Many people assume that Disney World is “just for kids,” but did you know that there is plenty to do at Disney World for couples traveling on their own? In fact, adult-only trips to Disney World are incredibly common, and there are plenty of experiences at Disney that aren’t even open to the kids, including bars, some fine dining, and adult spa packages.
“Spa packages?” you ask.
Yes! Disney is way more than just the Magic Kingdom and Cinderella’s castle! With over 20 resorts, on-site spas, four theme parks, two water parks, multiple golf courses and two shopping and entertainment districts (Disney Springs and the Boardwalk), there truly is something for everyone.
Tips on Traveling to Disney World as a Couple
If it’s your first time traveling to Disney on a couple’s vacation, here are some things to keep in mind:
- You can get a pin badge at guest services in each park that says things like “We’re engaged!” or “Celebrating anniversary” with cute Disney designs. Everyone loves wearing badges at Disney (there are also ones for birthdays, first time visits), and couples aren’t left out!
- While Disney park tickets are expensive, an entire Disney vacation doesn’t have to be a splurge and can come to cheaper than other destinations around the world. They’ve got “Value” resorts where you’re usually paying around $100 per night, or you can save money at Disney World by staying at the campgrounds or an off-site hotel
- The parks tend to be emptier first thing in the morning, when the park opens, as well as after the fireworks if there are opening hours after the fireworks (parents don’t want to keep their kids up any later!). Plan your days with this in mind to help avoid crowds and make the most use of your time.
Where to Stay at Disney on Your Honeymoon or Romantic Getaway
When planning your Disney vacation, choosing the on-site resort is one of the most important parts as it can impact your stay positively or negatively.
That’s not to say that any of Disney’s hotels are bad options, but for an adult-only trip, there are some that are more suited than others.
Animal Kingdom Lodge
With animals roaming on the savanna outside your window, Animal Kingdom Lodge is one of the most peaceful Disney resorts, and it’s classification as a “Deluxe” resorts means you’ll get a larger room, top of the line Disney toiletries, and amenities including sit-down restaurants.
Because it is only attached to the parks via free bus transportation, many families steer clear of it, not wanting to navigate the buses too much with strollers, and you’ll find it quieter and more atmospheric than many other resorts.
Port Orleans Riverside
Designated as a “moderate” resort price wise, Port Orleans Riverside is a gorgeous, sprawling resort that is themed after the South, with meandering walkways, and two sections, one called “Alligator Bayou” and the other, “Magnolia Bend Mansions.”
There are hammocks, places to relax and watch the waterwheel attached to the main building, and a general sense of peace and calm here. You’ll feel far removed from the “Disney” bubble, but will still find Disney characters and friendly service.
Pop Century
A “Value” resort, meaning it’s one of the cheapest options, Pop Century is the ideal choice for couples on a budget. This resort features icons from decades past, and each wing is dedicated to a different decade, including the pools (if you’ve never seen a floppy disk bigger than a building, now’s your chance).
A bonus of Pop Century is that it is connected to Hollywood Studios and Epcot by the Skyliner, a gondola form of transportation that takes you sailing over Disney property to get to your destination.
Things to Do at Disney World for Couples
Enjoy this list of what to do at Disney with your loved one to have a magical trip!
Get Professional Photos in front of Cinderella’s Castle
You will, at some point, find yourself on Main Street in the Magic Kingdom, staring in awe at Cinderella’s Castle, and what better place to get some awesome photos than with this gorgeous backdrop (so many people propose in front of it as well!)
There are Disney photographers lined up on Main Street with their own cameras taking photos for people who have purchased the Memory Maker photo pass, BUT, what most people don’t know, is that you can ask them to take a picture with your phone or camera instead, free of charge.
This means you’ll get an actual photographer taking your picture instead of a random tourist who isn’t quite sure how to work the buttons.
Make Your Own Lightsaber at Galaxy’s Edge
Star Wars loving couples will get to live their dreams at Galaxy’s Edge, the Star Wars themed land in Hollywood Studios. Here, you can sign up to build your own lightsaber or working droid, which is an experience you can’t get anywhere else in the world. You won’t be the only adults doing it, trust me!
Wander the Animal Viewing Trails at Animal Kingdom
Animal Kingdom is one of Disney’s slower paced parks, where you can legitimately spend a whole day lazily wandering around, going on safari tours and just relaxing. But one of the best things to do is walk hand-in-hand through the gorgeous animal viewing trails that wind throughout the park that many people skip because they don’t even know they exist.
You’ll get great views of tigers roaming, gorillas playing, and an entire section dedicated to butterflies and birds where you may just make a new friend who lands on your shoulder!
Visit Epcot during the Food and Wine Festival (or other Festivals)
One of the most popular things to do at Epcot for couples is to visit during one of Epcot’s many festivals held throughout the year, including the Food and Wine Festival, the Festival of the Arts, and Festival of the Holidays.
Festival season means there are lots of pop-up stands throughout the World Showcase featuring drinks and snacks from that particularly country to go along with the theme of the festival.
