Disney World for Adults: Romance & Magic for a Fairytale Getaway
With its enchanting princesses, adorable animal characters, and quintessential fairytale vibe, Walt Disney World has well-earned its reputation as a family-friendly resort. After all, many of the resort’s most iconic attractions are unabashedly geared towards children – think Magic Kingdom’s Dumbo the Flying Elephant and the endlessly cute “it’s a small world.” But what if I told you that Disney World isn’t JUST for kids? What if I told you that there is PLENTY of romance in Disney World for adults to enjoy? Would you believe me?
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If you think that Disney World is a kids-only affair, think again! With luxury resorts, fabulous dining, and fairytale magic in spades, Disney World isn’t just an excellent vacation destination for adults – believe it or not, it’s actually an ideal destination for a romantic getaway.
Surprised? So was I! When my husband and I decided to celebrate a milestone birthday with a child-free trip to Disney World, I wasn’t exactly sure what to expect. Sure, we’ve done Disney World before, but EVERY SINGLE ONE of those trips had been focused on the kids!
So what happened when we explored the grown-up side of Disney World?
We discovered THREE incredible reasons that Disney World makes a PERFECT romantic getaway. Let’s check it out!
#1 Elegant Accommodations
In Disney World, there’s truly something for everyone. And when it comes to accommodations, you’ll find several fantastic options (at different price points!) that really lean into the romantic side of Disney.
For our adults-only getaway, we chose Disney’s Yacht Club Resort. With its sophisticated vibe and convenient location, this seemed like the perfect home base for our magical escape.
While the resort is ideally located for easy access to EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios (you can walk, boat, OR take the Disney Skyliner to both!), we were unfortunately disappointed on a few levels.
For instance, guest rooms are updated with a kitchenette and hardwood floors, but we felt the room lacked the unique Disney theming that makes their other guest rooms so special.
While the staff was super friendly (Disney Castmembers are famously attentive!), the shops and to-go eateries here were quite small. We found ourselves walking over to Disney’s BoardWalk Inn as a result, where you’ll find plenty of food, shopping, and entertainment.
While Disney’s Yacht Club Resort was not OUR personal favorite, it’s actually extremely popular among many Disney World guests for its elaborate sand-bottom pool, known as Stormalong Bay.
The pool is shared with the Yacht Club’s sister resort, Disney’s Beach Club Resort, and features an impressive, pirate ship-themed water slide.
Best Resorts for a Romantic Disney World Stay
Luckily, Disney World boasts PLENTY of beautiful resorts and many of them are fantastic for a romantic, adults-only getaway. For a cozy and intimate vibe, try Disney’s Wilderness Lodge…
…or for prime luxury and elegance, consider our personal favorite, Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. This opulent resort offers beautiful guest rooms, gorgeous grounds, and upscale and romantic dining.
We just love the resort’s feature pool, which offers a water slide and a poolside bar. But if you’re looking for a quiet place to relax, you may also enjoy the quiet pool.
While the Grand Floridian is absolutely stunning, it can also be staggeringly expensive. For romance on a budget, try Disney’s Port Orleans – Riverside Resort, Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort, or Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort.
#2 Upscale Dining for Discerning Palates
When it comes to food and dining, Disney World is a MAJOR step up from your typical theme park. There’s a reason it’s regarded as a magical foodie mecca!
Sure, you’ll find standard theme park fare like hot dogs and fries – but you’ll also find TONS of elevated options, whether it’s a quick snack or an indulgent, multi-course meal.
For adult beverages and a variety of interesting, international fare, opt for a stroll around EPCOT’s World Showcase, which offers everything from craft cocktails and alcoholic coffee drinks to baklava and fish & chips. For even MORE variety, consider a visit during one of EPCOT’s four annual festivals, which feature additional outdoor kitchens with even more fabulous fare.
If a romantic sit-down meal is on your vacation wish list, you’ll have plenty of options at Disney World. Enjoy fine dining and fireworks from California Grill at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, indulge in magnificent fare at Le Cellier in EPCOT, or embark on a culinary adventure at Tiffins at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. And if you’re looking for a lively date night full of drinks, live music, and charming atmosphere, Disney Springs is where it’s at!
Want to turn up the romance – AND the luxury? Try the ultra-fine dining experience at the Michelin-starred Victoria & Albert’s Restaurant or a French feast at Monsieur Paul in EPCOT. Both of these high-end dining experiences welcome guests 13 and over – so no small kids allowed! While these romantic meals come at a significant cost, they’re one of the most romantic experiences Disney World has to offer.
#3 Rest & Relaxation
I know what you’re thinking – it’s AGAINST THE RULES to relax in Disney World! But the truth is… well, that couldn’t be farther from the truth! With beautiful pools, private cabanas, boat rentals, and even the full-service Senses Spa at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, you’ll find plenty of opportunities for rest, relaxation, and ROMANCE!
Is It Worth Going to Disney World as An Adult?
Disney World is JUST as magical for adults as it is for kids, and at roughly the same size as San Francisco, it’s basically a city of its own. And just like any city, Disney World offers plenty to do for kids AND romantic experiences for adults. Add that to fun-filled attractions, thrilling rides, and incredible fireworks displays, and Disney World is DEFINITELY worth a visit, even as a kid-free adult.
What Time of Year is Best to Go to Disney World for Adults?
If you think you can outrun the crowds at Disney World by visiting during a “down time,” think again. While there really is no such thing as a slow season in Disney World anymore, there IS a prime time to visit on an adults-only vacation – and that’s ANYTIME during one of EPCOT’s four annual festivals.
Whether you choose the International Festival of the Arts, the International Flower & Garden Festival, the International Food & Wine Festival, or the International Festival of the Holidays, a visit during festival season means copious amount of delicious international fare, bubbly beverages, and extra special entertainment.
Ready to Book Your Own Disney World Fairytale?
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