Think Walt Disney World is just for kids? Think again! Whether you’re visiting for a romantic getaway, a friends’ trip, or a solo vacation, Disney World offers a treasure trove of experiences tailored just for adults. From sipping cocktails while lounge hopping to savoring world-class cuisine and checking out some off-the-beaten-path activities, here’s a look at some of the best ways to enjoy grown-up fun and relaxation at the Resort hotels – no park ticket required!
Sangria University
Sangria University is one of the best-kept secrets at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort, and is a perfect choice for a unique date or a fun afternoon with friends.
During this 90-minute experience, you’ll discover the history of sangria and learn how Coronado Springs makes the four signature varieties that are served at their Three Bridges Bar & Grill restaurant. This is followed by a tasting of those four flavors, paired with a light appetizer, and the opportunity to create your own glass of the popular fruity beverage. At the end of class, you’ll walk away with a cute “Master of Sangria” certificate and recipe cards for each variety you tried, so you can recreate them all at home.
Sangria University takes place every Saturday and Sunday afternoon, and reservations can be made up to 60 days in advance. It’s a popular experience, so be sure to book as soon as your reservation window opens!
Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides
For a cozy, storybook-style experience, nothing beats a horse-drawn carriage ride through the scenic trails of Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort or along the romantic pathways of Disney’s Port Orleans – Riverside. These 25-minute rides are available every evening and are a peaceful way to unwind after a day in the parks. Each carriage can accommodate up to four adults, making it a perfect option for couples or small groups.
There is an added layer of fun for the rides at Fort Wilderness during the fall and holiday seasons, as Resort guests fully embrace the Halloween or Christmas spirit and go all-out decorating their campsites. And in December, the rides at the campground also transform into festive holiday “sleigh” rides!
Celebration at the Top: Sip, Savor, Sparkle
For an elegant night out, consider booking Celebration at the Top at Disney’s iconic Contemporary Resort. This Enchanted Extra is a bit of a splurge, but it’s truly a one-of-a-kind experience you’ll remember and talk about for years to come.
Held on evenings when Magic Kingdom fireworks are scheduled, this 90-minute cocktail party begins at the rooftop California Grill, where you’ll enjoy specialty drinks, sushi, appetizers, and select dishes from the restaurant’s menu. Shortly before the fireworks begin, you’ll be invited to make your way outdoors to a private viewing area reserved exclusively for Celebration at the Top guests. The views are breathtaking and the show’s soundtrack is piped in, so you’ll feel like you’re right in the heart of the Magic Kingdom!
After the show, your elegant evening wraps up with an assortment of desserts, cordials, and coffee.
Lounge Hopping
The Disney World Resort hotels are home to an incredible lineup of lounges, each with a unique atmosphere, creative specialty drinks, and an array of snacks and signature dishes. And the best part? You don’t have to limit yourself to just one lounge. With Disney’s convenient Resort transportation options like the Monorail and Skyliner, it’s easy to visit multiple lounges in a single afternoon or evening. It’s a great way to explore the resorts and enjoy all that they have to offer!
Monorail Crawl
The Walt Disney World Monorail makes it easy to check out three iconic resorts in one leisurely outing – Disney’s Contemporary Resort, Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, and Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. There are several drinking and snacking opportunities at each of these Resort hotels, including the 1970s-themed Steakhouse 71 Lounge at the Contemporary, the tropical Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto at the Polynesian, and the elegant Beauty and the Beast-themed Enchanted Rose at the Grand Floridian. The Monorail crawl is a classic Disney experience for adults looking to unwind in style!
