by Kimberly LaPaglia | Feb 1, 2018 | Celebrations, Disney, Disney Food, Disney Holidays, Disney Restaurants, Walt Disney World
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!
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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- 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.
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.
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.
What’s your ideal date at Walt Disney World?
by Kimberly LaPaglia | Nov 5, 2017 | Disney, WDW Resorts
Romance at Walt Disney World: Favorite Hotels for Couples
Romance at Walt Disney World?! If you’re reading this article, you are either looking for romantic ideas for your Walt Disney World vacation or you are wondering how couples are finding lovely moments to share at a theme park.
I’m writing this so that you don’t doubt for a moment that couples can find romance at Walt Disney World. I’ve got date suggestions coming soon too. For now, let’s delve into the hotels at Walt Disney World. This photographic tour will point out our favorite hotels for couples at WDW.
Join us on this romantic journey; better yet, grab your sweetheart, a fabulous beverage, and start planning your trip together.
In the spirit of fairytales, these resorts inspire us to dream in settings similar to the Disney classics. Reserve a room at any of these hotels and let their charm woo you and your beloved.
Disney’s Grand Floridian
Some guests love the old world charm, others find it a little too reminiscent of their grandmother’s parlor. Either way, look a little closer at Disney’s Grand Floridian.
Let time go by at the GF Lobby.
Yes, I have a bias here. Michael and I honeymooned at the GF; we also have spent many anniversaries holding hands and staring up at the gabled roofs.
Victorian elegance at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort.
What makes it so grand? It’s a quiet evening listening to the Grand Floridian Society Orchestra.
Request your favorite tune!
A waterside table at Narcoossee’s will have fireworks flying between the two of you. Don’t forget to find the perfect spot to watch fireworks from the resort. We recommend a table or the patio at Narcoossee’s, a Magic Kingdom fireworks cruise from the marina, a balcony from your lagoon view room, or a cozy spot on the dock.
Narcoossee’s waterfront restaurant
With a spa, a lobby filled with fresh cut flowers, an assortment of restaurants, beautiful rooms (request a dormer or “attic” room), maids on parade (do they still do this?!), two featured pools, and a view of Cinderella’s Castle, the Grand Floridian should definitely be a top choice for your romantic weekend or week-long stay.
Disney’s GF is GRAND.
Our most romantic moment ever in Walt Disney World? Renewing our vows for our tenth wedding anniversary!
Our 10th anniversary vow renewal.
We rode in Cinderella’s Coach, exchanged vows at Disney’s Wedding Pavilion, had a small reception at the Grand Floridian, and ended the evening with an Epcot IllumiNations dessert party for our family and friends.
Disney’s BoardWalk Resort
At first glance, the BoardWalk Resort seems to be too busy for romance. However, the goings-on at the BoardWalk add to the mystique.
Evening at the BoardWalk.
For rooms, we recommend a Concierge garden view or a two-story garden villa with a charming and private entrance. Rooms facing the boardwalk will be noisier so do request a quieter location.
Club Level Garden Rooms have private gardens!
Quiet morning or evening strolls around the BoardWalk or a walk to Epcot’s World Showcase for a memorable meal are just some of the reasons the BoardWalk is sure to steal your heart.
We recommend escaping to the Belle Vue Lounge to toast your own love story before lounging in your room.
Concierge room at BoardWalk Inn.
Then, head down to Ample Hills Creamery to indulge in an ice cream flight.
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge
Set under a thatched room in an exotic setting, the Animal Kingdom Lodge will delight your senses. Wood crackling fires, intoxicating smells, a sprawling pool with shaded lounge chairs, moonlight illuminating a giraffe on the savanna — these are all reasons to cozy up to your loved one at this unique resort.
Animal Kingdom Lodge Lobby
We love exploring the nooks and crannies of AKL. There’s always some where to sit back and take in the wonders of the lodge. Or sneak kisses at an outdoor overlook. At night, sip grown up beverages in the Victoria Falls Lounge or stop by the campfire at Arusha Overlook.
Firepit with cozy rocking chairs.
You’ll find both Jambo House and Kidani Village to offer romantic surroundings.
Disney’s Port Orleans French Quarter
What moderately priced hotel at Walt Disney World exudes charm? For us, it’s Disney’s Port Orleans French Quarter.
Sit by the fountain.
The wrought iron railings, lantern lighting, paved walkways, and gorgeous fountains beckon lovers on romantic walks.
Take an early evening stroll.
Along the way, you’ll run into the Sassagoula River with water gently lapping against the riverbank. Around the bend, is our next choice for romance and it’s another moderate resort…
Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside
For a romantic stay, we recommend requesting a room in one of the three-story mansion buildings. Grand staircases, bubbling fountains, and white stately columns welcome guests at Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside Resort.
Gorgeous fountain at Riverside.
A stroll through the mansion section of this resort soothes weary souls.
Romantic walkway.
You’ll find your hearts melting as you admire the horse-drawn carriage slowly meandering through the lush landscaping with picturesque azaleas and magnolias lining the way. Reserve your extra-fee ride in advance by calling (407) WDW-PLAY.
Horse-drawn Carriage Ride.
In the late evening, take a walk to French Quarter and share beignets with your sweetie.
Sugary sweetness.
Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
Exotic flowers and dark woods are featured throughout the lobby of the Polynesian Village. Romance is in the air in the colorful but soothing Great Ceremonial House.
Cute Tiki Statue welcomes guests to the south seas atmosphere at Polynesian Village.
Watch for hula lessons; extra points if you both join in! Afterwards, find a warm and cozy place in the tropical themed lobby.
At night, the tiki torches will light your way as you stroll to a beachside hammock with a Dole Whip to share from Pineapple Lanai.
Tiki Torches light your way.
Lovebirds will find lots to do: sip a Lapu Lapu out of a coconut, find a serene spot to sit at the quiet pool, listen to the sounds of the ferry boat in the distance, enjoy a beverage at Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto.
Visit Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto.
Purchase some wine and chocolate-covered macadamia nuts to enjoy in your room or at your private Oasis patio right by the pool.
Wine and Chocolate Macadamia Nuts!
The above are all solid options for a romantic getaway at Walt Disney World. With the right planning, most hotels at Disney World can be romantic. Just add a picnic meal, a beverage in the moonlight, or hold hands while watching an outdoor movie. For rates and availability, visit my Disney Vacation Planning page.
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