I absolutely love going to the four parks at Walt Disney World Resort, but sometimes something a little different is in order.  Here is my list of top 5 favorite non-park things to do:

1.  Visit Disney Springs.  With the addition of so many new shops and restaurants as well as those that have recently opened like The BOATHOUSE (read my review here) and Morimoto Asia, I could spend an entire day here.  And don’t forget Cirque du Soleil!  Read DIStracted writer Anastasia’s comprehensive article about Disney Springs here.

2.  And speaking of Disney Springs – how about getting a silhouette done?  Originally, we started this when I was very young, and it was only available at the Magic Kingdom.  Now there is also a place to have it done at Disney Springs.  It’s a wonderful keepsake.  The hallway at my mom’s house has several of me as well as the two of us together over the years.  Check out Lisa M’s great article about silhouettes here.

3.  Afternoon tea at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa.  The teas and food are delicious, and it is an amazingly relaxing way to spend some time in the afternoon.  Read DIStracted writer Jen’s review here.

Photo by Matt Stroshane

4.  If you’re staying on property, spend some time at the pool.  We always try to take at least one morning and one afternoon to do this.  It is a fantastic way to recharge and get away from the “busy” of the parks.

5.  If you really want to pamper yourself, get a massage.  There are two spas on Disney-owned property, one at the Grand Floridian and one at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort and Spa.  One piece of advice: don’t have plans to go anywhere afterwards – you’ll be too relaxed to want to do anything!

What are your favorite non-park things to do?  I’d love to read your list!

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