Is WDW for ADULT COUPLES??? Serious wake-up call here...

[joecavalier]

Okay, so I'm planning this birthday surprise for my DGF (37) who has always dreamed of going to WDW. I myself (40) havent been to WDW since I was 8 yrs old, so I will be like a newbie myself (I was a fan of Mr. Toad's Wild Ride :hyper: )

Over the last month I have poured myself into these boards trying to make sure I have the best plan in place for a truly WONDERFUL 4 1/2 day vacation/anniversay/birthday surprise (May 18th - May 22nd). I have my itinerary set, ADRs are pretty much in place, La Nouba and SOA are my only enetertainment ressies as of now, and I've invested in touringplans.com and Ridemax to make sure I'm doing this all with some direction.

So I log in today and my heart sunk when I saw this thread (http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2457618). It seems that a lot of the major rides I am busting my **** to plan around are simply not worth it for adults... but very enjoyable if you have children to share their excitement with.

I guess my questions are:

Should I plan a more subdued vacation instead of focusing on trying to "get it all done" in our short time there? Are there events/activities that I should be investing my energy (and money) in that I am not aware about? Should I just shorten my trip for a 2 day WDW excursion and head to the beach? Are there specific itineraries for adults that would allow has to have a more adult oriented vacation (ie. not spending too much time in lines for rides that are for kids when we can be focusing our energies elsewhere?)

I can honestly say that my motivation has taken a hit, but I am still hoping for the best. I mean, I never would've planned this vacation for myself, but to see the excitement on my DGF's face when we make that turn off of I-4 instead of going to the beach will be priceless. I just want to make sure that by the end of the week we are reminiscing about our wonderful, magical filled vacation... rather than be exhausted and disappointed from rushing around a mammoth theme park waiting in lines to rides that were never meant for us :confused3

I could use a pep talk, and if you are regular WDW vacationing couple (without kids) I could certainly use some pointers.

TYSMIA!!

[Kuraire]

My advice, keep to your plans and try your best to ingore that thread. Remember it's just peoples opinions, plus having a whole thread dedicated to talking "disappointing rides" makes people think more about them and most likely be over critical.

Have a great time with your GF and make your own mind up about the rides and attractions. Sure you may come away from some of them thinking "well I wouldn't go on that again" but there will also be some that make you think, "um why was everyone complaning that was cool".

Personally I don't plan every moment of the day, I know this works for some people but I find that way to regimented for myself, apart from ADR's and parades/shows I just enjoy exploring.

[Goofy4]

Touringplans.com has "adult only" plans available.

On "that thread": If it's the thread I'm thinking it is, I complained about a ride over there, but I'm certainly still going back! And, while disappointed to see some of my favorites on the list, Disney would not be the same without them.

La Nouba will be awesome! Help me, what is SOA? Duh, I was just thinking about recommending Spirit of Aloha! We were just there last Thursday. They turn the lights down for the show, so there's a bit of "romantic" feel to it, and they'll probably offset your table for you a little so there's nobody else right next to you.

I think you've done the right thing with those 2 shows!

If you can, see the parks very early or very late (EMH); so you won't be spending as much time in line.

[+Rosetta+]

"Haters gonna hate"
Some people love the rides people shot down in that thread, it just depends on the person and what your fandom is of Disney characters.

There are plenty of things to do at the parks that are adult oriented, heck, the CMs are there goofing off all the time :earboy2:

Check out what's going on in the park schedules that sounds good to both of you and make them a priority. Otherwise, just have fun and discover something new on the way <3

[JoShan1719]

I agree with pp. Leave your plans as they are and just take things as they are. Even if you come off a ride a little disappointed I promise it isn't a gut-wrenching "that was horrible" feeling, it's more like a "eh, won't do that again" feeling.

Whether you enjoy an attraction or not you're still at Disney World. Have fun! Take everything in! GL

[Sea Turtles]

Don't sweat it, dude. Everybody is going to have different experiences. You have a great trip planned and she will be blown away. My wife and I (no kids) frequent WDW and touring as a couple is a lot of fun and memorable every time.

If you're at DS or Epcot on Fri, let me know - Drinks on me

Feel free to PM with any questions/doubts/concerns

Good luck :)

[Melknor]

As someone who has gone with my kids and also just me and DH, I hate to say it, but the trip that was just me and DH was WONDERFUL!!!!! I would do it every year if I could with just the two of us. Our style of touring was so much different without the kids. We could just leisurely take in the parks rather than rushing to rides. Don't get me wrong, I enjoy the trips with my kids and those have their own special memories.

As for rides geared towards kids, aren't we all kids at heart? I love going on them all!! (I love Fantasyland, especially Pooh)

[everydaymathchick]

I try to not read those threads as each time I'm left wondering what those people are talking about! :confused3 Like a PP said, we all have our fave rides and those that aren't on our "must-do" lists. Don't let someone else's opinion taint your vacation. It's all about the LOVE of Disney! Enjoy the magic! :wizard: Besides, seeing it with your DGF while she sees it for the first time will make it all the more incredible for you! Be sure to come back and tell us what a great time you had and how all your planning paid off. :goodvibes

BTW - I, for one, recall crying a lot when I was 5. :laughing: Seeing it all again when I was 16 was totally different and wonderful! :cloud9: THEN seeing it all again when I was 25 was tear-inducing it was so magical! WDW is for everyone. :lovestruc

[PirateBride08]

Please, Please, Please do not give up on WDW!! My husband and I go a few times a year. We were there in March and will be back in May for a few days. We were married there and love it! Sometimes we "do it all" and others we just walk around. No matter what we do, we always have a great time.

As far as people complaining about the rides, to each his own. Is Snow White's Scary Adventure really scary? Well to anyone over 6, probably not. They added "scary" to the name because it had dark parts and can scary small kids. Pirates is one of my favorite rides ever along with Its a Small World and Peter Pan. They are attractions, not thrill rides. I could ride them all over and over again.

La Nouba is going to be fantastic! I have never done that one yet but have heard amazing things about it.

You and your DGF are going to have a great time! Don't sweat it. Just being in Disney is Magical, so what if you get off a ride and have that "eh, it was ok" feeling! There is SO much to do that. Keep on planning! If you have any questions, ask away

[DISaholic's]

Honestly, I can't wait to go again as a couple, no kids. and My kids are grown up but they still want to go with us!

We went to Disney on our Honeymoon. Disney is what you make of it.

Be a kid again, relax and have fun and don't let other people be downers. I love Peter Pan, It's a Small World, Winnie the Pooh and Snow White. But that's just me:rotfl:

[fkj2]

So I log in today and my heart sunk when I saw this thread (http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2457618). It seems that a lot of the major rides I am busting my **** to plan around are simply not worth it for adults... but very enjoyable if you have children to share their excitement with.

TYSMIA!!

Yes, while some mentioned in that thread are kind of lame, there are many wonderful attractions to be seen at WDW. I also would not miss POTC. It was my dad's favorite attraction, next to the Country Bear Jamboree, and I can't ever ride it and not think of him.

