Are you ready to conquer some of the most fun and unique things to do at Disney World?
Everyone knows that Walt Disney World offers some of the most innovative attractions, elite dining experiences, and one-of-a-kind character interactions in the entire world.
But only ThemeParkHipsters know where the to find those super rare hidden gems!
That’s why you’re invited to join me on a journey through the parks and resort to discover 15 Unique Things to Do at Disney Walt!
Keep in mind that all of these experiences will cost you a few extra Mickey bucks. Are they worth it? Only you can make that call.
But what we can tell you is – they all come with a touch of Disney magic that you simply can’t find anywhere else.
So, if you’re ready to discover a new side to you happy place…
Let’s gooooo!
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1. Don’t Get A Haircut. Get ’em ALL Cut!
Kicking off the list of best things to Do at Disney World is none other than The Harmony Barber Shop.
If you love all things old-timey, get ready, whippersnapper! You’re about to go on a one-way trip down memory lane!
Located right on the corner of Main Street, U.S.A. is an old-fashioned barber shop with a charmingly quaint interior and an equally delightful staff to match.
Here, guests of all ages are welcome to “drop in” and get a dapper-do! Or simply freshen-up with a Bang Trim or Beard Trim.
Whatever you decide, slow down and take your time – these stylist love to put on a show and serve up a side of nostalgic banter to boot.
Are you planning a Disney vacation soon? Read the Disney World Vacation Planning Guide for your next dream trip!
2. Get A Bicycle Built for Four
Perfect for the whole family, Disney’s Surry Bikes offer you a fast and fun way to explore the hidden nooks and crannies Walt Disney World’s most stunning vistas.
There are several places to rent and ride, including:
- Disney’s BoardWallk Inn
- Old Key West Resort
- Disney’s Port Orleans, and more…
So, hop on and cruise along the banks of the Sassagoula River, pedal down the promenade by Barefoot Bay, or wheel around a woodland trail.
3. Meet the Gentle Giants
Do you love animals? Well, Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park has created an up-close and personal encounter with the most majestic animals of them all.
The Caring for Giants Elephant Tour allows you to come within 80 – 100 feet of Disney’s elephants, as you learn how to care for them.
Each tour has a guide who will lead the way, as well as share fun facts, interesting stories, and offer a bit of insight into Disney’s inspiring conservation efforts.
4. Go On A Retro Ride
Take your car out for a spin… on the water!
Right by the The BOATHOUSE sits the coolest retro ride in town, the vintage Amphicar.
This twenty-minute tour on the waters of Disney Springs is a fun, relaxing, and oh-so Instagramable.
5. Get On Your High Horse
Gallop throughout the rustic landscape and wooded trails of Disney’s Fort Wilderness, filled with deer, ducks, armadillos and rabbits.
Not a pro? Not a problem! This trail has has been designed with beginners and intermediate riders in mind. So, giddy up!
Ready to plan your theme park trip? Watch the best vacation planning tips on YouTube. Get started here!
6. Fish and Fruit and Veggies… Oh My!
EPCOT is the home of edutainment. Especially when it comes to everyone’s favorite agriculturally-astute boat ride… Living with the Land.
Level up your green thumb by taking the Behind the Seeds Tour, a one-hour guided stroll through the fish farm and greenhouses that make up The Land Pavilion.
I mean, who doesn’t love an up close and personal crash course in the wonders on hydroponics?!
7. Take a Shot!
You know the Mexico Pavilion at EPCOT? Yeh, the one with the boat ride… and restaurant… and marketplace that looks like you’re outside?! Yeh, that one!
Well, that’s not all there is inside – not by a long shot! And speaking of shots…
La Cava Tequila hosts a thirst-quenching experience (La Cava Experience) that takes you on a cultural exploration of the region of Mexico where tequila was born.
Here, you will be able sip and savor some of the finest tequila in the entire world. In fact, a few of the selections presented are completely exclusive to La Cava Tequila!
8. Go Sky High
POP QUIZ: What is Walt Disney World’s tallest attraction? If you said The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror… you would be dead WRONG! That little ol’ thing is only 199.5 feet tall.
Now, double that and you’ve got Aerophile!
Soar into the sky, capture panoramic views, and spot famous Disney landmarks from up to 10 miles away – all within a tethered balloon ride!
