A vacation to Walt Disney World or Universal Orlando Resort brings to mind theme park attractions and thrill rides. However, there are many more activities to enjoy with no theme park ticket required. Here are 5 underrated experiences that do not require a magic band or an expensive park ticket. Let’s explore!
First, for any Disney related travel plans, let me encourage you to utilize the service of a travel professional that specializes in Disney Destinations.
Sangria University (Three Bridges Bar & Grill, Disney’s Coranado Resort)
On Saturdays and Sundays, Three Bridges Bar and Grill at Disney’s Coronado Resort, hosts Sangria University. Enjoy a beautiful open air setting on at this Disney moderate resort during a 90-minute lesson on creating Sangrias of all types. This experience is for guest 21 and older and the price is $59/person. The class gives you to learn about and create your own sangria. Reservations can be made 60 days in advance through the My Disney Experience App.
Rent a Guitar in your Hotel Room (Hard Rock Hotel, Universal Studios Orlando)
The “Sounds of Your stay” program at the premier level Universal Studios Hard Rock Hotel encourages you to “see where the music takes you”. When you stay at The Hard Rock during your Universal Orlando vacation, the resort offers the option of renting a Fender guitar, headphones and amplifier. It’s delivered right to your room. The idea? Live you Rockstar dream in the comfort of your accommodations.
photo: @bizzy.runninganddizn
Even those who don’t know how to play will find lesson content available with the rental. Not into a guitar, you can also rent a turntable and one of 10 popular vinyl records. The Hard Rock Hotel also has music available for download to use in your room. Consider it the soundtrack for your vacation.
Cake Decorating Experience (Amorette’s Patisserie, Disney Springs)
photo: @bizzy.runninganddizn
On select morning prior to opening, Amorette’s Patisserie in Disney Springs hosts a cake decorating class for up to 14 people. The experience is led by a Disney pastry chef and includes your own Mickey Dome Cake to take home. While you learn and decorate your cake, complimentary beverages including coffee, tea, juice, mimosas and bellinis are served.
This is my favorite experience, and I can attest the cakes are absolutely delicious. Reservations are required in advance. They can be made through your My Disney Experience account 60 days in advance of your vacation.
Wine Glass Painting (Abracadabar, Disney’s Boardwalk Resort)
Just prior to the 2020 park closures (and hopefully again very soon), Disney’s Boardwalk Inn was offering guests the chance to test their skills at painting on glass. This Disney deluxe level hotel offers guests the chance to learn to paint beloved Disney characters. This experience is led by a cast member and guests can create their own hand painted souvenir. Take your piece of personal art home to display and enjoy for years to come.
Above are just a few of the experiences that guests can have outside of the theme parks in Orlando. Follow my blog posts and go to my Tools page to get great planning and travel tips.
If you would like to hear more about activities outside of the theme parks, check out Things You Didn’t Know You Could Do at Disney World. You can also read Why City Walk Can’t Be Ignored for ideas. Lastly, you can find fun things to do without a theme park ticket by taking a look at 5 Reasons to Visit Disney Springs.
Are you thinking about your next vacation? Reach out to DizN Vacations. Their expert knowledge can personalize your trip to meet your wish list. You can also choose to submit a free no obligation quote request for your travel ideas. Comment below if you have any fun and interesting experiences to share when on vacation to the theme parks.
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