And that's what's great about WDW; creating memories that are always with you. I wouldn't worry about experiencing everything on this trip; that puts too much pressure on you. If you get tired, feel free to take time to sit poolside or go to the room and rest. If you booked a room near one of the lakes, you'll be able to sit out and listen to the water lapping up on shore. The tension will flow away.

Try not to plan so many dinners and activities that you become a slave to your schedule. Go and relax!

[daisyyy]

Don't change a thing... remember everyone is entitled to their own opinions.. but they can't make up yours.. you're the only one who can do that.. trust me, don't walk out of there wishing you tried something, but didn't do it becuase of something you read on here. Remember what Jack Sparrow said.... It's more like guidelines than actual rules. pirate: I Love going without the kids, and as many times as I have been.. there's always something new to try, and sometimes the best part is just taking in the little details.... Disney doesn't do anything without a reason behind it. There's a lot of things you can do, that makes it fun.. like looking for hidden mickeys, while you're waiting in lines.. You can get a book on where to find them in barnes and Nobel, or other book stores... It really helps you to find the details. You might even want to do a behind the scenes tours.. those are great, and a few of them are geared towards adults. check them out. I'm not sure how to post a link.. but maybe someone else knows how to do that. HAVE FUN... don't listen to all the negatives.

[LovesTimone]

Don't second guess yourself, DH and I have done the mouse with little kids, tweeners, teenagers, and with out the kids, every trip we find something new and exciting. Each time you visit is a different experiencing so relax and enjoy your trip find the kid in you both and let the magic happen:wizard:,Take a carriage ride very romantic:lovestruc
DH and I get so excited when we turnoff I-4 and see the mouse signs. :banana::banana::banana:

This year will be 2 trip so sure, our first is in 22 days which will be a grand gathering with family and friends, celebrating our DD 21st birthday(she had her choice of any where she wanted to go and she chose Disney) and in Oct for food and wine and it will be just the 2 of us. We will be meeting other couples and this is a Grown ups only trip.:cheer2:

Have a magical Vacation:cloud9:

[bluejasmine]

Go with your first insticnt! Seriously if its her first time just she will LOVE it! She will be hooked! My DH and I LOVE to come to WDW ww/o the kids! Our honeymoon back in 08 was my DH first trip and he had a ball and we only had 3 days! We went back for our anniversary but took the teens and had a great time, booked bounce back for this yrs anniversary for just the two of us!

We will be taking it a bit slower this trip, even have a day off from the parks on our anniversary ordering room service for breakfast, renting a watermouse, drinks and dinner at GF, Im suprising him with a special cake and a limo!

Days at the park we will ride everything even IASW and Dumbo, its all in great fun!

If you want more adult activities watch wishes on the beach of the Poly, go for a carraige ride at one of the resorts, have a nice dinner but to me and my 30 something DH the parks are the main reason we come besides the great food and service!

Let us know how it goes!

[pawn626]

my dh and i went to the world in dec 09 just the two of us for the first time. this was our third trip in all. let me start by saying we had the time of our lives. we were so relaxed and had a ball visiting the other resorts taking the monorail to the poly for drinks, i would definitely stay with what you are doing she will love it. oh yeah and you will both be hooked.

[Missytara]

Don't change a thing. I go every year, mostly by myself, but also some times with friends.

If you have a chance, go over to POR and take the surrey bike ride around the resort.

Have a wonderful meal out - suggest Cali Grill at CR or Narcossee's at GF. Try getting a time when the fireworks will go off - "tell her that you arranged it". It will be our little secret. :lmao:

Take the boat from MK and go over to the lounge at the WL, have a few drinks and then walk around the grounds.

Go around the world at Epcot; do a drink around the world or dessert around the world. Do a lot of interaction with the CM's in each country. I try out my french and my spanish.

Spend some quiet time at a spa.

And then tell her next time, you will go on the land/sea package. And you'll both be hooked for life!

[Thumper_Man]

I agree with everyone here. DW and I don't have any kids, and we'll be taking our second trip ever, to the World this year. I've never read the "Disappointing Ride" thread. We are equal opportunity ride takers. We'll try each ride once and make our judgment about the ride. Take it, there are some rides we won't ride on this upcoming trip; but that's because we rode the ride and decided whether or not we liked it. I'm not going to post and say "Oh that ride S---S! Don't go on it." I feel people should make their own judgments about the rides or attractions. Each person is different and each has their own likings. Some people are thrill seekers, where others like the more mellow rides.

We take our time walking through the park and just enjoy taking in all the sites, good food, adult drinks and all the magic Disney has to offer. Don't worry, Disney will be as much fun as you make it out to be. If you go in with the attitude you won't have fun because of what other people are saying, then you won't have fun. If you go in with the attitude that you and your DGF are going to have the best times of your lives, then that's exactly what will happen. :thumbsup2 Don't worry to much about having a good time. Just let it happen and have a wonderful vacation. :goodvibes

[DEA]

My DW and I go with and without our children. It is a completely different experience with the kids (more kid rides, more character meals, more character stalking :rotfl:) and without the kids (Roller Coasters! ToT! More signature dining, less character stalking). I love both experiences. I don't go on Dumbo without my DDs, but I still visit the Magic Kingdom.

Nobody loves every ride, but at some level, it isn't about the rides. It's about visiting a place and sharing it with people about whom you care, regardless of whether they are tall enough to ride Splash Mountain. Without the kids, there is still plenty to do, and we keep going back.

[Haley]

My DH go to WDW and we don't have children. I had been before when I was 11 yrs old but my DH had never been and I was thinking he might not like it-- he LOVED Disney!

I mean if you really can't stand the Disney characters and don't like to go on rides or see shows I can see how you wouldn't have fun but otherwise you will have a blast!

[jmm476]

I agree, don't change your plans! But maybe don't go crazy with trying to see and do everything on your DGF's first time. You don't want to overwhelm anyone and turn them off to the Disney magic. I prefer to go without kids to Disney (I know, it's horrible), but kids cry and pout and want to do their own thing and at Disney, I'm a kid too. I think you'll have a great trip, as long as you don't push yourselves too much! :wizard:

[joecavalier]

WOW, I didn't expect such wonderful responses!! This has put everything back into that magical perspective, and I almost shed a tear... almost :cool:.

But I think I may be a victim of WDW overstressed-itis.

What I will do is go back and look at the itinerary (for the 999th time :scared:) and come up with a more laid back plan. I will stick with mornings filled with rides and park events, maybe by noon take a boat to a resort for lunch, go back to hotel for a swim (maybe nap), then do a more relaxing evening either park or resort hopping. I won't stress rides as much as really trying to take it all in... Wow, I feel relaxed already :)

I will definitely PM some of you to get some ideas and I see that there's a chance of even meeting up with one or two folks. BTW, if anyone wants to share a cruise May 19th - 22nd, let me know!

This has truly been therapeutic for me and I'm sure it will be for others... thanks again!!

[PirateMel]

WOW, I didn't expect such wonderful responses!! This has put everything back into that magical perspective, and I almost shed a tear... almost :cool:.

