If you know me at all, you know that I don't believe that vacations are for relaxing. I can do that at home for free, so when I go on a trip, I want to see and do every single thing possible.
But after just returning from a fun trip to San Francisco, I can tell you that not everyone feels the same. We came back worn out and while I think that's a good thing, there are certain members of the family (I won't name names...) that would rather slow down and relax.
So... here are some things that I'll let them do the next time we are at Disney. I'll be in my happy place in the parks with whoever I can talk into going with me!
Mini Golf - there are 2 miniature golf courses at Disney. No, I haven't personally played them (have you been listening to me at all?) but I hear they're great. The best part is that if you book a package (room and theme park tickets) you receive a complimentary voucher for 4 people if you play before 4pm. FREE is always GOOD!
There are also three 18-hole golf courses and one 9-hole walking course if you want to play "real golf." Although I feel like that's a lot more work and not as relaxing. :)
Resort hop - Since the transportation around Disney is free, it's easy to hop on a bus, boat or monorail and go check out the other resorts. The monorail itself is a fun thing to do if you haven't ridden it around and like I said, free! There are tons of restaurants, shops and activities that you can check out. At Christmas, it's fun to see how all of the lobbies are decorated for the season. Some resorts have Spas, bike rentals, fishing... and most do outdoor movies.
Of course, one of the best things is that you can go over to the Polynesian and have a Dole Whip.
Hang out at your resort pool - the pools at Disney are amazing. They're heated year round and at the Moderate and Deluxe resorts, they have water slides. Once again, I'd rather be at the parks, but my kids LOVE the pools there and always want to stay longer. If you're able to build in an extra day on your trip, you could easily spend it at the pool. You're only able to swim in the pool at your own resort though. So even though you can check out the other resorts, you can't swim in their pool unless you are staying there.
Character meals - these aren't reserved for just the parks. You can meet Mickey and Minnie at the Contemporary, Mary Poppins at the Grand Floridian, Goofy and Donald at the Beach Club, Lilo and Stitch at the Polynesian, and many others. The character meals are always popular so be sure and let me know well in advance so that I can get you a reservation.
Disney Springs - The newly updated area (formerly Downtown Disney) has tons of shopping, restaurants and entertainment. I like to head over there on a night when the park I've been at closes early but I know people can spend a day there. Between bowling, movies, Cirque du Soleil, and lots of other options, you're bound to be entertained.
Let me know if you would like more information on any of the "outside of the parks" fun. I'd love to plan a trip that gets you the kind of Magic you'd like - relaxing or not!!