, but if you want to learn more about anything else, please come back and see
me.
Happy Planning,
Ashley F.