Walt Disney World Resort is known for its outstanding attractions, amazing food, and memorable experiences, but did you know there’s still so much to explore outside of the parks? From shopping and dining to water parks, sports, and resorts, we’re sharing the top five things to do on Walt Disney World property outside of the theme parks.

Disney Springs
Disney’s Shopping and Dining District is truly a blast for guests of any age. With an array of restaurants, shops, and experiences, you’re in for a day (or night) of fun. Whether you’re looking for a place to go bowling and grab a movie or an out-of-the-box experience like a ride in the Aerophile, you can find both at Disney Springs! For the kids, there’s the Lego Store and the largest Disney shop on property, World of Disney. Adults will enjoy live music, tons of shopping, and a wide selection of dining options for any palate.

The Disney Resort Hotels offer transportation right to Disney Springs and parking is free if you’re planning to drive over for a visit. Disney’s Shopping and Dining District is a perfect stop for after a park day or on your travel day in or out of Orlando! Take a little time to slow down, shop, and grab something delicious to eat.

Water Parks
Much like its four theme parks, Walt Disney World’s water parks are next level! Both water parks offer their own unique themes, attractions, slides, and more. No matter which water park you choose, you’re in for a memorable day!

Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon is known as an oasis of fun for guests of all ages. From its coaster-like raft ride Crush ‘n’ Gusher to the Typhoon Lagoon Surf Pool, there’s never a dull moment at this water park! In addition to water activities, Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon offers delicious drinks, eats, and treats for you to enjoy. Some are exclusive to the water park, so you won’t want to miss out!

Disney’s Blizzard Beach is a destination that’s focused on frosty fun for everyone. The water park’s biggest attraction is Summit Plummet, one of the world’s tallest and fastest freefall body slides! Teamboat Springs and Melt-Away Bay are fun for the whole family.

** Please note that Disney Water Parks may be closed for refurbishment during your vacation, so be sure to keep up with Walt Disney World updates prior to your trip.

Resort Hopping
Did you know Walt Disney World is home to more than 25 resort hotels? Many of these resorts are located only minutes from one of the four Disney Parks, making for a fun resort hopping adventure. Each of the Disney Resort Hotels have unique restaurants, themes, merchandise, experiences, and even limited-time treats. By hopping on the monorail route you can visit three resorts with ease. A trip on the Disney Skyliner gives you the opportunity to resort hop to resorts in all three price ranges – Value, Moderate, and Deluxe. Even some of the EPCOT Area Resorts are only a short walk away from each other! Resort Hopping is a great way to preview a resort you haven't had the chance to stay at yet or even visit a favorite resort.

Miniature Golf
Another fun vacation activity that can be found on Walt Disney World property is miniature golf! Guests will find two uniquely themed courses on property. The first is the Fantasia Gardens and Fairways Miniature Golf, which features two 18-hole miniature golf adventures inspired by Disney’s classic film Fantasia. This course can be found in the EPCOT Resort Area near the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin hotels. The second course is Winter Summerland Miniature Golf, which features two 18-hole miniature golf adventures, the Summer Course and the Winter Course, inspired by Santa Claus and his elves. This very merry course can be found near Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park. No matter which course you choose, you’re in for a memorable day of miniature golf at the Most Magical Place on Earth!

Sports & Recreation
Walt Disney World is also home to world-class golf courses, recreational activities on land and sea, and the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex.

If you’re into golf, get ready to experience four courses - Disney’s Magnolia Golf Course, Disney’s Palm Golf Course, Disney’s Lake Buena Vista Golf Course, and Disney’s Oak Trail Golf Course. There’s also junior programs available as well as FootGolf for those looking for a unique experience of both soccer and golf. 9 hole and 18 hole games are available and guests are urged to book early and save!

Would you rather be out on the water? Walt Disney World offers motorized boat rentals, specialty cruises, and more. Guests can even rent a surrey bike or take a ride on a horse-drawn carriage at select resorts!

Last, the Most Magical Place on Earth is home to the ultimate sports experience – ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex. Guests can train like a champion, play their favorite sport, or even try something new. They’ve even got some epic dining experiences and merchandise that any sports fan would adore.

As you can see, Walt Disney World resort is so much more than its four world-famous theme parks! From unique resort hotels and recreational experiences you can’t find anywhere else to unique miniature golf courses and more shopping and dining than you could ever imagine, you don’t need a theme park ticket to have a memorable day at Walt Disney World these days.