Leave the parks to the kids? I don’t think so. While Disney World may be known as a destination for families with young children, it’s also a fantastic spot for an adults-only Disney vacation. From world-class dining to wild rollercoasters, Walt Disney World has no shortage of things to see, do, eat, and drink. In this post, we’ll share our top recommendations for adults looking to make the most of their time in and around the Florida parks.

Whether you’re a child-free adult looking for a little magic, leaving the kids at home for adults only getaway, or are bringing the family yet want know if you’ll enjoy yourself as an adult in Disney, you’ve come to the right place. You’ll find no mention of strollers or where to find changing stations here – there are plenty of Disney blogs that cover that. But if a relaxing yet riveting park day full of great food, drinks, rides, and entertainment are your style? Keep reading, friends!

WHEN TO VISIT WALT DISNEY WORLD AS AN ADULT

The Best Times to Visit Disneyland

Besides MLK Jr. and Presidents Day Weekends, January and February are the least crowded times to visit Walt Disney World. Lower crowds mean smaller wait times and more dining options. Additionally, if you can withstand the heat and humidity, weekdays in August also tend to have smaller crowds.

If you’re a big fall and halloween fan, visiting during the week from mid-September through mid-October, you’ll be amazed at the decorations, treats, and moderate crowds for the spooky season. Though you’ll find a few more crowds in EPCOT, you’ll also get to enjoy the EPCOT Food & Wine Festival during this time! If you’re as Christmas obsessed as we are, plan your visit from mid-november though mid-decmeber with the exception of the week of Thanksgiving.

The Worst Times to Visit Disneyland

Avoid holiday weekends if at all possible. Disney World is such an easy day trip for many Florida locals, and they flock to the parks during national and school holidays. The parks will be extra-crowded during these times, meaning there will be extra-long wait times for entry gates and rides, tougher crowds to walk through, and more competition for seats for dining and transportation.

Always check the park hours in advance to make sure there isn’t a park buy out from a large company. Park buy outs are typically only for Magic Kingdom, but it can mean that the park closes at 4 or 5 p.m. – yet you still pay full price for the ticket! Additionally, there are often seasonal parties like Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party or Mickey’s Christmas Party which also close Magic Kingdom to the general public at around 5 p.m. as well.

How Long To Plan Your Disney World Trip

While we adore spending time in Disney parks, we know PTO, weekends, and money is always a factor that brings us all back to reality. You need at least three days to see the parks, but four to six days in Disney World is ideal. Here’s how we would spend our time in Walt Disney World depending on how many days you’re visiting. (This isn’t including the travel days before and after! These recommendations are for time spent on Disney property.)

• ONE DAY – pick a park to slow down and enjoy in order to make the most of your limited time there.
• TWO DAYS – buy a park hopper and plan to go to two parks a day. Keep in mind you won’t be able to do everything, so make a list of a few must-do’s per park and enjoy easy park hopping!
• THREE DAYS – buy a park hopper and plan to mix it up! Treat a three-day trip like a two-day trip, but for your third day, revisit whichever parks you wanted more time in!
• FOUR DAYS – commit a full day to each park.
• FIVE OR MORE DAYS – either take a day off from the parks in the middle of the trip to be a resorts-hopping and Disney Springs day, or allow yourself a later start to a parks day and revisit your favorite park(s) before heading home.

NAVIGATING THE LINGO

Lingo? What lingo? Yep – there’s plenty of Disney vocabulary words and phrases you need to know before you go to have the best experience in Disney. You can’t have the best Disney trip if you don’t know the lingo! Since there are too many words and acronyms to know before you go, we’ve created a guide to the most essential acronyms and phrases you need to know before you go to Disney. Read it here!

MONEY MATTERS

How Do I Buy Disney World Park Tickets?

Be sure to book your park tickets in advance either on the Walt Disney World website or the My Disney Experience mobile app. Once you book in advance, they should live on your phone in your apple wallet. Once at the park, they’ll give you an old school paper ticket. It’s kind of both ridiculous and adorably retro. If you wait until you’re at the park entrance, you’ll have to wait in a long line to purchase tickets.

