Valentine’s Day at Walt Disney World: Romance and Family Fun

Valentine’s Day at Walt Disney World: Romance and Family Fun

Valentine’s Day at Walt Disney World: Romance and Family Fun

Yes, that sometimes-chaotic theme park in central Florida can be a romantic and fun option for the upcoming holiday. Let’s take a look at how you can enjoy Valentine’s Day at Walt Disney World!

 

Valentine's Day at Walt Disney World

Opt for family fun, romance, or a combination of both vacation styles for your Valentine’s Day at Walt Disney World. As you plan your special day, you’ll find temptations all around the resorts and parks. From red and white festive baked goods to holding hands in the Haunted Mansion, your theme park day is sure to be a memorable celebration.

Of course, you can splurge on special events, magical add-on experiences, or candlelit meals. Or you can keep it simple with a cupcake, balloon, and moonlit walk.

A pink Mickey balloon shimmers in front of Cinderella Castle.

Get your sweetheart a balloon.

Whether you tour with your loved one or the whole family, be sure to get PhotoPass pictures taken to commemorate your Valentine’s Day at Walt Disney World on February 14th!

In your planning process, make sure to take the photographic tour of our favorite hotels for couples at WDW.

2018 Valentine’s Day at Walt Disney World Details

Special Treats

As with all holidays and celebrations at WDW, the bakeries will showcase specialty treats. Mickey Mouse shaped cookies, Mickey Mouse Rice Krispy Treats, and an assortment of cupcakes will boast colorful sprinkles and frosting. And that’s just for starters. Take a look at these special treats found on a past Valentine’s Day at Walt Disney World:

An example of the Valentine's Day Treats that you may find in Walt Disney World.

An example of the Valentine’s Day Treats that you may find in Walt Disney World.

If you plan to visit the Magic Kingdom, a visit to the Main Street Confectionery is a must for you and your sweetie(s).

You’ll find shopping, dining, and entertainment at Disney Springs. At Sprinkles, you’ll find new seasonal cupcakes — Raspberry Chocolate Chip or Red Hot Velvet. Or indulge in a scoops of  Cherry Vanilla ice cream now through February 28!

Romantic Restaurants at Walt Disney World

If you’re looking to impress, make an Advance Dining Reservation at the five-diamond Victoria & Albert’s restaurant at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa.

Other fine dinner choices include the award-winning California Grill at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, Narcoossee’s with its waterfront real estate at Disney’s Grand Floridan, the unique ambiance of Jiko at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, or the Pacific Northwest décor at Artist Point at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge.

For in-park dining, consider Monsieur Paul and Chefs de France in Epcot, Tiffins in Animal Kingdom, Be Our Guest at Magic Kingdom, and Hollywood Brown Derby at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

We loved our meal at The Boathouse at Disney Springs on a previous Valentine’s Day at Walt Disney World!

The Boathouse Disney Springs Walt Disney World Valentine's Day Dinner

Happy Valentine’s Day!

Most restaurants will require booking 180 days in advance, especially for holiday dining. However, last minute cancellations do occur, so keep checking!

WDW Add-On Experiences

Valentine’s Day Spa Package

Created exclusively for Valentine’s Day in Walt Disney World, Senses – A Disney Spa has announced the “Part of Your World” package.

From February 10 – 18, 2018, the package includes a couple’s massage with apricot-infused body oil, a chocolate hand-hydration treatment, sparkling wine served in a chocolate champagne glass and a take-home, custom-blended bath salt.

$340 (plus tax) for 50 minutes and $450 (plus tax) for 80 minutes. A 20 percent gratuity is added automatically. Disney Vacation Club Members (DVC) will receive a 15 percent discount by calling Member Services.

To schedule, call (407) WDW-SPAS or (407) 939-7727.

Candy Apples dressed up for Valentine's Day at Walt Disney World.

Dressed up for Valentine’s Day.

