View of Cinderella’s Castle from the Polynesian Resort.
Regardless of whether you’re celebrating Valentine’s Day, an anniversary, your first vacation without the kids, a honeymoon, any other special occasion, or just want a romantic escape, there is no better place for a romantic getaway than Disney World. Here are some fantastic ways you can spend time with that special someone:
• Stay at a romantic resort or splurge on a romantic view. If it is a special occasion, think about splurging for a theme park, water, or preferred view at a Deluxe resort. There is something cozy and romantic about relaxing on your private balcony watching fireworks or observing boats as they sail by.
• Begin the romance the moment you get there. Arrange to have flowers, champagne, chocolates, or a special gift delivered to your room. Walt Disney World Florist can deliver items to your room before you check in or shortly after your arrival.
• Book a relaxing couples massage. The Grand Floridian Spa and the Spa at Saratoga Springs offer a couples massage and other soothing spa treatments. Spa treatments must be booked in advance.
• Book a horse and carriage ride. Ride around the romantic Port Orleans Riverside or the rustic Fort Wilderness on a horse drawn carriage.
• Discover romantic things to do in the theme parks. In the Magic Kingdom, ride Prince Charming Regal Carrousel in Fantasyland and take a relaxing ride on the Liberty Belle Riverboat in Liberty Square. At Epcot, stroll around the World Showcase and browse in the shops, break for wine and cheese in France, and take the time to grab a friendship boat to get to the other side of the lagoon. If you go to Animal Kingdom, check out the often overlooked trails and enjoy the animals. At Disney’s Hollywood Studios, head to the Hollywood Hills Amphitheater if Fantasmic! is showing and watch the show beneath the starry sky.
• Watch the sunset. While you can find various places to watch the sunset, you can’t beat the ambiance of the beach at the Polynesian Resort. You can find a nice peaceful spot, or maybe a hammock, to relax and watch the sun go down.
• Watch the Magic Kingdom Fireworks outside of the park. Head to the Polynesian Resort or the Grand Floridian and watch from a secluded location on the beach. At the Polynesian they even pipe the accompanying music over the speakers. If you want something truly special, you can book a Specialty Cruise and watch the fireworks from the Seven Seas Lagoon. (You can also book a Specialty Cruise to watch IllumiNations at Epcot.)
• Make reservations at romantic restaurants. Enjoy dinner at Artist Point at the Wilderness Lodge while enjoying the view of wildflowers, the lake, a waterfall , and an erupting geyser. Eat dinner under the starry sky while boats sail by and a volcano rumbles in the distance at the San Angel Inn in the Mexico Pavilion at Epcot. Make reservations at the California Grill at the Contemporary Resort for a time that is about an hour before the Magic Kingdom fireworks are scheduled to start. When it is time for the fireworks, the California Grill dims the lights and pipes in the accompanying music so you can watch the fireworks from the comfort of your table while enjoying a wonderful meal. They will also let you out on their private 15th floor deck to view the show. If you want to really splurge on a romantic dining experience, make reservations at Victoria and Albert’s for an unforgettable five-course meal. You can even “upgrade” to a 10-12 course meal by booking the Chef’s Table. This is the only restaurant in Central Florida to be awarded AAA’s Five Diamond Award. Victoria and Albert’s is extravagant and expensive. Jackets are required for men and evening attire is required for women. Also, Victoria and Albert’s is one of the few places in Disney World where young children are not allowed.
• Explore the resorts. Take a stroll along the beach of the Polynesian and Grand Floridian, wander along the river at Port Orleans, explore the grounds of the Caribbean Beach Resort, observe the animals at the Animal Kingdom Lodge, or walk the boardwalk at the Boardwalk Inn and Villas.
• Get a button from city hall. If you are celebrating an anniversary, birthday or are on your honeymoon, request a button at check-in or at City Hall in the Magic Kingdom that announces your special occasion. It is not guaranteed, but you may possibly encounter a tiny bit of extra magic while donning one of these buttons.
• Pop the question. If you are not married yet, you would be hard pressed to find a more romantic location to propose than in front of or in Cinderella’s Castle. Disney even has a special engagement package available for those dining at Cinderella’s Royal Table.
• Get married or renew your vows. If you want the ultimate splurge, take advantage of one of Disney’s wedding or vow renewal packages. There are various enchanting spots where you can hold your ceremony. With Disney, you can live the fairytale.
Even though Disney World is known for being for families, there are romantic things to do all over the World – you just have to know where to look.
Mickey Magic 