Four Disney Vacations Outside of Walt Disney World for Families

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When you hear “Disney vacation,” you probably think of Walt Disney World—the rides, the characters, the castle, and all the magic. But did you know Disney has incredible vacation experiences around the world that go far beyond the theme parks? Amazing, right?!

From relaxing tropical getaways to exciting cruises and guided tours, Disney offers unforgettable adventures in some of the most beautiful destinations on Earth. Whether you’re looking for a beachfront escape, a high-seas adventure, or an immersive cultural journey, there’s a Disney vacation for every family.

So, if you’re ready to explore four incredible Disney vacations beyond Walt Disney World, let’s dive in and discover the magic waiting for you! Let’s go! 

Adventures By Disney

Adventures by Disney takes families on world adventures to exotic locales, filled with exciting destinations, interactive experiences, and authentic experiences that bring each place to life.

With the help of knowledgeable adventure guides and local experts, travelers get an insider experience that goes beyond typical sightseeing. Whether it’s a private tour of the Vatican Museums in Italy, spotting wildlife in the Galapagos Islands, or zip-lining through the rainforest on a Costa Rica adventure, every trip is packed with unique itinerary items designed for families to enjoy together. The trips are also filled with immersive experiences, from learning to make pasta in Italy to exploring ancient ruins in South America.

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Family riding bikes during their Adventures By Disney Rhone River Cruise: Lyon & Provence ©Disney

Smaller group sizes allow for a more personal connection with the local guide, giving families more time to enjoy each moment. Kids can also participate in special junior adventurer activities designed just for them while adults explore savory local flavors.

These journeys offer lifetime experiences, giving families the chance to create lasting memories while exploring the magic of Disney travel around the world. Parents and kids alike will love the hands-on activities that highlight each destination’s local culture and traditions, with Disney-trained adventure guides leading the way; every detail is taken care of, making the experience both fun and stress-free.

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Guest horseback riding on an Adventures By Disney trip in Wyoming ©Disney

Disney’s travel experiences go beyond land, too. Families can set sail on Disney River Cruises, offering a magical way to explore Europe while enjoying Disney’s signature service. With Disney’s impeccable attention to detail, guests stay in outstanding accommodations and enjoy exclusive access to some of the world’s most famous sites.

Whether it’s discovering the wonders of the Galapagos Islands, embarking on a private adventure, or diving into rich history and culture, every trip creates unforgettable memories and a lifetime of memories that families will cherish forever. With the Walt Disney Company’s dedication to quality and storytelling, every journey is filled with magic, adventure, and fun.

Disney In Hawaii

Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa, seamlessly blends Hawaiian culture with Disney magic, offering families an unforgettable oceanfront retreat on the Island of Oahu’s leeward coast. Nestled in the Ko Olina community, the resort spans 21 acres and features 351 hotel rooms and 481 Disney Vacation Club villas, including 21 grand villas.

The architecture and design pay homage to Hawaiian traditions, with contemporary Hawaiian art adorning the interiors and a thatched roof welcoming guests into the main lobby. The resort’s location along the Waikolohe Stream provides guests with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and access to a pristine lagoon.

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Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa pools and exterior ©Disney

Families can enjoy a variety of themed recreation areas, such as the Menehune Bridge, a playful water zone inspired by Hawaiian legends, and the lazy river that meanders through the resort’s lush landscape.

Children will delight in Aunty’s Beach House, a complimentary kids’ club offering supervised activities that immerse them in Hawaiian culture.

Meanwhile, adults can unwind at the 18,000-square-foot Laniwai Spa, which offers a range of rejuvenating treatments. The resort also boasts multiple infinity pools, whirlpool spas, and the Wailana Pool, an adults-only retreat for serene relaxation.

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Learning to paddle board at Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa ©Disney

Dining at Aulani is a culinary journey that celebrates the bounty of the islands. Guests can savor Hawaiian-inspired dishes at ‘AMA’AMA, enjoy casual fare at Ulu Cafe, grab a refreshing drink at the Olelo Room, or experience a lively character breakfast at Makahiki, where beloved Disney characters, including Mickey Mouse, make special appearances.

For a taste of local entertainment, the KA WA‘A Lū‘au offers an evening of traditional Hawaiian music, dance, and storytelling under the stars.

Families are encouraged to plan activities in advance to enhance their stay. Booking excursions such as snorkeling at the resort’s private Rainbow Reef, golfing at the nearby Ko Olina Golf Club, or visiting the famous Waikiki Beach can enrich the Aulani experience.

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Sunset view at Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa ©Disney

With Disney’s impeccable attention to detail and a commitment to honoring local culture, Aulani provides a harmonious blend of adventure, relaxation, and immersive experiences, ensuring that every family creates cherished memories in this Hawaiian paradise.