But I think I may be a victim of WDW overstressed-itis.

What I will do is go back and look at the itinerary (for the 999th time :scared:) and come up with a more laid back plan. I will stick with mornings filled with rides and park events, maybe by noon take a boat to a resort for lunch, go back to hotel for a swim (maybe nap), then do a more relaxing evening either park or resort hopping. I won't stress rides as much as really trying to take it all in... Wow, I feel relaxed already :)

I will definitely PM some of you to get some ideas and I see that there's a chance of even meeting up with one or two folks. BTW, if anyone wants to share a cruise May 19th - 22nd, let me know!

This has truly been therapeutic for me and I'm sure it will be for others... thanks again!!

Have a magical trip!
PS. don't forget to slow down and smell the flowers

[Wasre]

Good for you! It sounds like you have a working plan that can change as you feel like it. Like everyone else has said, let the magic flow :wizard: and it will happen.

Don't worry too much about rides that are "too kiddie" like. As far as I've been concerned with anything Disney, there's really no such thing. :rolleyes1 I was just down in WDW, my second trip there, but I'm a fairly frequent traveler to DL in California since it's closer for me. I normally go solo to the parks, however, this last trip, I met up with some folks from DISBoards and found a whole new level of enjoyment for some of the rides.

For example, "The Voyage of the Little Mermaid" in DHS, I would never have even thought about going to see that as a solo, but the group I was with suggested going to see it and it was fantastic! :thumbsup2 The Tea Cups and Dumbo in MK. I always hated those rides as a kid, mostly because I always got stuck riding with my older brother who didn't want to fly or spin so it was boring to me. I rode those during EMH with this group and it was sooooooooooo much fun. :cool1:

I don't think it can be said enough. You might find rides that you'll leave it and think, that was ok for this time, but I doubt I'll do that again, others you'll find yourself saying I wanna do that again! Whichever you find, be your own judge. :woohoo: Take a day in one of the parks to just walk around and if you find something that looks interesting go for it.

Enjoy your trip! I just got back, but I'm ready to go again now, but the next planned trip isn't until December.

[Figment_Fan]

Don't worry about the negative joecavalier. I took my GF, at the time, to WDW in the early part of our relationship. We had a blast. Nobody knows what will trigger magic, one ride for some, other rides for others. Maybe no ride, but a show, or sight, or smell. The whole experience matters. That GF became, and is still, my DW. We have taken the kids since they were young, and will continue to do so. We look forward to going again without kids, but that can wait a while longer. We want to give the kids the memory of the magic so that they can make magic for their future trips.

Besides, its a vacation, how can you go wrong?

[OregonGirl]

Hi Joe -

I just wanted to chime in because I glanced at that thread (which I've never stumbled across myself), and wanted to say that even IF some of the rides mentioned aren't a cool as others in WDW - there are literally thousands of rides/experiences/tours/restaurants/shops to patron while in WDW and, frankly, you probably won't get to do everything you want to do in 4.5 days, much less 2.

In other words, stick to your original day plans (although I find as an adult with no kids slowing down and enjoying the entire experience over a bunch of rides is a nice perk) and trust that there will be more available to you that you can possibility accomplish (a good thing), and that you'll likely reach the end of your vacation thinking about how next time you'll need more days.

Since you and your GF are older with no kids, here are some adult only suggestions that may help put things in perspective:

1) Walk around the World Showcase and sample all the different beers, or all the different desserts.
2) Watch all the movies offered at the various world showcase countries, especially the ones AFTER the rides.
3) Ride the monorail from the transportation and ticket center to EPCOT AND BACK, just because you can and because you get a great bird's eye view of EPCOT that way.
4) Ride Expedition Everest 4 times in a row using the single rider line. You and your GF will get to be together all the way up until the actual ride, and then it doesn't really matter.
5) Ride the MK train all the way around the park.
6) Treat your GF to a Grand Floridian SPA while you hang out at their beach or listen to the piano player in the lounge.
7) Get a Victoria and Albert's ressie.
8) Sleep in and stay out till 2 AM
9) Check out the Boardwalk at night.
10) Take your time through the two forest trails at AK.

Some total plus's (in my opinion) of NOT having kids:

1) You don't have to stand in those God awful long lines just to get character signatures.
2) You can skip fantasyland completely if you want and not really miss much.
3) You can quickly weave through crowds and strollers cause you won't have some kid's hand to hold.
4) No tantrums.
5) No diapers.
6) No bathroom breaks every 10 minutes.
7) All your shopping can be spent on YOU.
8) Pretty much all the carnival type rides can be bypassed (tomorrowland speedway, astro orbiter, Dumbo, heck even Nemo, etc...) they're fun, but trust me there are plenty of WAY COOLER rides in WDW.
9) You're not responsible for someone else.
10) You can change your plans whenever you want, you can do whatever you want, you can go where ever you want.

DISCLAIMER BECAUSE I DON'T WANT TO START ANY FIGHTS:

1) I am not against kids. I plan to have one someday.
2) I realize some adults might really like Dumbo, or the speedway, and that's totally cool.
3) I realize not all kids wear diapers.
4) I have nothing against characters.
5) I realize adults can throw tantrums too.
6) I realize that my suggestions aren't strictly *adult ONLY* except for maybe the alcohol part.
7) I realize that kids aren't just total tantrum throwing, potty going, stroller needing, character obsessed monsters - I'm sure its a whole different, albeit still equally enjoyable experience going to WDW with kids and I'm am totally down with that.

But this is the adults/singles forum, right?...

Ok, I have written WAY too long of a reply. Have fun Joe and GF! :)

[joecavalier]

Hi Joe -

I just wanted to chime in because I glanced at that thread (which I've never stumbled across myself), and wanted to say that even IF some of the rides mentioned aren't a cool as others in WDW - there are literally thousands of rides/experiences/tours/restaurants/shops to patron while in WDW and, frankly, you probably won't get to do everything you want to do in 4.5 days, much less 2.

In other words, stick to your original day plans (although I find as an adult with no kids slowing down and enjoying the entire experience over a bunch of rides is a nice perk) and trust that there will be more available to you that you can possibility accomplish (a good thing), and that you'll likely reach the end of your vacation thinking about how next time you'll need more days.

Since you and your GF are older with no kids, here are some adult only suggestions that may help put things in perspective:

1) Walk around the World Showcase and sample all the different beers, or all the different desserts.
2) Watch all the movies offered at the various world showcase countries, especially the ones AFTER the rides.
3) Ride the monorail from the transportation and ticket center to EPCOT AND BACK, just because you can and because you get a great bird's eye view of EPCOT that way.
4) Ride Expedition Everest 4 times in a row using the single rider line. You and your GF will get to be together all the way up until the actual ride, and then it doesn't really matter.
5) Ride the MK train all the way around the park.
6) Treat your GF to a Grand Floridian SPA while you hang out at their beach or listen to the piano player in the lounge.
7) Get a Victoria and Albert's ressie.
8) Sleep in and stay out till 2 AM
9) Check out the Boardwalk at night.
10) Take your time through the two forest trails at AK.

