Things To Do at Disney Resorts While Resort Hopping

Think Disney World is all about the parks?

Think again! Disney Resort hopping is one of the best-kept secrets—you can explore all the amazing resorts without even staying there.  There are tons of things to do at Disney World other than parks – you can even go horseback riding at Disney’s Fort Wilderness. Best of all, you can visit Disney resorts for free.

This post is your guide to all the Disney Resort activities non-guests can do while resort hopping.  There are a ton of free things to do at Disney Resorts, but some activities will have a fee (I’ll mark those with a $).  Be sure to check out the Disney World Resort Recreation Schedules for up-to-date info on activities at each resort, as some are only offered on select days.  And FYI- pool hopping at Disney is not allowed, so any activities on the pool deck will be off-limits too.

I’ll give you a resort-by-resort breakdown of:

• Must-See Sights & Photo Ops: Those Instagram-worthy spots you won’t want to miss!
• Disney resort activities for non-guests: like the Disney World Resort Movies Under the Stars or campfires, lounge areas, the best Disney World Resort fireworks viewing spots, and more!
• Dining: From quick-service to signature restaurants, you’ll be able to find the best Disney World Resort dining option for you at each resort.
• Transportation: The best way to get from one resort to another including fun (and free) Disney transportation options- like the Monorail or Skyliner.

Want even more resort-hopping tips? Check out these resources:

• Disney World Resort Hopping 2025: A Comprehensive Guide
• The Best Disney Resort Hopping Itineraries
• My Disney Resort Tours Review

Now, let’s hop into the fun—resort by resort!

Things to do at Disney’s Contemporary Resort

There’s no better way to start your Disney Resort tour than by riding the monorail right into your first Disney hotel.  From character dining (one of the best things to do at Disney Resorts on a non-park day) to classic Disney Resort activities, there’s plenty to keep you busy!

Must See’s and Photo Ops

• 90-foot mural in the Grand Canyon Concourse (fourth floor)
• Fantasia gift shop
• Metal Mickey sculpture by the pool (where you can sometimes find a PhotoPass photographer).
• Observation deck on the 4^th floor with views of the Monorail, Magic Kingdom Castle, and the fireworks show
• Sky Way Bridge
• The gingerbread display on the fourth floor at Christmas time.

Activities at Disney’s Contemporary Resort

• Community Hall (located in Bay Lake Tower)
• Basketball court
• Tennis and Pickleball courts
• Pickleball Clinic
• Disney Fit Yoga
• Beat on the Bay (glow games)
• Silent Disco (dance party)
• Beach with lounge chairs
• Magic Kingdom fireworks viewing on the Observation Deck
• Electrical Parade viewing
• Campfire between Contemporary and Bay Lake Tower
• Movies Under the Stars in the Contemporary Courtyard
• The Game Station arcade ($)
• Magic of Mosaics- mosaic making class ($)
• Motorized Boat Rentals ($)
• Magic Kingdom Fireworks Cruise ($)
• Celebration at the Top – Sip, Savor, Sparkle ($)
• Guided Fishing Excursions ($)
• Tennis lessons ($)

Dining at Disney’s Contemporary Resort

• Chef Mickey’s: Character Dining breakfast and dinner buffet with Mickey, Minnie, Goofy, Donald, and Pluto
• California Grill: 3-course prix fixe dinner with great views of Magic Kingdom and the nightly fireworks show
• Steakhouse 71: à la carte breakfast, lunch and dinner
• Steakhouse 71 Lounge: Lounge Bar
• Outer Rim: Lounge Bar with a view of Bay Lake
• Cove: Pool Bar
• Contempo Café -Quick Service with Mobile Order
• Contemporary Grounds: coffee shop

Transportation at Disney’s Contemporary Resort

• 10-minute walk to/from Magic Kingdom
• Monorail to/from Magic Kingdom, Ticket and Transportation Center, Polynesian Resort, or Grand Floridian Resort 
• Water Taxi to/from Fort Wilderness and Wilderness Lodge Resorts
• Bus to/from EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom Park and Disney Springs 

Things to do at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort

Here you’ll find some of the best restaurants at Disney resorts- like ‘Ohana’s character dining or the new Wailulu Bar & Grill. With its island theming, white sand beaches, and swaying hammocks, it’s the perfect place to unwind.

