Disney World offers many complimentary experiences that let you enjoy its magic beyond the theme parks. There’s something for everyone at this place, and there’s no shortage of fun. Here are activities that provide a memorable way to enjoy Disney magic without purchasing park tickets.
Watch Fireworks From Resort Beaches
The Magic Kingdom’s fireworks show, “Happily Ever After,” is a nighttime spectacle. It features dazzling fireworks and projections on Cinderella Castle, creating a magical experience for guests. Exact times may vary according to the season, so it’s best to check the official Disney World calendar before your visit.
See The Electrical Water Pageant
A nighttime show on Bay Lake unveils 14 glowing floats shaped like sea creatures, including dolphins and whales. These illuminated vessels move in sync with a soundtrack that has Disney tunes and patriotic music. This classic display has delighted guests since 1971 and can be viewed from several Magic Kingdom-area resorts.
Watch Movies Under the Stars
Disney Resort hotels offer complimentary outdoor movie screenings called “Movies Under the Stars” on select evenings. Shown near pools or on hotel lawns, these family-friendly films start around 8:00 or 8:30 PM. Each resort has its own unique schedule, so check locally for details.
Ride The Monorail Loop
The Monorail Loop is a complimentary train system that travels around the Seven Seas Lagoon, connecting Magic Kingdom park to resorts like Contemporary, Polynesian Village, and Grand Floridian. It also stops at the Transportation and Ticket Center for guests who want to purchase tickets for the park.
Listen To Live Music At Disney Springs
Throughout the day and evening, Disney Springs features live musical performances ranging from jazz ensembles to solo acoustic artists. Visitors can unwind at Dockside Margaritas, a waterfront bar offering tropical beverages in a relaxed atmosphere. The nearby Marketplace has shopping, dining, and shaded seating areas to enhance the visitor experience.
Ride The Skyliner For The Views
The Skyliner is an aerial cable car system serving several Walt Disney World resorts, including the Caribbean Beach and Pop Century. It makes it easy to get directly to EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios. With over 250 cabins that seat up to 10 guests each, it’s an accessible and fast way to travel around the resort.
Sketch At Art Of Animation
Instructor-led drawing classes, focused on sketching Disney characters, are offered in the Art Of Animation resort lobby. The sessions, open for all, provide a creative, hands-on experience that complements the immersive animation theme. Join up to learn how to draw characters from The Little Mermaid, Finding Nemo, and others.
Attend Chip And Dale’s Campfire Sing-Along
Fort Wilderness hosts Chip’ n Dale’s Campfire Sing-A-Long with tunes and marshmallow roasting alongside appearances by chipmunks Chip and Dale. It starts around 7 pm and is open to all ages. There’s no prior park admission required and travellers can bring or buy a s’mores kit for added fun.
Walk The Boardwalk After Dusk
Evenings on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays come alive at Disney’s BoardWalk with magicians and retro carnival games. From about 6:30 to 10 pm, ice cream stands open, live jugglers appear, and the Boardwalk Buskers perform along the promenade. And it’s all at no extra charge.
Spot Animals At Animal Kingdom Lodge
Tourists staying at the Animal Kingdom Villas can spot giraffes and antelopes from designated viewing areas at the Jambo House and Kidani Village. The best times to visit are early morning or near dusk when the animals are most active. Informative signs along the way provide interesting facts that help families identify the species.
Try Resort Cultural Activities
At Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, visitors can learn to play African drums and create beaded crafts that celebrate the rich culture of Africa. Over at the Polynesian Village Resort, the focus shifts to island traditions with hula lessons and games like volleyball and Connect 4. Activity times vary, so be sure to check the lobby schedule.
Watch The Geyser Erupt At Wilderness Lodge
Fire Rock Geyser at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge erupts every hour between 7 am and 10 pm, shooting water 120 feet into the air. Designed to resemble Yellowstone’s Old Faithful, it features timed eruptions and steam effects in a natural rock setting. Guests can watch from nearby trails.
Complete A Hidden Mickey Hunt
In resorts like Port Orleans and Pop Century, guests can participate in a scavenger hunt with printable guides that lead the way to Hidden Mickey silhouettes. These playful tributes to Disney’s iconic mouse are concealed within everything, from carpets to railings. They offer a fun and interactive way to explore the resort’s nooks and crannies.
See Chocolate Art At The Ganachery
Opened in 2015, The Ganachery at Disney Springs provides a fabulous peek into the art of chocolate-making. Behind glass counters, chocolatiers craft and decorate Disney-themed treats such as Mickey S’more. It’s an impressive display of edible art, and there’s no compulsion to buy, so anyone can enjoy the artistry daily.
Grab A Chocolate Sample At Ghirardelli
One of Disney Springs’ sweetest stops, the Ghirardelli Soda Fountain & Chocolate Shop often greets visitors with a complimentary chocolate square. Flavors change with the seasons, for example, serving peppermint bark in winter and caramel in summer. In addition to seasonal treats, you can purchase a wide variety of sundaes and milkshakes.
Browse Pop Culture Displays At Pop Century Resort
Oversized retro icons and glass cases filled with vintage treasures decorate the paths and lobby at Pop Century Resort. The vibe perfectly captures the ‘50s through the ‘90s, complete with trivia signs and classic gadgets. It feels like walking through a living pop culture museum, with way more color.
Enjoy The Sassagoula River Ferry Boat
The Sassagoula River Ferry Boat offers transportation from Disney Springs to Port Orleans Resorts and Saratoga Springs. Operating from late morning to about an hour after closing, passengers can enjoy scenic river views during the trip. Baby strollers are allowed, but wheelchairs typically need to be folded before boarding.
Watch Glassblowing At Crystal Arts
At Crystal Arts by Arribas Brothers in Disney Springs, guests can watch daily glassblowing demonstrations. Skilled artisans transform molten glass into stunning, intricate creations in real time. They combine time-honored glassblowing techniques alongside contemporary designs. The results are extraordinary pieces showcasing expert skill and modern creativity.
Hike Fort Wilderness Trails
Spanning 750 acres of pine and cypress forest, marked walking trails are open to the public at Fort Wilderness Trails. If you’re lucky, you might spot deer along the way. These scenic trails connect various cabins and campsites at Fort Wilderness and provide a peaceful escape within the bustling Disney bubble.
Tour Holiday Decor During Festive Seasons
During the holiday season, Disney resorts are transformed with grand trees, themed decorations, and festive displays. For example, the Grand Floridian Lodge has a life-sized gingerbread house, while the Yacht Club boasts an intricately detailed train set. The best time to enjoy these charming sights is between mid-November and December.