Some total plus's (in my opinion) of NOT having kids:

1) You don't have to stand in those God awful long lines just to get character signatures.
2) You can skip fantasyland completely if you want and not really miss much.
3) You can quickly weave through crowds and strollers cause you won't have some kid's hand to hold.
4) No tantrums.
5) No diapers.
6) No bathroom breaks every 10 minutes.
7) All your shopping can be spent on YOU.
8) Pretty much all the carnival type rides can be bypassed (tomorrowland speedway, astro orbiter, Dumbo, heck even Nemo, etc...) they're fun, but trust me there are plenty of WAY COOLER rides in WDW.
9) You're not responsible for someone else.
10) You can change your plans whenever you want, you can do whatever you want, you can go where ever you want.

DISCLAIMER BECAUSE I DON'T WANT TO START ANY FIGHTS:

1) I am not against kids. I plan to have one someday.
2) I realize some adults might really like Dumbo, or the speedway, and that's totally cool.
3) I realize not all kids wear diapers.
4) I have nothing against characters.
5) I realize adults can throw tantrums too.
6) I realize that my suggestions aren't strictly *adult ONLY* except for maybe the alcohol part.
7) I realize that kids aren't just total tantrum throwing, potty going, stroller needing, character obsessed monsters - I'm sure its a whole different, albeit still equally enjoyable experience going to WDW with kids and I'm am totally down with that.

But this is the adults/singles forum, right?...

Ok, I have written WAY too long of a reply. Have fun Joe and GF! :)


this is ABSOLUTE GOLD... Thanks OregonGirl!!

[crisi]

Many attractions are "charming" or "kitchy" or "sentimental." Others are "educational" - a few are "thrilling."

Let each attraction please you for what it is. But also, know yourself. You don't have to do everything and if you don't like roller coasters, space mountain isn't going to be a lot of fun. If you don't enjoy educational things "Livin with the Land" is going to be a long line for a boat ride that talks about agriculture. If you aren't big on charming and sentimental, Small World is going to be overly sweet and cloying.

[Missytara]

WOW, I didn't expect such wonderful responses!! This has put everything back into that magical perspective, and I almost shed a tear... almost :cool:.

But I think I may be a victim of WDW overstressed-itis.

What I will do is go back and look at the itinerary (for the 999th time :scared:) and come up with a more laid back plan. I will stick with mornings filled with rides and park events, maybe by noon take a boat to a resort for lunch, go back to hotel for a swim (maybe nap), then do a more relaxing evening either park or resort hopping. I won't stress rides as much as really trying to take it all in... Wow, I feel relaxed already :)

I will definitely PM some of you to get some ideas and I see that there's a chance of even meeting up with one or two folks. BTW, if anyone wants to share a cruise May 19th - 22nd, let me know!

This has truly been therapeutic for me and I'm sure it will be for others... thanks again!!

It is so nice to get responses back from people, that the Disboards have made a difference.

What you mentioned is exactly what I do; get there early and get through the parks, get back around mid-afternoon and get some pool time in and then do a wonderful dinner and come back to the resort and sit in the lounge and drink and watch a football game.

Have a wonderful time!

[Missytara]

DISCLAIMER BECAUSE I DON'T WANT TO START ANY FIGHTS:

5) I realize adults can throw tantrums too.



I had one of those last year, but I prefer to call it a "meltdown."

I took two college aged girls that work in the local watering hole I eat at - and one of them was constantly "fighting" with her boyfriend via texting the entire time. I finally had enough, when she looked at her friend and said, "Why do I have to deal with while I am down here."

I went off - I said, seriously, why do you?

I apologized and she apologized as well. She did finally realize it was really ruining things and we had a good time after that.

[OregonGirl]

Joe - Happy to help. :) I also agree with Tara and yourself about the AM parks, mid afternoon nap, pool time, dinner, evening parks idea. It works out well.

Tara - :rotfl: We all have our little meltdowns. Because I am from Oregon, I admit that I have had one or two while at WDW and they are usually associated with the actual temperature because I consider any above 70degrees HOT!!! :)

[Goofy4]

Do the single-rider thing on Test Track as well!

And if you head over to the Boardwalk area, you must wander in to Beaches & Cream at the YC/BC.

Be prepared for the photo op at SOA after you check in. They will stop by your table during the show to give you an opportunity to purchase the photo(s), or just ask someone to snap some pictures using your camera.

[duffy]

My husband and I are going for our first adults-only trip this November.

I read that thread, and was amused by a lot of the posts. You have to go in with a happy, ready to be amused attitude. Just relax.

But, back to that thread: for the first post, the one where they dis Maelstrom, the first thing I thought of was the beginning of the ride, when the narrator says, "Yew are not the furrrst...", in a very heavy Norwegian accent. :rotfl2:

Man, we love that quote! :confused3 :rotfl: For hours after riding it, we keep telling each other things like: "yeewww arrrre not the fuurrrrrrst to want a driiinnnnk." So, even though the ride is a bit dull, it's just a part of the whole Norway experience. And remember, yeewwww arrrre not the fuurrrrst person to be underwhelmed by it.

What it's about for us, is taking a break and resting our feet a while after having stood for the China film-if we are touring counter-clockwise. The same goes for the Mexican boat ride: it's a silly ride, but it's just a nice way to rest a bit.

[daisax]

I don't think it can be said enough. You might find rides that you'll leave it and think, that was ok for this time, but I doubt I'll do that again, others you'll find yourself saying I wanna do that again!

Very, very true. I can't say there are any really BAD rides (well, except maybe Mexico!), but some are heavy on charm and low on spine tingling excitment.

The thing is, you never know what's going to strike your fancy. A lot has to do with mood. If you're strolling through the park, having fun, you never know how a ride will strike you. Sometimes the silliest kiddie ones will give you a little thrill. I don't bother with Dumbo when it's broad daylight and the line is long in the hot sun, but in the evening when it's a walk on, it just makes me start giggling as soon as I'm in it. There's nothing more to it than what you see from the ground, but maybe it just reminds me of being little, or it's just dorky enough that I feel like it's as far away from my work life as I've felt in ages, and that's liberating.

There's something about the kiddie rides (especially at night) that makes me feel like I'm playing hookie from real life and all its responsibilites, I guess.

We don't drop our guards enough in life -- in WDW we do. Don't get too caught up in your itinerary. Leave some room to just say "let's do that again right now!"

[joecavalier]

Very, very true. I can't say there are any really BAD rides (well, except maybe Mexico!), but some are heavy on charm and low on spine tingling excitment.

The thing is, you never know what's going to strike your fancy. A lot has to do with mood. If you're strolling through the park, having fun, you never know how a ride will strike you. Sometimes the silliest kiddie ones will give you a little thrill. I don't bother with Dumbo when it's broad daylight and the line is long in the hot sun, but in the evening when it's a walk on, it just makes me start giggling as soon as I'm in it. There's nothing more to it than what you see from the ground, but maybe it just reminds me of being little, or it's just dorky enough that I feel like it's as far away from my work life as I've felt in ages, and that's liberating.