Make it a goal to eat and drink your way through every single country in Epcot during a festival and stay for the fireworks from the lake in the middle of the park.
Have Dinner at Victoria and Albert’s
Victoria and Albert’s, a fine dining experience in the Grand Floridian Resort, is so perfectly suited to couples who want to splurge on a romantic night out – as young kids aren’t even allowed in the restaurant!
You’ll get multiple courses from world-renowned chefs, a beautiful atmosphere, and a unique Disney experience far removed from the gift shops and long lines and parades.
Get a Massage at Saratoga Springs Senses Spa
Disney has two spas on property, one at Saratoga Springs Resort and one at the Grand Floridian Resort, but I recommend the one at Saratoga Springs because the resort overall is more off-the-beaten path and relaxing.
Opt for a couple’s massage or individual treatments and feel the stress melt away.
Eat Lunch at the Boathouse
Disney Springs, Disney’s main entertainment and shopping district, is a must-do for couples. There are so many things to do in Disney Springs, but my favorite is to eat lunch at the Boathouse.
This isn’t “fine” dining, but rather a nicer, but still casual place to get a sit-down meal and great food. From delicious seafood options to the best burgers in Disney, you’ll enjoy whatever you choose and don’t forget the honey-glazed rolls!
Opt to sit outside next to the lake for a relaxed atmosphere, or enjoy the nautical décor inside.
Go Putt-Putt Golfing
Did you know that you can go putt-putt golfing at Disney? They have two separate, full mini golf courses, Fantasia Gardens (themed after the Fantasia movie) and Winter Summerland, which is a play on the seasons and involves a combination of snowmen and summer fun.
This is a fantastic thing to do for couples in the afternoon when you’re taking a break from the parks, or on your arrival or departure day when you don’t have theme park tickets. This is Disney, so expect out-of-this-world theming and not just boring rectangular putt putt golf obstacles!
Go on the Behind the Scenes Tour
Disney has a long list of behind the scenes tours they offer, which is a unique thing to do if you don’t mind learning about the secrets behind the magic. Many of these tours are limited to adults and teenagers, not wanting to ruin the illusion for the younger kids, so you’ll find yourself in fun company and may meet other couples doing the same thing!
You can choose from all day ones, like the Marceline to Magic Kingdom tour which takes you through the history of Walt’s life and how it brought about Main Street and the Magic Kingdom, or you can opt for shorter ones like the Behind the Seeds tour at Epcot which is about an hour tour through their greenhouses as you get a behind the scenes glimpse of how they innovatively grow a lot of the food served at Epcot.
Spend the Evening Strolling the Boardwalk
Disney’s Boardwalk resort is adjacent to what is just known as “the Boardwalk,” which is a stretch of boardwalk with shops, dining options, and entertainment including the ability to rent a covered two person bike and ride it around.
In the evening, you can eat dinner at the Flying Fish, an upscale seafood restaurant, and follow it up with a visit to Jelly Rolls.
Jelly Rolls, a dueling piano bar, is one of the best things to do if you’re 21 and up, as this nighttime bar and entertainment option is both fascinating and beloved by Disney fans for the energy and excitement.
If you want to keep it more low key, watch the live entertainment, or “street performers” on the Boardwalk and enjoy some ice cream as you sit out by the water, or take a stroll all the way around the loop and check out Disney’s Beach and Yacht Club resorts as well.
Watch Fireworks from the Wilderness Lodge Boat
You don’t have to pay for theme park entrance to have a relaxing view of fireworks at the Magic Kingdom. One of the best Disney hacks for couples is to book a dinner at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge at the Whispering Canyon Café OR to enjoy some drinks at the Geyer Point Bar, and then, afterwards, during fireworks time (you can check online or with the front desk if you’re not sure), hop on the free boat from the Wilderness Lodge to the Magic Kingdom.
You’ll get a gorgeous view of the fireworks and the skippers know this is special, so will often stop for a bit to let you watch. You don’t have to get off the boat, just stay on when it goes back from the Magic Kingdom to the Wilderness Lodge to where your car is parked (or get off at the Magic Kingdom and then take the bus from there back to the resort you’re staying at).
Another place to watch fireworks for free and away from the crowds is to visit the Contemporary Resort, which is walkable from the Magic Kingdom. From here, you go to the walkway in between the Contemporary and adjacent Bay Lake Tower, and you can see the fireworks as well as listen to the music that is piped in.
Finish off the night with a monorail cupcake from the food court, and you’ve just had a relaxing fireworks night that doesn’t involve listening to kids screaming or fighting large throngs of crowds.
Win!
Sara, a seasoned expert in wedding planning and date ideas, brings a wealth of experience to our couples blog. With a background in the television industry and hands-on involvement in a dozen weddings, including working as a wedding assistant on "My Fair Wedding with David Tutera," Sara has an innate understanding of the magic that makes weddings truly special. Growing up with four sisters has given her unique insights into the dating world, making her a go-to source for practical and heartfelt dating advice. Her knowledge and enthusiasm make her the perfect guide for couples seeking to infuse their relationships with creativity and love.