For anyone who thinks Disney is only for kids, please let me tell you there is plenty of fun to have if you go without them, or before you plan on starting a family.  Many people might disagree with this idea, as there are more exciting places to visit as a non-encumbered couple or group of friends, but after kids come into the picture the trips to Disney will be all about them, not you.

I am writing this from two perspectives; someone who loves going to Disney with her kids, and someone who went pre-kids and didn’t realize the freedom she had at the time.  When you go with kids you can still sneak away for a little alone time if you travel with people who will help you, or by utilizing the on-site babysitting services.  However, an hour or so here and there is totally different than a trip devoted entirely to yourself.

Here are some top fun things to do in Disney without kids, aside from going on any and every ride you want and eating at the Signature/Fine Dining restaurants without your toddler throwing food all over the floor:

Jelly Rolls – This dueling piano bar located on the Boardwalk is one of my favorite adult spots in Disney.  Jelly Rolls offers music lovers a chance to get in on the fun by suggesting songs to the dueling piano players while having some drinks, chomping away on popcorn, and singing along into the night.

Drinking around the World Showcase in Epcot – For a lightweight like me this isn’t always the best plan, but even without drinking at every spot, you can walk around the countries and take in the scenery.  Trust me when I tell you I have yet to “take in the scenery” since trying to get through Epcot with the “group”.   And forget having more than two glasses of anything with my kids around, I wouldn’t even be able to even take care of them.  So, for everyone safety, I suggest this little activity without children in tow.

Golf – Yes I am aware that some children do golf, but a nice round sans kids can be a great way to relax and unwind on your Disney vacation.  There are three golf courses on Disney property: the Palm, Magnolia and the Lake Buena Vista.  There is a new course on the Four Seasons property you can try as well.

Go to the spa – There are four locations for spa treatments on Disney property:  The Grand Floridian, Saratoga Springs, the Yacht and Beach Club, and the Mandara Spa in the Dolphin Hotel.  You do not have to be staying at these resorts to make a reservation at the spa.

Disney Springs – I have to say in all honesty that I have not been to Disney Springs in a VERY long time.  We typically don’t make it over there on our trips with the kids, but I’m hoping next year we can organize a day to head over and check it out.  Disney has built up this area immensely and there is a ton of things to do including great restaurants, shows, live music, and shopping.  I think me not being able to make it there since kids is a compelling enough reason to put it on this list.

Stroll around the parks – I know this sounds silly, but once you have children to watch and be responsible for, you can’t just stroll around the parks without a care in the world.  There are rides to go on, shows to see, characters to meet, and most importantly, children to not lose.

If I could have an afternoon to myself I would walk around any of the parks at my own pace and just take it all in.  If you really do this you can admire all the intricate details that make the parks so wonderful.  How easy this is to miss when the bigger issue at hand is keeping tract of children while navigating your way through to the next ride.

12 years ago before marriage, dogs or kids – so well rested and fewer wrinkles!

by Ellen Volpe – Co-Owner of ET Family Travel