Doing Disney World Solo
I’m doing something in one week that I’ve longed to do for a few years now. I’m leaving Michigan, my husband, and my pets home and taking my very first solo trip to Walt Disney World. I could not be more excited! My budget is low for this trip (as with most of my Disney trips) so I’ll be staying at Pop Century Resort for four nights and five days and I’m paying for all of my dining out of pocket. I’m even buying my first Annual Pass so I can experience the magic of Walt Disney World more often this year.
When I tell friends, family, and coworkers about my new adventure, they seem to question why in the world I’d want to go to Walt Disney World by myself. I seem to reply, “Why not?!” I think it’s going to be wonderful to see Disney through MY eyes only… a totally new perspective. The vibe is going to feel a little bit different since I can walk as slow or as fast as I want. I can stop anytime I want without having to hold anyone up. The “World” is mine to navigate how I please. If I want to ride Carousel of Progress four times in one trip… I can! And I probably will! I won’t have to turn to someone and say, “What do you want for lunch? What sounds good to you?” Every move I make is based on only me and I LOVE the thought of that. Maybe it sounds a little selfish to some people, but for someone that’s always based their itinerary on what everyone else wants, it’s going to be awfully nice to call the shots. Speaking of shots, I’m really excited to take as long as I want to take a photograph since I often feel bad holding my group up. I’ll even be able to do my nerdy Touring Plans research and not bother anyone. Man! This trip is sounding better and better by the second.
Are solo trips for everyone? No. Certainly not. Many people enjoy having their friends and family around all of the time and some folks don’t care for being alone. I think to do a solo trip, you have to be able to come out of your shell at times and venture on the outgoing side. Conversing with others guests and cast members in lines will definitely help to make anyone feel less lonely. Human contact makes everyone feel better. Someone that might really enjoy a trip alone would be a person that’s been to a Disney park many times with their family and they’re looking for a way to see Disney from a new and different angle.
If a solo trip is something that sounds tempting to you, there are a lot of things to think about before making your reservations. One thing I decided very quickly was that being a 23 year old female meant that my safety had to be taken into consideration. I think Disney parks are relatively safe places to be alone in but I’m using the same precautions that I would in my every day travels. Using Disney’s onsite accommodations was a no brainer for me. I knew that I had no interest in going offsite and because I don’t know the Orlando area all that well, I chose to use Disney’s transportation to get around. Messing with a rental car and GPS just isn’t something that sounds fun to me but it might work better for you, especially if you fly into Orlando/Sanford Airport. Using Disney’s bus system means that I also get to avoid parking lots which sometimes aren’t lit that well at night. My safety always comes first.
The biggest plus of a trip to Disney World by yourself other than calling the shots, is the spontaneity involved in the trip! The pacing is entirely different for the “go getters” like me. I wake up early and play in the parks until late at night so I can fit everything in that my group wants. On a solo trip, you’re able to slow down, skip attractions you don’t want to do, repeat favorite attractions, stop completely and enjoy a street performance, go back to the resort to rest, and of course… people watch! I don’t feel entirely comfortable eating in a sit-down restaurant at a table for one so instead, I’m going to treat myself to one signature meal where I can sit at the bar or counter for my meal and chat it up with the wonderful folks preparing my dinner. Just because I’m by myself, doesn’t mean I still can’t eat and drink well. Trust me, I’ll be eating enough sushi and drinking enough tequila for everyone that reads this.
As for my park plans, I’m trying to limit my crazy typical planning as much as possible. I’m allowing room for me to do anything at any given moment. This means no Advanced Dining Reservations and basically no daily park plans set in stone. I’ll be giving Animal Kingdom more attention since I typically neglect that park more than any other. I intend to explore the Epcot area resorts more in depth as well as really delve into the World Showcase. This means talking to international cast members, trying more of the cuisine available, and discovering what treasures are for sale at each pavilion.
