Walt Disney World Recreation

Walt Disney World Resorts offer guests a vast number of recreational options for individuals or the entire family. Each resort has its own unique programs, events, and activities available to its guests. Some experiences may be offered at multiple resorts. Whether guests prefer to spend time outdoors, or they'd rather stay inside, there is something for everyone! From spas, arcades, and crafts, to story time and  outdoor activities, guests will discover countless hours of magic and enjoyment to create memories that will last a lifetime!

Outdoor Activities

Walt Disney World Resort hotels offer plenty of terrific options so guests can enjoy the great outdoors from sunrise to sunset.

Open to all ages and abilities, tennis is a great activity the whole family can enjoy! Whether guests are seasoned players or beginners, spending time on the court is a great way to have fun. Walt Disney World Resort hotel guests have complimentary use of courts and tennis equipment. Guests not staying at Resort hotels may also use the courts and equipment, but will have to pay a fee. Guests wishing to participate in group or individual lessons must make reservations. Fees may apply. All players must have appropriate clothing and shoes when using the tennis courts. Availability is first come, first serve. The following resorts are home to tennis courts:

  • Animal Kingdom Villas
  • Bay Lake Tower at the Contemporary Resort
  • Beach Club and Yacht Club Resorts
  • BoardWalk Inn and Villas
  • The Campsites and Cabins at Fort Wilderness Resort
  • Old Key West Resort
  • Saratoga Springs Resort
  • Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resorts

Volleyball is another of the many recreational activities offered to guests at Walt Disney World. Resort hotel guests have complimentary access and rental to eight sand courts found throughout the Walt Disney World property. Non-Resort guests are also welcome to use the courts and rent equipment for a fee. Volleyball is open to all ages and skill levels so that everyone can have fun!

  • Beach Club Resort
  • Caribbean Beach Resort
  • Contemporary Resort
  • Coronado Springs Resort
  • The Campsites at Fort Wilderness Resort
  • Old Key West Resort
  • Polynesian Village Resort
  • Yacht Club Resort
  • Walt Disney World Dolphin and Swan Resorts (wet court and sand court)

A game of basketball is a great way to release extra energy, start a competition, or simply spend the afternoon. There are several basketball courts ranging from quarter to full size located throughout Walt Disney World. Resort hotel guests can use their Resort ID for complimentary access and equipment rental. Courts can be found at:

  • Animal Kingdom Villas
  • Grand Floridian Resort
  • Old Key West Resort
  • Saratoga Springs Resort
  • Fort Wilderness Resort
  • Walt Disney World Dolphin and Swan Hotels

Wagons, carriages, and horseback rides are just some of the many activities available to guests. There is a cost to participate and some requirements must be met. Advance reservations are strongly recommended.

Wagon Rides

Gather the whole family for a wagon ride! Open to groups of all sizes and ages, these nightly rides are a great way for guests to spend time together and also meet new friends. Two rides are offered nightly (weather permitting) and are available first come, first serve. The 25-minute excursion costs $12 per person over 9 years old, and $8 per person 3-9 years old. Large groups (30-35 people) can reserve an entire wagon for $300 in 45-minute increments. Reservations must be made at least 24 hours in advance.  Wagon rides are available at:

  • Fort Wilderness Resort

Sleigh Rides

During December, guests can take horse-drawn “sleigh” rides. These carriages feature special lights and holiday garlands making each ride festive! The cost is $84 for each 25-minute ride. Reservations are strongly encouraged. Holiday sleigh rides are available at:

  • Fort Wilderness Resort

Carriage Rides

Families and couples can enjoy a carriage ride at select locations in Walt Disney World. Whether guests are looking for an old fashioned experience, or something private and romantic, carriage rides are a great way to create unique memories. These 25-minute rides cost $55 and can are available at:

  • Fort Wilderness Resort
  • Port Orleans Resort

Trail Rides

For guests wishing to experience horseback riding, trail rides are a great option. These outdoor trails are perfect for beginner and intermediate riders ages nine and older. The 45-minute long ride will take guests along nature paths and through beautiful scenery. The cost per person is $55. Some requirements must be met and reservations are recommended. Horseback riding is available at:

  • Fort Wilderness Resort

Pony Rides

Guests who may be too young for the trail rides, can still participate in the fun. Pony rides are for children ages 2 and older who meet certain requirements. The cost is $8-CASH ONLY. An adult must remain with children at all times and guide the horses. Reservations are not required. Pony rides are offered at:

  • Fort Wilderness Resort

Biking is a convenient way to cruise around the resort hotels while getting some exercise, or a fun way to spend the day with the whole family! Guest can rent bicycles in a variety of sizes at select resorts so that everyone can participate. Helmets and child seats are complimentary with each rental. Bicycles are available first come, first serve.