Walt Disney World Date Ideas

  • Dine at Narcoossee’s, watch fireworks, then stop by Disney’s Grand Floridan Lobby to listen to the Grand Floridian Society Orchestra.
  • Stroll around the Boardwalk at Disney’s BoardWalk Inn, sip on a cocktail at Belle Vue Lounge, and share an ice cream flight at Ample Hills Creamery.
  • Keep your eye out for seasonal flavors at the specialty shops at Disney Springs.
Valentine's Day Seasonal Flavors at Vivoli il Gelato in Disney Springs

Valentine’s Day Seasonal Flavors at Vivoli il Gelato in Disney Springs.

    • Take a moonlit walk outside and look for giraffes. Sit by a wood-burning fire and share roasted marshmallows. Wherever you roam at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, you’ll find family fun and romance due to the exotic ambiance.
Iced Sugar Cookie Valentine's Day at Walt Disney World

Beautiful Valentine’s Day cookie treat!

  • From Port Orleans Riverside, take a horse-drawn carriage excursion. Reserve your extra-fee ride in advance by calling (407) WDW-PLAY. Afterwards, take the Sassagoula River boat to Disney Springs for more shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Don’t forget to get a treat at Goofy’s Candy Company!
  • Dine at a Disney Springs restaurant, then shop for sweets to share back at your resort.
  • Play mini-golf before heading to Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Take the plunge together on Tower of Terror.
  • Go horseback riding at Disney’s Fort Wilderness, followed by a dinner and show at the Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue.
  • Look for Hidden Mickeys — every time you find one share a kiss.

Family Fun on Valentine’s Day

Most of the date ideas above can be customized for family fun. In addition, you may want to try these family-friendly options:

  • Guests ages 7 and up can learn archery at Fort Wilderness. Pick up supplies at the Meadow or Settlement Trading Post and have a picnic.
  • Visit a water park, then return to your hotel and sip hot chocolate.
  • Have each family member choose part of the day’s itinerary. One person can choose where to breakfast, another can pick the afternoon activity, and so on. Finish the day with an outdoor movie at your resort.
  • Speaking of movies, why not head to the AMC Disney Springs 24 Dine-In Theatres?!
  • Take the monorail or boat from the Magic Kingdom to the Grand Floridian, Polynesian Village, and Contemporary resorts. At each stop, choose a favorite or new-to-you snack. You’ll find Dole Whip at the Polynesian Village. Yum!
Valentine's Day Trivia at Fantasia Market in Disney's Contemporary Resort WDW

Valentine’s Day Trivia at Fantasia Market in Disney’s Contemporary Resort.

The options are endless. These are some ideas to inspire you to find your own special magic during Valentine’s Day at Walt Disney World.

Walt Disney World Date Ideas
Date Ideas for Valentine's Day at Walt Disney World

What’s your ideal date at Walt Disney World?

Ten Walt Disney World Snacks that You’ll Want More than Once

Ten Walt Disney World Snacks that You’ll Want More than Once

Ten Memorable Walt Disney World Snacks

Here’s a quick list of ten of my favorite Walt Disney World snacks. To be fair, there are plenty more that could be added to this scrumptious inventory. For today, I’m sharing ten really memorable snacks that I’ve enjoyed on multiple trips and sometimes more than once during a single WDW vacation. 😉 Kids and kids at heart will want to find their own best-loved eats and sips!

Walt Disney World Snacks

Raspberry Eclair

My new favorite calorie splurge is the elegant Raspberry Eclair at Amorette’s Patisserie in Disney Springs. Tart and fruity with a white chocolate decoration, I’m not kidding when I say that I’m absolutely craving every gorgeous bite of this treat.

Walt Disney World Snacks - Raspberry Eclair at Amorette's Patisserie.

Raspberry Eclair

Gelato

Choose your favorite flavor of gelato at Vivoli il Gelato in Disney Springs. My pick is always the Piccola Copetta – a choice of two flavors in a cup. My choice scoops? Peanut butter (when available) and chocolate.

Chocolate and Peanut Butter gelato at Vivoli il Gelato

Savor your favorite flavor of gelato.