Must See’s and Photo Ops

• Garden and waterfalls outside the main entrance
• Great Ceremonial House lobby
• Views of the resort and overwater bungalows from the water taxi and boat dock
• Beach views
• Lobby inside the new Island Tower

Activities at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort

• Get a free lei from the lobby
• Volleyball court
• Disney Family Fitness Fun
• Disney Fit Tai Chi
• Aloha After Dark (glow games)
• Video Game Dance Party
• Beach with hammocks and swings
• Magic Kingdom fireworks and Electrical Parade viewing on the beach
• Campfire near the beach (one of the best locations for a Disney World Resort Campfire with a view!)
• Movies Under the Stars on the Great Ceremonial House Lawn
• Make your own Kukui Nut Leis ($)
• Guided Fishing Excursions ($)

Dining at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort

• ‘Ohana: Character Dining with an all-you-care-to-eat family-style breakfast with Lilo, Stick, Mickey and Pluto
• Wailulu Bar & Grill: à la carte breakfast, lunch, and dinner in the new Island Tower with views of the Seven Seas Lagoon
• Kona Café: à la carte breakfast, lunch and dinner
• Kona Café to Go: Mobile Order Table Service to Go
• Tambu Lounge: Lounge Bar
• Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto: Lounge Bar (21 years and up only after 8pm)
• Trader Sam’s Tiki Terrace: outdoor Lounge Bar
• Barefoot Pool Bar
• Oasis Bar & Grill: Pool bar
• Capt. Cook’s: Quick Service with Mobile Order
• Kona Island: coffee shop
• Food-Pineapple Lanai: serving the iconic Dole Whip!

Transportation at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort

• 25-minute walk to Magic Kingdom
• Monorail to/from Magic Kingdom, Ticket and Transportation Center, Grand Floridian Resort and Contemporary Resort 
• Water Taxi to Magic Kingdom and Grand Floridian
• Bus to EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom Park, Disney Springs

Things to do at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort

Visit this resort in the evening for prime Disney World Resort fireworks viewing. It’s also a must-see during the holidays for its massive gingerbread house and breathtaking Christmas tree.

Must See’s and Photo Ops at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort

• Antique car and carriage outside the main entrance
• Grand piano and lobby décor
• Outdoor gardens and fountain
• Lobby Fountain and outdoor fountain in DVC villas
• Wedding Pavilion
• Giant gingerbread house in the lobby at Christmastime

Activities at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort

• Lobby Pianist
• Basketball court
• Storytime Yoga
• Trivia Night
• Glow Party (glow games)
• Beach with lounge chairs
• fireworks viewing from the ferry dock, Narcoosee’s, or the marina
• Electrical Parade viewing from Narcoossee’s or the boat dock
• Campfire by the beach
• Movies Under the Stars on the Courtyard Lawn
• Arcadia Games arcade ($)
• Paint your own Animation Cell class ($)
• Motorized Boat Rentals ($)
• Guided Fishing Excursions ($)
• The Grand Floridian Spa ($)
• Chef’s Table at Victoria & Albert’s ($)
• Queen Victoria’s Room at Victoria & Albert’s ($)

Dining at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort

• 1900 Park Fare: Character Dining Breakfast or dinner buffet with Aladdin, Cinderella, Mirabel, and Princess Tiana)
• Victoria and Albert’s: 3-course prix fixe dinner with 2 Chef’s Tasting Menus to pick from that was awarded a Michelin Star in 2024 (adults only-no children under 10)
• Narcoossee’s: à la carte dinner in a circular restaurant on the Seven Seas Lagoon
• Garden View Tea Room: a British-style afternoon tea experience
• Cítricos: à la carte dinner
• Grand Floridian Café: à la carte breakfast, lunch and dinner
• Enchanted Rose: Beauty and the Beast-inspired lounge bar
• Cítricos Lounge: à la carte dinner and lounge bar
• Courtyard Pool Bar
• Beaches Pool Bar & Grill
• Gasparilla Island Grill: Quick Service with Mobile Order

Transportation at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort

• 20-minute walk to/from Magic Kingdom
• Monorail to/from Magic Kingdom, Ticket and Transportation Center, Polynesian Resort and Contemporary Resort 
• Water Taxi to/from Magic Kingdom and Polynesian Resort
• Bus to/from EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom Park, Disney Springs

Things to do at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge

The Wilderness Lodge lobby is one of the grandest, featuring massive totem poles, an 82-foot stone fireplace, and a bridge over Copper Creek as it flows through the lobby to a waterfall outside. Don’t forget to grab a drink and campfire mousse at Geyser Point- one of the best Disney World resort bars with its amazing view!

