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Fun Things to Do at Disney World Other Than Rides

Don't miss the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival at Walt Disney World Orlando!

Disney may be famous for its rides, but there are so many more fun things to do at Disney World other than the rides. From animal discoveries to simply exploring the park, read on for just a few ways to experience Disney outside of the rides.

Don't miss the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival at Walt Disney World Orlando!
Don’t miss the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival at Walt Disney World Orlando! Photo: TravelingInHeels.com

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Fun Things to Do at Disney World Other Than Rides

While the world is in turmoil, Walt Disney World is still a magical place to travel, although (like everything else) your experience may be a bit different. Disney World is back open for business but a lot of people are wondering if, in today’s climate, it could possibly be safe to go.

For their part, Disney is trying to do everything to ensure the safety and well-being of its guests. For instance, masks are mandatory and there are strict requirements on what face coverings are allowed. There are temperature checks too and hand-wash stations. To learn more about the new Disney experience, click here.

However, perhaps one of the easiest ways to make the most out of Disney right now is to get off the beaten path. Instead of queuing for the rides, discover what other activities are available.  We can’t promise all of these are available, but we guarantee these fun things to do at Disney World other than rides may just make your experience even better.

Water Activities

Boathouse, an amphicar, and a balloon, 3 of 7 reasons to visit Disney Springs in Walt Disney World (this summer and anytime of the year!).
Boathouse, an amphicar, and a balloon, 3 of 7 reasons to visit Disney Springs in Walt Disney World.

There are massive artificial lakes and lagoons around Disney World, inviting Disney-goers to enjoy water activities.

For instance, Magic Kingdom is located around a large stretch of water as are several of the more luxurious hotels. Did you know there are multiple water sports that you can enjoy in this location? It’s true and this does include everything from renting your own boat to fishing. That’s why before you head out there you might be interested in learning to fish from the pros.

Other water-related activities including dockside fishing at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground. Stop by Disney Springs for a ride in an amphicar. Canoe rentals are also available.

Animal Discoveries

Celebrating the world's animals, the Tree of Life is the iconic symbol of Disney's Animal Kingdom theme park at Walt Disney World Resort near Orlando, Florida.
Celebrating the world’s animals, the Tree of Life is the iconic symbol of Disney’s Animal Kingdom theme park at Walt Disney World Resort near Orlando, Florida.

Animal Kingdom is full of rides, and some  already have social distance measures in place. For instance, if you head on the safari then you’ll notice that there is plexiglass between the seats. While this does make it a little more difficult to see the animals, it gives you the peace of mind that you need.

Other animal discoveries include multiple walkthrough areas around this park where you will be able to see different animals. This includes hippos, meerkats, snakes, and right now they actually have a little baby gorilla called Grace.

A big benefit of exploring these areas is that they are usually quiet with not too many people. That’s because many people frequenting the park aren’t even aware these areas exist. Wander around the Tree of Life and try to spot as many animal carvings as you can.

Live Entertainment: Parades, Shows, Music

Festival of the Lion King at Animal Kingdom
Festival of the Lion King at Animal Kingdom

If you’re looking for Broadway entertainment, Walt Disney World offers that and so much more. Sure the kids will love the show, but hey, it’s Disney and all ages will be entertained! Live entertainment at Disney range from parades that come in all kinds of shapes and sizes.

Perhaps the most iconic show is the one that takes place in front of Cinderella’s Castle. Mickey’s Royal Friendship Faire brings out Disney’s best-known characters like Mickey, Donald Duck, Goofy, and of course, the Disney princesses.

Other inside shows take place around the park such as Mickey’s Philharmagic in Fantasyland, the Beauty and the Beast Live on Stage, and so many more.

Go For A Walk

Exploring Disney's All-Star Movies Resort
Exploring Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort. Photo: Diana Rowe

Hotels at Disney have massive stretches of pathways to explore beautiful green areas. A lot of people head out into the parks immediately and miss all the wonderful things that you can see and discover around the hotels themselves. It’s a great choice if you just want to relax and unwind, breaking away from the crowds.

Usually, there are awesome extras too such as horse-drawn carriages but we can’t guarantee they are available right now.

Experience Disney Restaurants

Walt Disney World serves up tasty restaurant experiences.
Walt Disney World serves up tasty restaurant experiences.

Your belly will be full before you sample Disney’s never-ending list of food choices (and of course, many family favorites). From the giant Mickey Mouse pretzels to the Nutella waffles,  spend an entire day sampling the restaurants and kiosks serving up tasty temptations. Start off your day with a Dole Whip and end the day by seeing if you have what it takes to finish off an entire turkey leg!

Experience Hotels & Airbnbs Near Walt Disney World

For a family vacation, one of the most magical things to do (besides those rides) is to experience the hotels and Airbnbs. Families can chill, sample the restaurants, take a dip in the hotel pools, and play fun board games — all of this together as a family. Book your stay now — and start planning your Disney vacation.

We hope you love these ideas and try a few for yourself next time you visit Disney World.

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