Welcome to the Disney Parks Moms Panel, Elaine!
Your
Walt Disney World Resort vacation is right around the corner, and I’m sure you’re excited. While most Guests do spend the majority of their time in the Theme Parks, there’s so much to do without a Theme Park ticket!
One of my favorite ways to spend an afternoon or evening outside of the Theme Parks is by shopping, dining, and enjoying the general atmosphere of
Disney Springs. You could spend an entire day there and still not see and do it all! Whether you’re taking a ride in the
world’s largest tethered helium balloon, catching the latest Disney movie at the
AMC Disney Springs 24 theater (
Frozen 2 begins the day before you arrive), or experiencing the 4D augmented reality of
The VOID, you’ll find plenty to keep the entire family occupied. There’s even a
family-friendly bowling alley and a brand new
NBA Experience, too! Additionally there are dozens of shops and restaurants that will appeal to everyone’s tastes. And with
complimentary transportation between
Disney’s Art of Animation Resort and Disney Springs, getting there is a breeze.
You can also enjoy some of the amenities at your Walt Disney World Resort hotel! One of my favorite offerings at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort is its daily drawing class offered in the lobby. Here you’ll find an actual Disney artist who will guide you through the process of drawing one of Disney’s classic animated characters. Simply ask your hotel concierge about the time and availability. Although the Big Blue Pool may be closed for refurbishment when you arrive, there are
three other options for splashing around including the Flippin’ Fins Pool, Cozy Cone Pool and the Schoolyard Sprayground. While there is the possibility of a chilly November, in my experience it’s still generally been warm enough to swim.
If you want to catch the fireworks at
Magic Kingdom Park, you could also try to book a dining reservation at
California Grill or just head to the beach at
Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort for an excellent view. Both of these locations also have speakers which play the soundtrack for the fireworks, too! One of my favorite ways to unwind at the end of a long day is digging my toes in the sand while enjoying a Dole Whip from the
Pineapple Lanai.
Hopefully these suggestions will keep you and your family occupied the day before you hit the Theme Parks, Elaine! Please let us know if we can offer any other tips for enjoying your Walt Disney World Resort vacation.
Amy