Walt Disney World may typically be viewed as a family destination. But, as all the Disney adults out there can attest, you don’t need to be a child to enjoy the massive Central Florida resort’s magical charms. Whether you are locals searching for fun Orlando date ideas or on vacation and hoping for some quality time away from the kids, there are enough romantic things to do at Disney World to keep you and your significant other feeling the love for many date nights to come.
Some Things to Consider for Your Disney World Date Night
Unless you’re on an adult Disney trip or live in the area, chances are that you came to Walt Disney World with one or more kids in tow. And as wonderful as it is to watch their little faces light up when they see Mickey Mouse or go on rides, you don’t exactly want your kiddos tagging along when going out for a romantic night on the town.
Fortunately, there are a couple of options available for those needing babysitting and childcare services at Disney World. Held at the Walt Disney World Dolphin Hotel in the Epcot Resort Area, Camp Dolphin is a drop-off childcare service that anyone can use – no worries if you’re not a hotel guest. Kids must be between the ages of 5 and 12 to attend, with the program running from 4 PM to 11 PM. Once dropped off, kids take part in a variety of fully supervised activities like arts & crafts, board games and movies. A meal is also provided. Reservations are required.
Rather have your little ones stay in the comfort of your hotel room? Call Kid’s Nite Out, a Disney-recommended babysitting service, where a professional caregiver gets sent directly to your room. Like Mary Poppins without the bottomless carpetbag, sitters come prepared with age-appropriate distractions to keep your children entertained all evening long.
If you don’t have any kids to keep track of, consider taking your Disney date night to the next level by staying at one of the most romantic Disney resorts. With dreamy touches like Spanish moss and cobblestone streets, Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter is an enchanting place to stay at Walt Disney World. Or, for a night that is as luxurious as it is alluring, opt for one of the overwater bungalows at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort.
19 Romantic Disney Date Night Ideas
No matter if you’re an Orlando local or a theme park guest celebrating your honeymoon or anniversary, Walt Disney World can be downright captivating, making the resort the perfect destination for your next date. While there are many things to do at Disney World for adults, these 19 Disney date ideas run the gamut, from fun and adventurous to an evening of simple pleasures. Don’t want to spend money on a theme park ticket? No worries – many of these suggestions don’t even require you to set foot in a park.
For a Classic Disney World Date Night
Centered around Walt Disney World’s two entertainment districts, these Disney date ideas are classics for a reason.
Plan the Ultimate Disney Springs Date Night
As a popular hotspot for locals and visitors alike with some of the best dining and entertainment at Disney World, a Disney Springs date night is a must. The highlight of many a date night is the dinner, and you’ll find many worthy options at Disney Springs. Romantic restaurants abound, with an atmosphere and menu to suit whatever vibe you’re after.
Kick off your evening at one of the romantic restaurants in Disney Springs, like Wine Bar George or Jaleo by José Andrés. Or, for a more playful meal, opt for places like Raglan Road Irish Pub or Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar instead.
Afterward, take your date to the next level with a ride on the Aerophile Disney Springs balloon or one of the vintage amphicars. Prefer to keep your feet on firm ground? Go to see the new Disney World Cirque du Soleil show, Drawn to Life, once it opens on November 18, 2021.
Take a Stroll (or Surrey Bike) Down Disney’s BoardWalk
Disney’s BoardWalk may not be as popular as Disney Springs, but this nostalgic entertainment district is what Disney date night dreams are made of. There are some decent options available for dinner here, namely Trattoria al Forno and Flying Fish, along with AbracadaBar, one of my favorite Disney World bars. However, the real highlight of this Disney World date spot is the setting.
After sunset is when the BoardWalk comes alive with street performers and carnival games, so rent a surrey bike or wander down the waterfront promenade to experience it all. Then, stop into Jellyrolls, Disney’s piano bar, for some toe-tapping tunes. Just be sure to pop back outside later so you don’t miss the BoardWalk’s other show: Some of the best views of the EPCOT fireworks outside the park.
If you have the time and don’t mind taking the scenic route, Disney’s Yacht Club and Beach Club are just on the other side of the lake. Aside from being a pleasant stroll, this is also where you’ll find the Beaches & Cream Soda Shop, home to Disney World’s iconic Kitchen Sink Sundae.
For a Disney Date Night with Drama
Some people like to keep their love life simple, but if you have a flair for the dramatic, consider one of these showstopping Disney World dates.
Enjoy Dinner with a Side of Fireworks
People talk about feeling the fireworks when they fall in love, so why not celebrate your affection for that special someone with a literal fireworks display? With its bird’s-eye views of the Magic Kingdom, the pinnacle of Disney dining is the California Grill at Disney’s Contemporary Resort. However, thanks to the restaurant’s front row seats to the Magic Kingdom fireworks, California Grill can be a hot ticket, so be sure to book and plan your reservation accordingly.
Alternatively, rather than fighting the crowds or wasting time trying to save your seat, reserve a table with a view by booking one of Disney’s fireworks dining packages. Available at two waterfront restaurants overlooking World Showcase, the Rose & Crown Dining Room and Spice Road Table, it’s a memorable way to watch the EPCOT fireworks.
