Does your family enjoy vacationing at the Walt Disney World Resort? Are you looking to create new magical memories with a different type of family vacation?
A visit to the Walt Disney World Resort is a rite of passage for every family. It's the destination that is on every family's must-travel list.
If you love a Walt Disney World vacation and are looking for alternative options for your next trip, there are some other fantastic family-friendly destinations and experiences that you must add to your list!
Check out my top 4 family travel ideas for anyone who enjoys a Walt Disney World Resort vacation.
1. Disneyland Resort
If you love the Walt Disney World attractions, entertainment and character interactions, then you will definitely love a visit to the Disneyland Resort in Southern California.
There is something nostalgic about the original Disney theme park where all the magic began more than 6 decades ago.
At Disneyland Resort, you will find classic attractions similar to those found at Walt Disney World Resort, but with a slightly different twist.
For example, while riding “it’s a small world” attraction at Disneyland Resort, you can spot some beloved Disney characters alongside the infamous animatronic children dancing and singing in their native homelands.
Plus, the Disneyland Resort features themed lands and attractions that are exclusive to the Southern California parks.
For more details, make sure you read, Disneyland Resort vs. Walt Disney World Resort: What’s the Difference?
2. Disney Cruise Line
Disney Cruise Line has taken everything you love about Disney's exceptional entertainment and brought it onboard their ships!
While you may not see traditional attractions on a Disney Cruise, you will be immersed in Disney's storytelling through their Broadway-style entertainment, character interactions and family-friendly activities.
Disney's world-class service is an essential part of a Disney Cruise Line vacation and guests appreciate Disney's attention to detail and high level of standards.
One major difference between a Disney park visit and a Disney Cruise vacation is that the cruise line truly provides activities for everyone in the family.
Their premier kids and teens clubs keep children entertained throughout the day with supervised activities providing the adults a rare opportunity to partake in their own vacation activities.
With Disney Cruise Line, adults can indulge in spa treatments, dine at adult-exclusive restaurants, participate in various beverage tastings or just spend some relaxation time at the designated adult-only pool, jacuzzi and sundeck.
If you would like to learn more, take a look at the Top 6 Reasons Why Families Sail with Disney Cruise Line.
3. Universal Orlando Resort
For families looking for an entertaining theme park experience, a trip to the Universal Orlando Resort is a must-do vacation.
With 2 theme parks, a water theme park, a lively dining and entertainment district and 8 onsite resorts, the Universal Orlando Resort has everything for families who love theme parks.
This popular destination features various themed lands inspired by iconic movies, tv shows and books including the fan-favorite, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
Guests flock to Universal Orlando Resort for the theme park's numerous thrill rides and immersive attractions that make them feel like they are part of a real life adventure.
Many guests are unaware of how much there truly is to do at the Universal Orland Resort, so for that reason, I put together a guide on the Ultimate 4-Day Universal Orlando Resort Itinerary.
If you can't wait for the transformation of Universal's Orlando Resort into Universal's Epic Universe in 2025, you can also take a trip to Universal Studios Hollywood in Southern California to experience the immersive new Super Nintendo Land featuring Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge and other thematic activities and entertainment.
4. Aulani, a Disney Resort and Spa
Does your family love the beach? Hawaii is such a beautiful destination and there’s no better family-friendly resort in the Aloha state than Aulani, a Disney Resort and Spa.
This 5-star resort features Disney’s signature service along with world-class dining, entertainment and interactive Disney characters.
Guests of Aulani can enjoy their time at the numerous family-friendly pools, waterslides and lazy river.
This oceanfront property sits right on the Ko Olina beach on the frequently visited island of Oahu. It’s the perfect spot for families who are looking for a beautiful beach with calm waters and plenty of watersport activities.
Similar to the Disney Cruise Line, Aulani offers complimentary kids and teen clubs with exceptional interactive activities and several adult-only experiences.
Want to learn more about this incredible Disney beach vacation?
Make sure you read, 12 reasons why families choose Aulani, a Disney Resort and Spa for their Hawaiian vacation.
If you would like to learn more about these family-friendly vacations or any other luxury family vacation, please email lissa@kingdomdestinations.com
Lissa Ryan is a Senior Travel Advisor with Kingdom Destinations specializing in luxurious family vacations. Lissa helps busy parents who want to create travel memories with their families through luxury travel experiences, but are too busy or overwhelmed with all the effort and research that is required to plan that perfect vacation.