Must See’s and Photo Ops

• The waterfall
• Walkway to the dock
• Artificial geyser (erupts hourly)
• Fireplace and bridge in the lobby
• Villa’s lobby at Boulder Ridge
• Giant Christmas tree in the lobby at Christmastime

Activities at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge

• Wonders of the Lodge Art & Architecture Tour at 9am
• Carolwood Pacific Room (train artifacts on display)
• Storytime Yoga
• Daily craft at Humphries Hideaway
• View the Electrical Parade from the boat dock
• Campfire near Guiser Point
• Movies Under the Stars on the yard outside Reunion Station
• Buttons & Bells Arcade ($)
• Tasteful Artistry – create a wooden artwork ($)
• Guided Fishing Excursions ($)

Dining at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge

• Story Book Dining at Artist Point with Snow White: Character Dining three-course prix fixe Dinner with Snow White, Grumpy, Dopey, and the Evil Queen
• Whispering Canyon Café: à la carte breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with an all-you-care-to-enjoy skillet option
• Geyser Point Bar & Grill: poolside à la carte lunch and dinner with a view of Bay Lake.
• Geyser Point Bar & Grill to Go: Mobile Order Table Service to Go
• Territory Lounge: Lounge Bar
• Roaring Fork: Quick Service with Mobile Order

Transportation at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge

• Water Taxi to/from Contemporary and Fort Wilderness Resorts
• Water taxi to Magic Kingdom
• Bus to/from EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom Park, Disney Springs

Things to do at Fort Wilderness Resort

This is the only place you can go horseback riding at Disney World!  With canoeing, wagon rides, archery, and more, the activities at Fort Wilderness offer the best selection of Disney World Resort activities for non-guests!

Must See’s and Photo Ops

• Disney Horses
• Carriage display at the Tri-Circle D Ranch
• Campsite Christmas decorations at Christmastime

Activities at Fort Wilderness Resort

• Disney and horses’ room with artifacts on display at the Tri-Circle D Ranch
• Crafts in the Bike Barn
• Tennis, Pickleball, and Volleyball courts
• Pickleball Clinic
• Beach with beach chairs
• Electrical Parade viewing from the marina and beach
• Campfire games
• Chip ‘n’ Dale’s Campfire Sing-A-Long at Meadow Campfire Theater
• Country Campfire at Meadow Campfire Theater
• Movies Under the Stars at Meadow Campfire Theater
• Davey Crockett’s Wilderness Arcade ($)
• Daniel Boone’s Wilderness Arcade ($)
• Crockett’s Craft Corner – Wine & Woodshop ($)
• Bike rental ($)
• Kayak or canoe rental ($)
• Dockside Fishing ($)
• Guided Fishing Excursions ($)
• Horse-drawn Wagon Rides ($)
• Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides ($)
• Wilderness Back Trail Adventure (Segway tour) ($)
• L&B Gem Mining Co. Experience ($)
• Pony rides ($)
• Horseback riding ($)
• Archery experience ($)

Dining at Fort Wilderness Resort

• Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue: Music-and-comedy show, with an all-you-care-to-eat family-style dinner
• Crockett’s Tavern: Lounge Bar with a walk-up window
• Meadow Snack Bar: pool bar
• Trail’s End Restaurant: Quick Service with Mobile Order
• The Chuck Wagon: food truck

Transportation at Fort Wilderness Resort

• Water Taxi to/from Wilderness Lodge and Contemporary Resorts
• Water Taxi to/from Magic Kingdom
• Bus to/from EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom Park, Disney Springs

Things to do at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort

If you’re looking for things to do at Disney World other than parks that still have that magical Disney feel, Art of Animation is the perfect stop.

Must See’s and Photo Ops

• Life-size scenes and larger-than-life-size sculptures throughout the resort grounds
  • Little Mermaid section
  • Cars section
  • Finding Nemo section
  • Lion King section
• Animation Hall lobby artwork

Activities at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort

• Righteous Reef Playground
• Boneyard Playground
• Storytime Yoga on select days
• Family Wellness Dance Class
• Campfire at Pride Rock
• Movies Under the Stars on the Movie Lawn near the Big Blue Pool
• Pixel Play Arcade ($)
• Artists of Animation art class ($)

Dining at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort

• The Drop Off Pool Bar
• Landscape of Flavors: Quick Service with Mobile Order

Transportation at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort

• Walk to/from Pop Century Resort
• Skyliner to/from Caribbean Beach and Riviera Resorts, EPCOT and Hollywood Studios
• Bus to/from Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom Park, Disney Springs

Things to do at Disney’s Pop Century Resort

Pop Century Resort is pure nostalgia- a totally immersive Disney experience that’ll take you way back. For no-planning-required things to do at Disney World for free, Pop Century is perfect.