Gelato from Vivoli il Gelato at Disney Springs

Chocolate and vanilla gelato.

Citrus Swirl

For a Magic Kingdom treat, I head to Sunshine Tree Terrace and dig into a Citrus Swirl. The orange slushie blended with vanilla soft serve is SO refreshing.

Citrus Swirl at Magic Kingdom's Sunshine Tree Terrace

Citrus Swirl

Chocolate Peanut Butter Cupcake

Originally sold at Starring Rolls Cafe, the Chocolate Peanut Butter cupcake has gone through many variations. However you dress it up (Darth Vader!), it’s still chocolate and smooth peanut butter buttercream — and this mixture makes my heart swoon. You can find it now at other locations in Disney’s Hollywood Studios such as Backlot Express.

Darth Vader Cupcake

Join the dark side!

Peanut Butter Cookie

Found packaged as Minnie’s Bake Shop cookies or in Disney World bakery cases, the peanut butter cookie is thick and chewy with satisfying peanut butter chunks. Choose from Peanut Butter or Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip.

Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie at Goofy's Candy Company in Disney Springs

Cookie at Goofy’s Candy Company.

Minnie's Bake Shop Cookies

Minnie bakes awesome cookies!

Chocolate Croissant

I adore the Chocolate Croissant at Gaston’s Tavern. It’s also found at several other locations, including some resort food courts. As a breakfast item, I find this snack decadent — hey, it’s vacation, right?!

Chocolate Croissant at Walt Disney World

Chocolate Croissant.

Frozen Lemonade

For a thirst quencher in the Florida heat, nothing’s better than a frozen lemonade. Also, the Magic Kingdom’s Cheshire Cafe has an amazing frozen slushy – raspberry lemonade.

Frozen Lemonade at Walt Disney World

Super refreshing!

Raspberry Lemonade Frozen Slushy Cheshire Cafe

Raspberry-Lemonade Slushy

Beignets

Port Orleans French Quarter fans are already in the know about the beignets. Get them for a snack, dessert, or breakfast! Of course, they are messy but these deep-fried pastries are worth it. Wear that powdered sugar proudly!

Beignets at Sassagoula Floatworks at the Port Orleans French Quarter resort.

Messy but good!

Ice Cream Cookie Sandwich

You’ll find this comforting goodness at several quick-service locations in Walt Disney World. I like it with chocolate chip cookies and vanilla ice cream for old-fashioned, simple flavors. Yum!

Ice Cream Cookie Sandwich in Walt Disney World

Ice Cream Cookie Sandwich – big enough to share!

Peanut Butter Brownie

Nestled in the exotic Animal Kingdom Lodge, The Mara boasts a counter-service menu with some unique items. I’m partial to the Peanut Butter Brownie (yes, I love peanut butter!).

Peanut butter brownie at The Mara

More peanut butter!

I hope you’ll find at least one snack from this list to try on your next visit to Walt Disney World.

Share your memorable Walt Disney World snacks! Contact Us, Follow Us on Twitter or comment below to let us know what to try next!

Shop and Dine at Disney Springs in Walt Disney World

Shop and Dine at Disney Springs in Walt Disney World

Shop and Dine at Disney Springs in Walt Disney World

Our amazing week on Royal Caribbean’s Oasis of the Seas was followed up with a day long stop at the now nearly completed Disney Springs in Walt Disney World. As a shopping and dining complex (similar to CityWalk at Universal Orlando Resort), Disney Springs can be a one-stop location or an all-day venue. It’s a great place to hang out on your Disney Arrival Day!

Disney Springs in Walt Disney World

Transformation at Disney Springs

It is astounding to see the difference a little less than a year makes. During our last visit in 2016, the renovations and additions to Disney Springs were about three quarters of the way complete. Visits up until that time allowed us to enjoy the recently completed Orange Parking structure, dine at The Boathouse, sip drinks at Jock Lindsey’s Hanger Bar, and gain an overall appreciation of the scope of the project.

