Believe it or not, my best trips to Disney didn’t happen when I was a child. Many people can’t imagine going to Disney without kids, but it can be a very fun – and very different – vacation for adults. Here are some tips to consider when traveling to Disney for an adult vacation:
Consider How “Childish” You Want Your Hotel To Be
You aren’t going to escape children anywhere in Disney (except Victoria & Alberts), but there are resorts that have a more adult feel. They tend to be some of the nicer, and therefore more expensive resorts — You aren’t going to see the same bright flashy colors around the Grand Floridian as you would at Art of Animation – but you don’t have to stay in the Princess Diana suite to find a great adult hotel. Consider sipping cocktails on your balcony while watching zebra at Animal Kingdom. Or being close to the Boardwalk for nightly entertainment.
Choose When You Go Carefully
If you still want the feel of a relaxing adult vacation – or even the hint of one – spring break is not the best time to head to Disney as an adult. Instead, if you can, consider taking your vacation days when most kids are in school.
When is the best time to go? It depends what you like! The Epcot Food and Wine Festival in fall is a really popular time for adults to head to Disney to try new foods, sip wines or attend culinary demonstrations. If you have a green thumb, maybe you want to check out the Epcot Flower and Garden Festival after spring break ends. Or, if you want to see Cinderella’s Castle decked out in Christmas lights, but don’t want to brave the actual Christmas crowds, head down after school starts back up in January.
Try Something New
There are so many things to do at Disney, you can find the right attraction for any adult-only occasion. Romantic getaway? Take a private cruise on the lake with champagne and chocolate covered strawberries to watch the fireworks. Girls weekend? Relax at one of the spas. Guys weekend? Get in a round of golf, or head over to the ESPN Wide World of Sports complex. Take an after-hours safari. Take a backstage tour. Scuba dive in the 5.7 million gallon aquarium or swim with dolphins. There really is something for everyone.
Think Outside The Parks
Not in the mood for parades or fireworks tonight? Disney Springs – formerly known as Downtown Disney – is a great option. There you will find great restaurants, street performers and shopping. It’s also the home of La Nouba by Cirque du Soleil.
Another great place to check out is BoardWalk, where you’ll find Jellyrolls, the dueling piano bar and other fun entertainment. As a bonus, you can often see Illuminations without battling the crowd of Epcot.
Too tired to head that far? Many of the resorts have great bars and lounges where you can get a night cap and relax!
