So…you’re going to Disney World and you’re not taking any kids along. Yay! Good for you! Adult trips to the Most Magical Place on Earth are my jam. Don’t get me wrong I love nothing more than being in the “Disney Bubble” with my family. But there’s something to be said for a grown up escape that makes you feel like a kid – leaving all your worries behind.
Here are my favorite things for grown ups at Disney World from resorts, to restaurants and food, attractions and activities, and, of course, drinks. You’ll explore Magic Kingdom Park, Epcot, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park as well as Disney Springs.
Favorite Resorts for Grown Ups at Disney World
So, Disney World doesn’t have an adults-only resort, but there are certainly some that feel just right for grown ups. Unsure which resort to choose for your Disney World vacation – explore everything you need to know in How to Choose a Resort for Your Disney World Vacation. Here are my favorites for a grown ups only trip.
PRO TIP: Download my Disney World Resort bucket list.
- Pop Century. A Value Resort. I love Pop because the theming is super fun and nostalgic for grown ups of all ages. It’s a super option if you’re looking for something budget-friendly so you can spend your money on experiences or beverages. It’s on the Skyliner which makes it great for accessing parks.
- Coronado Springs. A Moderate Resort. Coronado has a bit of a “fancy feel” even at the pool, with a fantastic view, lots of great restaurants to choose from, and Sangria University at the Three Rivers restaurant and bar.
- Boardwalk Resort. A Deluxe Resort. All of the EPCOT-area resorts are fantastic. I think the Boardwalk is great for grown ups. Everyone with kids is going to flock to the Beach Club or Yacht Club, also EPCOT-area resorts, making the Boardwalk the perfect spot. Great food options, access to the nightlife on the boardwalk itself, and best of all – walking distance to EPCOT!
- Grand Floridian Resort. A Deluxe Resort. Luxury, marble, white furniture, it’s a beautiful resort, and not stuffy at all. Walking distance to the Magic Kingdom and on the Monorail line. The live music in the lobby is quiet and enjoyable, you can listen with a glass of wine – or enjoy a cocktail at The Enchanted Rose, a Beauty and the Beast-themed bar. Maybe it’s because this is where the wedding chapel is located, but I associate the Grand with romance.
Favorite Restaurants for Grown Ups at Disney World
PRO TIP: Check out my Disney Dining Bucket List and printable!
Here’s what you should know about Dining at Disney World, in general. If you’re going without the kiddos, it’s much easier to leave a park and take a break or enjoy a nice meal at a resort. I recommend making time to have one “out of park meal” each day, except for EPCOT, because there are some great meals to be had there sans littles. Here are some favorite restaurants to enjoy with your fellow adults at Disney World.
- Victoria and Alberts. Located in the Grand Floridian Resort. Some call this the most luxurious restaurant on property. It’s been on my bucket list for quite a while. A sophisticated location with crystal chandeliers and fine china, it’s a splurge, but the food is described as delectable and worth the price of admission. There’s a dress code.
- California Grill. Located in the Contemporary Resort. The menu is delicious and you’ll choose from one appetizer, entree, and dessert. You really can’t go wrong – but the beef is the best choice, I think. If it aligns with your trip, I prefer the Sunday brunch at this location. The views from the windows are worth the escorted trip up the elevator where you’re greeted with champagne. There’s a dress code.
- Topolino’s Terrace. Located in the Riviera Resort. During the day this location boasts one of the most delicious breakfast menus and a character experience. But it transitions to fine dining in the evening for dinner with a menu inspired by the French Riviera and Italian cuisine, and one of the greatest drink menus. The views from the balcony are picture perfect, and if you time it right you’ll see fireworks from EPCOT.
Favorite Activities for Grown Ups at Disney World
There’s really so much to do and experience at The Most Magical Place on Earth, I’m going to narrow down some of the best experiences to enjoy with a group of grown ups.
- Dessert Parties. Choose from a variety of gatherings that will satisfy any sweet tooth while enjoying a special event!
