Not only is Disney World a place of pure magic with thrilling rides, but it also offers so much more Beyond the Rides. The Walt Disney Resort is filled with dazzling shows and breath-taking entertainment and we are here to give you all the insider tips to discovering those magical extras.
On every trip, of course, my family always starts with our favorite attractions. But once we’ve had our fill of thrills, we love to slow down and discover other magic around the parks.
Discovery Beyond the Rides
From searching for Hidden Mickeys to uncovering peaceful spots for fireworks, Disney offers endless surprises for families who the take time to look. The parks are filled with magical details that tell a story at every turn. And honestly, that’s what keeps us coming back year after year. For us it’s never the same trip twice and there is always something new to discover.
What I’ve come to find is that Disney magic isn’t only found in the rides. It’s in the fun of trying a new snack, meeting a favorite character, or quiet moments spent watching the parade roll by.
Disney Resort Magic: Amenities & Themed Character Dining
One of the things I love most about a Disney vacation is that the magic doesn’t stop when you leave the parks. Every Disney World Resort is designed to make your stay unforgettable with themed pools, fun dining options, and plenty of activities for those much-needed non-park days. Disney truly thinks of everything, making sure guests feel the magic 24/7.
Disney Resorts Experiences
Disney offers three main resort categories of resort stays, Deluxe, Moderate, and Value And each one has its own special touches. While they all differ in price and amenities, they share one common goal: to make your stay magical and comfortable.
While Value Resorts certainly give you a taste of the Disney magic at a more budget-friendly price, but my family and I personally prefer staying at a Moderate or Deluxe Resort. The extra amenities, detailed theming, and added comfort really make a difference in how we experience our vacation.
These resorts offer a bit more magic that we really enjoy like bike rentals, fishing, marina activities, guided recreation programs, and full-service spas and fitness centers. While some of these come at an additional cost, they’re perfect if you’re looking to add a touch of luxury.
My Family’s Favorite: Fort Wilderness Resort
My family absolutely loves staying at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort. In fact, it’s one of those hidden gems that feels like a peaceful escape from the parks. On our visits, we’ve made some of our best memories there. For example, we enjoy visiting the Disney horses at the Tri-D Circle barn and cruising around the loops on our golf cart.
But, we definitely always end the day singing along at the Campfire Sing-Along with Chip and Dale. What makes it even more special is the cozy atmosphere. After a long park day, there’s nothing better than roasting marshmallows under the stars. Truly, it’s a relaxing and fun way to enjoy Disney magic outside the rides.
Resort Hopping Fun
Here’s one of my favorite Disney secrets: all Disney guests can go resort hopping, and it’s one of the best free ways to explore even more of the magic.
Hop on the Monorail or Disney Skyliner and make a day of it. Some families even turn it into a “Monorail Crawl” through the Magic Kingdom Resort Area. For example, start your morning with a character breakfast with Lilo and Stitch at ‘Ohana in the Polynesian Resort. Then, glide over to the Grand Floridian to admire its vintage Florida charm and live lobby music.
My Pixie Dust tip: After a full day at Magic Kingdom, head to the Contemporary Resort for a rooftop cocktail or mocktail. From there, you can catch the fireworks from one of the best views on property. It’s a fun and relaxing way to enjoy Disney magic.
Themed Character Dining: Magical Meals for the Whole Family
Character Dining is another great family Disney experience that will create lasting memories. And even though, my kids are now teenagers, we still plan and budget for one character meal during our visit. Moreover, it’s a great way to avoid those long wait times for character meet and greets. Instead of waiting in lines, you can enjoy a delicious meal while meeting your favorite Disney characters.
Our Family Favorite Character Dining Spots
Disney World offers lots of character dining options across the parks and resorts. Here are some of our favorites:
- Chef Mickey’s at Contemporary (meet Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Goofy, & Pluto).
- O’hana at Polynesian Resort (meet Lilo, Stitch, Mickey, & Pluto).
- 1900 Park Fare at Grand Floridian Resort (meet Aladdin, Princess Tiana, Cinderella, & Mirable).