Jock Lindsey's Hangar Bar Disney Springs in Walt Disney World

Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar.

This visit in early February 2017 allowed us to savor even more of Disney Springs. While the list of new eateries and retail outlets is certainly too lengthy to review here, we’ll continue to take a closer look at individual Disney Springs’ offerings in future articles. Sign up here!

The primary highlight for us was enjoying the architectural and design details that have been added and integrated into the area (okay, we enjoyed some tasty eats too 😉 ). We parked in the Lime Garage and walked out into Town Center. What a pleasant surprise! The Landing was completely obstructed by construction walls last year.

Lime Garage Disney Springs

Convenient parking at Disney Springs.

UNIQLO

We shopped at the UNIQLO retail outlet to take a look at the much ballyhooed T-shirts and other exclusive offerings. I was able to get my hands on a unique Marvel Iron Man shirt! Yep, I highly recommend browsing this store for themed shirts.

UNIQLO Tshirts Disney Springs

Mickey shirts at UNIQLO.

By far, the most impressive aspect of the Town Center area lie in its design and architectural details. Those details allow for an immersive experience into the entirety of the Disney Springs thematic approach to shopping and dining.

Stores at Disney Springs

Plenty of stores to browse at Disney Springs.

Architectural Details

The retail outlets located here can be found at most upscale shopping centers and other areas, but it is the visual impact related to the details and design that make it special. It is clear that you are on Disney property.

Fountain at Disney Springs

Gorgeous fountain at Disney Springs.

Lighting at Disney Springs

Love the architectural details at Disney Springs.

D-Living

One highlight of this area was the D-Living store. At the time, this store was all decked out in Beauty and the Beast decor and merchandise. It was a fun store to browse through! Note that D-Living is closed until May 11, 2017 when it will unveil a new theme and matching merchandise.

D-Living Beauty and the Beast Theme Disney Springs

D-Living featured a Beauty and the Beast Theme.

Wolfgang Puck Express

For lunch we had an unadventurous, but thoroughly enjoyable pizza at Wolfgang Puck Express.

Wolfgang Puck Express Disney Springs

One of our favorite lunch stops is Wolfgang Puck Express.

Wolfgang Puck Express Disney Springs Offers Cheese Pizza

Delicious cheese pizza at Wolfgang Puck Express.

Amorette’s Patisserie

Next, we headed over to Amorette’s Patisserie. The rave reviews that this establishment has boasted since opening is certainly well deserved. An absolute joy to experience and our choices — a Mickey Dome Cake and Raspberry Eclair– were memorable. 😉

Raspberry Eclair and Mickey Dome Cake Amorettes Patisserie Disney Springs

Raspberry Eclair and Mickey Dome Cake. Yum!

Star Wars and Rogue One Merchandise

It should not be surprising to anyone that I was most eager at finding Star Wars and Rogue One merchandise. I was very pleased to see the entire middle wing of Once Upon a Toy dedicated to Star Wars and Rogue One merchandise!

Star Wars Merchandise at Disney Springs

Star Wars Merchandise.

In fact, Rogue One icons, posters, and other visuals were in display all across Disney Springs. As if there wasn’t any doubt, it is now entirely clear that Star Wars will be a huge influence over all that is Disney for the foreseeable future. I will not voice any complaints about that!

Star Wars

Star Wars Decor Disney Springs

Star Wars Displays at Disney Springs.

There will be lots more to see, eat, drink, and purchase at Disney Springs during future Walt Disney World visits. I am most looking forward to returning and dining at The Edison when it opens later this year. For now, our family plans to spend a day at Disney Springs in early June. Yes, I’m counting the days!

The Edison Disney Springs

Looking forward to The Edison!

Plan a visit to Disney Springs in Walt Disney World — and don’t be afraid to bring the kids!


Shop Star Wars at Calendars.com Now!

What do you enjoy most about Disney Springs in Walt Disney World? Do you plan to stop by Disney Springs on your next vacation to Walt Disney World?