As a note, be aware that park tickets are priced on a variable pricing system, increasing and decreasing with the popularity and demand of park visitation. What does that mean? Visiting the parks on a weekday in January will cost much less than visiting on memorial day weekend. Additionally. your average daily ticket price goes down with each additional day you book.

Should I Use Cash or Card at Disney?

While you could technically bring cash to Disney, don’t bother with it. Cards are accepted everywhere, and almost every single store, vendor, and restaurant accept Apple Pay. If you have the Disney Visa card, you can often get 10% off your purchases at many locations as well! In turn you can use those visa rewards points to buy more ears, a spirit jersey, or a delicious churro.

How Much Does Dining, Drinks, and Snacks Cost at Disneyland?

Speaking of churros, though prices change frequently, we recommend budgeting $125 per day per person for food and drinks. Sodas, water, and coffee cost about $4 each; breakfast options will cost about $15; a typical quick-service lunch will cost about $25; a snack ranges between $5-$10; cocktails range between $15-$25; and a table-service dinner costs around $50-60.

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VIBES & PARKS

Walt Disney World is home to four parks, two water parks, and one entertainment district. Each area offers different attractions, vibes, and reasons to visit.

Magic Kingdom

The most iconic park in Disney World, this one is the most similar to the original Disneyland California park. While there are more rides and attractions that are more specifically kid-oriented here, there is plenty for adults to do and enjoy. Rides, theming, and characters bring classic Disney fairytale and princess movies to life in Fantasyland and Tomorrowland. While we love a few elements of those lands, Adventureland and Frontierland offer a little more for adults. These tend to have more wild rides and less strollers. If you’re a classic Disney fan, this is the park for you!

Animal Kingdom

Animal Kingdom is not your average theme park with its lush greens, a sprawling savannah full of wildlife, creative dining experiences, broadway style shows, and innovative rides. It is separated into four unique lands of Africa, Asia, Pandora – The World of Avatar, and DinoLand U.S.A. Each land has its own cuisine and specific theming! This park is one of our personal favorites with its laid-back energy. Check out the full itinerary for an adults only day in Animal Kingdom here!

EPCOT

One of Walt’s last concept inventions, EPCOT is short for “Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow.” This creative park has two distinct areas. Future World at the beginning of the park highlights past, present, and future possibilities of the world in a retro modernistic way along with several looks into space! World Showcase is the back of the park which features a showcase of 11 different countries around the world: Mexico, Norway, China, Germany, Italy, America, Japan, Morocco, France, United Kingdom, and Canada. In EPCOT you’ll find some of the newest rides and most diverse dining options.

Hollywood Studios

Movie lovers will love the Old Hollywood feel of this movie themed park! Star Wars fans will love exploring, eating, and riding through Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. Toy Story Land is the perfect place to feel like a kid again as the perspectives of giant crayon boxes and living toy soldiers make you feel like you’ve shrunk down to the size of a toy. Sunset Boulevard has some of the best shopping and atmosphere, and Grand Avenue (the main street) lends itself to the best photo ops.

Typhoon Lagoon & Blizzard Beach

While Disney World technically has two waterparks, only one of them is open at the moment. Blizzard Beach is currently closed for refurbishment. Typhoon Lagoon is the perfect place to cool down from the Florida heat! This is an ideal half-day spot for those who love enormous wave pools, speed-demon water rides, and the chillest of lazy rivers.

Disney Springs

While not a park, this area is an outdoor shopping, dining, and entertainment center on Disney Property. Anyone can visit without a ticket. While we wouldn’t recommend you carve out too much time in your itinerary to visit, it’s a nice area to pop into for a bit of shopping or a nearly Disney-free dinner if you’ve had too much of the Mouse for one day.

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WHAT & WHERE TO EAT & DRINK

Don’t be surprised that one of the best things about Disney parks is the food. These are no regular theme parks. Though you can of course find corn dogs and chicken strips, you’ll also find Japanese, Italian, Cajun cuisine, and so much more. Star Wars fans will geek over drinks at Oga’s Cantina in Galaxy’s Edge while retro-movie lovers watch 1950s Godzilla films from their very own old-school convertible as they munch on American classics. If you love a theme and want a brief break from the parks, take the monorail from Magic Kingdom to the Polynesian Resort to dive into a tropical drink at Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto. And for those looking for a more elevated dining experience, make reservations for a romantic dinner at Le Cellier in EPCOT’s Canada Pavilion or Victoria & Albert’s at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa.