  • BoardWalk Resort
  • Caribbean Beach Resort
  • Coronado Springs Resort
  • Old Key West Resort
  • Port Orleans Resort (French Quarter, Riverside)
  • Saratoga Springs Resort
  • Wilderness Lodge Resort
  • The Cabins and Campsites at Fort Wilderness Resort

Surrey Bikes are a unique option as two, four, or six people can ride at the same time! All surrey bikes have four wheels and a covered top to resemble old fashioned surrey wagons. Each bicycle has two steering wheels and pedals, but are not motorized. These bikes can be rented for incremental periods and are available first come, first serve.

  • BoardWalk Resort
  • Coronado Springs Resort
  • Old Key West Resort
  • Port Orleans Resort
  • Saratoga Springs Resort

Early morning runs and late night jogs can be enjoyed by guests staying at many of the Walt Disney World Resort hotels. With trails of varying lengths, it’s easy to keep on track with fitness goals while away from home. Guests can choose the course that best meets their needs, whether it’s a quick loop or a long, leisurely run.

What better way to end a magical day than sitting under the stars and enjoying a favorite Disney movie? Guests staying Walt Disney World Resort hotels are welcome to attend outdoor film viewings during their stay.  Guests may check with their Resort hotel to find out the times and films scheduled to be shown.

Water sports are a popular choice among guests visiting the Walt Disney World Resort hotels. From swimming to canoeing, guest can participate in a variety of water sports that they already enjoy, or even learn something new!

Kayaking

An outdoor adventure is even better in a kayak! Whether they prefer to go it alone or with a companion, guests wishing to spend time in the water have the option to rent kayaks for up to two people. Kayak rentals are $13 per hour. Life jackets are included and must be worn in the water.

  • Fort Wilderness Resort

Fishing

Guests looking for an unique experience can enjoy dockside fishing or guided fishing excursions throughout Walt Disney World Resort.

Guided Fishing Excursions:

  • Fort Wilderness Resort
  • Caribbean Beach Resort
  • Contemporary Resort
  • Grand Floridian Resort
  • Old Key West Resort
  • Polynesian Village Resort
  • Port Orleans Resort – Riverside
  • Wilderness Lodge Resort
  • Yacht Club Resort

Dockside Fishing:

  • Port Orleans Resort- Riverside

Canoeing

Cruse waterways and enjoy nature from a canoe! For $13 per hour, guests can rent canoes that seat three people. Rentals are available first come, first serve. Life jackets are included and must be worn in the water.

  • Fort Wilderness Resort

Motorized Boats

Guests wishing to enjoy a afternoon on the water can rent boats seating 2-10 people. Select watercraft can be driven by guests as young as 12 years old. Rental boats are available first come, first serve and some requirements must be met. Boats can be rented at the following marinas:

  • Bay Lake Tower
  • Beach Club Resort
  • Contemporary Resort
  • Fort Wilderness Resort
  • Grand Floridian Resort
  • Polynesian Village Resort
  • Wilderness Lodge Resort
  • Yacht Club Resort

Indoor Activities

Vacation is a time to relax, unwind, and have some fun! Guests can workout at the fitness centers, play classic arcade games, enjoy calming spa treatments, or let the kids have the night off at select Resort Community Halls.

Arcades provide hours of fun for all ages and are perfect for rainy afternoons and lazy days. Whether guests want to outscore each other or just revisit a favorite game, each arcade has plenty of options for all skill levels and competitive spirits. Game cards must be purchased to play and can be used and reloaded at any arcade location.

  • All-Star Resorts (Movies, Music, Sports)
  • Animal Kingdom Lodge
  • Animal Kingdom Villas
  • Art of Animation Resort
  • Beach Club Resort
  • BoardWalk Inn
  • Contemporary Resort
  • Coronado Springs Resort
  • Fort Wilderness Resort
  • Grand Floridian Resort
  • Old Key West Resort
  • Pop Century Resort
  • Port Orleans Resort (French Quarter, Riverside)
  • Saratoga Springs Resort
  • Wilderness Lodge
  • Yacht Club Resort
  • Walt Disney World Dolphin Resort

Even on vacation, guests may prefer to follow their fitness routines. Many Walt Disney World Resort hotels provide 24-hour fitness rooms and equipment to assist guests in maintaining their health goals.

  • Animal Kingdom Lodge
  • Animal Kingdom Villas
  • BoardWalk Villas
  • Contemporary Resort
  • Coronado Springs Resort
  • Grand Floridian Resort
  • Old Key West Resort
  • Saratoga Springs Resort
  • Wilderness Lodge
  • Walt Disney World Dolphin and Swan Resorts (6am-9pm)
  • Yacht Club Resort

Part of the fun of vacation is indulging in well deserved “me-time.” Guests can enjoy any or all of the pampering services found at select Resort hotels. Hair cuts and styles, manicures, pedicures, massages, even full spa treatments can be scheduled so guests can relax while looking their best. Young guests may also indulge in select services but must be accompanied by an adult. While many services can be scheduled upon arrival at the Resorts, guests are strongly encouraged to make reservations/appointments as far in advance as possible. Out of curtesy and respect for others, guests are asked to check in early for their appointments to ensure prompt service and an uninterrupted experience.