Disney Cruise Line

Set sail on a Disney adventure with Disney Cruise Line, where the magic of the Walt Disney Company meets the excitement of the open ocean. These cruise ships, painted in Mickey Mouse-inspired colors, take families to island destinations around the world.

Whether you’re setting off on a 7-night Western Caribbean cruise, exploring Europe, or sailing through Alaska, every trip is packed with fun, adventure, and plenty of Disney magic. Some sailings even stop at Castaway Cay, Disney’s private island in the Bahamas, or the all-new Disney Lookout Cay, where families can enjoy white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters.

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Mickey and Minnie Mouse enjoying the beat at Lookout Cay – Disney’s new private island. ©Disney

Each ship is designed for unforgettable family vacations, with incredible activities for all ages. Kids can enjoy themed kids’ clubs, meet their favorite Disney characters, and take part in fun games.

Families can watch Broadway-style shows, splash in pools, race down waterslides, experience rotational dining, which lets them try different themed restaurants throughout their trip, and join in on themed deck parties featuring fireworks and special appearances by characters like Captain Jack Sparrow.

For parents looking to relax, there are adults-only lounges, spas, and quiet pools, making sure there’s something for everyone onboard.

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A Family aboard one of the Disney Cruise Line ships enjoying rotational dining by playing and eating with Crush at Animators Palette ©Disney

If you’re looking for the best ship for your family, there are plenty of options. The Disney Wish offers exciting new character dining experiences, while the Disney Fantasy is great for longer trips, featuring Star Wars and Marvel attractions.

The upcoming Disney Treasure promises a mix of adventure and classic Disney storytelling, making it a highly anticipated addition to the fleet.

Another exciting addition is the Disney Adventure, which will set sail from Singapore. It will offer families a brand-new way to experience Disney magic at sea while exploring Southeast Asia.

Other favorites include the Disney Magic, Disney Dream, and Disney Wonder, each offering unique itineraries and experiences.

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The Disney Wish Atrium ©Disney

Book early to get the best staterooms and book extra experiences such as Bibbidi Boppiti Boutique to make the most of your cruise.

Whether you’re exploring new cultures, relaxing on tropical beaches, or enjoying the endless entertainment onboard, a Disney Cruise Line vacation is an exciting, all-inclusive experience filled with Disney magic and memories that will last a lifetime.

Disney’s Beach Resorts

Disney’s Beach Resorts are the perfect choice if you’re looking for a beach vacation with a little Disney magic but without the theme park crowds.

Both Disney’s Vero Beach Resort in Florida and Disney’s Hilton Head Island Resort in South Carolina offer beautiful, relaxing getaways with plenty of fun activities for families. These Disney Vacation Club resorts bring the Disney touch to the coast, combining the comforts of home with exciting recreational activities and stunning ocean views.

Disney’s Vero Beach Resort

Disney’s Vero Beach Resort is located along Florida’s Treasure Coast, just a short drive from Orlando. Families can enjoy soft sandy beaches, splash in the pool with a water slide, or relax in beach chairs while listening to the waves of the Atlantic Ocean.

One of the resort’s most unique features is its sea turtle conservation program, where guests can learn about and even see nesting turtles along the shore. For more adventure, families can try water sports on the Indian River Lagoon or take a day trip to the Kennedy Space Center. After a day of fun, there are plenty of Vero Beach restaurants where guests can enjoy fresh seafood and local flavors.

Disney’s Hilton Head Island Resort

Disney’s Hilton Head Island Resort in South Carolina offers a different kind of coastal escape. It is designed to look like a charming 1940s fishing and hunting lodge. Families can explore scenic bike paths, participate in nature programs, or play a round of golf at nearby golf courses.

The resort also has plenty of recreational activities, including tennis courts, horseback riding, and guided outdoor excursions. With cozy villas, a pool area with a water slide, and plenty of ways to enjoy the outdoors, it’s a great place to unwind while still experiencing Disney’s legendary hospitality.

To make the most of your stay, book a water-view room for amazing scenery and plan ahead for activities like campfires and scavenger hunts. Whether you’re relaxing by the ocean, exploring the outdoors, or enjoying a special character meal, Disney’s Vero Beach Resort and Disney’s Hilton Head Island Resort offer a fun and relaxing way to experience Disney in a whole new way.

Your Disney Adventure is Waiting—Where Will You Go?

Ready to plan your dream Disney vacation beyond Walt Disney World? Whether it’s a beachfront escape, a magical cruise, or an unforgettable guided adventure, I’m here to help make it happen!

Fill out the form below or email me at cara@magicaldestinationstravel.com for more information on your next Disney adventure. Let’s start planning the magic today!

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About Cara 32 Articles
NOLA Girl 💜💚💛 | Florida Native 🏝️| Mom to Humans & Puppies 💗 | Photographer 📷 | Content Creator 👩🏻‍💻| Affiliate Manager 💻 | Lover of ALL things Disney 🏰 | Travel Planner with Magical Destinations Travel, LLC.

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