25 Date Ideas and Romantic Things to Do at Disney World
Walt Disney World might be known as a kid-centric destination, but there are plenty of romantic things to do at Disney World. Whether you’re leaving the kids with a sitter for one night at Disney or on an adult’s only trip to Disney World, here are some great date night ideas for Disney World, in and out of the park.
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Date Ideas for Disney Resorts
Date Ideas for Disney Parks
Date Night at Disney Springs
Date Ideas at Other Places Around Disney
Childcare at Disney World
First, what about the kids (if you have them/brought them)? My wife and I have made many trips to Disney with our kids, but we always find time to spend at least one night out alone. We’ve brought grandparents as sitters. We’ve hired college kids. We’ve used reputable sitter services, and even taken advantage of some of the childcare options that Disney has provided over the years.
(We went on one trip without the kids several years ago. The car broke down on the way back to Atlanta, and we had to buy a new one in Lake City, FL. Since then, my mom-guilt ridden wife has decided that adult-only trips are cursed.)
Currently, the only option at Disney World for taking your kids to childcare is Camp Dolphin at the Swan and Dolphin resort. They provide a couple different options for care, but essentially it is available for kids ages 5-12 from 4pm-11pm. If you opt for the entire time, it’s $100 per kid, so if you have several kids, you may want to investigate other nanny options. It also books up quickly, so plan your date well in advance. Here’s where you book https://swandolphin.247activities.com/.
If you’d like a sitter to come to your room, Disney recommends Kids Nite Out https://kidsniteout.com/. We’ve used them before, and our kids loved their sitter. She did Disney-themed crafts and games, and took them to the arcade while we had a great night out.
Date Ideas at Disney Resorts
Typically, when my wife and I think of date nights, we’re exhausted from the parks, so we want to head to all the resorts around. Here’s some of the best ideas for a date at one of the resorts.
Romantic Dinner at California Grill
One of our favorite date night spots is California Grill. It sits at the top of the Contemporary Resort, and most of the tables can see Magic Kingdom from the windows. It’s pretty pricey, especially now that it’s prix fixe, but the sushi, the cocktails, the entrees, and even the sides are amazing.
Me, cheesin’ because of the view and my beautiful wife. Date night at California Grill.
The best part about California Grill, though, is being there during the Magic Kingdom fireworks. It takes a good bit of planning, but the trick is to reserve a table an hour before the fireworks. Then when you check-in, ask for a table by the window to get a good view. This may take extra time, hence the hour window. However, if this doesn’t work out, California Grill has outdoor viewing platforms on both sides of the restaurant. You can watch the fireworks, then return to your seat.
Hidden Mickeys even in the fireworks. We loved it, and I’m assuming Chloe did, too, whoever she is.
2. Date Night Monorail Crawl
Our most recent date night was a monorail crawl. The monorail services the Polynesian, Grand Floridian, and the Contemporary Resort (as well as Magic Kingdom). At Polynesian, you can walk the beach, the torchlit pathways, or get a drink at Trader Sam’s, one of the most unique bars in Disney World—where decorations get involved if you order the right drink: volcanos erupt, mosquitos attack, lightning strikes, etc.
At Grand Floridian, we stopped by the Enchanted Rose, a quiet bar designed to look like a fancy parlor in a European estate. It has subtle and intricate blue and gold Beauty and the Beast theming, with Cogsworth clocks, Lumiere candlesticks, and oil paintings of the estate. The bar is broken into two parts, a regular bar with counter service, and a quiet lounge with bartenders coming to your seat. For us, this is the absolute ideal date night spot—quiet, beautiful, comfortable, and good cocktails.
The lounge portion of Enchanted Rose. The most romantic and quiet place we’ve been at Disney.
We had dinner at Steakhouse 71, an incredible restaurant at the bottom of the Contemporary. Though not as scenic as the California Grill on the top floor, the food was amazing. From the bread service, to the sides, to the perfectly cooked steaks and unique steak sauces, this was one of our favorite meals at Disney world ever.
Steakhouse 71 is most famous for their prime rib and dipping sauces, so I got all of them.
After dinner, we returned to Magic Kingdom and watched the fireworks. If you don’t have tickets for this day, you can watch from outside the park or even charter a boat (see further down).
3. Disney’s Skyliner Date Night
The Disney Skyliner: the coolest way to travel at Disney World.
The Skyliner is a gondola system that goes between Hollywood Studios, EPCOT, Riviera Resort, Caribbean Beach Resort, POP Century, and Art of Animation. This is a great date night to incorporate with a day at EPCOT or Hollywood Studios. You can get dinner at one of several amazing restaurants at Riviera, including Topolino’s, and see all the amazing European decorations (beautiful tile mosaics, European movie posters, and amazing theming). If you stop by Caribbean Beach, Sebastian’s is a great restaurant option. And, if you’re on a date, getting stuck on the Skyliner at night with your sweetheart becomes a good thing instead of a nightmare (it rarely ever stops more than few seconds). The Skyliner is also walking distance from the Boardwalk. We’ll talk about a date there next.