Drinks To Order:

• EL DIABLO MARGARITA – A spicy classic margarita in La Cava del Tequila in EPCOT’s Mexico Pavilion.
• BESPIN FIZZ – Out of this world drink that will make your mouth numb and tingly at Oga’s Cantina in DL.
• SINALOA SANGRAI – Kait’s favorite South American Sangria which can only be found at the Nomad Lounge in Animal Kingdom.
• GREEN MILK – Andrew’s favorite drink of all time, this “milk” in Galaxy’s Edge in DL is a tropical fruity smoothie.
• UH-OA – Explosive tropical drink you’ll need to order and see to believe at Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto in Disney’s Polynesian Resort. Don’t go it alone though, this large-scale drink is recommended for 2+ people.

ATTRACTIONS & RIDES

Don’t worry – we’re not going to list every single ride and attraction in Walt Disney World! While many rides might be slower and more story-oriented than some adults expect at some theme parks, Disney does offer many thrill rides and attractions that will engage even the most skeptical of adults.

Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance

Truly one of the immersive ride experiences in any theme park, we promise you haven’t witnessed anything quite like this. An astonishing 18-minute experience, this ride immerses you fully in the world of Star Wars like never before. While it’s definitely not a roller coaster, be prepared for a lot of quick turns, bumpy rides, and unforgettable surprises.

This ride is located in Hollywood Studios.

Tron Lightcycle Run

A future movie themed roller coaster that’s an oldie-but a goodie. If you have a need for speed, this exciting ride will make you scream from unexpected twists and turns, then have you coming back for more.

This ride is located in Magic Kingdom.

Stroll Through World Showcase

World Showcase offers a delightful way to explore different cultures and cuisines from around the globe. Grab a snack or beverage from one of the pavilions (we recommend the School Bread from Norway or the Sake from Japan) and take a leisurely stroll around the lagoon. You’ll be transported to Morocco, the U.K., and France without ever leaving Orlando.

This is located in EPCOT.

Watch Happily Ever After

No trip to Disney World is complete without watching the nightly fireworks show at Magic Kingdom. Happily Ever After is a spectacular display of pyrotechnics, music, and impressive projection mapping that tells the story of beloved Disney characters. Enjoy a delicious and casual dinner at Skippers Canteen, then grab a snack, find a spot in front of Cinderella Castle about an hour ahead of showtime, and be prepared to be dazzled.

This is located in Magic Kingdom.

Avatar Flight of Passage

Saddle up on the back of a banshee for an incredibly immersive 3D flight simulation. Once the ride begins, you’ll be fully captivated by the sights, sounds, smells, and adventure of the landscape of Pandora. It’s so remarkably detailed that you can even feel the lungs of the banshee you’re riding inhaling and exhaling.

This ride is located in Animal Kingdom.

Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run

Don’t miss the chance to pilot the iconic Millennium Falcon on the interactive ride, Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run. With so much to see, do, and taste in Galaxy’s Edge, it’s the perfect destination for any adult Star Wars fan looking for a truly out-of-this-world experience.

This ride is located in Hollywood Studios.

Guardians of the Galaxy Cosmic Rewind

For thrill-seekers, Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind is the newest can’t-miss ride in Epcot. This roller coaster takes you on a high-speed journey through the Guardians’ universe. The ride features an exciting and modern soundtrack that’ll leave you rocking out with each hair-bending turn. The ride’s intricate theming and impressive visuals make it a standout attraction in the park.

This ride is located in EPCOT.

Swap a Park Day for the Spa 

For an adults-only day of pampering and relaxation, a spa day at the Senses Spa at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort is the perfect choice. This full-service spa offers a range of luxurious treatments, from massages and facials to body wraps and aromatherapy. Treat yourself to a signature treatment like the Grand Floridian Bliss, a full-body massage using warm coconut oil and hot stones to soothe your muscles and calm your mind. After your treatment, lounge in the private relaxation room, sip on infused water, and soak in the peaceful atmosphere.

