As many of us Disney fans know, the impetus for the original Disney theme park, Disneyland, was due to a father wanting to spend quality time with his daughters. So, it seems only fitting that so much of the magic in the Disney theme parks is created by celebrating with family members. This year, my husband and I will be visiting The World with my parents for a magical winter trip, and I plan on spending a special day with my dad for some daddy-daughter time! Ever the trusting father, he has left the planning details up to me and my imagination….
There truly is no better place on Earth to find unique, exhilarating experiences then Walt Disney World. Since Father’s Day is around the corner, let’s take a look at some of my personal favorite activities offered at the Vacation Kingdom to celebrate the special bond between a father and child.
Backstage Tours
Walt Disney World offers some phenomenal backstage tours to fit every budget, itinerary and interest. For families interested in the history of Walt Disney and Walt Disney World my personal picks are Disney’s Keys to the Kingdom Tour ($79/person plus park admission) and Walt Disney: Marceline to Magic Kingdom Tour ($35/person plus park admission). If nature and animals are more your dad’s speed, I highly recommend looking into the Behind the Seeds Tour ($20/person plus park admission) or Backstage Tales ($90/person plus park admission). To learn more about all the tours offered, just click on the link https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/events-tours/.
Dining
If you are a fan of Lou’s podcast, then you are no stranger to the vast array of delicious dining options available at Walt Disney World! There truly is something for everyone on the menu. Perhaps your dad has a favorite restaurant or maybe there’s a restaurant he’s always wanted to try. Even eating a meal at a quick service location can be special when you spend the time with your dad. Personally, I tried to find restaurants that offered a truly engaging dining experience whether it was with characters, a dinner show, or musical entertainment. It’s always a good idea to check out a new restaurant’s menu before scheduling a reservation. Menus and reviews can be found at https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/dining/
Recreational Activity
In general, so much of vacation time is spent park hopping that it is very easy to over look the vast array of recreational activities available at Walt Disney World. There truly is an activity for every interest whether it be horse back trail riding, arcade game playing, or water sporting (parasailing, wake boarding, boat rentals). The sky is the limit! Some of the activities that I particularly liked for a daughter day with dad included; miniature golf at one of Walt Disney World‘s four miniature golf courses ($14/adult), a day at Fort Wilderness (what can’t you do!?), and taking a 2 person surrey bike for a spin. But don’t forget, there are a few outside companies that offer truly elite experiences such as a balloon ride or helicopter ride around Walt Disney World property. To see all the recreational activities that Disney offers click on the link at https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/recreation/ or call 407-939-PLAY.
So, what have I decided to do with my dad? Well, in the end, I brought a few of the above experiences to my dad and let him have the deciding vote (after all, I want him to have a great time too!). My dad ended up picking the one thing I thought he would veto. To celebrate our special day together, my dad and I are going to dine with royalty for breakfast at Cinderella’s Royal Table! Maybe he just likes the menu or maybe he just wants his little princess to have fun, either way I can’t wait for all the great pictures of my dad and me (and the princesses) that we are sure to take. But, most importantly, a chance to show off the coolest dad in history! We won’t be hard to miss!! I intend to get us matching pink bedazzled shirts….but, he doesn’t know that yet 😉
(Images ©Disney)
Erin Stough has always loved Disney, but the magic of the parks truly captured her imagination during a mother-daughter trip in 2001. The fire was ignited and Erin hasn’t looked back! When she isn’t devouring Disney related books, Erin spends time with her wonderful (and patient) husband and super pup Milo.
