Are you ready to make the most of your Disney World resort stay without spending an extra penny? You're in luck! Each Disney resort offers many free activities that can add a sprinkle of magic to your vacation.
From movies under the stars to scavenger hunts, there's something for everyone that is already included in the price of your stay. You can even take a day off from the theme parks to enjoy these and let your wallet have a little rest while you are at it! Let's dive into all of the free activities at your Disney World resort.
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Movies Under the Stars: Free Activities at Your Disney World Resort
What could be more magical than watching a Disney movie under the night sky? All Disney resorts offer outdoor movie screenings of beloved Disney films every evening (weather permitting). Grab a blanket and some popcorn (which you can bring yourself or buy at the resort), and enjoy a family-friendly Disney movie in a beautiful outdoor setting.
When and Where: Upon arrival, check your resort's activity schedule for movie times and locations. There is also an activity board around each resort that will give you the movie schedule. Typically, the screenings happen near the main pool or on the resort’s lawn.
How to Participate: Show up! There’s no need to reserve a spot, but arriving a little early can ensure you get a good seat.
Nightly Campfires: Free Activities at Your Disney World Resort
Roasting marshmallows around a campfire is a timeless and delightful activity. Disney resorts all host evening campfire events where you can enjoy roasting marshmallows and making s'mores.
When and Where: Look for the campfire location on your resort’s map or ask a Cast Member. These events usually happen in the early evening, around 6:30 pm.
How to Participate: The marshmallows and sticks are provided for free. You can bring your own s'mores ingredients for an extra treat or purchase a Mickey-shaped smores kit for a small fee.
Resort Scavenger Hunts: Free Activities at Your Disney World Resort
Put on your explorer hat and embark on a scavenger hunt around your resort! Disney resorts offer themed scavenger hunts that are fun for kids and adults alike.
When and Where: Pick up a scavenger hunt sheet from the front desk or the recreation team. These hunts are self-guided so that you can do them at your own pace. Take fun pictures of the clues you have found to make a family scavenger hunt photo collage afterward.
How to Participate: Collect your scavenger hunt sheet and start exploring. Some resorts even offer small prizes for completing the hunt.
Amazing Pools: Free Activities at Your Disney World Resort
The Disney resort pools are amazing! They are beautifully themed and have lots of space for relaxing. But swimming isn't the only activity offered! Disney resorts have a variety of poolside activities and games that are organized by the recreation team throughout the day.
When and Where: Poolside activities usually occur near the main pool and are listed on the resort's daily activities schedule.
How to Participate: Head to the pool during the scheduled activity times and join the fun. Activities range from pool games to arts and crafts.
Fitness Trails & Recreational Paths: Free Activities at Your Disney World Resort
Disney resorts offer beautiful fitness trails and recreational paths for those who like to stay active. These trails are perfect for jogging, walking, or a leisurely bike ride.
When and Where: Fitness trails are mapped around the resort grounds. You can ask for a map at the front desk or find it on the resort’s website.
How to Participate: Put on your sneakers and hit the trail! Some resorts even offer free guided jogging tours and mini-races.
Welcome Celebrations: Free Activities at Your Disney World Resort
Disney Cast Members are always so welcoming when you first arrive at the resort. Even though you can check in online and go directly to your room, be sure to stop by the check-in desk. All resorts offer free celebration buttons for you to celebrate your special trip! They have birthdays, anniversaries, and special buttons where you can write what you are celebrating. So don't be shy, grab those buttons, and write in whatever brings you to WDW!
Also, most resorts have special picture boards so you can capture those first-day feelings. A few other resorts offer things special to their location, like free Hawaiian flower leis at The Polynesian or free wishing coins at the French Quarter.
When and Where: In the front lobby of your resort.
Lawn Games: Free Activities at Your Disney World Resort
Throughout the day, Disney resorts set up various fun lawn games for guests to enjoy. These games include Connect Four, bean bag toss, hula hoops, and more, providing entertainment for guests of all ages.
When and Where: Lawn games are typically set up in central outdoor areas like the main lawn or the pool.
How to Participate: Go to the game area and start playing! No reservations are needed, and you can join in at any time.
Explore More at Your Resort
While these six activities are available at ALL Disney World resorts, don't forget to explore the unique offerings specific to your resort. Each resort has its special charm and additional activities worth checking out. For example:
Animal Kingdom Lodge: View safari animals on over six savannahs.
Fort Wilderness: Rent fishing poles and canoes for a serene outdoor experience.
Port Orleans: For an additional fee, go for a magical horse-drawn carriage ride.
Deluxe Resorts near Magic Kingdom & Epcot: Enjoy the fireworks music playing nightly on the resort grounds, allowing you to watch the fireworks without going into the park.
Many resorts have playgrounds available for younger children or hammocks if you want to take a nap! Take a stroll around your resort and chat with Cast Members. You'll be surprised at the number of hidden gems and unique activities waiting to be discovered!
Disney resorts are designed to be immersive experiences with countless opportunities for fun and relaxation. So, whether you’re roasting marshmallows, watching a movie under the stars, or exploring a new fitness trail, there’s always something magical to do. Enjoy every moment of your stay and make the most of these wonderful, free activities!
If you are having trouble deciding which resort would be best for your next vacation, be sure to grab our FREE Disney Resort Decision Quiz. We put together this fun quiz to help you narrow your choices and pick a resort that matches your vacation style.
Planning A Disney World Trip? Check out these additional Magical Resorts Guide resources you will love:
GREAT INFO AND GREAT SITE! There's so much to do at Walt Disney World that sites like this give you the 'edge' in knowing what to do and get the most out of your vacation! This site has helped so much! I will be referencing back to this when we "pack up " and go!