Must See’s and Photo Ops

• Larger-than-life size sculptures of retro toys, objects, and Disney characters throughout resort grounds
  • 50’s section (includes Lady and the Tramp)
  • 60’s section (includes Jungle Book)
  • 70’s section (includes a Mickey Mouse phone)
  • 80’s/90’s section (includes Roger Rabbit)
• Classic Hall lobby memory wall
• Kids waiting area in the lobby

Activities at Pop Century Resort

• Signs with pop culture trivia on the walk around Hourglass Lake
• Groovy campfire near Surfer Goofy
• Movies Under the Stars at the Hippie Dippie pool deck
• Fast Forward Arcade ($)

Dining at Pop Century Resort

• Petals Pool Bar
• Everything POP Shopping & Dining: Quick Service with Mobile Order

Transportation at Pop Century Resort

• Walk to/from Art of Animation Resort
• Skyliner to/from Caribbean Beach and Riviera Resorts, EPCOT and Hollywood Studios
• Bus to/from Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom Park, Disney Springs

Things to do at Disney’s Riviera Resort

Staying at a Skyliner resort and wondering what to do at Disney on non-park days? The Riviera is the perfect peaceful escape.

Must See’s and Photo Ops

• Disney Mosaics in the Atrium Walkway
• View from the lobby balconies
• Books and Disney Memorabilia in the Voyageurs’ Lounge
• Disney Pictures in the hallway
• Gardens on the grounds

Activities at Disney’s Riviera Resort

• Self-guided art tour
• Eventi Room 
• Lawn games
• Beach with beach chairs
• Lawn with lawn chairs overlooking the lake
• Epcot fireworks views from Topolino’s Terrace
• Cote d’Azur Campfire near the waterfront
• Movies Under the Stars on the Movie Lawn
• Art De La Mosaique crafting class ($)
• Painting on the Riviera art class ($)

Dining at Disney’s Riviera Resort

• Topolino’s Terrace- Flavors of the Riviera: Character Dining prix-fixe Breakfast with Mickey, Minnie, Daisy, and Donald
• Topolino’s Terrace- Flavors of the Riviera: à la carte Dinner with views of EPCOT and Hollywood Studios from the 10^th floor
• Bar Riva: Pool bar and Grill
• Primo Piatto: Quick Service with Mobile Order
• Le Petit Café: coffee shop

Transportation at Disney’s Riviera Resort

• Walk to/from Caribbean Beach Resort,
• Skyliner to/from Caribbean Beach, Art of Animation and Pop Century Resorts, EPCOT and Hollywood Studios
• Bus to/from Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom Park, Disney Springs

Things to do at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort

While exploring this resort be sure to check out Caribbean Cay Island, with hammocks, lake-view lounge chairs, and a great playground. It’s also one of the best Disney World Resort Movies Under the Stars locations!

Must See’s and Photo Ops

• Lighthouse and Marina
• Walk along Barefoot Bay
• Caribbean Cay Island
• Unique buildings in each area

Activities at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort

• Volleyball court
• Caribbean Cay Playground 
• Steel Drum Band
• Island Party (dance party)
• Spyglass Nighttime Trivia
• Beaches with beach chairs and hammocks 
• Caribbean Campfire on the Martinique Beach
• Movies Under the Stars on the Caribbean Cay Movie Lawn
• Under the Seashell Painting ($)
• Guided Fishing Excursions ($)

Dining at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort

• Sebastian’s Bistro: Family Style dinner on the waterfront
• Banana Cabana: Pool Bar and Grill
• Centertown Market Quick Service with Mobile Order
• Spyglass Grill Quick Service with Mobile Order

Transportation at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort

• Walk to/from Riviera Resort,
• Skyliner to/from Riviera, Art of Animation and Pop Century Resorts, EPCOT and Hollywood Studios
• Bus to/from Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom Park, Disney Springs

Things to do Walt Disney Worlds Swan & Dolphin Hotels

The Swan & Dolphin Hotels are a hidden gem for resort hopping with their more adult-oriented vibe.  Despite not being Disney-owned, they still offer free Disney transportation and have some of the best Disney World Resort lounges among their 20+ dining options.

Must See’s and Photo Ops

• The bridge over Crescent Lake
• Fountain outside the back entrance to the Dolphin and in the Dolphin Resort lobby
• Star Wars photo backdrops set up inside the Dolphin and Swan Resort
• Courtyards with swan fountains on both sides of the main hallway that cuts through the center of the Swan Resort
• The swan fountain just past the Swan Resort lobby and outside the front entrance
• Views of the resorts from the beach

Activities at Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Hotel

• Beachside playground
• Lounge chairs on the beach
• Fantasia Gardens and Fairways Miniature Golf ($)

Dining at Walt Disney World Dolphin Hotel

• Todd English’s Bluezoo: à la carte dinner at a Signature Dining location decorated with memorabilia of the 1972 Miami Dolphins’ “Perfect Season”
• Rosa Mexicano: à la carte or buffet breakfast, and à la carte lunch and dinner at a Signature Dining location
• Fountain: Classic American diner-style serving à la carte lunch and dinner
• Todd English’s Bluezoo Lounge: Lounge Bar
• Shula’s Lounge: Lounge Bar
• Rosa Mexicano Lounge: Lounge Bar
• Phins: Lounge Bar
• Cabana Bar and Beach Club:  Pool bar
• Picabu: Quick Service
• Fuel: Grab-and-go market with a coffee bar and frozen yogurt station