Skyliner Crawl
For a unique and scenic twist on this fan-favorite experience, consider taking to the skies with a Skyliner crawl. The Disney Skyliner connects seven resorts, each with a different vibe and theming. Sip Mediterranean-inspired cocktails from Bar Riva at Disney’s Riviera Resort, enjoy island vibes at Banana Cabana at Caribbean Beach, and stroll the BoardWalk with a handcrafted cocktail from AbracadaBar. You’ll also find cozy lounges like Crew’s Cup at Yacht Club and casual spots like Martha’s Vineyard at Beach Club, as well as frozen drinks and light snacks at Pop Century and Art of Animation’s poolside bars. A Skyliner crawl is a fun and easy way to take in a variety of resort atmospheres, all in one unforgettable adventure!
Golfing
If your idea of a relaxing Disney day includes a round of golf, you’re in luck! Walt Disney World is home to several beautiful golf courses that offer a peaceful escape from the parks. Disney’s Lake Buena Vista Golf Course is located right at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa, which also happens to be a quick and easy walk or boat ride to the shopping, dining, and entertainment of Disney Springs. You could easily enjoy a round at this scenic 18-hole course before heading to Disney Springs for dinner or drinks.
Over near Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, you’ll also find Disney’s Palm, Magnolia, and Oak Trail Golf Courses, each with a different layout and beautiful surroundings. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or simply looking for a fun and low-key break between theme park days, Disney’s golf courses offer a wonderful opportunity to enjoy a quieter, more laid-back side of the magic.
Spa Day
If you’re craving a vacation that balances the theme park hustle with peaceful moments to recharge, consider adding a spa day to your itinerary. Treat yourself to some well-deserved pampering at the Grand Floridian Spa or the Mandara Spa at the Walt Disney World Dolphin Hotel. Both are full-service spas and salons offering a variety of luxurious treatments, from soothing massages and custom facials to rejuvenating body therapies and beauty services. Whether you’re unwinding on your own or enjoying a relaxing couples’ treatment, these state-of-the-art spas offer a perfect escape from time spent racing between Lightning Lanes and character meet-and-greets!
Signature Dining Experiences
One of the best-kept secrets of an adults-only Disney trip? You don’t have to limit yourself to theme park fare during your stay. Across Walt Disney World, you’ll find an impressive selection of signature restaurants offering upscale dining experiences that are worlds away from the usual burgers, chicken strips, and churros.
At Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort, Citricos offers sophisticated Mediterranean-inspired cuisine complemented with an award-winning wine list, while Narcoossee’s features fresh seafood and beautiful waterfront views. At California Grill in Disney’s Contemporary Resort, you’ll enjoy a menu of fresh, seasonal flavors with panoramic views of the Magic Kingdom. If steak is more your style, you’ll love the premium steaks at Yachtsman Steakhouse inside Disney’s Yacht Club Resort. Enjoy French and Italian dishes amidst stunning rooftop views at Riviera Resort’s Topolino’s Terrace, and indulge in artfully plated seafood and steaks at Flying Fish on Disney’s BoardWalk.
And for a luxurious dining experience like no other, Victoria & Albert’s is the pinnacle of Disney dining. This world-class, AAA Five Diamond, Michelin-starred restaurant offers an unforgettable evening of impeccable service and exquisitely crafted cuisine.
Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, celebrating something special, or just craving some well-deserved time to unwind, the resorts at Walt Disney World offer the perfect blend of fun, relaxation, and indulgence for adults. And the best part? Once you’re ready for more fun, the theme parks are packed with even more adult-friendly experiences to enjoy.
Ready to explore even more ways to make your grown-up Disney trip unforgettable? Don’t miss my companion guide to unique adult activities inside Disney’s theme parks!
Planning Disney vacations isn’t just my job - it’s my passion.
I know how truly special these trips are because I’ve experienced the magic myself. From my first glimpse of Cinderella Castle to the joy of watching my kids meet their favorite characters, these are moments I’ll never forget - and they’re my inspiration for helping other families create their own Disney magic.
The best Disney trips aren’t one-size-fits-all. They’re sprinkled with little details that make them yours. That’s where I come in! With expert guidance (and a touch of pixie dust), I’ll make your planning feel easy, exciting, and full of possibility.