- Magic Kingdom 50th Fireworks Dessert Parties: Disney Enchantment Treats & Seats I did this one on my last trip and it was absolutely worth it! You’ll sit in a designated area of the Tomorrowland Terrace with an open bar and tasty treats. It takes place most nights in the Magic Kingdom. The cost is $114/adult and $69/child. This is the one I recommend for your grown up trip.
- Magic Kingdom 50th Fireworks Dessert Parties: Disney Enchantment Pre-Party You’ll stand in a designated area of the Tomorrowland Terrace with an open bar and tasty treats, then move out into the garden for a standing view of the fireworks. It takes place most nights in the Magic Kingdom. The cost is $99/adult and $59/child.
- Magic Kingdom 50th Fireworks Dessert Parties: Disney Enchantment After-Party. You’ll start with a standing room only view of the fireworks show, then move to a designated area of the Tomorrowland Terrace with an open bar and tasty treats. It takes place most nights in the Magic Kingdom. The cost is $99/adult and $59/child.
- Celebration at the Top: 50th Flavors & Fireworks at Disney’s Contemporary Resort. This experience is in the California Grill, there’s a dress code, and cost for this is $129.
- Ferrytale Fireworks: A Sparkling Dessert Cruise You can experience this on Wednesday and Saturday evenings, the cost is $99/adult and $69/child.
- Tours. All of the Disney tours are fantastic and bucket list worthy. A semi private experience that you can enjoy without chasing around your favorite little cuties.
- Disney’s Keys to the Kingdom Unlock the fascinating history of Magic Kingdom Park, where fantasy reigns, and gain backstage access to legendary hidden areas on this five-hour walking tour! Access the underground “Utilidor” service tunnels, learn hidden secrets of classic attractions, enjoy a delicious lunch and so much more on this backstage tour of the most iconic theme park at Walt Disney World Resort. I recommend this one on your adults only trip since the minimum age is 16.
- Disney VIP Tours. This tour should be booked by your travel agent. Explore your favorite park(s) for a minimum of 7 hours with your very own private tour guide. Groups up to 10 with private transportation and a personal escort at your own designed itinerary. Cost varies on this tour but generally ranges from $400 – $800 per hour.
- Guests who have experienced this AMAZING private, and somewhat “behind the scenes” tour have all raved about it and most end up booking it again on a future trip. It’s so customizable that it’s perfect for anyone.
- Savor the Savanna. Indulge in a sampling of African-inspired cuisine, paired with a selection of regional beer and wine offerings, as Guests gaze out across the Harambe Wildlife Reserve. And listen as a private guide shares tales of the unique residents who inhabit the reserve and the special animal care provided at the park.
- Behind the Seeds. At EPCOT, explore the behind the scenes greenery and agriculture on Living with the Land.
- Classes. There are a couple of fun classes to participate in at Disney World. While they’re open to “kids” there are specific age requirements that favor grown ups.
- Sangria University. A fun and interactive class at Coronado Springs’ Three Rivers restaurant. A friend and I did this on a recent trip and I would absolutely do it again. You’ll learn about history of sangria, try three full glasses, and mix your own.
- Cake Decorating. Amorette’s Patisserie at Disney Springs you can decorate your very own Mickey Dome cake. The class is priced per couple (limit of 2 per reservation).
- Bar Crawls. There are several options for adult beverages at Disney World. Here are my favorite lists.
- Monorail Bar Crawl. This can be done in one day or over a couple of days.
- Skyliner Bar Crawl. Great for working around a special meal or resort stay.
- Drink Around the World at EPCOT. If drinks aren’t your thing, don’t worry. I’ve got the best list of snacks at all the parks too!
- Best Snacks. Create your own must have treats and snacks in all four parks.
If you’re an adult like me, you love Disney and Disney characters. Don’t be afraid to throw in a character meal or meet n greet. Enjoy a ride on Dumbo – you don’t need a child to smile big as you fly through the sky on a magic elephant. Enjoy and keep us posted on your favorite things for grown ups at the Most Magical Place on Earth.