There's something about the kiddie rides (especially at night) that makes me feel like I'm playing hookie from real life and all its responsibilites, I guess.

We don't drop our guards enough in life -- in WDW we do. Don't get too caught up in your itinerary. Leave some room to just say "let's do that again right now!"

Now this is some "magical" advice :)

[ronnmel]

Last we went with FI's daughter. We loved that trip, but right now we are planning our honeymoon just the two of us for next year! :cloud9:

Like you, we plan on doing lots of rides in the morning, a break at the resort, DTD, or doing something slow in the park for the afternoon, then hopping to a different park at night and just stroll around more leisurely.

Things we want to do that we couldn't do with his daughter:
- Tower of Terror (She's scared of it)
- Bigger water slides (scared of them as well)
- Drink around the world :rotfl:
- Try out more "adult" rides that she probably would have found boring, like Carousel of Progress
- Be sitting together on every ride :lovestruc
- Watch Wishes from the Poly beach
- Stroll through Animal Kingdom in the dark during evening EMH
- Not worry about if she's too tired, or bored, or hungry, or...

(yes, I do realize we could have done some of the above with her, but it would not have had the same *romantic* feeling)

I wish I could afford La Nouba, that is such a great event you have planned for the two of you. :)

[kehlyrsmom]

My husband and I are leaving in 3 days for our anniversary trip and have 6 days planned at the parks. My husbands first trip was on our honeymoon, I had been a couple of times as a kid. We have taken our children ages 10 & 9 every year since 06 and have a tripped planned with them this September.

We have been counting down the days until our adult only trip. There are alot of things that we have not done with the kids along. I usually plan the park we are going to for the day and the ADR other then that I do not plan anything else. So keep your current plans I am sure your GF will have a great time. I'm sure we will do it's a small world, and Peter Pan's flight and many others.

[sunshine74]

My DH and I went to WDW 10 years ago, soon after we were married, and had an absolute blast. It really created our love for WDW. Since our DD was born 6 years ago, we have made at least 6 trips, always with the kids in tow. Each time we go, we remember the freedom and different kind of fun we had in the parks without kids.

Now, finally, 10 years later we are going back 2 days from now for an adults only long weekend. I could not be more excited!!! :woohoo: Don't get me wrong, I love to experience the parks, the characters, the magic through the eyes of a 5 and 2 year old. But, boy am I looking forward to a trip that does not at all focus on proximity to a bathroom, how to get from park to park with strollers in tow, or scheduling meals to see every character!

Enjoy your trip, and I hope that the magic captures you and your DGF's hearts as well. Soon you'll be like the rest of us, trying to figure out how quickly you can make a trip back!

[disney_mommy]

I also contributed to the other thread about the ride I was disappointed in. But that was just my opinion; you may have the complete opposite reaction. I say, try everything you want and form your own opinions. You may not like something, but at least you can say you tried it at least once!

I did a solo trip a few months ago and had a blast. WDW is definitely not a place just for kids.

Have an amazing time. Also, I think you should win the boyfriend of the year award!

[Gladys Kravitz]

My DH and I don't have children and we love WDW.
Of course when I insisted he go on IASW, it broke down-boy do we laugh about that now all these years later ; and he refuses to ever ride it again.
I recommend The Adventurer's Club at Downtown Disney for a few drinks some evening.
Enjoy.

[sleepydog25]

The last post reminded me that some of my best memories come from less than wonderful experiences. . .at that time. lol A ride-which-shall-remain-nameless was wonderful the first day of my last trip, so on my last evening during EMH, I went back to it and was caught in the suffocating heat of a bazillion bodies and no way out except to climb over people, railings, and walls. I consider it one of the funnier episodes in my Disney Historical Archive (conviently located deep in the inner membrane of my noggin). We can make great memories with the greatest aggravations.

Let me add a few of my own adult things you can do:
1) Not only stroll the grounds at WL, but take the sandy trail that leads out from behind the bike shop there. It follows along the lake for a few minutes, then you can hang a right on an offshoot trail that leads to the paved path between FW and WL or just keep going along the lake. You won't pass many, if any, people.
2) The beach chairs at WL beach are a fun way to catch Wishes (albeit only the high shooting elements) and the EWP. And you might have most of the beach to yourself.
3) Visit other resorts just to look around. Check out the theming, the decor, and maybe some food.
4) Ride RnR single rider. . .at least three times in a row.
5) Pick a resort, any resort, and have a drink at the pool bar. . .or two. . .or three. . .
6) Sneak out to a hot tub after midnight.
7) If it's going to be a warm evening, chill a nice white then find a quiet spot at your resort and drink it while reflecting on the day(s). Better yet, take chocolate with you, too.
8) Order room service your last morning.
9) During an evening EMH, buy a Mickey Bar (yeah, sharing is where it's at), and find a relaxing place to watch the magic going on around you. For every hurried couple or family, you'll see twice that many enjoying the fun and laughing enough to make it contagious.

The surprise of taking the turn off I-4 will, indeed, be worth countless memories in the future. Enjoy it and the trip. ;)

[verlee]

As someone who has gone with my kids and also just me and DH, I hate to say it, but the trip that was just me and DH was WONDERFUL!!!!! I would do it every year if I could with just the two of us. Our style of touring was so much different without the kids. We could just leisurely take in the parks rather than rushing to rides. Don't get me wrong, I enjoy the trips with my kids and those have their own special memories.

As for rides geared towards kids, aren't we all kids at heart? I love going on them all!! (I love Fantasyland, especially Pooh)

This!!! DH and I went for my birthday earlier this yr. Everyone (even ppl on the DIS)thought I was crazy for going w/o the kids.I second guessed going up to the day we left. I can honestly say we had a blast! It was so fun. Now don't get me wrong I had fun with the kids but w/o the kids was really fun in a whole new way. Disney World is most definately for adults.:woohoo:

[janiejake]

Haven't read anyone else's response yet, but your question grabbed me. Of course you should still go, and for as many days as you can! Don't cut it short by a minute. Now that our kids have gotten older, we've been lucky enough to go as a couple for a week to 10 days, and that is not enough(for us)... Do what you can. Stop and smell the roses. People watch, and do which ever rides you can...be sure to use FastPass when it makes sense (which is most of the time). There is NOTHING that you need children for here(except kidstops and babycare centers, lol)...pack your own sense of wonder and enjoyment and just have FUN!

[Missytara]

I recommend The Adventurer's Club at Downtown Disney for a few drinks some evening.
Enjoy.


Actually, sadly, the Adventurer's Club in Pleasure Island closed in 2008.

There is a new place there called Paradisio 37, which is a south american restaurant. Also Raglan Road, which is an Irish Pub that has entertainment. Both are very cool.

[Shih-Tzu]

;)Hmmmm - there's attractions and rides people may call lame, but to me, each one is somehow part of Disney culture...and there's always something that makes it fun...or we notice things we didn't see before. Some of the OPs here have excellent ideas...