4. Date Night on Disney’s Boardwalk
Disney’s Boardwalk is another romantic Disney destination, especially at night. Themed like a classic Coney Island-style boardwalk, it has a myriad of restaurants, shops, ice cream parlors, and unique bars. Get some great food at the Flying Fish. Enjoy the magic-themed Abracadabar, or listen to the dueling pianos at Jellyrolls. If you’re really feeling lively, check out the Atlantic Dance Hall. Jellyrolls and the Dance Hall are one of the few places at Disney open past midnight. Or for something a little more low key, just get a margarita at Boardwalk Joe’s right on the boardwalk and enjoy the sights. We love to go there for a marg and get a pizza next door if we’re not looking to do anything fancy.
Perfect drink for people watching at the Boardwalk.
If you head to the Boardwalk, you can also explore the amazing resorts close by—Boardwalk, Yacht Club, Beach Club, and the Swan and Dolphin. This is a great option to add to a park day at Epcot or Hollywood Studios or if your kids are at Camp Dolphin.
5. Couples Spa Day at Grand Floridian Resort
If you want the pinnacle of relaxation for a date, get a couples’ massage at the Grand Floridian Senses Spa. It’s the exact thing anyone needs after long days in the Disney parks. Disney has several other resorts that have spas, but the Grand Floridian is the only that has reopened since Covid. You’ll want to book way ahead of time.
6. Coronado Springs Sangria University
One unique date idea at the Disney World resorts is Sangria University. It’s located at the Three Bridges restaurant at Coronado Springs. Three Bridges is known for their Sangria, and you get to learn the history of Sangria and make their 4 signature sangrias—then enjoy them and a delicious appetizer. This is a fun, hands on date night activity.
As a side note, Three Bridges is a hidden gem at Disney World. Very few people have eaten there or heard of it unless they’re staying at Coronado. Since this is our favorite hotel, we go there all the time to enjoy the creative Latin cuisine, beautiful sights, and atmosphere. It’s open-air restaurant that sits entirely on top of the water at the intersection of…three bridges. It’s relatively unknown because you can’t get a reservation. The only way to eat there is to either walk up or be on Coronado property to join the virtual waiting list. You can, however, book the Sangria University online.
We love Three Bridges, second daughter to the right, not so much.
7. Animal Kingdom Lodge Night Safari
One of the most creative date ideas (or activity in general) is the night safari. Unlike the safari at Animal Kingdom Park, this one begins at the Animal Kingdom lodge. Each guest is given night vision goggles, and they get view the wildlife that’s much more active at night. It’s an exciting and unique opportunity that makes for a great date night experience.
https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/events-tours/animal-kingdom/night-safari/
A zebra seen through night vision goggles on the Animal Kingdom Night safari (Photo: Disney)
8. Karaoke at Kimonos Lounge- Swan Hotel
If you want to impress your date or make them laugh, take them to karaoke at the Swan hotel in Kimonos lounge. Music is a huge part of my family, so we try to hit karaoke as a family activity or a date night activity any chance we get. I’ve been desperately trying to find a Disney karaoke that has “Lost in the Woods” by Kristoff. I want to rock that monster ballad.
https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/dining/swan-hotel/kimonos-lounge/
9. Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride at Port Orleans Riverside
One classic, romantic date idea is to take a horse-drawn carriage through Port Orleans Riverside. Port Orleans Riverside captures the old, aristocratic aesthetic of New Orleans with Spanish moss-covered oaks and white-columned buildings. It’ll make you want to hang out with Big Daddy and Lottie from The Princess and the Frog. You can sign up online here https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/recreation/port-orleans-carriage-rides/, or on the My Disney Experience App up to 60 days before your trip, but it usually has a lot of availability. Fort Wilderness also offers this experience.
10. Horseback Riding at Ft. Wilderness Campground
If you want something a little more adventurous, head over the Ft. Wilderness Campgrounds for a trail ride on horseback. It’s a tame, walking-only ride, but it’s certainly a unique and creative way to spend a date. You can find the details here https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/recreation/campsites-at-fort-wilderness-resort/horse-trail-rides/.
