Top 5 Activities For Seniors In Walt Disney World

Sign Up for a Segway Backstage Tour

Those of us who are nearing our "golden years" come in all shapes, sizes, and activity levels, and luckily Disney World has something for everyone. While you might not picture yourself at the Happiest Place on Earth without your kids or grandchildren in tow, here are a few ideas to fill your time during your "empty-nest" vacations! Note, we've included activities and modifications so that those of all activity levels can take part in most of these experiences.

5. Take a Backstage Tour: While we all know and love the Disney magic "on stage," it's always fun to find out what's happening behind the scenes. Disney's Backstage Tours are usually a half day or whole day commitment, and they can focus on the Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Gardening, the care of animals at the Animal Kingdom, Dolphins and Diving, and more. You can even grab your own Segway to explore! You can reserve in advance by calling 407-WDW-PLAY. For more information about what tours are available, visit our Backstage Tour Links page. Note: Some tours might require significant walking.

4. Head Out Into the Woods: Wondering how you could possibly head out into the woods while you're visiting a bunch of theme parks? The answer is -- head to the resorts! Disney World covers over 40 square miles, and some of those miles include forested area. Disney's Wilderness Lodge is the starting point for a wonderful 2.5 mile nature trail that winds through forests and then through the campsites of Fort Wilderness. If you're still up for adventure, consider signing up for a horseback ride at Fort Wilderness' Tri-Circle-D Ranch, or stick around for Chip and Dale's Campfire, which includes a sing-a-long and a movie in the woods! If you don't feel like taking the Nature Trail, the ranch and Campfire are accessible by bus.

3. Sample Some New Restaurants: There are several brand new restaurants and dining experiences in Walt Disney World that are so different from one another that you're bound to find one you love. Kouzzina holds superstar chef status with owner and menu-developer Iron Chef Cat Cora, and its simple, Greek-inspired menu is sure to please those trying to capture the essence of a Mediterranean vacation. Sanaa offers new and robust fusions of flavor for those who enjoy African and Indian foods, but the view of African animals on the savanna outside is reason enough to visit. A trip to Paradiso 37 is perfect for your spicy side -- indulge in the restaurant's significant menu of authentic tequilas, and order several tapas dishes to share. But if your inner child is ruling on this vacation, head over to T-Rex, where you can dine like the Flintstones on dino-inspired menu items in an ice cave or amidst a periodic meteor shower.

Drive a Race Car

2. Go For a "Drive:" The Richard Petty Driving Experience is a great way to feel like a race car driver -- if only for a day. Ride along with an experienced instructor on a 3-lap, 165-mile-per-hour adventure, or even choose to drive your very own race car! While this won't be the right choice for those with back, neck, or heart problems, many seniors can and will enjoy a day out on the track. Check out our collection of Richard Petty Driving Experience information, or call 1-800-BE-PETTY for more info.

1. Pamper Yourself: When all is said and done, sometimes the best thing about a Disney World vacation is the opportunity to relax. And with several full-service spas on property, Disney World gives you every opportunity to do so. Whether you're looking for a massage or aromatherapy treatment, or even specialized beauty treatments that you might not treat yourself to at home, Disney offers what you're looking for in its world-class spas.

Of course, these aren't the only opportunities that await you in Walt Disney World. Don't forget the famous rides, attractions, and amenities that have made Disney parks famous. For more information and ideas on great activities in Disney World, check out this information on Leisure and Recreation in Disney World and special events in Disney World, like the Epcot Food and Wine Festival and the Epcot Flower and Garden Festival!

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