- Crystal Palace at Magic Kingdom (meet Winnie the Pooh, Tigger, Piglet, & Eyeore).
- Cinderella’s Royal Table at Magic Kingdom (meet Ariel, Aurora, Jasmine, & Snow White).
- Tusker House at Animal Kingdom (meet Donald Duck, Mickey, Daisy, and Minnie).
- Akershus Royal Banquet Hall at Epcot Norway pavilion (meet Belle, Areil, Aurora, Snow White, and Cinderella).
- The Garden Grill at Epcot Land pavilion (features Chip n Dale).
Tips for Booking Character Dining
Reservations open 60 days in advance through your MyDisney Experience account. I always recommend booking early, as spots fill up quickly. Personally, my top two favorites are ‘Ohana’s family-style breakfast and Crystal Palace’s buffet breakfast. Both have incredible food and a fun, interactive atmosphere.
Meanwhile, my kids love Tusker House, mainly because of the frequent dance parties where characters come out and dance with guests.
My Pixie Dust Tip: We usually prefer breakfast character dining over lunch or dinner. It’s a magical way to kick off the day, and if it’s inside the parks, you get earlier park access. This means you can hit attractions right at opening and get a head start on the day’s fun.
Our Magic Kingdom Picks for Beyond the Rides
Magic Kingdom is packed with activities beyond the rides. Start your day on Main Street, U.S.A., where you can enjoy musical entertainment from the Dapper Dans or the Casey’s Corner pianist. Then, make your way to the castle for Mickey’s Magical Friendship Fair. This fun stage show features singing and dancing with Mickey, friends, and your favorite princesses.
For little ones, the Casey Jr. Splash ‘n’ Soak Station is a must. Located in Storybook Circus, it’s a water play area perfect for preschoolers to cool off. My Pixie Dust Tip: Bring a swimsuit or a change of clothes for the kids because they may get a little wet while having fun!
Another great stop for a relaxing break is the newly refurbished Country Bear Jamboree inside Grizzly Hall. We recently revisited this iconic classic and got to sit down, enjoy the air-conditioning, and watch animatronic bears perform rockabilly, bluegrass, pop-country, and Disney tunes. It’s a fun, pause during your park day.
Another little hidden gem on Main Street U.S.A for the kids is the Magic Kingdom Fire Station (engine co. 71). The station is open for guests to walk through and explore.
Fun Kid Makeovers
Looking for a special treat? Kids can get their first haircut at the Harmony Barber Shop on Main Street, or transform into princesses and knights at the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique. These experiences require reservations and may cost a bit extra, but they create memories your children will treasure forever.
EPCOT: Learning, Exploring, and Fun Beyond the Rides
Although EPCOT doesn’t have as many thrilling rides as the other parks, it’s packed with fun and educational experiences. Each area brings Disney magic to life in unique ways.
To be honest, EPCOT wasn’t always a must-do park for my family. For years, it was a quick “get in and get out” half-day park. However, now that my kids are older, it’s become one of our favorite stops. We love hopping back and forth throughout the day, discovering new activities each visit.
World Showcase: Culture, Fun, and Tasty Treats
The World Showcase might be a fan favorite for adults, but it’s not always as exciting for younger kids, So don’t be surprised if the kids complain about all the walking around. That said, it does offers diverse cultural experiences that can engage children in fun ways. There are live shows, interesting exhibits, shopping, delicious food, and refreshing drinks.
One of our favorite activities here when my kids were younger is Kidcot Fun Stops. Each pavilion has an interactive station where kids can learn about culture, collect stamps, and create souvenirs. It’s an educational experience disguised as fun, and my kids always looked forward to it.
Interactive Play Areas: Scavenger Hunts and Turtle Talks
EPCOT also has play areas and interactive experiences to help kids burn off extra energy. At The Seas Pavilion with Nemo & Friends, kids can explore a massive aquarium and interact with marine life.