11. Coronado Springs Painting Experience
At Coronado Springs’ brand-new restaurant, Toledo, they hold a painting class every Friday at 1PM. It sits at the top of the Gran Destino Tower, and the view alone is spectacular. Each participant will be instructed by local artists to paint a Disney-themed design. The design changes each month, so if you’re a regular to Coronado Springs like us, it has return value. The restaurant (and Dahlia Lounge) isn’t open for food or drinks, but there’s a bar in the lobby before you go up, if you want to sip and paint. You can find more info here. https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/events-tours/coronado-springs-resort/colors-of-coronado-painting-experience/
Date Night at Disney Parks
I started with resort date night ideas because those activities typically have less kids around and feel more romantic, but there’s plenty to do in the Disney Parks to create a romantic experience. Here are a few of them.
12. Wine Tasting at Epcot (Wine Walk)
Let’s begin at EPCOT. With many high-end table service restaurants and unique bars with adventurous options from all over the world, EPCOT definitely tops the list of Disney Parks for a date. One unique and creative date activity you may not have heard of is the Wine Walk. It’s a wine tasting that will let you sample wines in the Germany, Italy, and France pavilions. You’ll pay one flat fee and receive two half-pours at each country—one red and one white—that showcase the unique flavors and techniques found there. It’s a great way to explore some of the most romantic destinations in the world in under an hour. To participate, just head to Germany, France, or Italy and inquire.
Us in front of the France pavilion. France is one of the stops on the Wine Walk.
13. Private Fireworks Cruise at Magic Kingdom
My first Magic Kingdom date idea doesn’t actually take place in Magic Kingdom, instead it’s in the Seven Seas Lagoon in front of Magic Kingdom. You can rent a private boat with a captain for $399 (for up to 10 people, if you want a quintuple date…or the rest of your family) that will sail you to a good viewing spot. The experience starts one hour and 15 minutes prior to the fireworks show. The boat comes equipped with non-alcoholic beverages and snacks, but you can bring your own drinks. The captain will also pipe in the music from the show.
You can arrange your fireworks cruise to leave from any of the Magic Kingdom resorts that have a dock on the Seven Seas Lagoon (Contemporary, Polynesian, Grand Floridian, Wilderness Lodge, and Fort Wilderness). You can also book this experience for the EPCOT show at the Yacht Club resort. You’ll need to call Disney to book ahead of time. Go here to learn more https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/recreation/specialty-cruises/.
Our view of the fireworks at Magic Kingdom from the Seven Seas Lagoon.
14. Haunted Mansion Couples Costume
If you love Disney as a couple, wearing matching outfits is part of the romance. Most people start with matching shirts, but if you’re really into it, you want matching costumes. Haunted Mansion couples’ costumes are perfect! Why? First, because I’m writing this in early fall, and everyone’s excited about the Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party. But also, if you don’t already know, Haunted Mansion is the ultimate date night ride. Just you, and your partner clinging desperately to you for safety. It’s the ultimate make out spot. Just make sure you’re not in the room with the mirrors…then everyone will see you.
15. Ferrytale Fireworks Dessert Cruise (Magic Kingdom)
If you don’t want to spring to charter your own boat (see option 12) and want a little less privacy but a little more to eat and do, try out the Ferrytale Fireworks cruise. You’ll get desserts and drinks. You’ll also get a history of the boat and ultraviolet glasses scavenger hunt before the fireworks go off. You can board this excursion at the Transportation and Ticket Center. See here for details https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/dining/magic-kingdom/ferrytale-wishes-dessert-cruise/.
16. Star Wars Couples Costume for Galaxy’s Edge
If fandom brought you and your significant other together, then nothing can be more romantic than nerding out together. Dress up in costume and head over to Galaxy’s Edge at Hollywood Studios. She’ll say “I love you,” and he’ll say “I know.” If you don’t know what I’m referring to, this option isn’t for you. Here are a few costume ideas.
17. Animal Kingdom Date Night- Savor the Savanna
If your idea of a romantic night at Disney is to get lost in the African wilderness—enjoying nature while also enjoying drinks and exotic food—then book the Savor the Savanna tour at Animal Kingdom Park. You’ll be deep in the Harambe Wildlife preserve, seeing all the amazing animals and learning everything you want to know from the tour guides. Then you’ll enjoy a sampling of regional beverages and food items. To learn more, head here https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/events-tours/animal-kingdom/savor-savanna/.
18. La Cava Experience- Tequila Tasting
For another unique date night experience, check out the La Cava Experience at La Hacienda de San Angel in the Mexico pavilion. You’ll be able to try a variety of tequilas paired with flavors meant to enhance the flavor. Some of the tequilas aren’t available anywhere else in the world. This is an amazing date opportunity only possible in the midst of the magic at Disney World. For booking and more information head here https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/dining/epcot/cava-experience/.
Date Ideas at Disney Springs
Disney Springs, Disney World’s shopping and dining district, is another amazing option for a creative date night. There’s an unbelievable amount of options for activities and dining, but I’ll cover some of our favorites.