Tips for Parents: Taking Kids to Disney Springs at Walt Disney World

Tips for Parents: Taking Kids to Disney Springs at Walt Disney World

Disney Springs Tips for Parents: Taking the Kids

Whether you’re visiting Walt Disney World for a week-long stay or passing through Orlando on a jaunt to the Space Coast, Disney Springs deserves a spot in your itinerary! Yes, even with little kids in tow. Let’s look at some Disney Springs tips for parents…

Fun for Kids

For starters, you’ll want to visit at a less busy time and since those little ones are known to be early risers, I would suggest getting to Disney Springs by the 10am opening time. Visit some of our suggested stops, then choose a place to dine for lunch.

What’s the attraction? Well, there are LEGOS to build, boats to transport tired feet, a carousel to ride, splash fountains for cooling off, and Mr. Potato Head figures to create! And you’ve barely opened your wallet for those activities.

Tips for Parents Taking Kids to Disney Springs at Walt Disney World / If you want to take the kids to Disney Springs, but you’re not sure what to do there, then this post will help you! It includes tips for parents to survive a trip to Disney Springs, even on a strict budget – yay! Click through to check out all the activities and tips.

Ride the Marketplace Carousel

Strict budget? Spell out the spending limits before you set foot in Disney Springs. Click To Tweet

Tip: If you know your child won’t be satisfied playing with the LEGOS without buying a new set that isn’t in your budget this time, then skip it and continue to a less stressful activity. You know your little one best!

Amphicar

I always want to write amphibicar for this attraction. But no, it’s an amphicar. Everyone loves to stop and watch these totally adorable vehicles make their way from dry land to splashdown in Lake Buena Vista.

Actual rides are pricey but it’s free fun to watch. Boat tours run 10am to 10pm, weather permitting. For $150, you’ll get a 20-minute voyage. Sorry, a captain drives the boat; you’re just along for the ride. Ask about the $25 off special for those lunching between 11am and 3pm. Lunch and launch!

AmphiCar: Tips for Parents Taking Kids to Disney Springs at Walt Disney World / If you want to take the kids to Disney Springs, but you’re not sure what to do there, then this post will help you! It includes tips for parents to survive a trip to Disney Springs, even on a strict budget – yay! Click through to check out all the activities and tips.

Don’t you want an amphicar? I do!

Grab a nearby Gelato at Vivoli il Gelato and enjoy the view!

Gelato at Vivoli il Gelato

Why choose only one flavor of gelato?

Disney’s Pin Traders

If you have a freshly-minted pin collector, a die-hard trader, or a little one that likes browsing shiny things, Disney’s Pin Traders is a stop the whole family can enjoy.

Disney's Pin Traders

Mecca of shiny pins

Pin collecting can be fun for the whole family.

Disney pins

Find your favorite pins

Build Your Own Lightsaber

Star Wars Galactic Outpost and Once Upon A Toy offer a fun diversion for padawans.

lightsaber station

Stop by and build your own lightsaber

Both locations boast create your own lightsabers at kid-friendly stations.

Build Your Own lightsaber

Play time for padawans

Most of the time, I see kids playing here for a bit and then leaving. I’m not sure real little ones even know they are available for purchase. This could be a budget-friendly stop if the “this is just a play station approach” works for your family.

Characters in Flight

I’m not fond of heights but if you are a-okay at 400 feet up in the air, this ride on a tethered helium balloon affords tremendous views of the area (or so I’ve been told).

Characters in Flight

Ascend 400 feet

Current prices are $20 for adults and $15 for kids. Kids under age 9 must be accompanied by an adult 18 or over.

Coca-Cola Store

You can ride the elevator if you have small kids in strollers, otherwise I recommend taking the ramp walkway to the top. Tire out those kids; that’s what I’m thinking. Up top, you’ll have a fantastic view of Disney Springs.

