Wedding planning can be stressful and exhausting. After all that decision fatigue, planning a trip to a country where we didn’t know the language or exchange rate seemed overwhelming. Not wanting to compromise on adventure or romance, Walt Disney World seemed to check all the boxes for a great honeymoon. So we drove an hour up the road from Tampa, Florida and spent our one week vacation at “the happiest place on Earth.” The entire trip turned out to be a dream come true.
In hopes of adding a sprinkle of pixie dust to other couple’s travel plans, I compiled a list of tips that might help you plan your own Ultimate Disney Honeymoon.
1. Splurge on Your Stay.
We wanted our honeymoon to be nothing short of magical, and knew the hotel we chose would set the tone for our trip. We felt positively spoiled entering our room that first day at the Four Season Orlando and wowing at every swanky feature and elegant detail. We had an amazing view off the balcony, with Cinderella’s Castle in the distance. The service was impeccable too. Upon checking in, we were led by our agent through the lobby to our room. Along the way, she gave us a little bit of a tour, pointing out some of the amenities. The staff was very friendly and helpful, always smiling. It was the perfect setting to start life of wedded bliss with my Prince Charming.
If you’re uneasy about blowing your budget on several days of luxury digs, consider splitting up your stay with two hotels at different price points. After staying a few nights at the Four Seasons, we moved on to the more moderately priced Swan and Dolphin to finish up our trip. We loved changing our surroundings and finding different places to explore at each hotel– it was like two vacations in one!
2. Go Behind-the-Scenes.
If (like us) you’ve been to Walt Disney World more times than you can count, one of the ways to make this stay extra special is by booking a behind-the-scenes tour. There are a variety to choose from, depending on your park and interest preferences.
Adventurous? Epcot Seas tours allow you to dive into one of the largest saltwater aquariums in the world or have an up close dolphin encounter. History buffs? Discover park secrets and explore the famous “Utiladors” during Keys to the Kingdom or Backstage Magic tours.
We went on safari through the Wild Africa Trek tour and got up close access to giraffes, crocs, and hippos. It did not disappoint! The experience looked so authentic that upon posting photos of our adventure on social media, a confused friend asked if we were in Africa.
3. Indulge in a Romantic Meal
Have a dinner you’ll talk about for years to come. We dined at Victoria and Albert’s, the AAA 5-Diamond award-winning restaurant at The Grand Floridian on the first night of our honeymoon. It was exceptional. My husband is a picky, meat and potatoes guy, but even he couldn’t stop gushing over how delicious the food was. Every course was a work of art and every detail was perfect, right down to the harpist who serenaded the dining room with classical renditions of Disney tunes.
Make your Advanced Dining Reservations (ADR’s) early to ensure you’re able to dine at your top picks. You can make reservation 180 days out-– I scheduled a calendar reminder in my phone so I didn’t forget to book a table as soon as I was able.
4. Memory Maker is a Must!
To avoid a photo album full of photos taken at arms’ length, we purchased Memory Maker in advance for our trip. Over our weeklong stay, we really got our money’s worth. We took pictures wherever we saw a Disney PhotoPass photographer, and made sure to ask for additional “magic shots” at each stop. After our trip, we downloaded digital copies of photos taken in the park (including rides). The “magic shots” were especially fun to view!
5. Watch the Fireworks Together
Every night is a celebration on your Honeymoon, so why not celebrate with nightly fireworks? There are many great places to watch the fireworks together, but our favorite spot to view them was from California Grill. Just before dessert arrived at our table we walked out onto their large balcony where we were treated to a magnificent view of the castle. The music piped in over the speakers as we were treated to the most amazing fireworks show we had ever seen. Check fireworks times to coordinate your restaurant reservation, and step out onto the balcony early to get a good view.
6. Dress the Part.
There’s no shortage of places online to find Disney couples’ themed clothing– my hubby and I ordered his-and-hers Disney sweatshirts from a vendor on Etsy. To accessorize your coordinated duds, be sure to ask for celebration buttons when you check in to your Disney hotel or enter the park. Though Mickey Groom ears and Minnie Bride Ears can be purchased at the park or through the Disney Store online, consider surprising your significant other with a personalized set as part of an “in-room celebration” through Disney Floral and Gifts.
7. Take in a Concert.
If you’re honeymooning during Epcot’s Food & Wine Festival or International Flower & Garden Festival your trip will likely coincide with a free outdoor concert. Dine al fresco then dance the night away…
8. Schedule Downtime.
As someone who is guilty of packing vacations with too much to do, this is something we did not get to do enough of on our honeymoon. It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement with so much to do at the parks, but don’t forget to relax and enjoy each other’s company. Think about getting a couples’ massage at Senses, The Grand Floridian’s Spa. Snuggle up together on a carriage ride at Port Orleans. Maybe float down Castaway Creek at Typhoon Lagoon. Or simply spend time at your resort’s pool with a daiquiri in hand.
9. Order Breakfast from Room Service at Least Once.
Another extravagance we enjoyed on our Disney Honeymoon was ordering room service. Nothing compares to being lazy and eating breakfast in your room’s comfy, oversized bathrobes. It’s the ultimate royal treatment. If you’re staying at the Polynesian, definitely order up the Tonga Toast.
10. Spend Time with Characters!
I’ll never forget Winnie the Pooh’s excitement when I told him we were on our honeymoon. I still giggle when I look at the silly photos my husband took with Goofy. These memories are extra special to me, and one day I hope to share the fun and laughter of a character experience with our children when we have a family.
What’s great about Walt Disney World, is that you can really customize a vacation to your personality as a couple. Thrill-seekers may want to ride the rides, while foodies have festivals and fine dining of which to take advantage. No wonder more adults are seeking out Disney as a destination to start their own fairy tale– it’s a place that transcends age– the magic isn’t only meant for kids, but also for the young at heart.
Have you stayed at Disney for your honeymoon or anniversary? What are some things you enjoyed?
