Offsite Disney Attractions?

[lfw]

I am planning to do 10 days offsite with a 5 day park hopper plus( I think that gives me 5 park days/2 waterpark) the other 3 days will be universal/IOA, seaworld and maybe a day hanging out at the pool, etc. On the days that I am not going to be in the main parks, I don't want to waste my admission by going in in the evening to see fireworks and parades, but I would like to take advantage of any entertainment that is offered at the resorts. How do I find out what is offered, start times etc. I know that I can rent a poontoon from the Beach Club and see Illuminations, and I can see the Electric Parade from Poly, and I think the Hoop-de-doo Revue is at FW, but I don't know what else is offered. If it wasn't for the great info on these boards I wouldn't know any of this! I checked on Disney's website but could only find info listed on the attractions at the parks themselves. Also, can you dine in the restaurants in the parks without park admission, i.e Liberty Tree Tavern character dinner on a non park day? Not a huge deal as I'm sure we can fit it in during the 5 park days, but just a "nice to know". This is our first trip, and although I know we can't see/do everything, I want to experience as much as we can!