My DH and I are in late 50s/early 60s and last September, we went on almost everything...we had been on some of them before on our first visit (with kids) but after all, it IS WDW!!!! Now I'm sure there were a few raised eyebrows when we went on Dumbo last September (with grey hair shining in the sun and laughing like two 6-year olds), and there's amusement parks and county fairs everywhere all summer long with something similar, but this is the ride that was on the opening "trailer" for the Disney show that we grew up with and longed to be able to go to someday....(and I'll be on it again, God willing - in December!!!).

There's something about Disney that makes us drop every bit of dignity that we have into the first garbage bin that we see on our way into the gates (note I said dignity - not manners or common sense)...I suspect it's just because it's supposed to be a fun place...and if I am on the Dumbo ride, or the Mad Hatter's Tea Cups having a whale of a time, what's the chances of someone I know seeing me that's from the stuffy corporate headquarters a thousand miles away???:confused3

We find Disney an escape from "reality" which is probably why we enjoy it and are returning again (one of those things we CAN do now that the kids and associated college bills and tuitions are behind us)- and we now go at our own pace...no more setting the alarm clock to get to rope drop, no more running to get to the next attraction (probably couldn't if we wanted to :lmao:) but there are other things to enjoy....we have taken delight and pleasure in many things that different boards and threads have said were lame, boring, etc...Just don't over plan (the mistake of our 1st trip) and stop to admire and enjoy the whole experience.

THE ONLY THING THAT SHUTS OUT ANY DISNEY FUN OR GREAT EXPERIENCE IS A CLOSED MIND;) That's the motto I have for my trips

[iheartpluto]

I will stick with mornings filled with rides and park events, maybe by noon take a boat to a resort for lunch, go back to hotel for a swim (maybe nap), then do a more relaxing evening either park or resort hopping. I won't stress rides as much as really trying to take it all in... Wow, I feel relaxed already :)

This is exactly what DH and I did on our honeymoon! It's really great to just take a break in the middle of the day and have some down time by the pool (and yes, it is possible to nap while at WDW!) La Nouba is FABULOUS! So amazing. I highly recommend taking a stroll along the beach from the Polynesian to the Grand Floridian (or vice versa) especially while the Electrical Water Pageant goes by... DH and I are going back for our first anniversary, and this trip has a lot less ADR's, and a lot less activities, and I think it will be even more relaxed and more fun! You're great to surprise your GF with a trip like this and I know you will have a magical time. Enjoy!

[Vivianne]

We are a childless couple who have been going to Disney at least 2 times a year. since 1986. We have a great time every time. Initially, we did every park commando for a least 5 years. Now, we just go to 2 parks Epcot and MK. Then we rent a private pool home for some down time.

I never believe in making comparisons because it all depends on
1) Time when you're going. Events during that time.
2) Weather
3) Resorts you're staying at and even then it luck of the draw.
4) People

We always do EMH evenings at both MK and Epcot. We were there just last April/early May and have still found that the later you do EMH, with a plan, you won't encounter large crowds. Especially in rainy weather, people just leave. Take a midday break and you'll be well-rested for those late night hours. Just do the attractions/rides you know won't be open during EMH and then take your time doing the rest later.

We've been going for years and still enjoy the parks thoroughly. you're definitely going to enjoy the park experience together. Have fun. Don't worry about the rest...no trip is perfect.

Now if you're a beach person, the beach will always be waiting on a future trip. :)

We also dined at Paradiso 37 at DTD, Kona, UK at Epcot and enjoyed ourselves. The great thing about Disney is you can try something different everytime. Different people like different things..don't feel down because you read about someone else's failed expectation.

Enjoy your trip! You may have to go back for more.

[deerhart]

Okay, so I'm planning this birthday surprise for my DGF (37) who has always dreamed of going to WDW. I myself (40) havent been to WDW since I was 8 yrs old, so I will be like a newbie myself (I was a fan of Mr. Toad's Wild Ride :hyper: )

Over the last month I have poured myself into these boards trying to make sure I have the best plan in place for a truly WONDERFUL 4 1/2 day vacation/anniversay/birthday surprise (May 18th - May 22nd). I have my itinerary set, ADRs are pretty much in place, La Nouba and SOA are my only enetertainment ressies as of now, and I've invested in touringplans.com and Ridemax to make sure I'm doing this all with some direction.

So I log in today and my heart sunk when I saw this thread (http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2457618). It seems that a lot of the major rides I am busting my **** to plan around are simply not worth it for adults... but very enjoyable if you have children to share their excitement with.



To each their own. DH and I love just about every ride at Disney. Yes even the more cheesy ones like the Mexican ride (loved Maelstrom as well). We like rides that our kids hate! (BTW we honeymooned at Disney as well. DH wanted to take me because I had always wanted to go there). I am the person that the first time at MK rode ITSW 3 times and took over 50 pictures!



Should I plan a more subdued vacation instead of focusing on trying to "get it all done" in our short time there? Are there events/activities that I should be investing my energy (and money) in that I am not aware about? Should I just shorten my trip for a 2 day WDW excursion and head to the beach? Are there specific itineraries for adults that would allow has to have a more adult oriented vacation (ie. not spending too much time in lines for rides that are for kids when we can be focusing our energies elsewhere?)

I can honestly say that my motivation has taken a hit, but I am still hoping for the best. I mean, I never would've planned this vacation for myself, but to see the excitement on my DGF's face when we make that turn off of I-4 instead of going to the beach will be priceless. I just want to make sure that by the end of the week we are reminiscing about our wonderful, magical filled vacation... rather than be exhausted and disappointed from rushing around a mammoth theme park waiting in lines to rides that were never meant for us :confused3

I could use a pep talk, and if you are regular WDW vacationing couple (without kids) I could certainly use some pointers.

TYSMIA!!


It is entirely up to you. How do YOU like to spend your vacation time. Me, I would last about 3 hours on the beach and that was ONLY if I brought my kindle to read a book during those three hours!! I want to be out doing something (museums, rides, heck even shopping would be preferable).

Now my kids are a little older (10 and 7.5) and we started taking them to Disney two years ago but it has always had a mixture of adult versus kids versus family. Hence why we ALWAYS do at least 1 sit down a day and why this year all the boys are being dragged to a princess meal (just for me!!). But DH and I are just as content to let them head to bed, sit out on the hallway/balcony/ etc from our room with a bottle of wine and relax!

If it was me, I would do what you want to do, skip things that you don't want to do, eat nice dinners, get some wine from Epcot and have a good time! The worst thing that would happen is that you ride Snow white, hate it, and don't ride it again. But then YOU have made a decision based on your likes and thoughts versus someone elses. As adults, you could simply hit all the shows and have an enjoyable time without ever going on a ride (I WILL make it to Beauty and the Beast this year if I have to tie my kids up and gag them!!!)