Dining at Walt Disney World Swan Hotel

• Il Mulino: à la carte dinner in a Signature Dining location
• Kimonos: à la carte dinner at a Signature Dining location voted to have the best Sushi by Orlando Sentinel readers 
• Garden Grove: à la carte breakfast with a New York Central Park-inspired tree in the center of the dining room
• Chill: Lounge Bar
• Il Mulino Lounge: Lounge Bar
• Kimonos Lounge: Lounge Bar
• Splash Pool Bar and Grill
• Java: grab-and-go coffee shop

Dining at Walt Disney World Swan Reserve

• Amare: buffet or à la carte breakfast and à la carte lunch and dinner at a Signature Dining location with a casual upscale setting
• Stir: lounge bar
• Tangerine: Pool bar
• Grounds: grab and go coffee shop

Transportation at Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Hotel

• Walk to/from BoardWalk Inn, Yacht Club and Beach Club resorts, EPCOT, Hollywood Studios
• Friendship boat to/from BoardWalk Inn, Yacht Club and Beach Club resorts, EPCOT, Hollywood Studios
• Bus to/from Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom Park, Disney Springs

Things to do at Disney’s Yacht & Beach Club Resort

Stroll along the lake, relax on the beachfront swings, or catch a movie at one of the best Disney Resorts Movies Under the Stars locations. And be sure to check out Stormalong Bay (Disney’s best resort pool—still worth a peek even though you can’t go in).

Must See’s and Photo Ops

• Globe and nautical displays in the Yacht Club lobby
• Library area and the ship wheel at the top of the staircase in the Yacht Club lobby
• Train display in the Yacht Club lobby at Christmastime
• Classic car outside the front entrance of Beach Club
• The smell of the Beach Club lobby
• Lighthouse Docks
• View of the Boardwalk
• View of the Shipwreck Waterslide from the beach

Activities at Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club Resort

• Tennis, Pickleball, and Volleyball courts
• Beach with beach chairs and swings
• Fireworks viewing from the lighthouse dock
• Campfire on Shipwreck Beach
• Movies Under the Stars on Shipwreck Beach
• Lafferty Place Arcade ($)
• Painting in the Vineyard class ($)
• Motorized Boat Rentals ($)
• EPCOT Fireworks Cruise
• Guided Fishing Excursions ($)
• Tennis lessons ($)

Dining at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort

• Yachtsman Steakhouse: à la carte dinner
• Ale & Compass Restaurant: à la carte breakfast, lunch and dinner
• Ale & Compass Restaurant to Go: Mobile Order Table Service to Go
• Crew’s Cup Lounge: Lounge Bar
• Ale & Compass Lounge: Lounge Bar
• The Market at Ale & Compass: Quick Service with Mobile Order

Dining at Disney’s Beach Club Resort

• Cape May Café: Character Dining Breakfast buffet with Minnie, Donald Duck, Daisy, and Goofy and a non-character dinner buffet with seafood favorites
• Beaches & Cream Soda Shop: Table service ice cream shop with a to-go window
• Martha’s Vineyard: Lounge Bar
• Hurricane Hanna’s Waterside Bar and Grill: Pool bar
• Beach Club Marketplace: Quick Service with Mobile Order

Transportation at Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club Resort

• Walk to/from Swan, Dolphin, BoardWalk Inn resorts, EPCOT, Hollywood Studios
• Friendship boat to/from Swan, Dolphin, BoardWalk Inn resorts, EPCOT, Hollywood Studios
• Bus to/from Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom Park, Disney Springs

Things to do at Disney’s BoardWalk Inn

A must-visit at night, Disney’s BoardWalk comes alive with street performers, a piano bar, a nightclub, and marshmallow roasting at one of the best Disney World Resort Campfires.

Must See’s and Photo Ops

• Carousel and roller coaster models in the lobby
• Hippocampus Electrolier Chandelier in the lobby
• View from the lobby balcony
• Wyland galleries on the BoardWalk
• Views of other resorts from the BoardWalk
• The BoardWalk at night

Activities at Disney’s BoardWalk Inn

• Ferris W. Eahlers Community Hall
• Tennis and Pickleball courts
• Pickleball Clinic
• Disney Fit Yoga
• Family Wellness Yoga
• Fireworks viewing from the bridge close to EPCOT or on the Boardwalk near the Atlantic Dance Hall
• Campfire on the Village Green Lawn
• Movies Under the Stars on the Village Green Lawn
• Boardwalk Buskers at Promenade Pier
• Side Show Games arcade ($)
• Surrey bike rental ($)
• Tennis lessons ($)
• Carnival games on the BoardWalk ($)
• Atlantic Dance Hall ($)
• Jellyrolls ($)
• Roses of Gold Afternoon Tea at The Cake Bake Shop® by Gwendolyn Rogers ($)