I’ll be doing something really cool my first day at Walt Disney World. I’m going to go to the bus stop and whatever bus arrives first, that’s where I’m heading! Spontaneity at it’s best! I’m even thinking about tackling an Ultimate Touring Plan for the very first time at some point. Who knows?!
The thing I’m most excited about is interacting with Disney friends and readers via Twitter while I’m touring the resort. I think I’ll feel less alone if I have some interaction… even if it is just in the Twitterverse. So, fellow Disney nerds, I’m asking you to join me on my first solo trip. Taste the food! See the sights! Smell the… smells? I’ll make sure I’m wearing deodorant… I promise! Anyway, make sure you’re following me, @Stacey87, so we can interact.
I’d also like to ask YOU, the readers, to decide where I’ll be going on my final day at Walt Disney World by responding either here in the comments section or on Twitter. The park that gets the most votes is where I’ll spend my final Disney day!
Anyone out there have any additional tips for those of us venturing off on our first solo trip? Let us know!
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I know this is an old article, but I am so glad I found it! I will be going in 26 days (but who’s counting?)to attend the travel agent training program and will have evenings and a full day all to myself. I was feeling a bit apprehensive but now am super excited!
Staying at AKL, which I am thankful for because the biggest worry I had was returning to the resort alone after EMH…good to know I won’t need to worry about walking through dimly lit lots or buildings!
I’m heading to Disney for my first solo trip at the beginning of January. I’m kind of nervous…I mean, I’ve been to Disney about 6 times already and I used to live in LA, so I had an Annual Pass to Disneyland and went there by myself all the time. I guess I’m just nervous that I’ll feel a little weird being by myself. I’m sort of a shy person, but I do enjoy doing lots of things by myself and I definitely like that I can go at my own pace (I’m one of those early risers because I like to get to the parks nice and early). Thanks for writing this article, it’s helped me feel a bit better about going by myself!
Eh I meant Pop Century 😛
Hi,
Thanks for the post! I’m going solo to WDW next month. However, I’m very low on budget, and I think Pop Culture Resort accommodates up to 4 people (for the cheapest one). Any idea on how to save up more?
Many thanks.
Try hotwire or priceline to get an even cheaper place, if that is what you are asking. You will need a car , however, to get a place off site. But you can get a place Near Disney for as low as $39 a night (for 3 and four stars sometimes). You should be able to get a good deal in October.
Aloha,
I am doing my very first solo trip to Walt Disney and I am leaving in 14 days. I have a little anxiety, but I know once I am physically there it will go away. I decided to stay at the Disney Boardwalk since I can’t pass up the Military specails going on right now. Secondly, do you think that going to Disney by yourself is a good idea if you want to relax. I mean as you said you get to walk at your own pace and do what you want to do. I am not writing an itenerary down so it should be interesting. The only reservations I made are for dinner since I love the World Show case at EPCOT. Thanks for posting a great article. =)
During a recent 9-member family trip in December, we had a Sunday where we didn’t have any park visits planned until late afternoon. I woke up very early, did not tell anyone but my wife I was leaving, and went to the Magic Kingdom by myself! I arrived just after the park opened and so thoroughly enjoyed my slow motion, all-by-myself, walk down Main Street. I have never been able to enjoy Main Street before with having to keep an eye on all the little ones. Did you know that they have names on the Second Floor windows honoring Disney castmembers? (Of course, you do!) This was the first time that I was in NO HURRY to get to an attraction. So I just spent a nice leisurely walk down Main Street.
My point being, you don’t even need to plan an entire trip by yourself…just a 2-hour chunk of “me time” amidst a week of hustle and bustle can make the whole vacation a little extra special.