Disney is a very magical place for many people. For some of us, its a spot to relax and well tap into our inner child that we don't get to express all that often. There are a huge amount of things that I wish we had done while we went just the two of us that we have now done with our kids (like the character meets, we only did Mickey). Each time we go, we get an entirely different vacation because its based on our mood when we go. Honeymoon, trying to hit all the major rides, same with 1st visit with kids, last year much more laid back more shows more shopping, this year probably even more laid back, taking in resorts and more atmosphere.

So, if riding dumbo is going to bring a smile to your face, then who cares if it's geared towards kids. The point of it is to enjoy yourself and to gather as much magic as you can!

[SouthernExplorer]

Pick up the Unofficial Guide to WDW by Bob Sehlinger. The guidebook has age-specific ratings for the attractions, shows, and rides. It also has park touring plans catered to different age groups, and families.

I too was once a fan of Mr. Toad's Wild Ride, and then I rode it :rolleyes: I should have taken the guidebook's advice and skipped it. If you are interested in the NASA space programs then I would strongly advise going to the Kennedy Space Center.

[qohweddings]

My DP and I are DVC members and go to WDW, DL or DCL about two times a year....

WE definately have our favorites, some we do occassionally to be nostalgic, and a few that we've done, enjoyed, but don't rush to back...too many other fun options.

Two years ago we took two friends - she's a California girl, raised on DL and had never been to WDW, he hadn't been to WDW since '82....


It was like having two little kids with us - eyes up / jaw down....all the "kiddie" rides...

We had fun just watching them....all the fun of going with little kids, but no naps, no meltdown, could be left on thier own, stay up late and ild enough to have a beer!

I'm sure you and you DGF will have an AMAZING time!

[divacat80]

My first post on the boards!
I was asked this question a few days ago and i just had to reply to this thread... though there's nothing i can say that hasn't been said before :)

Of COURSE WDW is for adult couples!!! i have only been to disneyland paris with my husband (though i've been to both WDW and DL before) and we had fun even at the "kiddy" rides. If we found the attraction too childish for us there was no problem, we would pretend we were kids and letting the inner child come out (until we got off the ride at least) and we would have fun with each other's comments and laughter.

I know we probably won't be going to snow white or pinocchio again but we enjoyed going on those rides we would have liked to ride when we were kids

Enjoy your plan, and don't be afraid to make last-minute "on-site" changes if you feel you have to but don't be afraid to go on the caroussel or dumbo if you want to
besides, there are sooo many options for adults there

leave the "adult you" at the park entrance and you'll have the time of your life :D :wizard:

(sorry for my English! )

[Footnotegirl]

Eh.
In my opinion, people who say that a ride is 'just for kids' or 'only fun with kids' are saying that because they don't have any kid left in 'em.
I however, am going to stay immature for my whole life!

Seriously though, my husband and I have gone to Disney World twice now, and three Disney cruises. We are not dyed in the wool Disney people (or weren't when we started) but we absolutely love it. We basically take two kinds of trips, Adventure Travel types, where he and I go someplace we've never been before with very little plans and just go (example: England and Scotland with reservations only in London and a rental car set up for a week and a half to travel Scotland however we wanted). Or Relaxing Travel, where we go someplace easy where everything is taken care of.. which would be the Disney trips or visiting his mom in San Diego.

Disney is great for adults because adults notice the little things. The small imagineering touches, the street theater, etc. etc. Go, have fun, try any ride that sounds interesting to you, and forget about what anyone else says. Their vacations are different from yours, and what they enjoy is different from what you will enjoy.

[Missytara]

Pick up the Unofficial Guide to WDW by Bob Sehlinger. The guidebook has age-specific ratings for the attractions, shows, and rides. It also has park touring plans catered to different age groups, and families.

I too was once a fan of Mr. Toad's Wild Ride, and then I rode it :rolleyes: I should have taken the guidebook's advice and skipped it. If you are interested in the NASA space programs then I would strongly advise going to the Kennedy Space Center.

You should try everything at least once.....that's why I would not read a book that someone else wrote based on their opinion that I am too old to ride it?????

[EvilQueenT]

i'm a disney fanatic and can go from park open to end of emh (8a-3a in the summers). my husband doesn't like crowds and thought disney was just for kids until we took our first trip with just the two of us in july of 2007 for our anniversary. we stayed at the gf club level and had adrs for lunches and dinners. i made sure we were in the parks early (cooler temps) and around 2-3pm came back to the room to chill etc... and be cleaned up to go out for dinner and hit the parks again at night until end of emh (again cooler temps then). we approached it like a honeymoon and now he's hooked and can't believe it when people don't think disney is for adults...we've been back just the two of us several times since then. it's just a totally different experience depending on what type of group you go with. i wouldn't change your plans especially if your girlfriend loves disney... it will pay off for you in the long run lol.

[jessd_ct]

My boyfriend and I went together to Disney for the first time last September just us. We spent the whole time running around like crazy trying to see everything and while it was the best vacation I've ever been on I definitely suggest not trying to see everything. Remember you can always come back again.
We had such a good time that we had this year's trip booked before we even checked out of our hotel. I guarantee you no matter how you plan this or what you decide to do you will have the time of your lives and won't want to leave!

[Miriade]

We're going to WDW in September 2010. And it's a "just 2 of us":lovestruc trip, as we don't have kids.
It'll be our very first time in WDW.
We'd plan to do all the 4 majos parks, the water parks in a very slow pace and we do want to try the 'kid's attractions' b/c neither of us have ever been there and it's all new and magic.
I promised myself I will turn down all the 'grown-up' instincts and enjoy the place like a child, the only care I will need to have it's not getting sun-burned and do not blow away my credit card :laughing:

[Tawnya1112]

This is my first post on here as well I just had to respond to this. My DH(24) and I(22) went to WDW for the first time last year we do not have kids. DH was unsure about the whole thing but went along with it because I was so excited about it. After our week there we were both completely hooked we want to go as much as possible (hopefully every year) we will be going back in September. There are some rides that may be more geared to "kids" but we rode most of them and had a wonderful time. There is plenty to do as a couple and its a great experience to go somewhere and both just let loose and be kids again. One of the most romantic things we did was have dinner at California Grill and watch the fire works after at the top it was breath taking. I'm sure you and your DGF will have a wonderful trip!

[SamiL]

I was 28 my first trip. DH had been when he was 3 but didn't remember much (other than crying on the Tea Cups).

That first trip we arrived a little late, but still had some time to go to the Magic Kingdom before it closed for the night. We had just enough time to fit in two or three rides. We did Small World first. Then we saw something called "Stich's Great Escape." I remember I kept waiting for the ride to start. These harness things came down, so I thought at some point something had to happen--we'd spin or something. I don't know. There was no ride. The lights went out, Stich escaped (not really a surprise, given the name of the attraction) and the harnesses kind of bounced up and down, like he was jumping on them, then he burped and an Dorito-type fragrances filled the room. It was so lame. I remember telling my husband "I could have stayed home and had my brother burp in my face for free!"