HOW TO GET AROUND WALT DISNEY WORLD

Reaching Walt Disney World is the easy part. Either fly into MCO airport or drive to Disney. From there, you’ll most likely be staying in a hotel. If you drive to Disney, we recommend that you stay parked while staying on property at Walt Disney World. If you fly, you can either take a rideshare or pre-schedule a ride through MEARS connect. Though if you’re coming as an adult and don’t have to fuss with kids or car seats, we’d highly recommend the simple route of taking an Uber or Lyft to your resort hotel. All Disney Resort hotels offer free transportation to and from Disney parks, so even if you have a car, you won’t need it here!

Buses

These classic Disney buses act like city buses and take guests from almost every resort to every park, but there is no transportation which takes you from resort to resort. Buses run all day long, for about an hour before and after each park opens and closes. Some resorts offer additional alternatives to reach different parks, but overall, buses are the most common mode of transportation.

Skyliner

This aerial mode of transportation runs between Hollywood Studios and EPCOT which is perfect for park hopping! Additionally, the Skyliner also takes guests from Disney’s Pop Century, Disney’s Art of Animation, Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort, and Disney’s Riviera Resort to and from those two parks.

Monorail 

The icon monorail makes a loop from EPCOT and Magic Kingdom which makes park hopping a breeze! The monorail also connects the Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, Disney’s Polynesian Resort, and Disney’s Contemporary Resort to those two parks.

Ferry

The ferry takes park goers to and from the Transportation and Ticket Center (TTC) and Magic Kingdom. There are two very large ferries which make frequent treks across Bay Lake.

Friendship Boats

These smaller boats go across Crescent Lake between Hollywood Studios and EPCOT which – you guessed it – makes park hopping between the two quick and easy. They also pick up resort guests from Walt Disney World Dolphin, Walt Disney World Swan, Walt Disney World Swan Resort, Disney’s Yacht & Beach Club, and Disney’s Boardwalk resorts.

Cruiser Boats

These smaller boats are similar to the Friendship boats, but since they are on Bay Lake, they visit different resorts and all only end up at the Magic Kingdom. Resorts along this route are the Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, Disney’s Polynesian Resort, Disney’s Contemporary Resort, Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground, and Disney’s Wilderness Lodge.

WHERE TO STAY IN WALT DISNEY WORLD

Choosing where to stay is key to ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience. If you’re looking for a more adult-oriented atmosphere with fewer kids running around, we recommend staying at one of the many adult-friendly resorts on property. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or just a break from the hustle and bustle of the parks, these adult-friendly resorts are the perfect choice for your next Walt Disney World vacation. Each include luxurious amenities, upscale dining, relaxed ambiance, stylish rooms, and a variety of adult-oriented activities like golfing, spas, and nightlife. Plus, their convenient locations make it easy to access the parks and other attractions.

Because Walt Disney World is so large and includes many different resorts and parks, there are several ways to get around and all involve free Disney transportation if you stay on property at one of these resorts! (We’ll get into more transportation details in the next segment!)

Disney’s Yacht Club Resort

• 4-Star Deluxe Disney Resort Hotel
• Located just a short boat ride or a few minutes walk to two parks – EPCOT and Hollywood Studios. In addition to it being walkable to the two most adult friendly parks, it’s also walkable to the Skyliner system which can connect you to other great resorts on Disney property.
• This resort features elegant yacht club theming, an amazing steakhouse, a lazy river, a beach front area on the lake, and the best pool in Disney World.

Walt Disney World Swan Reserve

• 5-star Marriott hotel on Disney property.
• Located just a short boat ride or a few minutes walk to two parks – EPCOT and Hollywood Studios. In addition to it being walkable to the two most adult friendly parks, it’s also walkable to the Skyliner system which can connect you to other great resorts on Disney property.
• This luxury property offers a beautiful escape from the sometimes hectic Disney parks. The staff is incredibly accommodating and the property is almost brand new. On our last stay here, we found the best surprise was being able to see the Hollywood Studios Fireworks show from our Window! As an added bonus, this property can be booked by using Marriott points!