Many of us here are Disney lovers. But when you basically live at Walt Disney World, you no longer have to plan long trips there. For me, traveling is part of the fun of a Disney vacation. When we decided to move to Florida, I was worried about taking away the fun out of going on a long adventure to Disney World. Luckily, I realized there are so many other amazing Disney experiences if you travel outside of Centra Florida. Living in the sunshine state opens up more opportunities since we aren’t spending money on getting here. Let’s explore alternative Disney trips to take when you already live close to The Most Magical Place on Earth.
Disneyland Resort: Aneheim, Califorinia
Instead of the Most Magical Place on Earth, you could fly yourself over to The Happiest Place on Earth. I absolutely love Disneyland Resort. There is just something special about being somewhere that feels historic, intimate, familiar, and yet unique from Disney World. There are also some great deals to be had at Disneyland. While the on-property resorts are great, you can save by booking a Good Neighbor Hotel. Since Disneyland is a locals park and it’s smaller and walkable, staying “on property” is not a necessity. Another great thing about Disneyland is the ability to experience different attractions aside from what Disney World offers. One of our favorites is Radiator Springs (Cars Land). If you have yet to experience the OG of Disney parks, contact your Dreams Unlimited travel agent, and don’t forget to bring money for the most magical corndogs on earth.
Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa: Ko Olina, Hawaii
If you’re looking for something different from the parks, but still want to experience the immersive theming and Disney magic, Aulani Resort should be on your shortlist of travel destinations. Aulani brings the richness of Hawaiian culture together with a stunning oceanside resort. Aside from all the things to explore on the island of Oahu, the resort itself offers multiple pools and spas, a lazy river, dining, and entertainment experiences. It is also a short walk away from a variety of shops and restaurants. It’s still obvious you are at a Disney resort when you walk through Aulani. You’ll still find some of your favorite characters, great cast members, fun Disney treats, and can even still open your door with your Disney Magic Band. Having just returned in June from Aulani, I can promise you there is no shortage of Disney there.
Disney’s Vero Beach Resort: Vero Beach, Florida
About two hours southeast of Disney World, you’ll find Disney’s Vero Beach Resort. Located in a charming community along the Atlantic Treasure Coast, you’ll find a relaxing getaway with a spa, pool, recreational activities, and Disney touches. A cool feature of this resort is it shares its land with the nesting area of the Loggerhead Sea Turtle. The resort is very careful to preserve the turtle’s nesting patterns.
Disney’s Hilton Head Island Resort: Hilton Head, South Carolina
Disney’s Hilton Head Island Resort is located only five hours from Disney World. Here, you’ll find 12 miles of beaches, recreational activities, pool, recreation, and all the elegance of Hilton Head with a Disney flair. Living in Florida, Hilton Head is an easy road trip away, but far enough to escape for a weekend or longer.
Disney Cruise Line: Throughout the World
Disney Cruise Line is the perfect way to get your Disney fix and see the world. With ports as close as Port Canaveral (around an hour from Disney World), or as far away as Spain, there is something for whatever level of travel you are looking for.
International Disney Parks: France, Japan, China, Hong Kong
While international travel isn’t exactly at the top of everyone’s list at the moment, I’m hopeful for the day we can visit all the Disney parks around the world. If you are looking for something different, but still Disney, it might be worth it to plan a visit to a Disney park across the globe and experience Disney from another culture.
Adventures By Disney: Throughout the World
Adventures by Disney is a way to travel the world with the expertise of a Disney travel guide. While you might not be traveling to a Disney-based destination, you will experience the comfort of being taken care of by Disney. Adventures by Disney has a large variety of experiences from within the United States to all over the world.
Walt Disney Family Museum: San Fransisco, California
If you’re looking for something more historical Disney, you can head over to San Francisco. Here, you can check out the Walt Disney Family Museum. At the museum, you’ll find a variety of galleries and exhibits based around Walt Disney and the rich history of the company. Sometimes, they even offer classes and workshops.
If you are interested in getting started on your Florida home purchase and taking advantage of more freedom to travel outside Disney World, our Moving to Orlando REALTORS are here to help you navigate the market. Take a moment to fill out our contact form, and someone will be in contact with you!
Walt Disney Family Museum….good one.
One I hear about on Connecting with Walt but never remember to fit it into our travels.
Great article as we have the same fear yet and haven’t pulled the trigger yet like you guys have.
This could push us over the hump.
Thx
Also, Walt Disney Hometown Museum in Marceline, MO and Walt Disney Birthplace in Chicago, IL