While you’d be hard-pressed to find a more family-friendly destination than the Walt Disney World Resort, if the droves of lovebirds that host weddings, plan honeymoons and enjoy dates there are any indication, then The Most Magical Place on Earth is also a pretty great place for a little romance. In fact, each year typically sees over 1,200 couples tie the knot or go on a honeymoon there. Talk about a magical first chapter for a love story! And with a tradition of taking timeless love stories like Cinderella, The Little Mermaid, Beauty and the Beast and The Princess and the Frog to the silver screen, it’s really no surprise.
Not only are many of the hotels and restaurants at Disney World great for couples, but a fair share of their attractions are perfect for those looking for some quality time with their special someone, too. From slow-moving boat rides and dreamy dark rides that are great for cuddling to stage shows starring some of Disney’s most iconic couples to rides that inspire a little friendly competition (and shameless flirting), there’s something to suit whatever vibe you’re looking for during your romantic getaway to Disney Parks in Central Florida.
But which ones should you experience with your boo? Join us as we delve into each of the attractions that are sure to set the mood for your next trip to Disney World.
Most Romantic Attractions at Disney World for a Date Night or Honeymoon
Although Walt Disney World theme parks may be crawling with families with kids, there are plenty of attractions that are just right for romance. Not sure which rides and shows at Disney World are perfect for your Disney date night or honeymoon? Not to worry—with tons of trips to The Most Magical Place on Earth under our belt, we know exactly where to look to turn your Disney World vacation into an enchanting, pixie-dusted escape. So, hold onto the hand of your love and let’s get into it!
Magic Kingdom
Rides at Magic Kingdom, the most kid-friendly theme park at Disney World, might seem better suited to families with children. However, Disney’s most magical park is also home to some pretty romantic rides.
Peter Pan’s Flight
What could be more romantic than canoodling with your true love in an enchanted pirate ship as it soars over the twinkling lights of moonlit London and the storybook scenes filled with the mermaids and pirates of Neverland? That’s exactly what you’ll find on Peter Pan’s Flight. Not only is this Disney World dark ride incredibly popular with families (we recommend you take advantage of Disney Genie+ for this attraction if you have it, as the lines can be very long), but between the darkness offset by the sparkling tableaus below and having the ride vehicle all to yourselves, Peter Pan’s Flight certainly sets the scene for romance.
Prince Charming Regal Carrousel
We don’t know about you, but we think that the perfect accompaniment to any date night is a dash of nostalgia, and Prince Charming Regal Carrousel has that in spades. While galloping around next to your true love on a merry-go-round is downright adorable anywhere, the Cinderella-inspired Prince Charming Regal Carrousel definitely ups the cuteness ante. If you’re lucky, you can even step into the stirrups of the Disney Princess herself. Just keep an eye out for the horse with a golden ribbon wrapped around its tail—the story goes that that is Cinderella’s very own trusty steed.
Haunted Mansion
We know what you’re thinking. The Haunted Mansion? Romantic?? For anyone who has ever cuddled up in front of a scary movie for date night, then you know exactly what we’re talking about for this one. Sure, you might not need to hide your eyes from a marauding ax murderer in the safety of your partner’s shoulder. However, exploring this happily haunted house from your own private Doom Buggy does offer the perfect opportunity to snuggle in and hold hands with your special someone.
The Magic Carpets of Aladdin
Many of Disney’s beloved animated films are filled with tender moments between loving couples. However, when it comes to romantic movie sequences, few can compete with soaring over the pyramids from an enchanted carpet. (Sure, Aladdin might have had a little help with that one, but we digress.) Thanks to The Magic Carpets of Aladdin in Adventureland, you don’t need to face a power-hungry sorcerer or have your own personal genie to take a dreamy flight alongside your partner.
Under the Sea – Journey of The Little Mermaid
Everyone’s favorite fiery-haired mermaid knows that true love is worth fighting for. In this underwater adventure in Fantasyland, you’ll follow in the fin flips of Ariel from your own personal seashell, tracing her quest for love (and legs) from her hidden grotto filled with “gadgets and gizmos aplenty” to the firefly-lit dreaminess of “Kiss the Girl,” another of Disney’s most iconic romance scenes. Then, after defeating the sea witch, Ursula, cap it all off with a first kiss, some fireworks, a wedding and the reminder that true love really does conquer all.
