More often than not, I hear that Disney is designed for kids and for moms. But I know so many dads who enjoy Disney, and even more who definitely need some stress-free vacation time. I’ve been talking to several of the dads I know to get to the bottom of what they’d REALLY love for Father’s Day this year. So whether you’re planning for Father’s Day, Dad’s birthday, or any special occasion, here are the things dads really want and how you can give them on a Disney vacation!
What Dads Want (In Their Own Words)
Coming from the female perspective, it’s sometimes hard not to offer up stereotypes when it comes to dads. How often do we first think of sports and beer? When I researched a similar post for Mother’s Day I had the benefit of sourcing info from the many moms groups I’m in. Well, I’m obviously not in a lot of dads groups! So I reached out to the dads I know to see what they’d pick for Father’s Day.
Just like moms, dads crave experiences and a break from day-to-day life. They want to feel appreciated. They want a little more freedom. This is why vacations are so necessary – we get to have fun and enjoy intentional time as a family.
How to Give Dads the Best Disney Vacation Ever
Looking for the perfect Father’s Day gift? A Disney vacation is certainly a gift in itself, but there are ways we can step up our game and give dads a trip they’ll never forget. Here are my top 5 ways to treat Dad on a Disney vacation!
Rest & Relief
The #1 answer I got from dads surprised me (because I’m guilty myself of overlooking it). Dads bear a heavy burden for their families, and by that I mean that they’re usually the ones carrying the kids, bags, car seats, strollers, and anything else that needs to be moved. They’d love a break! Thankfully, Disney makes it easy.
Stay on property at a Disney Resort hotel that offers monorail service – it will reduce the number of times you need to fold up the stroller. Use the complimentary Magical Express service and Disney transportation so no one has to be stuck driving after a long day (plus, your luggage will be delivered to your hotel room for you). Set up opportunities to sleep in a few days and order room service (especially wonderful on a cruise). Use Resort Package Delivery service to avoid carrying bags of souvenirs around the parks. Book a fireworks dessert party or reserved parade viewing so the kids can get a great view without sitting on Dad’s shoulders. And don’t forget – even Dad can enjoy a spa day with services designed just for the gentlemen.
A Day of Thrills
After too many rounds of “Baby Shark”, dads want a little extra excitement. Plan a day of thrills, including some of the most popular Disney attractions (Avatar Flight of Passage, Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster, Test Track, Space Mountain). A great way to fit in tons of these attractions is with a VIP tour – choose from an Ultimate Day of Thrills VIP Tour or a customized, private VIP tour. Visit the ESPN Wide World of Sports complex to watch live sporting events. On a cruise, book some exciting Port Adventures and give everyone the chance to explore new countries.
“Guy Time”
Some dads need to recharge with some time around other guys. Some dads need to recharge with some time to themselves. Either way, you can set up downtime that Dad will love! Book a tee time at one of Disney’s four incredible golf courses. Find a bar or brewery that fits his style – Disney offers spots that range from quiet, Italian wine cellars to sports bars filled with action. Check out one of the Epcot’s concerts during its many festivals. My husband loves to visit the fitness centers and jogging paths – his favorite experience was the ocean view from the gym on the Disney Fantasy!
Guilt-Free Indulgence
Just like moms, dads don’t always get to treat themselves. Does Dad like great food? You’ll find options for fine dining, barbecue, Italian (my husband’s favorite), ethnic specialties, and plenty of comfort foods. Does Dad like great drinks? You’ll find beer, wine, specialty cocktails, and some of the most impressive shakes you’ve ever seen (I’m looking at you D-Luxe Burger and Beaches & Cream). Does Dad have a sweet tooth? The Disney desserts are out of this world!
Perhaps Dad has a few interests he doesn’t get to enjoy all the time. Spend some time exploring the areas of Disney he’d particularly love. History buffs will appreciate Liberty Square and the America Pavilion. Music lovers will enjoy Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster and the live performances around Epcot. Technology enthusiasts will love Test Track, Mission: SPACE, and Innoventions. Does he have a favorite Disney character (even one from his childhood)? Locate them in the parks or on the ship for a special photo.
Intentional Time Together
Dads are often expected to work long hours and need plenty of dedicated time with the family. This is why vacations are the perfect gift for any occasion. We get to escape the stresses of daily life, disconnect from the “normal” world, and focus on having fun together. My best recommendation is to put the phones away and make your vacation time count. Give Dad some one-on-one time with each kid, perhaps for a ride or for a show. Book some childcare for an evening and enjoy a mid-vacation date night (super easy to coordinate with the free youth clubs aboard Disney Cruise Line). Vacations are about the memories, and these little moments are worth their weight in gold.
So if you’re looking for a way to make your next vacation truly unforgettable for Dad, know that your options are endless. Focus on the experiences and everything else will fall into place.
Happy Father’s Day!
Give the Gift of Magic
Ready to book your Disney vacation? I’d love to help!
The best gift you can give Dad is a vacation he doesn’t have to plan. When you book your Disney vacation with me, you get my full suite of planning and concierge services for FREE! I’ll be with you every step of the way to make sure the trip is everything your family wants it to be. Contact me to request a free quote and eBrochure.
“A true hero isn’t measured by the size of his strength, but by the strength of his heart.” – Zeus