Take in a Disney Dinner Show
Want to experience the whole song and dance rather than just the firework finale? Go to one of the Disney dinner shows. With fun onstage entertainment as well as bottomless eats and alcoholic beverages, the culinary cabarets are sure to be a Disney date night to remember.
With its Wild West-themed antics, the Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Campground is a personal favorite and the longest-running dinner show in history. Or, for tropical flavors with a helping of Hawaiian culture, go to the Spirit of Aloha Luau at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort.
For the Animal Lovers
Birds of a feather flock together. So, if your boo appreciates all things furry and feathered as much as you do, take a walk on the wild side with these animal-inspired Disney World date ideas.
See the Animals at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge
Fantastic creatures are the centerpiece of Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park. However, you don’t need a theme park ticket to experience some of these incredible animals for yourself. For a date unlike anything else you’ll experience at Disney World or the rest of the United States, head to Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, one of the resort’s best hotels.
The heart of Animal Kingdom Lodge is the hotel’s savannas, teeming with African wildlife like giraffes, zebras and more. And best of all, you don’t need to be a hotel guest to enjoy them.
Although you can spot some animals from viewing decks around the hotel, immerse yourself in the action with one of the guided Animal Kingdom Lodge safaris. The Starlight Safari takes guests out during one of the savanna’s liveliest times, while the Wanyama Safari ups the ante (and the price tag) by concluding your adventure with African cuisine from one of the most romantic restaurants, Jiko – The Cooking Place.
Saddle Up for a Trail Ride at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Campground
This next suggestion is made for all you cowboys and cowgirls-at-heart. Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground is home to more than just a forest of pine trees and the Hoop-Dee-Doo Revue. It’s also where you’ll find the Tri-Circle-D Ranch.
Not only can you visit the ranch for free to see Disney World’s herd of horses, but it’s also the launching point for adventurous activities like trail rides, wagon rides and holiday sleigh rides. So, greet your new four-legged friend, then giddy up for a ramble through the resort’s lush woodlands.
For Foodies & Connoisseurs
Much has been said about the connection between food and love. And while I can’t speak on the success rate of a certain recipe for chicken to result in a marriage proposal, I do know that a delicious meal or a particularly tasty drink can make an experience that much sweeter. So, in that spirit, here are some date ideas for Disney World that are all about food.
Eat and Drink Around the World
As EPCOT’s unofficial pastime, it’s no wonder that eating and drinking around the world is on the list of memorable Disney World date ideas. Come with an empty stomach and a sense of adventure as you and your date make your way around World Showcase.
Stop and get something to share from each of the World Showcase pavilions. Not only does this help make sure you’ve got enough stomach space to get to the other side of the lagoon, but it’s also fun to bond over the unique things you try. Not drinkers? Try one of these alcohol-free alternatives instead.
Visit Some Romantic Disney Restaurants
Disney character dining and quick-service standards like turkey legs and DOLE Whip may be the first things that come to mind when you think of eating at Walt Disney World, but that doesn’t mean that there isn’t any date-night-ready dining to enjoy. Disney World signature restaurants are the best of the best, delivering the romance with upscale cuisine in an elevated setting – and sometimes, even a dress code.
There’s a Disney signature restaurant for whatever mood you’re after. With a multi-course meal made for lingering over conversations, Takumi-Tei at EPCOT’s Japan Pavilion is a must for Japanese food fans. Looking for something more familiar? Cítricos at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa is a stylish spot to tuck into an upgraded American dish. Or, for the ultimate in Disney luxury, book a reservation for the AAA Five Diamond-rated Victoria & Albert’s.
Sip on Something Tasty During a Wine or Tequila Tasting
While Wine Bar George is a perfectly delightful place for a glass of the good stuff, wine connoisseurs won’t want to miss some of the best vintages that South Africa has to offer at the Jiko Wine Tasting. Set in one of the most romantic restaurants in Disney World and expertly paired with various cheeses, it’s a sophisticated Disney date night idea.
All about the agave instead? Hosted by La Cava del Tequila, EPCOT’s popular tequila bar, the La Cava Experience is a cultural journey to the spirit’s roots. Sample rare and unique tequilas, some available only at the La Cava Experience, under the guidance of a certified Tequila Ambassador as you learn the historical significance of one of Mexico’s most beloved exports.
Make Your Own Disney World Food Tour
With so many Disney World restaurants to choose from, rather than choosing just one, make an experience out of it by turning dinner into a whole Disney food tour. Using complimentary Disney transportation like the Monorail or Skyliner as your carriage of choice, try different restaurants at Disney World hotels along the route for a delicious twist on resort hopping.
While you could just try random items from each dining outlet you visit, consider planning a progressive dine-around. For example, kick off your meal with an appetizer at your first restaurant, get an entrée at the next, followed by a dessert at your next stop and end things with a nightcap at your last.
For the Competitive Couple
Are you the sort of couple that jumps at the chance for some friendly competition and good-natured ribbing? Then challenge your special someone to one of these active Disney date ideas.