My kids use to love the scavenger hunts there. Kids help Dory find her friends by solving clues and collecting stickers. Another favorite is Turtle Talk with Crush, where kids can have a live conversation with Crush the Turtle. Both experiences keep little ones entertained while giving parents a chance to relax.
Other EPCOT Interactive Play Areas
In World Discovery, the Advanced Training Lab lets kids pretend to be astronauts on a mission to Mars. They can race against each other or create video postcards to send home.
And of course, the big ball at the front of EPCOT, Spaceship Earth, isn’t just a ride. After exiting, kids can enjoy interactive games and hands-on activities.
Still my 13 year old’s favorite ride, Journey Into Imagination with Figment. Let me tell you, here kids can burn off a lot of energy by jumping on light-up pads and playing motion-sensor instruments. It’s simple, but it’s magical fun that never gets old.
Another highlight is the Journey of Water featuring Moana, an outdoor experience where guests explore the water cycle through interactive activities. My kids especially enjoy discovering how water moves in nature.
Alright, alright, I know that Test Track is currently closed for re-imagining, but it has always included a fun and interactive area for families to explore. In the past, guests could design their own cars and engage with hands-on exhibits. With that in mind, I’m hopeful that the re-imagining will bring some exciting new features and even more innovative fun!
My Pixie Dust Tip: EPCOT is perfect for slow, exploratory days. Take your time, enjoy the festivals, and let your kids explore the interactive areas. Believe me it’s worth the down time!
If you want to stay up-to-date on all things EPCOT, be sure to follow my blog for the latest tips, guides, and updates on the International Flower & Garden Festival and the International Food & Wine Festival. I share everything from must-try foods and drinks to top kid-friendly activities, so you won’t miss a single magical detail!
Animal Kingdom: Adventure Around Every Corner
Most people consider Animal Kingdom a slower-paced park, and it definitely has a relaxed vibe. However, it also offers a surprising number of fun and exciting adventures. From close-up animal encounters to hidden trails, this park is full of unexpected magic.
Conservation Station & Wildlife Express Trail
We love to hop aboard the Wildlife Express Trail to Conservation Station. Here’s where kids can meet Timon and Rafiki. It is fun to walk around and explore habitats from around the globe and get snuggly with friendly animals at the Affection Section petting zoo. Nearby, beautiful butterflies flutter as you stroll through the station. It is a true Animal Kingdom hidden gem!
And my favorite, if you peek inside the veterinary clinic, you might even catch a live procedure in progress, how amazing is that? My kids were fascinated the first time we witnessed a check-up on one of the animals.
Another fun stop is The Animation Experience at Conservation Station. You can learn how Disney animators bring characters to life and even join a 25-minute drawing class. It’s hands-on fun for the whole family. My girls love this one!
Fun Entertainment: Tam Tam Drummers of Harambe
We never miss the Tam Tam Drummers of Harambe. This lively show is some of the best entertainment in the park. My crazy family loves it! Guests of all ages are invited to dance along to the Congo drums. And yes, my family has happily joined in more than once, it’s so much fun!
Trails & Treks
Animal Kingdom is full of trails where you can explore at your own pace.
- Wilderness Explorers: A nature-themed challenge for kids. Complete fun activities and collect over 25 badges. Kids love feeling like real explorers!
- Maharajah Jungle Trek: Walk among Asian tigers, gibbons, deer, komodo dragons, water buffalo, and 50 species of birds.
- Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail: Encounter African animals such as meerkats, zebras, and, of course, gorillas. It’s one of our favorite quiet spots to slow down and appreciate the wildlife.
My Pixie Dust Tip: Take your time on these trails. Bring water, comfy shoes, and a camera. Some of our best memories have been spotting wildlife and capturing fun pictures of the animals.
Hollywood Studios: Step into the Magic of Movies
Next, discover the magic of Hollywood glamour. Hollywood Studios if full of classic vibes with hidden Mickey Magic that bring to life those golden age films.
Sing-Alongs and Stage Shows
Hollywood Studios is packed with family-friendly fun. You can join a Frozen Sing-Along Celebration, or check out the two new musicals coming this summer:
- The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure-a reimaging with more interaction.