But here's the thing--I LOVE that memory. I love laughing about it with my husband. It's part of our little adventure story together. When we're in our 80's and we're taking our hundredth trip to WDW we'll still laugh about that. We'll also laugh about what we call the "Solid Gold Aztec Dancers" that used to be on the Mexico ride in Epcot and the time the Honey Pots in the Winnie the Pooh ride kept stopping every few feet (We'd hear Tigger saying "I'd rather be hoppin' than stoppin'!).

We'll also remember the awesome rides we love. Splash Mountain, Everest, Soarin', Tower of Terror, etc. There are lots more that we love. But we just love to laugh about a few.

We really didn't do a ton of planning for that first trip. I bought the "Unofficial Guide" the night before we left and read over it on the drive down. We picked out several rides at each park for our "must do" list. Then we explored and tried random rides.

As we approached the end of the trip we knew we'd be back. So we chilled out and left some things for the next trip.

We just took our first family trip (with DS3) a few days into that trip we knew we'd be using our APs for an adult trip in September. It's a lot of fun to take your kid, but it's a totally different type of trip. When you go as an adult it's about you--being a kid again. Only with money and a later bedtime.

I predict you'll have a great time. Make flexible plans. Remember it will all (well most of it) still be there when you're ready to go again.

Let us know how it goes!

[TheFairestOfThemAll]

Just us girls in the family (my mom, my sister, my daughter, and myself) went to WDW last september. I just told my boyfriend that him and I need to go by ourselves! We have a lot of things going on in our lives right now and when it settles down a bit I think we need a "magical vacation" where we can just enjoy it and be young again! please keep posting suggestions because I LOVE the ideas you guys are sharing!!! :worship:

[EJKorvette]

My girlfriend and I vacation at only two places, Disney World and Vegas. We have been up to Disney World more times than I can remember. Neither of us have kids so it is always "Adults Only".

And we always have a great time. You don't need children to enjoy WDW. Granted we tend to do adult things like spend the first afternoon after we drive up drinking tropical drinks at the Polynesian bar, and have liquid lunches at England and Germany in Epcot. But we also enjoy more child-friendly things like Small World, and Stormalong Bay.

In fact our favorite resorts is/are The Beach/Yacht Club. I am not a character person per se, but I still enjoy it when Chip and Dale say hello at breakfast. Of course we appreciate the adults-only moments such as having drinks at the little bar next to the Yachtsman Steakhouse.

Someone mentioned this already, but we can appreciate the little things that add to the Disney magic, such as the landscaping, the decor of Minnie's kitchen in Toontown, and the chocolate-dipped Rice Krispie Treat Mickeys.

As for the rides, even a "lame" ride at Disney is worth doing (if the wait isn't too long).

Where else can just sitting and relaxing and drinking in the ambiance be so much rewarding?

Evan

[JenSop]

Disney is ABSOLUTELY for adults!!!

I've been going regularly since I was 8 years old, so some of the rides I love as an adult and some I love for the nostalgia.

You are spot on when you mentioned doing the parks in the AM, breaking after lunch, then heading out after dinner. My grandparents got us on that regular Disney routine when I was a kid, and I still do it to this day.

I loved the other poster who said that as an adult, you notice the little details so much more. So true! You can really appreciate the creativity that goes into every single thing you see.

Some of my advice:
*Magic Kingdom is it's most magical at night. That's when the pixie dust is definitely in the air! I highly recommend evening EMH at MK - stick it out till most of the people have called it a night. It's so awesome!

*At MK, don't miss Splash Mountain, Space Mountain, Big Thunder Mountain, Haunted Mansion, and Pirates. I can't understand how anyone could not love Pirates?!?!? (From that other thread.) Jungle Cruise is all about the bad puns. With the right CM, it's hilarious. The other rides in MK are more nostalgia for me, and I don't always ride them, but they're still fun when I do.

*Dining (and drinking!) at Disney are part of the fun for us! Head to the Polynesian and get some Lapu Lapu's. Man, I love those! (Strong alchoholic drink served in a carved out pineapple.)

*Really take in all of World Showcase. (I love practicing my German with the German CM's!) Learn about the countries! Drink their wonderful beverages!

*Take your time walking through the jungle treks at Animal Kingdom. I LOVE animals, and I enjoy this so, so much. At Animal Kingdom, the rides to hit first are Expedition Everest, Kilimanjaro Safari, and Dinosaur. Then just relax!

*Overall, know that you will NOT see everything. Disney is huge! If you go in knowing that, you can relax more. Disney will still be there on your next trip! (You know you'll be back!;))

*Don't miss Soarin'. It's great. When we took my parents and grandmother two years ago, my dad could not stop talking about it. He talked about it for a straight year after that trip...

*When people ask me what I love so much about Disney, I often tell them that I love it for two primary reasons:

My childhood nostalgia - I have so many wonderful memories from those childhood trips. My grandparents always let me help in the planning and it made me feel so special. When I'm on a ride in Magic Kingdom, for example, I really feel like I'm that little girl again, and all is right with the world. My grandfather's been passed away for 14 years now, but when I'm in Disney, I always feel like he's there with me.

I work in music/theatre/opera, etc. I so appreciate Disney's element of theatre - all around you at all times. You are completely immersed in a total experience during your whole trip. A ride is not just a ride - it has a storyline, and props, and scenery. Who else does that stuff?!?! You are no longer in the real world - you are in Disney!

Enjoy your trip. You will have such an amazing time! And you know we're all gonna want to hear about it when you get back!

[crazik]

The segway tour at epcot is fun. Also I have never been with children and my husband and I love all the rides in epcot ( just as much as the children :) Try soarin, test track.. And all the restaurants in the countries are great, try teppanyaki for a fun dinner. Enjoy@!!

[DFD]

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[disneyworldaddict]

Never been to Disney with small children. My daughter was 11 the first time we went...shes 20 now. my DH and I are going for our anniversary. Theres tons of stuff for adults to do, I love it!!!! I can't just go and sit on a beach somewhere for a week. Do what ever interests you. Just remeber you absolutely can't do it all, so pick the things you are most interested in and do them. Also try to relax and take in the surroundings. Disney is very detail orientated. There are numerous touches you can miss if you're too busy running from ride to ride.

[TDC Nala]

If your girlfriend is a Disney freak you will not be able to go wrong. Yes there are a lot of the "Disney is for children" posters on these boards. Heck I like Maelstrom and I've ridden it a lot of times. I won't wait around to ride it though.

[bellemeeko1]

LOVE going as a couple, dont get me wrong I loved going with my guys too but they are grown and 3 out on their own, and they all claim they are "Disneyed out!" anyway we went back in 86 before kids and then 2 yrs ago we went for our 22th anniversary and had a BLAST, we are going in a few weeks just the 2 of us again and next yr for our 25th anniversary and his 50th bday!! I love just people watching esp the young families thinking back when we were them....the rides are just as much fun as they were back then without hearing mom...mom...mom....constantly! I feel so much more relaxed and we just take our time and see and do whatever we feel like that day, somethings we do plan but for the most part we play it by ear. But if you ever get a chance to go as a couple I say go for it!! Who cares what others think! :0)