Non-park Things To Do

[msfredna]

I'm taking my 18 year-old and 5 year-old DDs to SSR for a week in March. We will probably just go to the parks a couple of days because my 5 year-old has sensory issues and also does not do well with long lines. We plan on hanging out at the pool and doing many of the resort activities. Our family LOOOVVVEESS Disney and use to go several times a year but we have only been twice since our 5 year-old was born. My Disney planning skills are a bit rusty.

Remind me of some other things we could do on property besides going to the parks- bonus points for activities that are free or inexpensive!

 

[Momee]

Over at Fort Wilderness every evening, they have Chip 'n' Dale's Campfire Sing-a-long and movie. It's free and anyone can attend. Super fun!
(It's BYOM (...marshmallows), if you don't want to pay for smores kits)

 

[MarBee]

I just wanted to give you this side note- look into the DAS pass for your daughter. It will help with the long lines issues.

As far as non-park things to do, you are so close to Disney Springs. My kids love window shopping there. They also usually have a show to catch there and other kid activities going on there. Idk if there’s a schedule of events- maybe someone more savvy then me could post it if there is one.

I also recommend checking out the Boardwalk area. Riding a surrey is a pretty cool activity!

 

[Momee]

Also, head over to Animal Kingdom Lodge to see the animals and there are other fun (and free) activities to do there as well. You can always ask for an activity guide at the front desk.

 

[msfredna]

I just wanted to give you this side note- look into the DAS pass for your daughter. It will help with the long lines issues.

As far as non-park things to do, you are so close to Disney Springs. My kids love window shopping there. They also usually have a show to catch there and other kid activities going on there. Idk if there’s a schedule of events- maybe someone more savvy then me could post it if there is one.

I also recommend checking out the Boardwalk area. Riding a surrey is a pretty cool activity!

I never considered getting her a DAS card. This could be life changing for us (at least as far as getting to go to Disney) She really legitimately needs one as her "needs" have kept us from going to Disney. I actually only agreed to go in March with one park day because she has has begged to go. As much as I really love Disney, I was not looking forward to the sensory overload and many meltdowns that were sure to be there. I'm sure this is controversial and I certainly don't need negative comments please, but has anyone else ever requested a DAS card for a child with similar needs? We certainly do not want to take advantage of the system but standing in even 30 minute lines is too much for her- who am I kidding, even 15 minute waits are far from bearable.

 

[ENJDisneyFan]

Mini golf is always fun....we like Fantasia Gardens. They used to give free passes if you book a package, but I'm not sure if that still happens.

 

[Hootenany]

I never considered getting her a DAS card. This could be life changing for us (at least as far as getting to go to Disney) She really legitimately needs one as her "needs" have kept us from going to Disney. I actually only agreed to go in March with one park day because she has has begged to go. As much as I really love Disney, I was not looking forward to the sensory overload and many meltdowns that were sure to be there. I'm sure this is controversial and I certainly don't need negative comments please, but has anyone else ever requested a DAS card for a child with similar needs? We certainly do not want to take advantage of the system but standing in even 30 minute lines is too much for her- who am I kidding, even 15 minute waits are far from bearable.

Absolutely look into DAS for her. We get it for our son who has multiple health issues, sensory issues as being one of them.

We loved Winter/Summerland mini-golf and if you book a magic your way package (resort and tickets) there will be coupons in the back of the book for a free round of mini-golf.
We also love touring the resorts, looking for hidden mickeys and watching the animals from AKL.

Good luck and have a great time!

 

[BobbyDukes]

At Port Orleans Riverside at the RiverRoost Lounge ( in main lobby) there is Yee-Haw Bob. If you dont know who this is, just Youtube it. Its a must do.

 

[MarBee]

I never considered getting her a DAS card. This could be life changing for us (at least as far as getting to go to Disney) She really legitimately needs one as her "needs" have kept us from going to Disney. I actually only agreed to go in March with one park day because she has has begged to go. As much as I really love Disney, I was not looking forward to the sensory overload and many meltdowns that were sure to be there. I'm sure this is controversial and I certainly don't need negative comments please, but has anyone else ever requested a DAS card for a child with similar needs? We certainly do not want to take advantage of the system but standing in even 30 minute lines is too much for her- who am I kidding, even 15 minute waits are far from bearable.

Check out the DISabilities forum. The DAS was designed for people like your daughter. If she needs it, get it for her. Then enjoy your trip

 

[Capitalangel]

DAS has been a lifesaver for my Sensory Kiddo. We don't use it huge amounts due to going off season, fastpasses, and shorter days in the parks but it has been great for the times he REALLY wanted to ride something but there was just no way he could do the wait (TSMM two years ago) we were able to "wait" but allow him room to have personal space to prevent/ lessen overload.

As far as things to do, my 7 year old and 4 year old LOVED riding the monorail around in circles last month lol. We did dinner and explored Animal Kingdom Lodge, pressed pennies at multiple resorts and Disney Springs, built Legos at Disney Springs, we also resort hopped and checked out Art of Animation and posed with the life sized cars.

 

[DisneyTravelers2008]

I realize all sensory issues are different...have you tried noise blocking earphones? Dont know if that would help but I see lots of kids with them in the parks.

As for non park things, there are some great suggestions......visiting the AL resort and seeing the animals is fun!

Port Orleans does a carriage ride.

Ft Wilderness has several things ....wagon and carriage rides and maybe even canoes and kayaking.

 

[isabellea]

My 5yo loved playing in the water fountain (water coming out from walkway) at Disney Springs. They are close to the Christmas shop.