Hi Stacy – get article! I actually did my FIRST solo trip this past September for 6 nights and 7 days. It was hands down the BEST trip to Disney World I’ve ever taken! I had usually gone with my daughter over Thanksgiving week and caught all the Christmas decorations so it was nice to take in the Halloween stuff! My biggest advantage to going solo was I got to do what I wanted when I wanted. I saw all the shows I’ve always wanted to that my daughter blew by (Beauty and the Beast, Finding Nemo and Festival of the Lion King). I arrived at the parks early enough for rope drop. I got to take my time, I got to shop wherever I wanted..people watch, talk to CM’s and other vacationers. I soaked it all in it is imbedded in my brain. I stayed at Port Orleans French Quarter and actually just booked my 2nd solo trip there for 11/24 – 12/1 (a week!!) I missed the Christmas decorations this past time around so off I go to enjoy it all again. I highly agree – going solo is a great way to relax, take your time and definitely smell the flowers.
I meant to say GREAT article! LOL
Sounds like a fantastic idea. Can’t wait to try it myself some day. We’re heading down for a couple weeks in February and I know I’ll find myself at the parks alone – you’ve given some great perspective on how to enjoy that time.
Love my solo trips. They help me chill out so much more on the family trips because I know I’ll get a chance to come back and do what I want later. I spent 10 days at WDW with toddler grandkids and was totally flexible in allowing their needs to determine our touring plans.
I would love to do a solo trip. Eat drink and do what YOU want. Please have some beignets for me. I agree that sitting at the bar would be fun, let the bartender make his or her specialty for you. Have dessert first then an appetizer for dinner. I think you should end your trip at MK. Remember to buy some Disney snacks before you leave, this way when you have withdrawls you can snack and walk down memory lane. Be safe and have a blast!!
So as Disney Fanatic that went on a trip to Asia for 6-week by myself and subsequently did Tokyo Disney Resort for 3 days by myself I can tell you first hand YOU WILL LOVE touring by yourself!! Have fun, take lots of pictures and I say if you have not already, start pin trading with cast members. My friend got me hooked last December and it is a great way to interact with people you may not have other wise. I say but the cheapest starter kit you can, then decide what you want to hunt/collect (say your favorite character, I collect Muppets) and start talking to every cast member you can. I guarantee you will have a blast. Just don’t ask CM with a green lanyard they only trade with kids.
Looks like I’m a loner here, but for some reason we always end up at Epcot on our last day at ‘The World’ and finish it off with dessert at Beaches and Cream.
Enjoy!
I also usually end at Epcot (or DHS). My last day is always a 1/2 day since I only have a 2 hour flight. Too much to do in MK for a 1/2 day, but that’s enough time to take on Future World and end with a lunch in WS!
Our first vote for Epcot! Thanks for responding!
Stacey, I have gone to all the parks solo and had great experiences at all of them. Yes, it’s a little odd when I get on Pirates of the Caribbean and get seated in a row with another family, but that feeling passes. The freedom to do whatever you want to do when you want to do it and at the pace you want to do it is great.
If you can, I recommend Evening EMH on your own. It gets to feeling like the park was opened and staffed just for you. Another favorite thing to do when I’m on my own in a park is to do the “b-list” attractions. I would never expect my friends to wait 25 minutes for Astro Orbitor, but if I’m on my own, and it’s what I want to do, 25 minutes is no big deal.
When you can, sit in the back row of theaters and on boat rides. This makes other people enjoying the ride part of your entertainment.
One final plus of going solo: as many inversions as you want on Sum of All Thrills!
I understand that some rides will be more awkward than others to ride solo. Maybe they’ll let me go around on Peter Pan’s Flight multiple times if they feel bad for me. Haha!
I want to do an evening at a park! I think that would be wonderful since I love nighttime in Disney World.
Fun fact! I’ve never done Sum of All Thrills! First time for everything, right?
I just got back from my month solo trip to WDW. I go once per month on business. I stayed at Kidani and if you get a chance, check out the AKL and Kidani. They have great views of the animals from many locations at the resorts and no crowds. Then top off you day at the Jiko lounge where you can order from the full menu. I think that was on your list anyway, and it is fantastic. I also concur with your idea about dining at the lounges since many have full menus and you don’t feel ackward and the bartenders love when people order dinner. They will take good care of you!