Dining at Disney’s BoardWalk Inn

• Belle Vue Lounge: Lounge Bar
• BoardWalk Deli: Quick Service with Mobile Order
• Carousel Coffee: coffee shop

Dining on Disney’s BoardWalk

• Flying Fish: à la carte dinner, a Disney Signature Dining experience
• The Cake Bake Shop® Restaurant by Gwendolyn Rogers: à la carte breakfast, lunch and dinner
• Trattoria al Forno à la carte breakfast and dinner
• Trattoria al Forno TO GO: Mobile Order Table Service to Go
• AbracadaBar: Lounge Bar
• BoardWalk Joe’s Marvelous Margaritas: drinks and snacks to go
• Blue Ribbon Corn Dogs: Quick Service to go
• Pizza Window: Quick Service to go
• BoardWalk Ice Cream: Quick Service to go 
• The Cake Bake Shop® Bakery by Gwendolyn Rogers
• Funnel Cake Cart 

Transportation at Disney’s BoardWalk Inn

• Walk to/from Swan, Dolphin, Yacht Club, and Beach Club resorts, EPCOT, Hollywood Studios
• Friendship boat to/from Swan, Dolphin, Yacht Club and Beach Club resorts, EPCOT, Hollywood Studios
• Bus to/from Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom Park, Disney Springs

Things to do at Disney’s Old Key West Resort

This beautiful waterfront setting is one of the more relaxed resorts at Disney World—perfect for a leisurely stroll or to try one of the unique experiences at Disney World Resorts and tour it on a surrey bike.

Must See’s and Photo Ops

• Giant sand bucket at the playground
• Pastel-colored buildings
• Sassagoula River views
• Explore the grounds

Activities at Disney’s Old Key West Resort

• Conch Flats Community Hall
• Tennis, Pickleball, and Volleyball courts
• Pickleball clinic
• Disney Fit Yoga
• Hammocks by the volleyball court
• Campfire near the Sandcastle Pool
• Movies Under the Stars near the Sandcastle Pool
• Electric Eel Gameroom arcade($)
• Bike rental ($)
• Surrey bike rental ($)
• Guided Fishing Excursions ($)

Dining at Disney’s Old Key West Resort

• Olivia’s Café: à la carte brunch and dinner
• Gurgling Suitcase: Lounge Bar
• Olivia’s Café to GO: Mobile Order Table Service to Go
• Good’s Food to Go: Quick Service to go

Transportation at Disney’s Old Key West Resort

• 20-minute walk to/from Saratoga Springs on the Conch Flat Trail
• 35-minute walk to Disney Springs (through Saratoga Springs)
• Sassagoula Boats to/from Disney Springs
• Bus to/from Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom Park, and Disney Springs

Things to do at Disney’s Port Orleans Resorts

With Port Orleans being one of only two places you can do dockside fishing at Disney World and the only place you can get the classic Mickey-shaped beignets, it’s definitely worth a visit.

Must See’s and Photo Ops

• Explore the grounds outside the lobby and Ol’ Man Island in Riverside
• Docks at the Fishin’ Hole on Ol’ Man Island in Riverside
• Waterwheel at the Riverside Mill
• Walk along the Sassagoula River between the resorts
• Explore the grounds on a bike or surrey bike
• Lobby fountain and grounds fountains in the French Quarter
• Mardi Gras statue and Alligator Dixieland band statues in the French Quarter

Activities at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort- Riverside

• Yehaa Bob Jackson comedy show at River Roost
• Hammocks on Ol’ Man Island
• Backyard Bash games at Oak Manor Lawn
• Campfire on De’ Bayou on Ol’ Man Island
• Movies Under the Stars on Oak Manor Lawn
• Mosaic Class ($)
• Medicine Show Arcade ($)
• Dockside Fishing ($)
• Bike rental ($)
• Surrey bike rental ($)
• Guided Fishing Excursions ($)
• Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides ($)

Activities at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort- French Quarter

• Get free Mardi Gras beads from the front desk
• Live Jazz Music at the Scat Cats Club Lounge
• Bayou Bag Toss cornhole competition on the front courtyard
• Backyard Bash between buildings 5 and 6
• Cajun Campfire between buildings 5 and 6
• Movies Under the Stars between buildings 5 and 6
• South Quarter Games arcade ($)
• Painting on De’ Bayou class ($)
• Mosaic Class ($)

Dining at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort- Riverside

• Boatwright’s Dining Hall: à la carte dinner, featuring a Taste of the Bayou All-You-Care-To-Enjoy Platter
• River Roost: Lounge Bar
• Muddy Rivers: Pool bar
• Riverside Mill Food Court Quick Service with Mobile Order

