Hi, Dianne! Welcome to the Disney Parks Moms Panel.
It's wonderful to hear that you're coming back to Walt Disney World for a second visit! My family often enjoys activities at our Resort or in another non-park area on our arrival day. Both the BoardWalk and
Downtown Disney are great areas to explore, but my recommendation would have to be Downtown Disney Marketplace because it's one of my favorite areas outside of the parks. There's so much to do! Shopping, dining, entertainment - really, you name it, and Downtown Disney's got it! You won't want to miss the
World of Disney Store, LEGO Imagination Center, Disney Design-a-Tee, The Art of Disney, Once Upon a Toy and
Goofy's Candy Company, just to name a few!
A very fun activity in Downtown Disney is the
Characters in Flight tethered hot-air balloon where you ascend 400 feet in the air and are treated to amazing panoramic vistas.
As far as dining goes, there are lots of table-service restaurants in Downtown Disney where your Disney Dining Plan is happily accepted. Your twins would surely love the fun, immersive atmosphere of
Rainforest Cafe. Another dining spot we really enjoy (and a favorite of our 7-year-old daughter) is
Raglan Road Irish Pub and Restaurant. We love the cuisine and the live entertainment (traditional Irish step dancing and Irish bands) at Raglan Road.
Wishing you a
magical return visit to Walt Disney World, Dianne! Enjoy your time in Downtown Disney! Please let me know if I can answer any other questions as you plan your stay.
Kimberly