Once per month? You’re so lucky! I absolutely love Animal Kingdom Lodge and Kidani Village. It’s amazingly beautiful. I have to hit it up once a trip if I can. Your ideas are wonderful!
Hello Miss Stacey, I vote for the Magic Kingdom too! I never really go alone….. Yet I spent the bestest day ever there with my mommy and the touring plans gang! My testing group all left around 2, but mommy and I stayed way after the park closed! It was super Awesome-A-Tasmic! I vote for the Magic Kingdom because of the Magic Memories & You, Wishes and especially watching the Kiss Good Night Show. It will be Mickey’s Special way to say thank you for coming and sharing in the Magic & then bottling some up with you to take home.
Awww!! I love the idea of Mickey thanking me! Thanks for the vote!
I’ve been to WDW solo many times. The first few solo visits were pre-smartphone, so I had no access to the non-existent Facebook and Twitter. More recently I’ve had solo trips with Facebook and Twitter. I have to say that these are totally different beasts.
With social media, it’s barely like you’re alone at all. Once you tweet something about Disney, it’s like dozens of people are standing there at the park with you. There are good and bad aspects to this. Good is that you are never lonely. The bad is that you are never lonely. I find that when I’m alone and tweeting from WDW, I’m still filtering my choices and thinking about what other people will think.
I would encourage you to take at least one day while you’re at the parks and decide not to tweet. Just be you, alone. Sit by the pool. Get a manicure. Ride all the rides your husband doesn’t like. Eat cake for breakfast. Relax in your own head without broadcasting your thoughts. And ENJOY!
Erin, Erin Erin… you’re a wise woman.
I’ve thought about going “offline” for a half day to do just as you said… relax in my own head. It is a bit overwhelming when you’re having to post and chat every half hour just to keep up with everything. Some days I’ll be more active than others, I’m sure.
And, eat cake for breakfast? Yes, please! BabyCakes, here I come!
Oh, and when you tour the Epcot resorts, you should definitely grab a meal or ice cream dessert at the counter at Beaches n Cream! Delicious!!
Fabulous idea! I’ve never been there!
Your solo trip sounds AWESOME!!! I have thought about doing one myself, and you are inspiring me to really do it one day! I usually go to Disney with my mom – who doesn’t do the more intense rides – so I already go on a lot of attractions by myself anyway. The meals would be the toughest part but you have a GREAT idea to eat at the bar! And there are so many great counter service options as well. I’m so excited for you and can’t wait to follow your trip on twitter! Have a fantastic time!
you have to end your trip at Magic Kingdom!!!
Lots of Magic Kingdom votes so far! Woo! Thank you!
I have been to WDW three times solo. I have never felt conspicuous or uncomfortable, even at TS restaurants. Most people are too wrapped up in their own selves to notice a solo. I do prefer a deluxe for added security, as your room door is inside the building. My last trip was in December, so I met up with some Disney fan groups, but mostly I was on my own and loved it. My husband will usually let me take the lead when we go together (except he wont do parades!) but I found the best part of being alone was not having to match someone else’s energy level. I also rented a car, which I was anxious about, but with a GPS I was good to go! I still didnt do everything I planned to, though, so another trip is in order! I will follow you on twitter – I am @Songbird_Hollow.
If I could have afforded a deluxe, I DEFINITELY would have stayed at that level for the reason you suggested… security. I’m making sure to ask for a building at Pop Century that won’t require me to walk through a parking lot in order to get to the bus stop or Everything Pop. Pretty sure they can accommodate my request. You’re very brave for renting a car solo! I’ll get there someday…
Thanks for the follow!
I spent several days on my own when I was with a large group. I did three parks in one day, started before opening at AK, lunch in Epcot and the Electrical Parade in the MK at the end. I’ve never been so tired and so happy. It was a blast. I rode Expedition Everest three times in the morning, once with the Ride Manager. It was easily my favorite morning.