Dining at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort- French Quarter

• Scat Cat’s Club Lounge: Lounge Bar with live entertainment on weekends
• Mardi Grogs: Pool bar
• Sassagoula Floatworks and Food Factory Quick Service with Mobile Order
• Scat Cat’s Club Café: coffee shop known for its Mickey-shaped Beignets

Transportation at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort

• 15-minute walk along the river between Riverside and French Quarter
• Sassagoula Boats to/from Disney Springs
• Bus to/from Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom Park, and Disney Springs

Things to do at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort

Being a close walk to Disney Springs (perfect if you want to do some Disney World Resort shopping while resort hopping) this spacious, scenic resort is a must-see.

Must See’s and Photo Ops

• New York-themed buildings
• Treehouse villas
• Playhouse themed Playground
• Bronze statue of a racehorse and jockey outside the main building
• Antique carriage outside the front entrance

Activities at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort

• Community Hall 
• Congress Park Playground
• Tennis and Pickleball court
• Franklin Square Stakes cornhole competition
• Campfire in the courtyard at Franklin Square
• Disney Fit Yoga
• Storytime Yoga
• Movies Under the Stars outside The Artists Palate
• Win, Place, or Show Arcade($)
• Winners Circle Mosaics class ($)
• Win, Paint, Show class ($)
• Bike rental ($)
• Surrey bike rental ($)
• Guided Fishing Excursions ($)
• Tennis lessons ($)

Dining at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort

• The Turf Club Bar and Grill: à la carte dinner in a racetrack clubhouse setting
• Chip ‘n’ Dale’s Café: à la carte lunch
• The Turf Club Lounge: Lounge Bar
• The Paddock Grill: Pool bar
• On the Rocks Pool Bar: Pool bar
• Backstretch Pool Bar: Pool bar
• The Artist’s Palette Quick Service with Mobile Order

Transportation at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort

• 20-minute walk to/from walk to Old Key West on the Conch Flat Trail
• 15-minute walk to/from Disney Springs
• Sassagoula Boats to/from Disney Springs
• Bus to/from Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom Park, and Disney Springs

Things to do at Disney’s All-Star Resorts

One of the best free things to do at Disney World, walking around the All-Stars resorts is a must. There’s no better way to be immersed in Disney magic than to experience cinema, music, and athletics come to life with oversized set pieces and vibrant colors.

Must See’s and Photo Ops

• Larger-than-life size sports-themed sculptures and décor at All-Star Sports
  • Surfs Up! Section
  • Hoops Hotel section
  • Center Court section
  • Touchdown! section
  • Homerun Hotel section
• Mickey statue in the middle of Surfs Up, Hoops Hotel, and Center Court at All-Star Sports
• Larger-than-life size music-themed sculptures and décor at All-Star Music
  • Calypso sectio
  • Jazz Inn section
  • Rock Inn section
  • Country Fair section
  • Broadway Hotel section
• A classic car in the Rock Inn section at All-Star Music
• Larger-than-life size movie-themed sculptures and décor at All-Star Movies
  • Fantasia section
  • The Love Bug section
  • 101 Dalmatians section
  • Mighty Ducks section
  • Toy Story section
• Human-size RC car in the Toy Story section, and TV photo op in the Dalmatian section at All-Star Movies
• Winners Circle with Herbie at All-Star Movies

Activities at Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort

• Pajama Party (games, dancing, and a story)
• Touchdown! Campfire outside Stadium Hall
• Movies Under the Stars by the Surfboard Bay pool deck
• Game Point Arcade ($)

Activities at Disney’s All-Star Music Resort

• Pajama Party (games, dancing, and a story)
• Calypso Campfire near the Calypso Pool Deck
• Movies Under the Stars by the Calypso Pool Deck
• Note’able Games arcade ($)
• Design your own Mosaic classes ($)

Activities at Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort

• Pajama Party (games, dancing, and a story)
• Sorcerers Campfire in Fantasia section
• Movies Under the Stars at the Reel Spot
• Reel Fun Arcade ($)

Dining at Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort

• Grandstand Spirits: Pool bar
• End Zone Food Court: Quick Service with Mobile Order

Dining at Disney’s All-Star Music Resort

• Singing Spirits Pool Bar: Pool bar
• Intermission Food Court: Quick Service with Mobile Order

Dining at Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort

• Silver Screen Spirits Pool Bar: Pool bar
• World Premiere Food Court: Quick Service with Mobile Order

Transportation at Disney’s All-Star Resorts

• 8 to 16-minute walk between All-Star Resorts
• Bus to/from Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom Park, and Disney Springs

Things to do at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge

This deluxe resort is among those offering the most Disney Resort Activities for non-guests-like the Animal Kingdom Lodge tour showcasing African artwork and artifacts. With so many activities at Animal Kingdom Lodge, it’s a must-do for any resort hopping itinerary.

