Things to do outside of the parks

[EagleFlyer]

We're going to be making out first (of many, I hope) trip to DW the week after thanksgiving. We're arriving on Saturday in the afternoon. We don't want to use one of our park tickets that day so I was looking for suggestions of things to do at the resorts that don't require admission to one of the parks. It'll be me, my wife, and our two daughters (ages 5 and 2) and we're staying at ASMo. Here's what I've got so far as possibilities:

-Stop by some of the deluxe resorts to see the Christmas decorations
-Take a boat ride from the Port Orleans resort to Downtown Disney
-Spend some time at the pool if the weather's nice enough

Anything else?

 

[Tigger's ally]

Downtown and the Westside for shopping, eating and stuff.
Ditto for the Boadwalk.
AK, sit at the pool bar for a while or watch the animals from the public viewing areas. Note that there is a great viewing area right behind the main pool at jambo.

 

[Butterflygirl35]

Sing a long at Fort Wilderness with Campfire and Chip n Dale

 

[Mickeygolf]

You mentioned it in your post but I would highly advise you to check out the Grand Floridan and the ginger bread house. It is really cool!!! Also Wilderness Lodge has incredible decorations up for the holidays.

Another great area to check out is the Boardwalk. There is so much going on over there during the day and evening. Good luck!!!

 

[Ashmanarion]

I would recommend Downtown Disney as well. We never spend too much time there but it is neat to shop there. If I was going at the time you are, the first thing on my list would be seeing Christmas decorations at the resorts. Resort hopping is very fun to us and you could even grab a small meal at one of the resorts. I recommend the Dole Whip at the Poly.

 

[mickeyluv'r]

During the holidays, tour ing resorts is great.


Another off the beaten path idea is seeing Hoop de Doo. It's a fun show and will most certainly put you in the Disney mood.

I also hear that touring Ft.Wilderness is a very special holiday experience.


Another option is taking the free boat shuttles, and maybe walking around the Boardwalk area.