The Walt Disney World Resort in Florida is one of the top vacation destinations for people of all ages. But what few people realise is that there is more to Disney World than just a themepark; in fact it is possible to have a wonderful vacation without setting foot in a park.
1. Championship Golf
The Walt Disney World Resort has four outstanding championship golf courses (three of which are on the PGA Tour) and a par-36 practice course, so you don't need to miss out on your golf while on vacation.
Both the general public and resort guests are welcome to play at Disney's Palm and Magnolia courses (which are across from Disney's Polynesian Resort), the Osprey Ridge courses (which are located at the Bonnet Creek Golf Club), and at the Lake Buena Vista course (which is near Downtown Disney/Saratoga Spring Resort).
2. A Day at the Beach
Beach babes can top up their tan on a sandy white beach without suffering the drive to the coast. Just head over to Typhoon Lagoon where you'll find not only a sandy beach but a great wave pool and countless water slides. Don't miss out on Crush n Gusher which is more of a water coaster than a water slide!
3. Hit the Slopes
Story has it that one year a blizzard hit Florida and the Imagineers build a ski resort complete with a ski lift. When the snow started to melt it turned into a great water park which is now known as Blizzard Beach. Are you daring enough to conquer Summit Plummit, the 120 foot high sky-scraping ski-jump water slide?
4. Marvel at Circus Acts
Fans of Cirque du Soleil should head to the Downtown Disney West Side to take in La Nouba. This mesmerising and extraordinary avant-garde circus spectacle will amaze visitors of all ages.
5. Hit the Shops
While you're at Downtown Disney wander over the bridge and into the Marketplace where you'll find a wide variety of shops and restaurants. Don't miss the World of Disney, a store packed full of every Disney accessory you could ever imagine from plush toys to dress-up costumes, T Shirts and sweaters to pyjamas and hats as well as photo frames and magnets and stationery, the list just goes on and on!
There you have it, five ways you can experience the magic at the Walt Disney World Resort without even setting foot in a theme park.by: Clare Swindlehurst