Facials and Massages

  • Animal Kingdom Lodge
  • Coronado Springs Resort
  • Yacht Club Resort

Full Salon Services

  • Coronado Springs Resort
  • Grand Floridian Resort
  • Saratoga Springs Resort
  • Walt Disney World Dolphin
  • Yacht Club Resort

Full Spa Services (massages, peels, facials, wraps)

  • Grand Floridian Resort
  • Saratoga Springs Resort
  • Walt Disney World Dolphin

Guests can take a break from the outdoors and spend some time inside playing games, watching movies, and doing crafts at select Resort hotels. Community Halls are open to all ages and are a great way to relax, make friends, and create memories.

  • Old Key West Resort
  • Saratoga Springs Resort
  • BoardWalk Villas
  • Bay Lake Tower
  • Animal Kingdom Lodge

Cruises

There is nothing quite as exciting or exclusive as being on a private cruise. Guests wishing to relax on the water or host a celebration for family and friends can reserve a private pontoon, boat, or yacht to set sail from select locations. Whether guests prefer to sail during the day or want to see a fireworks show at night, private cruises can be booked for 8-18 guests and include a captain, light refreshments, and balloons. There is an hourly rate for each reservation and prices vary based on the size of the group and boat. Guests may choose to add champagne, fresh fruit, miniature pastries, full meals, and more to their excursion for an additional fee. Not all options are available at every location.

Private daytime cruises sail from the following locations:

  • Contemporary Resort
  • Grand Floridian Resort
  • Polynesian Village Resort
  • Beach Club Resort
  • Yacht Club Resort

Private cruises for Happily Ever After fireworks sail from:

  • Contemporary Marina
  • Polynesian Marina
  • Grand Floridian Marina
  • Fort Wilderness Marina
  • Wilderness Lodge Marina

Private cruises for IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth sail from:

  • Beach Club Resort
  • Yacht Club Resort

Ahoy mateys! Children with a heart for adventure can become pirates for the day and set sail to search for hidden treasure. Young guests staying at Resort hotels can take part in a kids-only voyage at select locations around Walt Disney World.  The new buccaneers will be presented with stories and clues to discover hidden treasure as Cast Members sail them around exciting waterways. Cruises depart everyday, weather permitting, and last about 2 hours.  All would-be pirates must be between the ages of 4-12 to be part of these adventures. There is a cost per child to participate. Cruise locations include:

  • Grand Floridian Resort
  • Caribbean Beach Resort
  • Beach Club Resort
  • Yacht Club Resort

One of the most magical things guests will experience in Walt Disney World are the Fireworks Shows. These fantastic shows tell exciting stories of magic and adventure, and are full of music, color, and surprises! Guests can participate in themed Dessert Voyages and make their special night even more incredible. Reservations are required and there is a cost for each participant ages 3 and older; children ages 2 and under are free, but must be included in their group’s reservation. Reservations can be made up to 90 days in advance. Fireworks Dessert Cruises offered:

Mini Golf/Putt Putt

For those who want to enjoy golf but aren’t ready to take on the full size greens, Mini Golf is the prefect option. With four themed courses to choose from, there’s something for everyone! The cost for guests over 9 years old is $14 and guests 3-9 years old are $12.

  • Fantasia Gardens & Fairways – Two 18-hole golf courses located near Epcot Resorts
  • Winter Summerland – Two 18-hole golf courses located near Animal Kingdom Resorts

Golf

Walt Disney World Resort is home to three gorgeous championship golf courses and one 9-hole walking course. At certain times of the year, these courses may be hosts to PGA and LPGA tours and tournaments, making them a favorite destination for golf enthusiasts. Guests wishing to play a round (or more) are encouraged to reserve tee times in advance, as walk up reservations may not be available. Proper attire and footwear are required for all players on the greens and rental shoes and clubs are available at the course pro shops. Tee times may be reserved for a maximum of four guests. In order to maintain a fluid and professional experience, parties smaller or larger than four may be grouped with other players.

Lake Buena Vista Golf Course at Saratoga Springs Resort – 18 holes

Magnolia Golf Course at Polynesian Village Resort – 18 holes

Palm Golf Course at Polynesian Village Resort – 18 holes

Oak Trail Golf Course at Polynesian Village Resort – 9 hole walking course only

FootGolf is Disney’s latest addition to their recreation offerings. FootGolf combines elements of soccer with traditional golf and is the perfect sport for the whole family. FootGolf is currently offered at:

Oak Trail Golf Course at Polynesian Village Resort

Disney Springs

Disney Springs is the ultimate recreation location in all of Walt Disney World Resort! With dozens of shopping, dining, and entertainment options, guests will discover something new and exciting at every turn. Highlights include:

  • AMC Theater – 24 Movie Screens (Standard, 3D, IMAX, and Fork and Screen)
  • Splitsville – Bowling, Dining, Bar
  • Cirque de Soleil – Stunning Acrobatic Show
  • House of Blues – Concerts, Restaurant and Bar, Gospel Brunch
  • Aerophile – Tethered Helium Balloon Ride
  • LEGO Store
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