If you looking a big group activity, this just may be the one. The balloon’s basket holds up to 29 people – so you can bring the whole gang along for this jaw-dropping experience!
Ready to start planning your next Disney World vacation? Listen to the latest podcast episode on Apple or on your non-Apple device now!
9. Have a Relaxing Fireworks Cruise
Let’s be honest, the parks can get awfully crowded during a Nighttime Spectacular. But not when you’re on a private Fireworks Cruise.
This magical voyages allows you to experience Luminous The Symphony of Us (EPCOT) or Happily Ever After (Magic Kingdom) while floating upon the water, beneath a moonlit and firework sky.
Each cruise is accompanied by a captain and includes an array of snacks and soft drinks. Celebrating something special? You can even arrange festive banners and balloons aboard.
OH – and if you love the music, don’t worry. Each craft provides synchronized audio onboard, pipping in the soundtrack!
10. Become a Bowman
Fancy yourself a bit of a marksmen? Brave enough the give the Fort Wilderness Archery Experience a winning shot?
Come showoff your skills) like Robin Hood and Merida in this 75-minute experience. You’ll learn how to hold a pow, fire like a pro, and even how to hit a bull’s-eye.
11. Sail The Ocean Blue
Take a little break from the hustle and bustle of the parks and embrace your inner explorer as you cruise the marinas of Walt Disney World.
This is where you can take-in the beauty of your natural surroundings, including scenic lakes, lagoons, and theme park landmarks.
Traveling with a large party? No a problem! You can secure a spacious Pontoon for you and your crew of 10!
12. Rent A Water Park
Ready to hang 10? Then come hit the waves at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon water park!
Before the park opens or after it closes surfers can rent the pool with friends and shred it up in the wave pool.
How much does it cost to surf at Typhoon Lagoon Water Park?
Pricing follows the time and the number of waves generated during your rental block:
- Morning Private Surf: $1300 base
- Evening Private Surf (Sundays through Thursdays) $1400 base and (Fridays and Saturdays) $1600 base
This may seem expensive but if you’re big into surfing and have a group a friends who are looking to shoot the curl – it’s actually one of the more affordable options out there.
13. Take a Spa Day
Whoever said “Disney vacations aren’t relaxing” clearly never took a Spa Day at The Grand Floridian.
Inside this Victorian-era spa awaits a series of body treatments, massages, and manicures – each designed to bring you rest, relaxation, and revitalization.
Hipster Power Tip: Be sure to get there early (or plan to stay late) because there are a ton of additional amenities to enjoy, complimentary with your treatment.
14. Happy Trails to You
Become one with nature as you traverse the scenic countryside of Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort – without break a sweat!
Hit the stables of Tri-Circle D Ranch, glide past glassy Bay Lake, and roll along the paved paths of the woodland trails, all upon a Segway! This is one of the most unique things to do at Disney World.
Be sure to keep you camera ready because this two-hour journey is sure to offer a ton of photo opportunities!
15. It’s A Jungle Out There
Last but not least on this list of 15 Unique Things to Do at Disney World is something a bit… WILD!
Just a hop, skip, and a jump away for Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park is Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, where an immersive nighttime safari adventure is waiting just for you.
Climb aboard an open-sided safari vehicle and rumble through lush scenery, scanning the horizon for over 30 species of African wildlife, including zebras, giraffes, wildebeest, antelopes, and more.
If you thought the Kilimanjaro Safaris was cool, you ain’t seen nothing yet!
My Final Thoughts on Choosing the Most Fun Things to Do at Disney World
And that concludes this list of the 15 Unique Things to Do at Disney World! I hope this expands your horizons and adds a few extra things to do at the parks and resorts.
Until next time, Happy Park Hopping Hipsters!
About the Author
Ted Wioncek III is a professional Show Director, who specializes in developing highly themed experiences with immersive live entertainment. His work has garnered him a reputation as a “master in storytelling.”
In addition, he is also a Walt Disney World Annual Passholdin’-D23 lovin’-DVC card carryin’-theme park enthusiast, specializing in theatrical review, food critique, and double-blind Dole Whip taste testing. Ted lives in sunny Florida with his beautiful wife, daughter, and their adorable rescue beagle, affectionately named, Professor Indiana Bones. You can contact him at TheDisneyPassport@gmail.com.
(Original Article Date: September 26, 2022/Updated by Editor on June 4, 2024)