DisneyTips.com Your Guide To A Great Disney Vacation
Planning a Disney vacation is an exciting adventure, but it can also come with a hefty price tag. However, what many guests don’t realize is that there are a plethora of free activities and experiences you can enjoy at Walt Disney World Resort. From magical extras to hidden gems, there’s so much you can do without spending a dime.
Whether you’re trying to stretch your budget or simply looking for a little extra magic, these free experiences will enhance your vacation without breaking the bank.
Here’s a guide to all the free things any guest can enjoy at Walt Disney World.
Toast Marshmallows at Disney Resort Campfires
One of the most relaxing free activities at Walt Disney World is enjoying a cozy campfire at a Disney Resort hotel. You don’t need to be staying at a Disney Resort to participate simply stop by in the evening to enjoy the fun.
Many of the Disney hotels host nightly campfires, usually close to the main pool area. Best of all, they offer complimentary marshmallows and sticks so you can toast them by the fire.
Credit: Disney
Here are a few favorite locations to enjoy a campfire:
- Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground: In addition to roasting marshmallows, enjoy games and, on select nights, join Chip ‘n’ Dale’s Campfire Sing-A-Long.
- Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort: Roast marshmallows on the beach while soaking in a stunning view of Magic Kingdom Park across the Seven Seas Lagoon.
- Disney’s Riviera Resort: Enjoy marshmallow toasting at the Cote d’Azur Campfire, followed by lawn games to wind down the evening.
If you want to level up your marshmallow experience, s’mores kits are available for purchase from the cast members hosting the campfires. Or, you can bring your own graham crackers and chocolate to create the ultimate s’more treat.
Grab a Celebration Button
Celebrating a birthday, anniversary, or any special occasion during your Disney vacation? Be sure to pick up a complimentary celebration button! These are available at guest Services in any Disney theme park or at City Hall in Magic Kingdom. Once you have your button, wear it proudly, and don’t be surprised if cast members and other guests offer their congratulations throughout the day.
For an extra magical touch, you can personalize your celebration button for a small fee at Ye Olde Christmas Shoppe in Liberty Square or Mickey’s Days of Christmas in Disney Springs.
Movies Under the Stars
Why go to a movie theater when you can watch your favorite Disney films under the stars? Each evening, Disney Resort hotels offer free outdoor movie screenings. You don’t have to be staying at the hotel to enjoy this magical experience—just check the activity calendar for the movie lineup and find a comfy spot on the lawn or by the pool.
Credit: disneyaddicts.com
Here are some easy-to-access spots to catch a movie:
- Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
- Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
- Disney’s Contemporary Resort
- Disney’s Yacht & Beach Club Resorts
- Disney’s BoardWalk Inn
Bring your own snacks or grab some from the resort’s quick-service restaurant. It’s a perfect way to end a magical day in the parks.
Taste International Sodas at Club Cool
Looking for a refreshing (and free!) treat while exploring EPCOT? Head over to Club Cool, hosted by Coca-Cola, where you can taste sodas from around the world at no charge. It’s a fun way to quench your thirst and try flavors you’ve never experienced before. Brave visitors can even try the notorious “Beverly,” a bitter Italian soda that’s become a rite of passage for Disney fans.
Scavenger Hunts Around the Resort
If you love exploring Disney Resorts, why not take part in a free scavenger hunt? Many Disney Resort hotels offer their own themed scavenger hunts. Simply ask a cast member at the Front Desk or Disney Vacation Club desk how to participate. Once you complete the scavenger hunt, return to the Front Desk for a fun reward, such as a limited-edition piece of art or a small goody bag.
At Disney’s Animal Kingdom, you can also become a Wilderness Explorer, earning adventure badges as you explore the park and learn about animals and nature. This interactive activity is completely free and is perfect for both kids and adults alike.
Free Guided Tours
Did you know some Disney resorts offer free guided tours? These tours are a fantastic way to learn more about the history and design of your favorite resorts. One popular option is the Wonders of the Art & Architecture Tour at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge. This tour takes place daily at 9 a.m. and gives guests a closer look at the intricate design details that make this resort a masterpiece of rustic beauty.
Another option is to enjoy an Open House tour at select Disney Vacation Club (DVC) resorts, such as Disney’s BoardWalk Inn. This tour allows you to explore DVC accommodations and learn more about the benefits of becoming a DVC member.
Enjoy a Pixie Dusting
No Disney trip is complete without a little bit of magic, and what’s more magical than a complimentary sprinkle of pixie dust? At Sir Mickey’s in Fantasyland at Magic Kingdom, cast members will sprinkle guests with pixie dust, adding a touch of sparkle to your day. This whimsical experience is free and available to guests of all ages just look for the cast members with magic wands.
Free Wi-Fi throughout the Resort
Staying connected while at Walt Disney World is easy, thanks to the free wifi available throughout the parks, resorts, and Disney Springs. Simply connect to the “Disney guest” or “WDW Resort guest” network and enjoy high-speed internet access.
Using the free wifi helps you save on mobile data, especially if you’re an international visitor. Plus, it makes using the My Disney Experience app and Disney Genie services more convenient.
Experience Disney Transportation
Exploring the Walt Disney World Resort is a magical experience in itself, and Disney transportation adds another layer of enchantment. Best of all, it’s completely free for all guests. Whether you’re taking a scenic ride on the Monorail, gliding through the sky on the Disney Skyliner, or sailing across the water in one of Disney’s watercraft, you’ll enjoy the journey just as much as the destination.
Credit: Disney
Our favorite Disney transportation experiences include:
- Monorail: Travel between Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, and select Disney resorts on this iconic transportation system.
- Disney Skyliner: Glide above the treetops to explore resorts like Disney’s Riviera Resort and Disney’s Art of Animation Resort.
- Watercraft: Take a relaxing boat ride from Disney Springs to Disney’s Port Orleans Resort or sail across Seven Seas Lagoon to the Magic Kingdom.
Plan Your Next Free Adventure
These free activities and perks can add so much magic to your Disney World vacation without costing a penny. Whether you’re indulging in roasted marshmallows, exploring hidden scavenger hunts, or enjoying free entertainment under the stars, there are plenty of ways to experience Disney magic on a budget.
Be sure to plan some of these free experiences on your next trip to Walt Disney World Resort, and discover how they can add an extra sprinkle of pixie dust to your magical getaway.
Ready to enjoy the magic? Let these free Disney hacks make your vacation even more unforgettable!