Shoot Your Shot at Disney Miniature Golf
For a quintessential date night activity with a pixie dust twist, why not play a round of mini-golf at Disney World? That’s right, folks, Disney putt-putt is a thing! Fantasia Gardens near the Walt Disney World Swan & Dolphin enchants golfers with its Fantasia-themed holes, while Winter Summerland offers up festive fun all year long.
Get a Strike at Splitsville Luxury Lanes
Keep the competition going at Splitsville Luxury Lanes at Disney Springs. With modern lighting, a surprising food menu and live music, this swanky bowling alley is a far cry from the stale-cigarette-smoke-drenched lanes of your childhood (just me?). So, lace up your bowling shoes and challenge your date to see who can get the highest score.
Take a Disney Paint & Sip Class
I know what you’re thinking: How is painting a competitive activity? By daring your significant other to see whose masterpiece is the best, that’s how.
Paint and sip classes have become so people in recent years that the concept has spawned a dizzying array of studios touting the booze-fueled creative activity. So, it isn’t surprising that some Disney World resort hotels have jumped on the trend. Available at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, Saratoga Springs, Port Orleans – French Quarter, painting classes at Disney World will have you and your boo unleashing your inner Van Gogh on beloved Disney characters. And depending on which class you go to, a drink is also included.
For the Wanderlusters
Traveling with someone you love is exciting, with the shared adventure strengthening your bond even more. And while you won’t need to bust out your passport to try these recommendations for your next date night at Walt Disney World, they’re sure to satisfy your travel bug.
Be Charmed by The Big Easy at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter
With smoky jazz music and vibrant buildings trimmed with wrought iron, New Orleans is routinely crowned as one of the most romantic cities in the United States. Fortunately, you don’t need to go all the way to Louisiana to drink in the city’s allure.
Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter recreates the city’s abundant Southern charms, from the beignets to the slinky jazz music at Scat Cat’s Club. Just like The Big Easy itself, there’s no better way to explore Port Orleans than by horse-drawn carriage. So, snuggle in next to your significant other as you enjoy the ride. Then, savor some tunes and a beignet or two at Scat Cat’s Club to round out your evening.
Escape to the South Pacific at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
Polynesian Village is easily one of the most romantic Disney resorts, but you don’t need to be a guest there to experience its island appeal. Several restaurants are available here, including the family-friendly ‘Ohana and the Spirit of Aloha Dinner Show mentioned earlier.
However, my favorite place to visit at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort is Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto. With a tasty mix of fruity cocktails, entertaining skipper-servers and a room that comes alive depending on what drinks are ordered, it’s easily one of the best bars at Disney World. Afterward, make your way to the beach to catch the Magic Kingdom fireworks with a DOLE Whip in hand.
Get on the Water with a Disney World Boat Rental
Walt Disney World isn’t all rides, shows, restaurants and stores. In fact, 62% of it remains undeveloped open space. That’s a lot of natural beauty! Create your own adventure with a Disney boat rental, departing from various hotel marinas around Disney World. Cuddle up next to your loved one on a 2-person Sea Raycer, or have your own private party barge with a pontoon. Or, for even more adventure, travel Disney’s waterways with a kayak or canoe.
For the Star Wars Nerds & Disney Geeks
As the saying goes, the couple that geeks out together stays together. Well, something like that anyway. Unite over your shared pop culture love with these next Disney World date suggestions.
Join the Resistance (or First Order) at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge
Nothing unites people like a shared love for all things Star Wars. Fortunately, there’s a whole world that’s waiting to be explored by Walt Disney World couples on vacation. So, rather than just going on the attractions at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, bring Black Spire Outpost to life using the Play Disney Parks app.
By teaming up with your significant other, you’ll be able to work together to translate signs in Aurebesh, communicate with droids and more as you discover different parts of the land. Afterward, unwind for the day in proper Star Wars Universe fashion with a drink at Oga’s Cantina.
Go on a Disney Backstage Tour
For true Disney fans, the love and appreciation for the entertainment giant is all about the details, and there is a mountain of them lovingly packed into every cranny and crevice at Walt Disney World. Pull the curtain back on some of them by going on a backstage tour. Nerd out together as you explore Magic Kingdom’s storied Utilidors, walk past Creative Costuming and much more.
Cozy up During a Campfire and Disney Movie Under the Stars
Rides may be the backbone of the Walt Disney World theme parks, but Disney characters are at the heart. Meeting these lovable characters can be the highlight of a Disney vacation, and one of my absolute favorite places to get up-close-and-personal with some of Disney World’s denizens is Chip ‘n’ Dale’s Campfire Sing-A-Long at the Fort Wilderness Resort.
This completely free activity (unless you need to buy supplies for s’mores) is one of my favorite things to do outside the theme parks. Once you’ve finished hobnobbing with the rascally duo, warm up with some freshly roasted s’mores around the campfire before watching a Disney movie by moonlight.
Well, Disney lovebirds, what Disney World date idea is your favorite? Is there anything you think should be added to the list? Let us know in the comments below!
Hoping to maximize your time in the parks so you can spend even more time with your love? Take a look at our one-day plans for Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom. Then, why not save some extra cash in the process? Check out our discount Disney World tickets to make your trip budget stretch further.
