From Cruises to Hidden Resorts: Disney Vacations Beyond the Parks

Planning a Disney vacation is synonymous with magical moments in the parks, thrilling attractions, character meet-and-greets, and delicious food. Many visitors also choose to enhance their experience by staying at one of Disney’s iconic resorts.

While these are the typical elements of a Disney trip, there are many more ways to explore Disney magic beyond the parks that you may have never considered.

Whether it’s traveling to far-off Disney resorts, cruising the seas with Disney Cruise Line, or escaping to a serene Disney getaway, there are plenty of hidden gems to discover. Here’s a guide to some lesser-known Disney vacation options that offer an incredible mix of Disney magic and unique experiences.

Explore International Disney Resorts

If you’ve already visited Disneyland in California or Walt Disney World in Florida, why not broaden your horizons and explore the international Disney resorts? Each park has its own unique attractions, design, and cultural influences, giving you a fresh perspective on the Disney experience.

• Tokyo Disney Resort: With two parks—Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea—this resort offers an exciting blend of traditional Disney charm and unique Japanese influences.
• Disneyland Paris: Featuring both Disneyland Paris Park and Walt Disney Studios Park, this European Disney destination is perfect for combining the magic of Disney with a trip to the iconic city of Paris.
• Hong Kong Disneyland Resort: Located on Lantau Island, this park offers stunning Asian-inspired architecture mixed with classic Disney attractions.
• Shanghai Disney Resort: As the newest addition to the Disney family, Shanghai Disney Resort offers a blend of traditional Chinese culture and Disney fun.

Set Sail with Disney Cruise Line

In 1996, Disney introduced a new way to vacation with the Disney Cruise Line, bringing its magic to the high seas. With five ships currently in operation and three more in the works by 2025, Disney cruises offer incredible itineraries to destinations around the world.

Whether you’re sailing to the Caribbean, Europe, or Alaska, each cruise offers exciting onboard activities, shows, and character meet-and-greets, all while maintaining Disney’s signature service and attention to detail.

Castaway Cay, Disney’s private island in the Bahamas, is an exclusive destination for Disney Cruise Line guests, offering a day of beachside relaxation, water sports, and other island adventures. With Lighthouse Point set to open in 2024, Disney Cruise Line is expanding its magical experiences to even more destinations.

Unwind at Disney’s Vero Beach Resort

For those who want a relaxing beachside escape without the hustle and bustle of the theme parks, Disney’s Vero Beach Resort in Florida is an excellent option.

Located about two hours southeast of Walt Disney World, this tranquil resort offers oceanfront accommodations, pools, and family-friendly activities while still giving guests a high standard of Disney service. You can explore the natural beauty of Florida’s Atlantic coast while enjoying Disney’s impeccable hospitality.

Although you won’t find theme park rides here, Vero Beach Resort is perfect for a more laid-back vacation. You can also make a day trip to Walt Disney World Resort, blending relaxation with a touch of Disney theme park magic.

Discover Disney’s Hilton Head Island Resort

Nestled in the picturesque coastal town of Hilton Head, South Carolina, Disney’s Hilton Head Island Resort offers guests a quiet, secluded getaway while still embodying Disney’s charm. This resort is perfect for nature lovers and those seeking peace, offering activities like bike rentals, nature trails, and dolphin-watching tours.

The quaint island vibe, combined with Disney’s attention to detail, creates a perfect balance between relaxation and magic. Much like Vero Beach, Hilton Head Island Resort doesn’t have the high-energy atmosphere of the theme parks, but it’s an ideal spot to rejuvenate while still soaking in the Disney experience.

Escape to Disney’s Aulani Resort in Hawai’i

For many, a trip to Hawai’i is a dream vacation. Now, you can combine that dream with a touch of Disney magic by staying at Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa, located on the island of Oahu. This resort offers a unique Hawaiian vacation infused with Disney storytelling and service, making it the perfect destination for families looking to experience both the beauty of Hawai’i and the enchantment of Disney.

Aulani features a wide variety of activities, from snorkeling in a private lagoon to participating in cultural activities like hula lessons. You can also expect to find your favorite Disney characters enjoying the Hawaiian sunshine alongside you. Plus, with no theme park attached, Aulani is designed for relaxation and cultural immersion, making it a one-of-a-kind Disney vacation.

Adventure Awaits with Adventures by Disney

For those looking for a more guided experience, Adventures by Disney offers curated vacations to destinations around the world. Whether you’re exploring the wonders of Europe, the natural beauty of the Americas, or the exotic landscapes of Asia, Adventures by Disney combines the expertise of local guides with Disney’s signature service.

With a focus on storytelling and immersive experiences, these tours offer VIP access to attractions, cultural activities, and more.

Adventures by Disney takes the stress out of vacation planning by handling all logistics, from transportation to meals and accommodations, so you can focus on enjoying your trip. Whether you’re interested in a trip through Italy, a safari in South Africa, or a family tour of the U.S. National Parks, there’s an adventure for everyone.

Consider Disney Staycations and Events

If a big vacation isn’t in the cards, Disney magic can still be found closer to home. Events like Disney on Broadway and Disney on Ice bring the enchantment of Disney to cities around the world. These events are perfect for families looking for a magical experience without traveling far from home.

Additionally, consider creating a Disney staycation at home by streaming your favorite Disney movies on Disney+, cooking up some Disney-inspired recipes, or diving into some Disney-themed crafts and activities.

Keep an Eye on New Disney Projects

Disney continues to expand its vacation offerings with new projects like Storyliving by Disney, a community-focused development that brings the magic of Disney to residential living. With more resorts, destinations, and entertainment experiences in the pipeline, the future is bright for Disney fans looking to explore new ways to experience the magic.

As you can see, Disney vacations offer so much more than just theme parks. From beachside resorts to adventures around the globe, there’s a Disney experience for every type of traveler. Whether you’re cruising the high seas, relaxing on a tropical beach, or exploring international Disney parks, you’ll find that the magic of Disney goes far beyond Disneyland and Walt Disney World.

So, next time you’re planning a trip, think beyond the parks and consider these alternate ways to experience Disney magic.