Must See’s and Photo Ops

• Jambo House Lobby fireplace, fifth-floor bridge, and multi-story window
• Artifacts in the Jambo House lobby
• Sunset Overlook Lounge off the Jambo House lobby
• Balcony off the Jambo House lobby
• Animal viewing areas at Jambo House
  • Arusha Rock (second floor next to the main lobby)
  • Sunset Overlook (main lobby)
  • Uzima Overlook (Uzima Pool area)
• Animal viewing areas at Kidani Village
  • Savanna Overlook (first floor of the main lobby)
  • Palace Library (second floor of the main lobby)
  • Kidani Community Hall Balcony (second floAor next to the main lobby)

Activities at Animal Kingdom Lodge-Jambo House

• Jambo House Lobby Art Tour-weekdays at 11:00am
• Simba’s Activity Center (Community Hall)
• Hakuna Matata Playground
• Disney Family Fitness Fun
• String of Memories activities
• Sunset Slumber Party in the Sunset Lounge
• Campfire at the Arusha Savanna Overlook
• Movies Under the Stars at the Hakuna Matata Playground
• Pumbaa’s Fun and Games Arcade ($)
• Wild about Painting ($)

Activities at Kidani Village

• Kidani Village Community Hall 
• Tennis and Pickleball courts
• String of Memories activities
• Bingo in the Library
• Sunset Slumber Party in the Palace Library
• Campfire at the Pembe Savanna Overlook
• Movies Under the Stars at the Pembe Savanna Overlook
• Safari So Good arcade($)
• African Masiac Art class ($)
• Tennis lessons ($)
• Starlight Safari ($)

Dining at Animal Kingdom Lodge

• Jiko – The Cooking Place: à la carte dinner, with bar seating that gives you a view of the chefs
• Boma – Flavors of Africa: Buffet breakfast and dinner
• Cape Town Lounge and Wine Bar: Lounge Bar
• Victoria Falls Lounge Lounge Bar
• Uzima Springs Pool Bar
• The Mara Quick Service with Mobile Order
• Sanaa to GO: Mobile Order Table Service to Go

Dining at Kidani Village

• Sanaa: a Quick Service breakfast or an à la carte lunch and dinner, known for their Indian-style Bread Service
• Sanaa Lounge Lounge Bar
• Maji Pool Bar

Transportation at Animal Kingdom Lodge

• Bus to/from Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom Park, and Disney Springs

Things to do at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort

Whether you’re enjoying the views from the lake bridges or stopping for a meal at Three Bridges Bar & Grill (one of Disney World’s best dining spots) this resort is especially stunning at night.

Must See’s and Photo Ops

• Gran Destino Tower lobby
• Fountain in the El Centro lobby and the Casitas section
• Explorer’s Playground
• Bridges over Lago Dorado
• Beautiful views at night

Activities at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort

• Volleyball court
• Explorer’s Playground
• Light the Night Glow Party on the Gran Destino Lawn
• Fireworks viewing from Dahlia or Chronos Club Lounge
• Lounge chairs and hammocks on the beach
• Explorers Campfire at The Dig Site
• Movies Under the Stars on the Gran Destino Lawn
• Iguana Arcade($)
• Spanish Mosaic Art class ($)
• Colors of Coronado Painting Experience class ($)
• Sangria University ($)

Dining at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort

• Toledo – Tapas, Steak & Seafood: à la carte dinner with an open kitchen, and windows with a view of Hollywood Studios
• Maya Grill: à la carte dinner
• Rix Sports Bar & Grill: à la carte breakfast, lunch and dinner
• Three Bridges Bar and Grill at Villa del Lago: à la carte dinner on the Lago Dorado lake
• Three Bridges Bar and Grill to GO: Mobile Order Table Service to Go
• Laguna Bar: Lakeside lounge bar
• Dahlia Lounge: Rooftop Lounge Bar in Grand Destino Tower
• Barcelona Lounge: espresso bar until noon, lounge bar starting at 3:00pm
• Siestas Cantina: Pool bar
• El Mercado de Coronado: Quick Service
• Cafe Rix: coffee shop

Transportation at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort

• Bus to/from Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom Park, Disney Springs

Resort hopping at Walt Disney World isn’t just about seeing fancy lobbies (though that’s definitely part of the fun!).

From the Disney World Resorts Movies under the Stars to unique resort tours (in my opinion one of the best things to do at Disney Resorts), there’s so much you can do.  With tons of things to do at Disney resorts for free, resort hopping on a non-park day is a great way to experience some magic beyond the parks.

For a full look at touring every resort, don’t miss my review!