Hi Kelly! I'm always happy to see a fellow Ohioan stop by with a question. Welcome to planDisney! While I love the theme parks, I must admit that I enjoy exploring the Disney Resort hotels just as much! I'm so happy to help you. So, to quote the famous Disney Monorail, "Please stand clear of the doors-Por favor, manténgase alejado de las puertas.” Please fill in all the available space, because we have a lot of magical experiences to talk about!
Let's start with the Monorail line. With a South Pacific atmosphere, the Polynesian has become one of my favorite places to explore. A visit to Trader Sam's Tiki Terrace is always fun, but for a more relaxing vibe, stop by
Pineapple Lanai to grab a DOLE Whip, then head down to the water where you can dip your toes in the white sand for a moment of pure tranquility!
A visit to
Chef Mickey's at the Contemporary Resort is definitely at the top of my list. Not only can you enjoy a huge buffet that caters to all tastes, but you also have the chance to hug the "Fab Five"—Mickey, Minnie, Pluto, Goofy, and Donald! My family loves to do this on a non-park day.
Disney's Grand Floridian is my favorite Resort hotel. You'll find dining options like 1900 Park Fare and the Grand Floridian Cafe. If a little pampering is on your schedule, you'll find the Grand Floridian Spa offers amazing services! But what I love the most is just stopping by
Gasparilla Island Grill, picking up their seasonal, limited-availability dessert (right now it's Tiana's Mint Chocolate Chip Bar), and sitting outside by the marina, looking out at Cinderella Castle.
At the Wilderness Lodge, be sure to visit
Geyser Point Bar & Grill. With a stunning view of Bay Lake, enjoy the Charcuterie Flatbread along with a Lava Smoothie—delicious!
I wish I had enough space in my answer to share all the fantastic offerings at the Disney Skyliner Resort hotels and the EPCOT area, but I'm happy to list a few of my favorites:
- Be sure to stop by
Le Petit Café at the Riviera Resort for their seasonal macarons and a refreshing Cinnamon Cold Brew!
- While visiting Pop Century, make sure to check out Everything POP for one of their famous seasonal cheesecake desserts. While you're there, take a short trip to Art of Animation for some fun family photos. With larger-than-life backdrops from Cars, The Lion King, and Finding Nemo, you'll find plenty of opportunities for memorable family photo ops!
- For my family, a trip to Walt Disney World isn't complete without a reservation at
Beaches & Cream Soda Shop. I highly recommend the No Way José or the Kitchen Sink!
AHHH-MAZING! -On the Disney BoardWalk, visit
Blue Ribbon Corn Dogs. I first tried this in Disneyland and was so excited when it made its debut here. Whether you try their truly giant mozzarella stick or their iconic Pickle Dog, this is yummy food and a fun experience.
No matter what you experience, be sure to check out all the Christmas decorations that are sure to be out for your visit! I'm wishing you the most magical vacation! Please visit us anytime!
Happy planning,
Shonette