I think I’m probably going to end up doing what you did… lots of park hopping every day. Going where the wind takes me. I did Expedition: Everest three times in a row once and ended up having a headache for a few hours! Never again!
I did Disney World alone last November. While I would’ve preferred going with hubby (he had to stay home due to a last-minute work obligation), I had a nice time alone for all the reasons you mention, especially being able to skip things I don’t like and experience things I do like several times, and also being able to go at my own (fast) pace. In fact, I had my best MK day ever on that trip. I made it all the way around the park twice and did everything I love at least twice. And I had no problem with being alone on rides or at shows. But I did limit my table-service dining to the Biergarten so I could eat with other people.
So glad to hear that you accomplished a lot during your solo trip! Going during November is a great time of year for crowds. I’m sure that being solo was even better. Thanks so much for responding!
Teppan Edo in Epcot is another good place for solo travelers. You can meet the others at your table, plus there is entertainment while waiting for your food.
I TRAVEL AT LEAST TWO OR MORE TIMES A YEAR SOLO AND IT IS THE BEST TIME, YOU HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY AS MANY HAVE SAID TO RIDE RIDES AS OFTEN AS YOU WISH VISIT EVERY PARK AS OFTEN AS YOU WANT, PEOPLE WATCH, EAT WHEN AND WHERE YOU’D LIKE. I ENJOY GOING WITH FRIENDS AS WELL BUT SOLO IS GREAT. YOU WILL HAVE A GREAT TIME.
JUDI, TURN YOUR CAPS LOCK OFF, IT’S OBNOXIOUS.
I would do this every day for three months if I could. I work in an industry that’s big in Orlando and I’m always looking for gigs that would get me down there for a few days.
If you do happen to make it down to Disney World on a solo trip, make sure to let us know how you liked it!
I’m glad I’m not the only one who loves to people watch. I get a kick out of watching children at character meet and greets.
I have been to WDW solo at least 30 times. I have enjoyed the trips and never really felt out of place. The only possible exception is at meals, that is when your solo status is most evident. I enjoy chatting with both guests and CMs while passing time. Sometimes being solo can get you on attractions a little quicker via the solo line. Like others have said, you don’t need a majority decision, only your own is needed to decide what you are doing or where you are going.
A solo expert! Yeah! It’s making me feel better to hear about all of the positive experiences. I’m stoked for the single rider lines. Haha!
Your trip is something I’ve longed to do. Have a great time!
Thank you! I certainly hope that you get to travel solo to Walt Disney World sometime soon! If you do… make sure to report back. I wanna hear all about it.
I’ve gone to all the parks by myself. I did feel a little weird at first. Yet, once I got into it – it was great! Going on all the rides I love over and over & taking my pictures with the characters is the best part! I also meet people easily, so waiting on lines or for parades & fireworks goes quickly and I learn lots of great things from the other guest. I actually learned about TouringPlans.com from a Guest that I invited to sit at the extra chairs around our table waiting for the fireworks!
Thanks for responding, Sandra! You’re like me… we meet people easily. Sometimes just a smile or a ‘hello’ can spark a conversation. It’s so cool how you learned about Touring Plans! Aren’t we cool people? Haha!
Your trip sounds wonderful. I am trying to figure out away to convince my husband to let me have a solo in October to run the ToT 10 mile race.
As a former DLR cast member, I’ve found myself in situations before a shift of work alone at the parks. I think there’s a plus to being alone, you kind of get a piece of mind knowing that you’re in control and knowing you get to do what you want, when you want.
Like Jill mentioned above, there’s not as many opputunities to think out loud with the people around you because you’re not sure how they feel or if they’ll feel the same way. But with that, you can also think of the situation in a different light. Odds are, they’re from some other part of the world, and you’ll never see them again!
