Arrival Day at Walt Disney World

Arriving at Walt Disney World is an exhilarating moment, and while it might be tempting to rush straight into the parks, taking the time to ease into your vacation can set a positive tone for the rest of your trip. Here are some recommended activities to make the most of your arrival day at the most magical place on Earth if you don’t want to visit the parks.

Settle into Your Resort

Check-In and Unwind

Upon arriving at your Disney resort, the first step is to check in. Disney offers a convenient online check-in process through the My Disney Experience app, allowing you to skip the front desk and head straight to your room once it’s ready. However, if you prefer a more personal touch, the front desk cast members are always happy to assist you and provide any information you might need about your stay.

After checking in, take a moment to unwind and refresh in your room. Unpack your bags, organize your belongings, and perhaps change into some comfortable clothes. This downtime is essential, especially if you’ve had a long journey. If your room isn’t ready yet, bell services will happily hold onto your luggage while you go and explore.

Explore Resort Amenities

Each Disney resort offers a unique array of amenities and recreational activities tailored to its theme and category. Here’s a closer look at what you might find:

Pools and Water Play Areas: Most Disney resorts feature themed pools that are attractions in themselves. For example, Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club Resorts boast Stormalong Bay, a mini water park with a lazy river and sand-bottom pool. Many resorts also have hot tubs, kiddie pools, and water play areas that are perfect for families.
Dining Options: Disney resorts offer a variety of dining experiences, from quick-service options to fine dining. At Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, you can enjoy a meal at Jiko – The Cooking Place, which offers a fine dining experience with African-inspired cuisine. Quick-service locations like The Mara provide convenient and delicious options for a more casual meal.
Recreational Activities: Disney resorts often feature unique recreational activities. For instance, at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground, you can go horseback riding, rent a canoe, or enjoy an archery session. Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside offers fishing excursions and horse-drawn carriage rides along the picturesque Sassagoula River.

Familiarize Yourself with the Resort Grounds

Taking a leisurely walk around your resort is a great way to familiarize yourself with the layout and discover hidden gems. Most Disney resorts are elaborately themed, and exploring the grounds can feel like stepping into a different world. For example:

Themed Decor and Landscaping: Resorts like Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort transport you to a tropical paradise with lush vegetation, tiki torches, and sandy beaches. The Art of Animation Resort showcases larger-than-life icons from beloved Disney and Pixar films.
Recreational Facilities: Check out the fitness center, game room, and other recreational facilities your resort offers. These amenities can provide entertainment and relaxation on non-park days.

Relax and Rejuvenate

After settling in, take some time to relax and rejuvenate. Whether it’s lounging by the pool, enjoying a cocktail at the resort bar, or simply resting in your room, this downtime can help you recharge for the adventures ahead. Many resorts also offer spa services; for instance, Senses – A Disney Spa at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa provides a range of treatments designed to help you unwind and feel pampered.

Plan for the Days Ahead

Finally, use this time to plan your upcoming days at Disney World. Review your park tickets, dining reservations, and FastPass+ selections. The My Disney Experience app is an invaluable tool for managing your plans, checking wait times, and navigating the parks. If you have any questions or need assistance, the concierge desk at your resort is a great resource.

By taking the time to settle into your resort, you’ll start your Disney vacation on a relaxing note, fully prepared to dive into the magic of the parks with energy and enthusiasm.

Visit Disney Springs

Disney Springs, a sprawling entertainment complex, offers a perfect introduction to the magic of Walt Disney World without the rush of theme parks. On your arrival day, a visit to Disney Springs can provide a blend of relaxation, entertainment, dining, and shopping. Here’s an expanded look at what you can do to make the most of your time at Disney Springs:

Shopping Extravaganza

Disney Springs is a shopper’s paradise with a wide variety of stores, from Disney-themed shops to high-end boutiques. Here are some must-visit places:

World of Disney: This is the largest Disney store in the world, offering a vast selection of Disney merchandise, from apparel and accessories to home decor and souvenirs. It’s the perfect spot to pick up some magical items to start your trip.
The LEGO Store: A fun stop for families, the LEGO Store features intricate Disney-themed LEGO displays and a wide range of LEGO sets. Kids can also participate in building activities and play with LEGO bricks.
DisneyStyle: For those looking for trendy Disney apparel and accessories, DisneyStyle offers fashionable items inspired by classic and modern Disney characters and movies.
High-End Boutiques: Explore upscale shopping at stores like Kate Spade New York, Coach, and Sephora, offering a blend of luxury and style in a Disney setting.
Unique Specialty Shops: Check out shops like the Art of Disney, where you can find Disney artwork and collectibles, and Basin, offering luxurious bath and body products.

