Disney World's allure for children is unquestionable, but for some adults who aren't fans of theme parks it can be hard to get excited about hitting Disney World.
There are a lot of parents coming to Disney World just for the kids, for example, but there are actually some ways for even adults and those who aren't in love with princesses to enjoy Disney World if you know where to go and what to do.
Here are some tips to make Disney World more appealing to those who aren't all about the mouse ears.
Look for Your Interests at Disney World
One thing about Disney World, even of cartoon characters aren't your thing, is the keyword is world. Yes, there are loads of things related to Mickey Mouse and Disney Princesses. But within that context, there is an awful lot more substance to Disney World than that.
Here are just a few examples:
At the Land at Epcot, foodies will find the ride through the greenhouse fascinating.You can either take Living with the Land ride to pass by some amazing examples of sustainability and experimental gardening (such as vertical growing), as well as see some crops rarely seen by most (like the cocoa bean). There is also a behind the scenes tour you can book of the greenhouse.
Do the spa thing at Disney World. For example, if you stay at Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa, you can get massages, facials, hydro-Massage Therapies, and they have a couples relaxation package. They even have spa treatments for kids age 4 to 12, so you could do a mom-daughter spa day. You can also hit Cinderella's Castle for a mom-daughter princess makeover at the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique.
Hit some of the non-theme park areas of Disney World that are more geared to adults for a break from long lines. Downtown Disney has a variety of shopping, including some shops that actually sell something not in the shape of a mouse head, as well as restaurants and bars. Disney's BoardWalk features a piano bar and ESPN shop. Best of all, you don't need a theme park ticket to go to these spots.
To get a break from the kids' meltdowns and rides and waiting to meet characters, get a babysitter and get out after the kids go to bed. You can find some great tips on finding alcoholic drinks at Disney World.
Let your kids be your ride. As funny as it sounds, things some might think sound painful about a theme park visit can be made much more amazing by viewing it all from the perspective of your child or grandchild. Waiting an hour to meet princesses or Mickey Mouse can be quite boring, but enjoy the moment your child is amazed at meeting a beloved character. Take a ride with your kid.
For those who hate theme parks, it is probably for a few reasons. Some of the main ones, however, include crowds, lines and just a general stress factor. There are some ways to offset this. A major one is to seek out the Magic Kingdom after-hours ticketed events like Pirate and Princess Party.
These are usually a couple times a week, and the park is closed to only those with special event tickets. Lines at rides are minimal, and there is generally a less stressful atmosphere.
If you really aren't sure, you might consider asking the Disney Moms Panel for advice from real grownups who regularly visit Disney World. This panel consists of real moms who are experts in all things Disney World.
The copyright of the article Disney World for Theme Park Haters in Kid-Friendly Travel Destinations is owned by Kelby Carr. Permission to republish Disney World for Theme Park Haters in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.
Excellent article! I would only add that for the parents dreading the
crowds, lines, and heat, planning is key. Get ahold of one of the many
crowd charts, compare that with the resort season rate chart, and pick a
slower time to go. Lucky for you, those times are also usually in the
cooler months! And you can save a nice chunk of money. Who doesn't love
that?
Along with that goes the old argument about pulling kids
out of school. The parents who just won't do that are left traveling at the
times that every other kid is out of school. Yikes! And guess what...
little Susie probably won't remember one single thing from school in any
given week, but she'll be recounting vacation memories for years to come.
It's worth it.