Disney for the Young at Heart
You may think of Disney as a place for children and young families but, the theme parks were designed for the young at heart. There is plenty to enjoy beyond the rides from shows to parades and even underground tours.
You may think of Disney as a place for children and young families but, the theme parks were designed for the young at heart. There is plenty to enjoy beyond the rides from shows to parades and even underground tours. If you have visited one of the Disney theme parks with your grandkids then get ready for an entirely different experience. Set your own pace, see things in a new light and enjoy all that Disney has to offer its senior guests.
What to Do
Guided Tours – Both Epcot and the Magic Kingdom offer tours that really open up the park to visitors in a new way. During the 4-hour Hidden Treasures of the World Showcase people can fully explore the buildings at Epcot’s international pavilion. Another Epcot tour, Gardens of the World will take you on a walk through the beauty of Disney’s gardens. The Behind the Scenes Tour of the Magic Kingdom is the ultimate Disney experience. During this tour you will be taken behind the magic of Disney to learn about this technical and operational marvel.
Indulge – Relax by one of the many pools after a hard day at the spa. Disney World now offers its guests two full service spas with luxury treatments like a hot stone message, citrus zest sugar scrub, or a romantic couples massage. Facials, nail treatments and standard salon offerings are available as well.
Nightlife – Enjoy Downtown Disney at night with over a dozen restaurants, a 24-screen movie theater and plenty of shopping. Live music fills the streets at night and the smell of freshly baked waffle cones fills the air around Goofy’s Candy Company. Pleasure Island is a fun place for active seniors to dance the night away and enjoy a cocktail on a warm Florida evening.
Parades – Everyone loves a good parade and Disney World has plenty to choose from. The Jammin’ Jungle Parade at Animal Kingdom and the Move-It Shake-It Celebrate-It Parade are daytime events and can be seen most days. At night Disney’s Magic Kingdom lights up the sky with its one-of-a-kind SpectroMagic Parade.
Recreation – Bring your clubs because you are going to want to try out one of the 4 world-class golf courses located at Disney World. The Oak Trail Golf Course is Disney’s 9-hole walking course conveniently located near the Grand Floridian Day Spa. Anglers will enjoy fishing dockside or relaxing on a two-hour excursion. No license is required and all equipment can be rented. The jogging trails, bike rental and water sports are enough to keep even the most active senior busy.
Take in a show – from the world renowned Hall of Presidents to the excitement of Cirque du Soleil, take a load off and take in a show. La Nouba is a Cirque du Soleil production that can only be seen at Downtown Disney in Florida. The Animal Kingdom theme park has two spectacular shows, The Festival of the Lion King and Finding Nemo: The Musical. Both shows are well attended so you will need to keep track of all the show times. Make sure you get a good seat for Fantasmic, a beautiful fireworks and light show that only happens on select nights. To make the most of this special event look into the Fantasmic Dining Experience.
Disney on a Budget
Like any vacation resort, Disney can be expensive. That is why we’ve compiled this list of tips to help you get the most vacation for the least amount of money.
- Seniors 55 and older can sign-up for the Magic Kingdom Club and receive discounted admission prices to Disney theme parks worldwide. Reduced senior rates at all Disney resort hotels also comes with membership.
- Stay for less at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground. Not only will you save money by camping you will get to enjoy some unique amenities like riding stables, canoeing, a marina and nature trail. If time allows try out the new private horse-drawn carriage rides.
- Military Discounts are available for active duty, Reserve, National Guard, retired, and DOD employees. Special prices vary based on date and location. Contact the resort ahead of time for details and be sure to pack your military ID.
- Open to everyone, Disney’s Dining Plan can save you quite a lot on food and drinks. Depending on what plan you choose and how much dining you require you could save as much as 40% on food costs. As a bonus, dining plan members will find it much easier to get any dietary needs met such as low salt, gluten-free, or vegan.