Culinary Delights

Dining at Disney Springs is an adventure in itself, with options ranging from casual eateries to fine dining restaurants. Here are some highlights:

The BOATHOUSE: Enjoy waterfront dining with a menu featuring fresh seafood, steaks, and a raw bar. The nautical theme and amphicars (cars that drive on land and float on water) add a unique touch.
T-REX Café: A family-friendly restaurant with a prehistoric theme, T-REX Café offers an immersive dining experience complete with animatronic dinosaurs and meteor showers.
Morimoto Asia: This upscale Pan-Asian restaurant, created by Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto, serves a variety of Asian dishes, including sushi, dim sum, and Peking duck, in a stunning setting.
Homecomin’ by Chef Art Smith: Indulge in Southern comfort food with dishes like fried chicken, shrimp and grits, and pecan pie, made with farm-to-table ingredients.
Gideon’s Bakehouse: Known for its nearly half-pound cookies and rich cakes, this bakery is a must-visit for dessert lovers. The quirky, dark ambiance adds to the unique experience.

Entertainment Options

Disney Springs offers a range of entertainment options suitable for all ages:

Live Music and Performances: Throughout Disney Springs, you’ll find stages and open areas where live musicians, bands, and performers entertain guests. This lively atmosphere enhances the overall experience.
Drawn to Life by Cirque du Soleil: This mesmerizing show combines Disney storytelling with the breathtaking artistry of Cirque du Soleil. It’s a must-see performance that will leave you in awe.
AMC Dine-In Disney Springs 24: Catch the latest blockbuster movies in a luxurious setting where you can enjoy food and drinks delivered to your seat.
Splitsville Luxury Lanes: For a fun and active evening, head to this upscale bowling alley that offers dining, live music, and a lively atmosphere.

Unique Experiences

Enhance your visit with some of the unique experiences available at Disney Springs:

Aerophile – The World Leader in Balloon Flight: Take a ride in this tethered balloon that rises 400 feet in the air, offering panoramic views of Walt Disney World Resort and beyond.
Vintage Amphicar Tours: Experience a one-of-a-kind ride in a vintage amphicar that drives on land and then transforms into a boat for a tour of the lake surrounding Disney Springs.

Relax and Unwind

If you’re looking to relax and take in the ambiance, Disney Springs has plenty of options:

Ghirardelli Soda Fountain and Chocolate Shop: Treat yourself to delicious ice cream sundaes, chocolates, and other sweet delights while enjoying views of the Springs.
Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar: Inspired by Indiana Jones’ pilot, this themed bar offers a unique setting with themed cocktails and small plates. The outdoor seating area provides a relaxing spot to enjoy the waterfront views.
Wine Bar George: Enjoy a glass of fine wine selected by Master Sommelier George Miliotes. The relaxing atmosphere and extensive wine list make it a perfect spot to unwind.

Visiting Disney Springs on your arrival day offers a perfect blend of relaxation and excitement, setting the stage for a magical vacation. Whether you’re shopping, dining, enjoying live entertainment, or simply soaking in the vibrant atmosphere, Disney Springs provides a delightful introduction to the wonders of Walt Disney World.

Enjoy a Character Dining Experience

Starting your trip with a character dining experience is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the Disney magic. Many resorts offer dining locations where you can meet beloved characters while enjoying a delicious meal.

Options include Chef Mickey’s at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, where you can dine with Mickey and friends, Artist Point at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge where you can meet Snow White, Grumpy, Dopey, and the Evil Queen, or 1900 Park Fare at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, featuring characters like Cinderella, Tiana, Aladdin, and Mirabel.

If you arrive early enough, you can also enjoy character breakfasts with Lilo & Stitch, Mickey, and Pluto at ‘Ohana in Disney’s Polynesian Resort, or head up to Topolino’s Terrace at Disney’s Riviera Resort and dine with Mickey, Minnie, Donald, and Daisy.

Take a Scenic Monorail or Skyliner Ride

A relaxing ride on the monorail or Disney Skyliner can be a magical introduction to Walt Disney World. The monorail provides a scenic loop around the Magic Kingdom resorts and Epcot, offering glimpses of iconic landmarks. Alternatively, the Skyliner, a gondola lift system, connects several resorts with Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios, providing aerial views of the resort and a unique perspective on the parks.

Resort hopping on the monorail or skyline will provide a relaxing start to the trip, while also getting to feel the excitement of a Disney World trip as soon as you arrive.

Catch the Fireworks from Outside the Parks

Depending on your energy levels, you might want to end your first day with some spectacular fireworks. Disney resorts often have viewable fireworks from certain vantage points.

For instance, you can catch glimpses of the Magic Kingdom’s fireworks from Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, or Disney’s Contemporary Resort. Alternatively, head to the boardwalk near Epcot for a leisurely evening with entertainment and dining options.

Final Thoughts

Your arrival day at Walt Disney World can be as relaxed or as exciting as you choose. By taking the time to settle in, explore your surroundings, and enjoy some unique experiences outside the main parks, you’ll set a magical tone for the rest of your Disney adventure. Remember, the magic of Disney isn’t just in the parks—it’s everywhere.