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The Perfect Evening on The Boardwalk at Walt Disney World

boardwalk-disney-lake-dining
Credit: Disney

Disney’s Boardwalk is one of my favorite places to spend an evening in Disney World.  Modeled after Atlantic City at the turn of the century, this entertainment area has a laid-back vibe while also offering a variety of things to do.  Situated on Crescent Lake, across from the Yacht and Beach Club, the Boardwalk is tucked between EPCOT and Hollywood studios and offers a nice respite from the busyness of the parks.  An evening on the Boardwalk can be the perfect end to a day at the parks, or a great relaxing cap to a resort day, especially for adults.  Here’s what we recommend to make that evening perfect:

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1. Start the evening off with a Surrey Bike ride. 

These four-wheeled bicycles offer a unique way to explore the Boardwalk.  The rental station is smack in the middle of The Boardwalk, right near the boat dock and close to where you’ll enter if you’ve driven and parked your car.  Hop aboard, lean back in the comfy seat, enjoy the shade that the roof provides, and pedal yourself around Crescent Lake. 

2. Enjoy dinner – your way!

There are plenty of dinner options on the Boardwalk, so you can tailor your evening meal to your mood.  If you’re looking for fine dining, be sure to make an advanced dining reservation at the Flying Fish, one of Disney’s signature dining experiences featuring gourmet seafood dishes. Want to sit down for something a little more casual?  Big River Grille and Brewing Works takes walk ups and offers a great selection of classic pub fare and craft beers.  And if you’d rather just enjoy the sunshine, grab a pizza to go at the Pizza Window and enjoy it on the lawn. 

3. Play some carnival games

Like any great boardwalk, you’ll find midway games to test your skill!  If you’re lucky, or good, you can win a prize to remember your visit! 

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4. Catch a movie

The Boardwalk Inn shows movies most nights on the lawn.  Stake out a spot and relax while you enjoy a classic Disney flick in the open air.

5. Indulge in the best ice cream around

While the Beach Club’s Beaches and Cream on the other side of Crescent Lake is known for their sundaes, Ample Hill Creamery on the boardwalk is quickly gaining a reputation as the best ice cream on Disney property.  Their handcrafted ice cream is made with organic ingredients and is incredibly creamy and rich!  Can’t decide which flavor to get?  Share a flight with up to 6 flavors!

6. Travel back in time

One of the greatest things about the Boardwalk is the feeling of nostalgia you get from the theming.  If you want to take it a step further, you have two options for immersing yourself in yesteryear.  If you’re in the mood for cocktails and a little magic, take a step back in time at the Abracadabra Bar.  If something a little more cozy sounds appealing, head into the Boardwalk Inn, grab a comfy chair and a board game at Belle Vue Lounge, where you’ll be entertained by vintage radio programs. 

7. Sing along with the dueling pianos

Always a favorite for the 21 and over crowd, Jellyrolls combines a classic dueling pianos sing-along scene with Disney magic.  Guests put in song requests, along with a tip for the talented pianists, and you’ll often hear sing along classics as well as your favorite Disney songs.  With continuous entertainment from 8pm to 2am, Jellyrolls you can pop in for a drink or two or make a whole night of it! 

8. Dance the night away

If dancing is more of your thing, the Boardwalk’s Atlantic Dance Hall is the best place to end your night.  Open from 9pm on most nights, you’ll find a large bar, lots of seating, and a big dance floor with giant video screen.  Songs from the 80s, 90s, and beyond will get you moving.  

About Katie D

I grew up in New Jersey in a family where the word “vacation” was synonymous with “Disney World.” After a few years of visiting regularly, my family became Disney Vacation Club members which meant we visited even more! Going to Disney always felt kind of like going home, and some of my best childhood and teenage memories occurred there. Now that I live in Jacksonville, FL I am excited to be a short drive from this magical place and look forward to making new memories for years to come.