Don’t skip Disney Springs on your next Disney World vacation; I repeat, don’t skip Disney Springs on your next Disney World vacation. Disney Springs is underrated, in my opinion, and you can have a lot of fun with your family, especially tween-aged kids. It has become a must-do on my Disney trips.
Best Things to Do for Tweens in Disney Springs
I will break down some fun things to do at Disney Springs that don’t involve shopping or eating, although you won’t want to skip those, either. With many food options and the best World of Disney store, you’ll want to experience all the food offerings and shops, but there is so much more to Disney Springs.
Ride in an Amphicar
You can take a water ride in a vintage amphicar; where else can you find an experience like that? It’s a one-of-a-kind adventure you want to try at least once. To the left of the Boathouse restaurant, you’ll find the Amphicar launch. Inside the Boathouse Boutique, you can book your ride.
Photo by WDW Magazine Photography Team
The amphicar fits four people and is suitable for all ages and heights. You’ll enjoy a fun-filled ride around the lake with spectacular views of the Disney Springs landmarks. After your tour, your amphicar will drive right out of the water onto the launch. After your water adventure, dining at the Boathouse restaurant is always a great idea. It’ll be something your kiddo talks about long after your trip is finished.Â
Check Out the Aerophile
If you and your tween feel more adventurous, why not try Disney Springs’ own Areophile? Did you know it was custom-made for Disney Springs? Experience a hot-air balloon ride offering breathtaking views of Disney World and Disney Springs, stretching for miles (as long as it’s a clear day).
Located on the West side of Disney Springs, you’ll have eight minutes to take it all in. With heights reaching up to 400 feet in the air, you’ll want to ensure no one in your crew fears heights before you sign up. You will leave with wonderful family memories and some fantastic pictures.
Visit AMC Dine-In Theater or See Drawn to Life
Your tween might be the perfect age for a Cirque du Soleil show. If they love performances, this would be an excellent opportunity to see this unique production. Drawn to Life was created specifically for Disney, making it a memorable experience you can only enjoy at Disney Springs. If that doesn’t interest your kiddo, what about catching the latest movie? There is a movie theater on the West side of Disney Springs where you can check out the latest theatrical blockbusters.
Photo by Marisa Alvarado
A fun fact about the AMC Disney Springs 24 Dine-In-Theater is that 6 of the 24 theaters offer a dine-in service where you can have food delivered right to your seat. Imagine catching the latest Disney movie while enjoying food delivered right to your seat during a vacation at Disney World.Â
Bowling at Splitsville
Who doesn’t love bowling? Well, Spitsville has a modern vibe on this classic family game. When I travel with my family and extended family, splitsville has become a new tradition. We visit Disney Springs often while in the Disney bubble, and having everyone meet at Splitsville for a family bowling extravaganza has become a family tradition that I love more each year. Sure, you can bowl anywhere, but there is something special about bowling in Disney World; the game feels different in the best way! The atmosphere is lively, fun, and a great way to enjoy a break from a busy park day.Â
Enjoy The MomentsÂ
Disney Springs boasts a lively atmosphere, yet its laid-back charm encourages relaxation and unwinding. You can stroll around, enjoy the scenery, and take your time instead of rushing from ride to ride. You don’t even have to make dinner reservations if you don’t want to; plenty of quick-service options are available with mobile ordering for your convenience.
You can take a minute to grab a Starbucks or adult beverage for yourself and a pretzel for your kiddo and watch the nightly entertainment at the Market Place stage. Even if there’s no band on stage, it’s a great place to relax, people-watch, and enjoy spending time with your tween who is on their way to teenagehood. Soon, they might start preferring time with friends over you, so cherish the moments with your precious kiddo.