Coca-Cola store

View from the rooftop at Coca-Cola store

Water Taxi

It’s free. And it’ll save you some steps from one end of Disney Springs to the other. Three docks are available: Marketplace, The Landing, and West Side. Plus, a soothing boat ride could result in a pleasantly sleepy child. 😉

Sassagoula River Boats WDW

Sassagoula River Boats

Tip: For a longer voyage, take the Sassagoula River Cruise over to Port Orleans French Quarter. We recommend stopping by the Sassagoula Floatworks and Food Factory for a shareable treat of beignets.

Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique

Make an appointment 180 days in advance for the very popular Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique for your royal offspring ages 3-12. Girls love the glittery princess makeovers and boys enjoy showing off their knight or pirate transformations.

Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique

Magical transformations take place inside

When I see a little princess shimmering, I can’t help but tell her how beautiful she looks. Say “Hi Princess” and enjoy the smile you’ll get in return.

Save a bundle by packing a princess-like dress or other costume from home. Packages begin at $59.95 for princesses and rise to $199.95 if you purchase one of their gowns. Knights run $19.95.

Music Concerts and Dance Parties

Look to the Fountain Stage for musical entertainment.

Marketplace Stage

Musical groups perform at Disney Springs

Grab a nearby snack and take in some music by school-age performers. I’ve seen many little ones dancing at the Marketplace and Fountain stages; it’s a great place to burn off some wiggles before heading back to your resort for a mid-day rest.

DJ Dance Party

Get up and dance

LEGO Store

For YEARS, this store was a must stop for our family.

LEGO Store

Playing at LEGO table

From life-size LEGO figures to build your own creations, this store is pure eye candy for LEGO lovers.

Lego Store

Indoor and outdoor fun at the Lego Store

Stop by for great photo ops.

World of Disney Store

Toys, stuffed animals, character crayons, and more pull the weariest of shoppers into the World of Disney store. And that’s just the merchandise. The décor is also amazing in this world’s largest Disney character shop! Go early; it gets insanely crowded.

Shopping at Disney Springs

Fun with birthday funds

Once Upon A Toy Store

Yes, this toy store is fun to explore.

Once Upon A Toy Store: Tips for Parents Taking Kids to Disney Springs at Walt Disney World / If you want to take the kids to Disney Springs, but you’re not sure what to do there, then this post will help you! It includes tips for parents to survive a trip to Disney Springs, even on a strict budget – yay! Click through to check out all the activities and tips.

It’s fun exploring Once Upon A Toy

Plus, you’ll find hands-on activities (build your own lightsabers, droids, and Mr. Potato Heads); purchasing these creations is optional.

Mr. Potato Head

Build your own Mr. Potato Head

Don’t forget to pose with Buzz Lightyear in front of the store.

Once Upon A Toy Buzz Lightyear

Buzz is so cool

Food is Fun

You’ll want to have a pretty good idea before you arrive Disney Springs as to what you want to spend for snacks and dining.

Mickey dome Cake

Mickey Dome Cake at Amorette’s Patisserie

Once there, you’ll be inundated with tasty temptations.

Disney Springs Food trucks

Food trucks are fun

One of our favorite hang-outs is Goofy’s Candy Co.

Treats

Look for fun and tasty treats at Goofy’s Candy Co.

Here, the bakery case is filled with delightful treats. Wander in a bit further and you’ll find some make your own creations available.

Movies

If it’s a rainy day, we recommend catching a movie at AMC Disney Springs 24. For extra points with the kids, choose one of the Dine-In Theatres.

AMC Disney Springs 24 with Dine-In Theatres

See a movie on a rainy day

Bowling

Whether you venture inside to rent a lane or find an outdoor seat to sip beverages out of a souvenir bowling pin, Splitsville is an entertaining venue.

Splitsville offers indoor and outdoor entertainment

Plus… there’s so much more at Disney Springs! Keep an eye out for the T-Rex Cafe, Rainforest Cafe, Sprinkles Cupcakes, a small train ride, splash fountains, a Marvel Super Hero Headquarters store, gorgeous lake vistas, and the list goes on.

Note: All prices are subject to change. Tax is usually additional.

What does your family enjoy at Disney Springs? Share in the comments below.

 

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