No Park Disney Trip

[Jezzup]

We are considering visiting Orlando from December 15-19. We will not be visiting any of the parks. Instead we have decided to focus on things we've never done. For example, when we've stayed on Disney property, we've only stayed at a value. We would like to visit some of the other resorts.

We also plan to spend time eating at a few resort restaurants we never get to visit on a "normal" visit. DTD and Citywalk are on the agenda as well as Cirque Soleil.

We plan on staying on International Drive so I assume there are things to do there as well.

So.... is this a bad idea? Is there enough to do without visiting the parks? What resorts should we visit for Christmas decorations or other unique things we should see? Any suggestions on things to do on International Drive?

[faline]

Personally, I don't think I could visit Disney World without also visiting a park(s)?? We've had trips where we've spent more time at our resort than at the parks but have never gone completely without park visits.

[DisneyMom12]

I couldn't not visit at least mk, or Epcot.

[Belster]

To me going at Christmas is a dream of mine. I could not manage going to Disney and not seeing Epcot or DHS.

[gaffz70]

I think it sounds very enjoyable and relaxing. Disney has so much to offer that I often think I need a 2nd week just to fully enjoy the resort and relax. If I wasn't going w/ kids, I would definitely consider doing that.

[Cinderelley]

Sounds like a great idea to me even though I am not sure I would be able to do it. I would have to go to MK at least. You could always do the miniature golfing, hayride, Hoop Dee Doo, etc.

[magicofdisney]

I've done this twice. The only reason I didn't visit the parks is because of ticket restrictions. I did an early summer trip and a Christmas trip like you're planning.

The Grand Floridian is a must! They have the gingerbread house. All the resorts have wonderful decorations, but take a tour of the deluxes with their grand trees in the main lobbies.

I would also do a monorail ride through Epcot. This might be a tough call because it reinforces the fact you're not visiting the parks, but it will still enable you to see some park decorations.

I think it's a nice idea to take it all in at a slower pace. Enjoy!

[tlhewitt52]

There is definitely plenty to do. Our family did this two years ago and enjoyed it so much! We laid by the pool, went exploring other resorts, did miniature golf and just took our time and relaxed. The week seemed like it lasted forever without all the rushing that sometimes happens when your trying to ride ridea and see everything in the parks! Just take time and enjoy!!!

[slottedpig]

I could do this too especially staying at a resort with a good pool. Make sure you allocate time for the Boardwalk area. There are 5 resorts to explore, lots of very good restaraunts, a couple of terrific desert places, bikes and boats to rent, a sports bar and several nice hotel lounges, easy walk to putt-putt. At night there are some street entertainers and you can see the fireworks part of Illuminations.

[emerzmom]

I think there is plenty to do with resort hopping, DTD, and the Boardwalk. I just don't think I could be that close and not feel like I missed something without going in at least one park.
I have been to Orlando a couple of times recently and did not go to WDW. Just knowing I was in Orlando but couldn't go to WDW and at least see the castle almost physically hurt.
I do hope you have a wonderful time. Give us a trip report!

Julie

[AllDisney]

I don't think I could be that close to the parks and not visit. I hope you have a great relaxing trip

[Janmac]

It's not a bad idea if you're happy with whatever you're doing and how you're spending your time.

One trip we spent 3 nights at the Poly, after a week at OKW. The only park we went into was MK one morning, and only half of our group went there. The rest of the time we checked out the resort, ate at resort restaurants, etc. Relaxed. Explored.

One trip to Florida years ago we toured down the west side, to Key West, and up the east side, spending at least a week, and never even missed WDW. But we had an exclusive Disney trip planned for six months later.

Another trip my niece was pregnant and was bummed that she'd miss some of the rides. She and my sister spent one day touring the deluxe resorts (especially the shops ) and had a great time.

You might never want to do a trip like this again, but I bet you see some interesting things and make some great memories.

Jan

[Dopey's Girl]

I could never have that kind of willpower. I'm impressed.

You should go to the Grand Floridian for sure...it's amazing! I also really love downtown Disney. The music, some hot chocolate and a trip to the Christmas store would be a great non park day!

[Jezzup]

Thanks to everyone for the feedback. Just finished booking the trip today.

We have decided to do MVMCP. My 72 year old mother will be with us. She is an Xmas nut so I don't see how we can miss this. Hope the early 4pm entry time is still happening.

slottedpig mentioned there are a couple desert places in the Boardwalk area. I know of Beaches and Cream. What are the others?

[slottedpig]

I like The Fountain at the Dolphin. Seashore Sweets at the Boardwalk has good ice cream as well.

[snowflakegirl]

My boyfriend and I have talked about doing this at some point. We were there two summers ago and stayed at the AKL and fell in love with the hotel and felt like we'd enjoy a short trip staying there and really spending time at the hotel, downtown disney and resort hopping to check other resorts out. By the time we're going to be able to get there again it'll have been too long sicne we've had a park trip, so I don't think it'll be our next trip, but someday!

[Main Street Jim]

Don't forget:

1) Ft. Wilderness: Horseback riding, guided bass-fishing excursions, petting zoo, and Hoop-de-Doo.

2) Four miniature-golf courses and. two water parks.

3) Richard Petty Driving Experience.

4) Four (I think) PGA-caliber golf courses.

5) Several dozen world-class restaurants at the resorts and Downtown Disney.

6) AMC 24 (movie theaters), DisneyQuest, and Cirque du Soleil (which was already mentioned).

PLENTY more to see and do along International Drive: WonderWorks, a couple of comedy and dinner shows (I've always wanted to do the Pirates one ), Mercado, Festival Bay, outlet mall(s), go-kart tracks (Magical Midway), and more