I’m finally making my pilgrimage out to WDW on my first trip on the 25th…solo! So thanks for getting the excitement up Stacey with your post!
I am so jealous. Have a blast!
I’ve been to Disneyland alone and it was okay to wander around by myself. But going on rides alone just isn’t any fun at all. You end up feeling like a total weirdo sitting alone and laughing on a ride.
The way you describe your solo trip really doesn’t sound all that different than the touring style my husband and I have together. We luck out because we share a lot of the same favorites. There are really only a few attractions we don’t agree on so it makes touring quite laid back.
I’m excited for your Twitter updates since we’ll be in the parks a couple weeks after you!
I really like going solo to the parks. You will love it. Now, I’ve only done it a couple of times (during conferences), so an entire trip sounds like a blast. But you hit it on the head – do what you want, when you want.
One night, I toured the Haunted Mansion six times and hung at the back of the group to hear the spirits whispering “stay together” in the stretching room each time. No pressure to be at the front of the line.
Oh sure, people might have looked at me funny when I boarded Peter Pan by myself, but it didn’t bother me a bit.
Anyway, I can’t wait to follow your trip on Twitter and live vicariously through you (and your four times on Carousel of Progress)! Have fun!
I would LOVE to do a solo trip! Don’t get me wrong, I love going with my family, seeing the excitement in my kids eyes. But, there’s always something I didn’t get to do or wanted to do more of during the trip. If I were by myself, I could do whatever I wanted without worrying about anyone else! Ah, but just a dream for now! Someday I’ll make it a reality! I vote for your last day to be at Magic Kingdom! Have a wonderful time!
Stacey, your vacation sounds wonderful. In fact, we have just booked our latest trip to WDW in the summer and I am going to suggest to my husband to have a lone day, I think it’s a great idea. When at the Epcot resort area, check out the Boardwalk and Swan and Dolphin restaurants. Shulas bar is great as is Il Mulano, and ESPN if you are into sports. Enjoy your break.
I love going to the parks solo. In fact, it’s gotten to the point where I don’t even want other people to come with me! It’s fantastic for all the reasons you mentioned — you can do what you want, when you want. No need to hurry up or slow down, wait for this or that. I would encourage you to eat TS if you want though — I’ve had many meals solo at WDW and only felt awkward once (at San Angel in, just bc the tables are so close together and I was surrounded by romantic couples). It’s my experience that the servers will even go out of their way to chat you up. It’s also easier to find spots for Fantasmic, Illuminations, etc, bc you only need enough space for one person. And you can leave the hotel and come back when you want without worrying about waking people up.
Why am I taking my family with me in August again???
Wow! You really LOVE solo touring! That’s awesome! It’s funny that you mention feeling awkward at San Angel Inn because I’ve thought the same thing when considering where to eat solo. I can see it being uncomfortable.
I absolutely love talking to cast members! I definitely hope that my servers and bartenders will chat it up with me.
I have found doing WDW solo is awesome!! I have spent time with my adult children and grandchildren, but there is definitely something magical about seeing what I want on my terms. I love to go thru Walt Disney – one man’s dream in HS (near Toy Story). Once, I was the only one in the movie at the end.
The tips about experiencing restaurants are right on. I once went to Brown Derby at lunch by myself and had a salad and a beer. No problem to get right in. No reservations needed. I especially like to go in the beginning of December when the crowds are small and HS has the Osbourne Spectacle of Lights.
I, too, buy an annual pass and go sometimes with family, sometimes with friends, and sometimes by myself. I have friends who want to go elsewhere – but for me, I would rather go to Disneyworld by myself than go somewhere I don’t care for even if it’s with friends or family.
You mentioned One Man’s Dream! That’s my favorite attraction in Disney’s Hollywood Studios! Last time I was there, it was so packed with people and my friends and husband were itching to leave so I felt quite rushed. Next week, I’m going to drag my feet as much as I want and take it all in. I always get those magical tingles when I’m visiting One Man’s Dream.