- Disney Villains: Unfairly Ever After-first time the villains get into the spot light.
- (Both debuting May 27, 2025)
For little kids, there’s Disney Junior Play and Dance which is an interactive dance party. Families can also enjoy live Beauty and the Beast shows or nighttime spectacles like Wonderful World of Animation.
Of course, Fantasmic! is a must-see. I highly recommend arriving early or booking a dining package to secure a good seat. We have done both, and it makes the experience so much more magical.
Building Your Own Adventure at Hollywood Studios
If your family loves Star Wars as much as we do, you can build your own lightsaber at Savi’s Workshop or a custom droid at Droid Depot. These experiences are interactive and super fun for kids and adults alike. You can choose your path, assemble a lightsaber, or customize your own Astromech Unit and leave with a great one of a kind souvenir.
Reservations are required, and yes, it’s a splurge:
- $249.99 per lightsaber, plus tax
- $119.99 per droid unit, plus tax
But trust me, if you are a Star Wars fan, it’s totally worth it for the money. While you’re there, don’t miss a meet-and-greet with Darth Vader!
My Pixie Dust Tip: Plan your day around shows and interactive experiences. Book in advance whenever possible to avoid missing out on the most popular attractions because the rides lines at Hollywood Studios can be rather long.
Interactive Adventures Around the Parks
Disney World isn’t just about rides and shows, it also offers cutting-edge interactive experiences that add another layer of fun and keep kids engaged throughout the parks.
Interactive Exeriences for Kids
So, what do kids love most? Playing on their phones, I know mine sure do! Luckily, Disney makes using their phones in the parks a fun experience. Kids of all ages can download the Play Disney Parks App, which includes games, trivia, music, and more. It’s designed to turn wait times into play time, and my kids love it!
Another favorite for kids is Smellephants on Parade in Storybook Circus at Magic Kingdom. Start at the ticket booth in front of Big Top Souvenirs, pick up an interactive map with sticker sheets, and find all eight Smellephant statues scattered around the area. This scavenger hunt will keep the kids moving!
Interactive Experiences for Teens
For older kids and teens, there are exciting adventures too. Pirate’s Adventure at the Crow’s Nest is located near Pirates of the Caribbean in Magic Kingdom. This free quest lets participants choose a talisman using their MagicBand to start a five-mission, 20-minute treasure hunt through Adventureland. My teens loved feeling like real pirates while exploring the park with a purpose.
Another teen-friendly experience is the Tron Identity Program at Magic Kingdom. Teens can create an action figure or program that even sounds like them. No reservation is required, but the program costs $89.99, and payment is due upon arrival. Don’t worry, you don’t have to wait for this one, you can enjoy the park while your figure is made and pick it up later. My kids thought this was one of the coolest souvenirs ever!
Finally, Disney Fab 50 Quest is a park-wide scavenger hunt across all four Disney Parks. Guests search for 50 gold sculptures, use their MagicBands, and earn achievements when they find them all. It’s a fun way to explore and discover hidden Disney magic.
My Pixie Dust Tip: Interactive experiences are perfect for breaks between rides or long waits. Download the app and keep a list of quests. I promise, your kids will stay entertained while making magical memories.
Parades & Nighttime Magic at Magic Kingdom
The Festival of Fantasy Parade at Magic Kingdom is an absolute must-see! It features Mickey, Minnie, and so many beloved Disney characters riding on beautifully themed floats.
Don’t miss the Disney Adventure Friends Cavalcade Parade. It’s a shorter parade, but it’s packed with energy and fun! Let your kids sing, dance, and wave to their favorite friends as they pass by. It’s a nice break from waiting in lines for rides and you can enjoy a snack while you watch the parade.
My Pixie Dust Tip: For the best view, line up early along Main Street, U.S.A. However, if you want a little extra elbow room, head to Frontierland instead. It’s usually less crowded but still gives you an amazing view of the parade. That’s one of my favorite insider spots!