19. Date Night at Disney Springs Restaurants
If your idea of a date night is a fancy dinner, Disney Springs has every option available. For our date nights, we’ve gone to Morimoto Asia, Paddlefish, Raglan Road (amazing show!), and others. But our favorite is Boathouse. My wife loves the oysters there. All of the seafood is amazing, but even their steak is great. You’ll be sitting right on the water and can watch the ferries and the Amphicar go by.
20. Disney Springs Mixology Class at the Edison
If you want a more involved date at Disney Springs, check out the Mixology class at the Edison. You can learn how to make some of the best cocktails out there while enjoying a few of those cocktails and a light lunch. Head here to sign up.
https://www.theedisonfla.com/cocktail-culture/
21. Hot Air Balloon Ride at Disney Springs (Aerophile)
What could be more romantic than enjoying the most iconic attraction at Disney Springs? In the Aerophile, you can spend 8 minutes 400 feet in the air, enjoying up to 10 miles visibility on a clear day. Here’s the strange part—it’s not actually a hot air balloon. It’s a helium balloon, which explains why it stays inflated 24/7. Head here for more information https://www.disneysprings.com/attractions/aerophile-balloon-flight/, or just walk up to it when you get to Disney Springs. No advanced reservations.
The Aerophile, Disney Springs’ giant helium balloon. It’s air is only as hot as Florida, which is still pretty hot.
22. Amorette’s Cake Decorating Experience
If you want a really sweet date idea, book the Amorette’s Cake Decorating Experience. You’ll spend 90 minutes learning how to make a Mickey cake, making it yourself, and enjoying beverages including alcohol (and all the icing you can lick off your fingers, I assume). Then you get to keep your…what I’m assuming is a perfect rendition of a professional cake to share with others, as well as a gift. Nailed it.
You can book at the website below. However, as of writing this, there is a pricing discrepancy on the webpage. In one place it says the experience is $199 per person, but it’s really $199 total (correctly stated further down the description). This is a great idea because it’s one of the few experiences that has a 2 person maximum.
Date Ideas at Other Locations around Disney World
There are also several other Disney locations for a great date idea. Here a few things great options that are hard to categorize.
23. Helicopter Tour of Disney World
This is probably the most creative date option on the list. You can book a helicopter ride and view the parks and surrounding areas from a perspective few people get to see. Even better, you can do it at night and watch the fireworks over Magic Kingdom or EPCOT. For more information check out the links or photos below. They’re affiliate links, so if you book a tour through them, I can go to Disney more.
A view of Galaxy’s Edge at Hollywood Studios from the helicopter. They only thing cooler would be if you were flying the Millennium Falcon.
A view of the EPCOT fireworks from the helicopter.
Night Tour over Orlando Parks (fireworks)
24. Mini Golf at Disney's Miniature Golf Courses
Walt Disney World has two miniature golf course locations. Fantasia Gardens sits in front of the new Swan Reserve, between Coronado Springs and the Boardwalk resorts. Winter Summerland sits next to the Blizzard Beach water park between Animal Kingdom and the All Star resorts. Both are cleverly themed, with typical putt-putt obstacles. If you go to Fantasia Gardens, watch out for the cave. When you go in there, the lights go out and there’s a simulated lightning strike. It scared my daughter really bad when we went there.
Bonus tip: If you add the park hopper plus to your park hopper tickets or the water park addition to your regular theme park tickets, you can go play mini golf or go to a water park as many days as you have tickets. In other words, if you have 4-day tickets, you can also play mini golf 4 times during the week for free (or included, not free).
25. Golf Courses at Disney World
If you and your partner actually know what you’re doing with real golf clubs, Walt Disney World has several world class golf courses. Find a course, get a tee time, and try not to ruin it by getting too competitive. Tip: don’t try to recover lost balls, especially out of the water—it’s not worth a run in with the local reptiles.
Disney has two 18-hole golf courses, one 9-hole course, and a fourth course that is being reconstructed that currently has 14 holes. The prices are reasonable—between $65-150 a round, depending on time of year and time of day—given that many resort courses can be easily top $200 a round. Head here for more information and booking a tee time https://www.golfwdw.com/.
Conclusion
That should be enough date ideas to keep you busy at Disney World for years. It’s obviously not exhaustive. There are plenty of hidden activities, restaurants, and park experiences that I just couldn’t fit into this post. Have fun!
If you’re already there and need a reservation to a good restaurant fast, check out this article.
What did I leave out? What’s the best thing you’ve ever done on a date at Disney World? Put it in the comment section.
Click if you want information and details about the boat from Disney Springs to Disney’s Port Orleans French Quarter or Riverside Resorts.