Pirates of the Caribbean
If you couldn’t already tell, many of the dark rides at Disney World are perfect for date night (snuggle time!), and that’s definitely the case for Pirates of the Caribbean. With its swashbuckling buccaneers, a thrilling cannonball battle and quaint seaside village setting, this slow-moving boat ride is a quintessential Disney classic. Sure, you’ll almost certainly have to share a barge with a handful of strangers but snagging spots in the last row or taking advantage of a few moments of darkness allows you to sneak a quick peck or two.
Swiss Family Treehouse (in the Evening)
Compared to most of the other attractions on this list, Swiss Family Treehouse doesn’t have much to offer by way of excitement. What this simple walkthrough attraction does have, however, is abundant ambiance and picturesque views of Magic Kingdom, particularly during the evening. Not to mention, since this Adventureland attraction doesn’t get too much traffic, there’s a good chance that you’ll have much of the place to yourselves. As you’re wandering through, don’t be surprised if you’re inspired to stop for a kiss.
Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin
At first glance, this is another ride at Magic Kingdom that might seem like an odd pick for a Disney date night. However, for those whose love language involves plenty of friendly competition, then Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin is right up your alley. Trying to hit all of the targets in this Tomorrowland shooting gallery-style attraction is a ton of fun no matter who you’re competing against, but it’s an especially good time when you’re hoping to win bragging rights over your partner.
Epcot
While Epcot is arguably the most romantic Disney World theme park when looked at holistically (World Showcase definitely helps to tip the scales in its favor), if it’s date night-worthy rides you’re after, you’re better off going to Magic Kingdom instead. That said, you and your boo can still enjoy a few romance-ready attractions in between drinking and eating your way around the world.
Gran Fiesta Tour Starring The Three Caballeros
As we’ve already established, few Disney World attractions set the stage for romance quite like a leisurely boat ride. Located in the already enchanting setting of the Mexico Pavilion, Gran Fiesta Tour Starring The Three Caballeros will leave you and your special someone ready to book a romantic south-of-the-border vacation. Much like Pirates of the Caribbean at Magic Kingdom, you won’t have the boat to yourselves. Still, it’s hard not to be charmed by the vibrant scenes and twinkling “fireworks” of this relaxing dark ride.
Soarin’ Around the World
If you thought that The Magic Carpets of Aladdin was romantic, then just wait until you and your love take flight on Soarin’ Around the World. Dreamy and exhilarating all at once, think of this simulator attraction as “A Whole New World” for the technological age. After one trip on this attraction together, we guarantee that you and your special someone will already be dreaming up your next big global adventure.
Frozen Ever After
Sure, the phenomenon that is the Frozen franchise may be about sisterly love first and foremost, but it also follows the adorable love story of Anna and Kristoff. The same goes for Frozen Ever After in the Norway Pavilion of World Showcase. You already know that we’re suckers for a romantic boat ride. Plus, with earworms like “Let It Go” and “For the First Time in Forever,” don’t be surprised if you catch yourselves serenading each other. (And don’t blame us if you start singing “Love Is an Open Door” on your way out.”
Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Similar to Epcot, Disney’s Hollywood Studios doesn’t have too much to offer in terms of romantic rides. That is unless you and your special someone happened to have a meet-cute at a Star Wars convention. Still, there are still a handful of attractions that are just right for a Disney date night.
Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway
While the Disney Princesses and their dashing princes often get all of the credit when it comes to romantic moments. However, just like how we have to remember that “it all started with a mouse,” we can’t forget that the original Disney power couple is none other than Mickey Mouse and his lady love, Minnie. That makes Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway, the only Disney World ride that pays tribute to the dynamic duo, an absolute must for couples visiting Hollywood Studios. Talk about the ultimate double date!
Beauty & The Beast Live on Stage
Disney is no stranger to timeless love stories, and Beauty and the Beast is one of the best. While not a ride, this charming stage show recreates their “tale as old as time,” complete with elaborate costumes and sets and, of course, all of the movie’s most iconic songs. Not to mention, since a day in the theme parks can be tiring, to say the least, this is a great opportunity to sit down, relax, hum along to the music and hold hands with your partner while thinking about your own special love story.
Toy Story Mania!
This is another attraction for all the couples out there whose idea of a fun night together is challenging the other in a board game or epic video game battle. Just like Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin in Magic Kingdom, you’ll take aim at various targets to see who can get the highest score. Plus, thanks to the attraction’s immersive theming throughout the adorable queue area, you and your boo can also reminisce over all of the games and toys you used to play with during your childhood.
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park
If we had to pick a runner-up for the most romantic Disney World park, Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park might very well take the crown, largely because of the breathtakingly beautiful and incredibly detailed theming that envelops you throughout. Seriously, Animal Kingdom is oozing with ambiance. It also has a few attractions that are ideal for couples visiting together.