And of course, the nightly fireworks show is a must for every Disney visit. The lights, music, and castle projections make it the perfect way to end your day.
Even more exciting, Disney’s new Starlight Nighttime Parade is coming soon! This dazzling new show will feature characters from Moana, Peter Pan, Encanto, Frozen, and Pinocchio. It’s set to debut in summer 2025, and I’m already adding it to my Disney must-do list.
Behind the Scenes Tours
Looking for something truly special? Disney World offers several behind-the-scenes tours that make your trip even more magical. These experiences do come at an extra cost, but if you can budget for it, they’re absolutely worth it!
One of my personal favorites is the Keys to the Kingdom Tour, where you get to explore the hidden areas of Magic Kingdom and learn fun Disney secrets. Even my husband enjoyed this one, but be ready to walk on this half a day tour about the Magic Kingdom.
If you’re an animal lover, check out Caring for Giants at Animal Kingdom. You’ll get an up-close look at Disney’s elephant care and conservation efforts.
Another great option is the Amorette’s Patisserie Cake Decorating Experience at Disney Springs. I haven’t personally tried this one yest, but I hear it’s a sweet and creative way to enjoy some of that Disney magic.
A bit creative? Try the Colors of Coronado Painting Experience. It’s perfect for anyone looking to unwind and create a little magic of their own.
My Pixie Dust Tip: These tours require reservations, up-front payment, and may have age restrictions, so plan ahead. You can find details and book directly through Disney’s Special Events & Tours page.
Other Magical “Beyond the Rides” Experiences
When you’ve had your fill of rides and shows, enjoy a day of exploring a whole other side of Disney magic!
Miniature Golf Magic
Did you know Disney has not one, but two miniature golf courses? Both are perfect for a little friendly family competition.
- Fantasia Gardens and Fairways Miniature Golf (EPCOT Resort area)
- Winter Summerland Miniature Golf (near Animal Kingdom Resort)
Each course has a story to tell. Fantasia Gardens brings the classic movie to life, while Winter Summerland mixes Christmas and summer for fun twist. My family loves taking a break with a round here. It’s $19 per adult and $12 per child (ages 3–9), and totally worth the relaxation!
Disney Collectibles & Hidden Treasures
If your kids love bringing home a sprinkle of that Disney magic like mine do, they will love the Disney Medallions and Pressed Pennies found all around the parks. These make the cutest souvenirs and are fun for kids to hunt down.
Each Collectible Medallion features a beloved Disney character and can be found at places like:
- Main Street U.S.A. – Emporium & Train Station
- Adventureland – Pirates of the Caribbean & Island Breezeway
- Frontierland – Tiana’s Bayou Adventure
- Prices start at $6 for one or 4 for $20, and machines accept cash, card, or tap-to-pay.
You’ll also find pressed penny machines across all parks, resorts, water parks, and Disney Springs. My kids have a large collect of different designs from over the years. These make make great, inexpensive keepsakes! You can check the Disney Pressed Penny Locations online for all machine spots.
Disney Springs Adventures
If your family loves a good mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment, Disney Springs is a must-do. This is always included in our Itinerary. We love grabbing a treat from Gideon’s Bakehouse (those cookies are HUGE!) and catching live music along the water. There’s always something fun happening, no matter the time of year.
Splash into Disney Water Parks
Looking to cool off? Disney’s two water parks, Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach, are filled with fun for all ages. The best part? Disney is offering a free water park day on the first day of your resort reservation for 2025 and 2026! What a great way to start your vacation on a refreshing note.
Disney After Hours Events
Want to feel like you have the park all to yourself? Check out a Disney After Hours Event! These special ticketed nights let you explore the parks after closing, with shorter lines, lively dance parties, and that extra touch of Disney magic. These events are some of our favorite times to visit! Be sure to follow along as we experience Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party in 2025!
Ready to Plan Your Own “Beyond the Rides” Adventure? Follow our Budget the Magic Blog for updated park itineraries, new festival guides, resort reviews, and planning secrets to help you create your own unforgettable Disney vacation.
