Trip Prep

Evening Fun Outside of Disney World Parks – Part 2

In these “Evening Fun” posts, we’re taking a look at where you can find evening fun at Disney World outside of the theme parks. Check out Part 1 to learn about Disney Springs. Let’s talk about more options here…

The Boardwalk

The Boardwalk is a waterside dining and entertainment destination located at Disney’s Boardwalk Inn. Anyone can visit the Boardwalk, but it’s especially easy to access for guests of the Boardwalk, Beach Club and Yacht Club resorts, and for guests of the resorts with Skyliner access. The Beach and Yacht Club sit across Crescent Bay from the Boardwalk and guests enjoy this beautiful view every night. If you have Skyliner access, it’s a short walk from the Epcot Skyliner station (by Epcot’s back gate) to the Boardwalk. Or anyone can take a 15-20 minute walk from the entrance of Hollywood Studios.

The Boardwalk at night

Unique lounges on the Boardwalk include the AbracadaBar, a cozy magician-themed spot, and Jellyrolls, a lively dueling piano bar. If you’re hungry, you might enjoy the delicious seafood menu at the Flying Fish or tasty Italian fare at Trattoria al Forno. The new Cake Bake Shop is under construction (as of August 2024) and will hopefully open soon! A couple of food carts are scattered along the Boardwalk with treats such as funnel cakes, corn dogs, and more.

If you brought your dancing shoes, guests 21 and older can dance the night away at the Atlantic Dance Hall on select nights. The Boardwalk is a great place to stroll with your sweetie. If you time it right, you’re also able to see the top of the Epcot fireworks from the Boardwalk. Magical!

Monorail Loop

If you’re ending a day at the Magic Kingdom and aren’t ready to head back to your room, take a monorail ride around the Seven Seas Lagoon. I recommend hopping out at each resort to explore, especially if you haven’t visited these resorts before (Grand Floridian, Contemporary, and Polynesian). If you time it right, you might be able to watch the Electrical Water Pageant on the lagoon. If you’re visiting from mid-November through December, be sure to pop in at these resorts to see Christmas decorations and the giant gingerbread house at the Grand Floridian.

Electrical Water Pageant

Resort Movies Under the Stars

Pop some popcorn, grab a drink, and relax any night with a complimentary outdoor movie at your resort. Check your resort’s Activity Schedule for what will be showing during your stay.

Dinner at a Resort

Many resorts have outstanding themed restaurants, and catching dinner at a resort can be a great way to wrap up an evening. You’ll enjoy a great meal and can spend time exploring the resort. If you’re at Magic Kingdom, a monorail resort will be your most convenient option. From Epcot and Hollywood Studios, the most convenient resorts are the Boardwalk, Yacht Club, Beach Club, and the Riviera (via the Skyliner). Animal Kingdom Lodge is closest to Animal Kingdom theme park (short bus ride), but since this park usually closes early evening, you should have time to travel to any resort for dinner. Note: Depending on the time and where you’re staying, you may need to take an Uber back to your resort after dinner. Double check your transportation options with resort Guest Services.

Miniature Golf

Walt Disney World boasts two themed mini-golf experiences. Winter Summerland Miniature Golf is located right outside Blizzard Beach water park. This fun spot provides two courses: a winter-themed course on one side and a summer-themed course on the other. Your resort provides transportation to the water parks, but double check the schedule with resort Guest Services. Fantasia Gardens and Fairways Miniature Golf offers two courses themed to Disney’s musical classic, Fantasia. This experience is located behind the Swan hotel and is in walking distance from the Beach Club, Yacht Club, and Boardwalk Resorts. Or guests can take a 15-minute walk or boat ride from the Hollywood Studios front gate or Epcot’s International Gateway “back door” gate.

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