Na’vi River Journey
Speaking of enchanting ambiance, Na’vi River Journey in Pandora – The World of Avatar has gobs of it. Arguably the most visually stunning attraction in all of Walt Disney World, this relaxing boat ride takes guests through a gorgeous bioluminescent forest. Between the exotic plants and animals, shimmering lights and forest sounds, we guarantee that you and your special someone will be swept away. If you wait it out until later in the evening, you may even be able to score a row all to yourselves.
Kilimanjaro Safaris
An African safari is a dream vacation for many couples. Unfortunately, due to the high price tag, it will always be just that for some couples – a dream. Unless they’re going to Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park, that is! Perfect for animal lovers and adventure seekers alike, Kilimanjaro Safaris transports guests to the wildlife-filled savannas of Africa, surrounding them with the likes of elephants, giraffes, zebras and more. Go on the attraction after the sun has set to make the journey even more magical. Or, if it’s a truly VIP experience you’re after, splurge on a behind-the-scenes encounter or book a savanna-view room at the nearby Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge.
Festival of the Lion King
Just like how Disney is no stranger to love stories, it also boasts its fair share of love songs, like “Can You Feel the Love Tonight” from The Lion King. This romantic tune just so happens to play a leading role in one of the best stage shows at Disney World: the Festival of the Lion King. Although the show is awesome from beginning to end, it’s this section that will surely leave you feeling the love with your special someone, with its beautiful vocals and gorgeous dancing, including a breathtaking aerialist who will send your heart soaring.
The Rest of Walt Disney World
Just like how many of Disney World’s most romantic restaurants can be found outside the theme parks, so can some of its dreamiest attractions. Best of all, although you may need to pay to experience them (with one main exception), no pricey park tickets are required.
Disney Skyliner
There’s just something magical about soaring through the sky and taking in the sights from above. Although it is primarily a complimentary transportation option, the Disney Skyliner is also just a really enjoyable experience, especially with the love of your life. And best of all, it’s completely free! So, climb aboard and use it to park hop between Hollywood Studios and Epcot, go for a restaurant tour or simply go for a quick spin and drink in the view.
Aerophile
Have you ever wished you and your love could go on a hot-air balloon ride? Well, this is your chance! Located on Disney Springs’ Westside, Aerophile offers a bird’s-eye view of Walt Disney World, all from the world’s largest helium balloon. This romantic attraction sends you soaring up to 400 feet above Disney Springs, offering you a chance to both see the sights and cuddle with your special someone if you’re afraid of heights.
Vintage Amphicar Tours
You already know that we love a boat ride. If you feel the same way, then the vintage Amphicar tours that depart from The Boathouse in The Landing at Disney Springs are for you. Part boat, part 1960s car, this dreamy attraction will take you and your partner out on the lake that sits between Disney Springs and Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort for a 20-minute guided tour. Best of all, since this is a private tour, the only people on the boat will be you, your special someone and the captain.
Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides
Is there anything more romantic than a horse-drawn carriage ride? We think not. Available at both Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside and Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground, this enchanting experience lets you sit back and enjoy the scenery at two of Disney World’s most beautiful hotels. While you’re there, extend your evening with some live jazz music and boozy beignets in Scat Cat’s Club at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter or with the Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue or Chip ‘n’ Dale’s Campfire Sing-Along at Fort Wilderness.
Surrey Bikes
“And you’ll look sweet upon the seat of a bicycle built for two.” (Talk about a throwback!) A surrey bike built for two, that is. Available to rent at Disney’s BoardWalk Inn, Port Orleans Resort, Saratoga Springs Resort and Old Key West Resort, this romantic activity allows you to cruise around at your leisure. We especially recommend the surrey bikes at Disney’s BoardWalk, as this charming entertainment district comes alive in the evenings with street entertainment. Not to mention, it’s also home to some worthwhile restaurants and bars that are perfect for date night.
Splitsville Luxury Lanes
Bowling alleys have long been a great date idea, and Splitsville Luxury Lanes in Disney Springs is no exception. Located on the Westside, this upscale bowling alley brings the nostalgia with its retro-chic vibes while also serving up some delightful dining and drink options to accompany your good-natured competition. As an added bonus, the outdoor bar downstairs also offers live music, making this a one-stop shop for any Disney date.
Well, lovebirds, that concludes our guide to the most romantic attractions at Disney World. What are your favorite rides, shows and activities for a Disney date night? Let us know in the comments! Then, learn how you can save on regular park admission with our discount Disney World tickets.
