Four Festive Activities to do Around Walt Disney World Without A Theme Park Ticket
It’s the most merriest time of the year at Walt Disney World Resort, and the festive fun can be found all over the 40 square miles of property. While most believe that the holiday magic can only be found inside the four theme parks, there is still a lot to do around the Most Magical Place on Earth outside of the parks. Here’s a list of four free festive activities to do around Walt Disney World without a theme park ticket!
Christmas Tree Trail
Disney’s shopping and dining district, Disney Springs is a great place to visit for some Christmas fun! Their Christmas Tree Trail features 27 trees, each themed to a different Disney movie, character or attraction. It’s a blast visiting each and taking in the little details to help tell the story of each tree! Between the “snow” falling in this forest of festive firs, and PhotoPass photographers ready to snap pictures of you with your favorite tree, this is one holiday activity you won’t want to miss! Guests also have the chance to meet Santa near the Christmas Tree Trail at Santa’s Chalet. He’s only here until Christmas Eve, though, so don’t miss out.
Life-Size Gingerbread Displays
Walt Disney World is known for its life-size gingerbread displays, and this year there are quite a few to keep an eye out for. The Grand Floridian Gingerbread House is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year, complete with 20 hidden Mickeys all over the house to hunt for! Over at Disney’s Beach Club Resort, you’ll find a life-size gingerbread carousel spinning round and round in the lobby. Disney’s Contemporary Resort is home to an 18-foot tall gingerbread castle, complete with Cinderella, Prince Charming and the Fairy Godmother! Additional gingerbread displays can be found in Disney Springs, Disney’s BoardWalk Inn and Epcot’s American Adventure pavilion, so make time one day to tour these edible pieces of art.
Fort Wilderness Campground Tour
Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort is home to campsites and cabins for those guests looking to experience the magic of the great outdoors! One special thing that takes place at the campgrounds during the holiday season is the array of Christmas decorations displayed by guests staying. Those guests who plan to stay at the Fort Wilderness Campgrounds for the festive season go all out with decorations, creating their own Christmas wonderland among the trees and trails! If you’re someone who loves to see the Christmas lights this time of the year, head to Fort Wilderness and enjoy the holiday magic. Guests can walk the trail or rent a golf cart from the resort if they wish.
Resort Decor Galore
Walt Disney World is home to over 25 different resorts, each with their own unique theme and story! During the Christmas season, these themes really come to life in the decorations found around each resort. For example, where else other than Disney’s Yacht Club Resort can you find a nautical-themed tree covered in ships of all sorts? The New Orleans themed resorts feature decor inspired by Mardi Gras, complete with fleur de lis and Mardi Gras masks! Disney’s Polynesian Resort puts a tropical twist on a traditional tree with beautiful blooms and other Polynesian flair. Make a point to catch as many as you can while you’re visiting for the holidays.
During the holiday season the fun doesn’t once you leave the parks! Walt Disney World resort still has a lot of Christmas fun to be explored. So if you’re headed to the Most Magical Place on Earth this season, save time for these four fun and festive activities!