I’m off on my second solo trip to WDW (from the UK) in a few weeks, but have been to Disneyland Paris several times by myself.
As my main focus is photography, it’s actually wonderful being there by myself as I know I’m not holding anyone up! The only time it feels a little strange is going for meals – even waiting for parades etc isn’t too bad as it’s nice to just sit and watch the world go by!
Have a great time.
Disneyland Paris? I’m jealous!
Glad to know others have a magical time by themselves. Thanks!
Last November I went to WDW for the first time as an adult – and for the first time ever to Animal Kingdom and DHS.
The entire trip lasted 8 days, but my cousin could only join me for the first 5 days before heading back to work. I found those last 3 days to be just as fun, just as satisfying and just as full of Disney magic as the first 5 days.
Because my cousin didn’t get a park hopper ticket, I spent the last three days going from park to park to park. In fact, I went to each park two more times! And all of that was just so I could re-experience the things I liked most and check out the things we missed the firs time.
I even went back to the Yak & Yeti to have more fried green beans and the mango pie – because they were just THAT GOOD. The great part about being solo is that you don’t often need reservations. It’s easy enough to get a table (or bar stool) for one if you don’t mind waiting a bit.
Also, when you’re on your own, you tend to have conversations with the people around you. It’s nice to meet other guests and find out where they came from and what things they liked the most.
As for pictures, any cast member will gladly take your pic with your camera if you ask. Some of them might be better at it than others, but they’re always there for you.
I think the best thing about traveling solo is that you actually get to experience the place you’re in. There are no distractions from you travel partners. You get to see, hear, feel, taste and smell everything that’s going on around you.
Thank you so much for responding, Nicole. Just reading about your great time is getting me super pumped for next week! You really hit the nail on the head when you said that you can experience your environment without any distractions. That’s the part that I’m most excited about.
I’ve always wanted to go to WDW alone!!! You will have so much fun. It is definitely on my Bucket List.
I always like to end my trip at MK. To me, it is the most magical park and it is the way I want to spend my last day/night in Orlando.
I’ll take that as one vote for Magic Kingdom! Got it! Make sure that if you’re given the chance to go to Disney World solo, you do it! With families it’s a challenge. I think we have to take opportunities when we’re handed them.
Stacey,
I did the World solo while I was at a conference and the biggest tip I can give you is to take advantage of the lounges or bars attached to most of the higher end restaurants. In many cases, you eat right off the restaurant menu without the wait for a table or the need for ADRs. I was able to sample a lot of fun places that way. My favorites are the Tune In Lounge at the Studios and the little lounge next to the Yachtsman Steakhouse at the Yacht Club.
Such a great tip! Thank you! I fully intend to do some bar hopping. I keep hearing such great things about the Tune-In Lounge that I’m probably going to be checking that out as well.
My husband was just asked yesterday to attend a convention in Orlando. He said yes thinking I would jump at the chance to see Disney again, but I was hesitant because I would have to do the parks by myself during the day while he’s in meetings. The thought of it really freaked me out. I will take this as a sign to go for it!
Definitely go for it. With family is best, but solo is good, too. Take your time, try things your family might not care for…
Even just go to a park and sit and relax for a while. I once grabbed a fruit-and-cheese plate from France and staked out a place for Illuminations. At 6pm. I had a book with me, and read, watched the people go by, and relaxed.
That really does sound so nice! The thought of just sitting at Epcot and enjoying a nice snack makes me smile…and a little more excited!
I agree. I don’t think anything can beat being with my family but I’m just excited for a totally new experience and to look at Disney World from a new perspective. Just thinking about your idea of grabbing a snack and waiting for Illuminations makes me so relaxed. I’m definitely going to do something like this.
Definitely give it a shot! You’ll be pleasantly surprised, I think! Just remember that you’re not alone… you’ve got tons of Disney fiends surrounding you.