Family vacations are great, but sometimes I think we all forget that they’re supposed to be vacations for the adults as well as the kids. And let’s face it – it’s nice to get some time to spend alone with our significant others. My husband and I used to take trips together all the time, and now I feel that we need to remember to still make time for us during our vacations. Yes, even when it comes to Disney! With that in mind, here are eight great ways to entertain the kids while you get a break on your Disney vacation.
1) Walt Disney World Experiences for Kids
While Walt Disney World Resort doesn’t host any children’s activities centers, it does offer a few special events designed just for kids. One of these is Captain Hook’s Pirate Crew. Young adventurers ages 4-12 are invited to join Captain Hook, learn the ways of a pirate, and set sail across Crescent Lake. This event includes dinner and takes place nightly from 5:00 PM – 8:30 PM. While the kids play in Pirate Hideaway, the adults can escape to a great meal or some playtime of their own in the Disney Parks (Epcot is only a 10-minute walk away).
2) In-Room Childcare
If you’d prefer the kids hang out in your room at your Disney Resort hotel, Disney can also help you arrange some in-room childcare during your stay. At Walt Disney World they partner with an independent contractor, Kid’s Nite Out. They work with children age 6 month – 12 years. They can even accompany you into the parks to provide a helping hand! Similar services can be arranged at Disneyland Resort hotels through third party providers. Hours are flexible, so you can take as much time as you need to visit the spa, the parks, Disney Springs, or anything else you’d like to enjoy kid-free!
3) Rider Switch
When you’re in the parks, sometimes you’re traveling with kids who are too small for certain attractions, or just don’t want to ride them (I’m looking at you, Tower of Terror). However, this doesn’t mean the adults can’t enjoy the thrill rides. Disney offers a program called Rider Switch. This allows you to split up the party, but only wait in the standby line once. While this works great for bigger groups, it also works for parents who don’t mind riding solo to experience the rides.
4) Youth Clubs on Disney Cruise Line
All four Disney Cruise Line ships offer childcare options and supervised activities up to age 17. Children under age 3 can enjoy the “it’s a small world” nursery for a fee. Children age 3-12 can enjoy the Oceaneer Club and Oceaneer Lab, with themed play spaces and Disney friends. The ships also offer Vibe and Edge, lounge spaces for teens and pre-teens. The Youth Clubs are complimentary to Disney Cruise Line guests. Meanwhile, the adults can enjoy the adults-only pools, nightlife districts, adults-only dining rooms, the spa, or just stroll the decks for some quiet.
5) Scuttle’s Cove and Serenity Bay
Disney Cruise Line even has you taken care of on its private island, Disney Castaway Cay. Kids age 3-12 can enjoy supervised play at Scuttle’s Cove while the adults head over to Serenity Bay, an adults-only beach area. There are also special activities for teens, so everyone can have some time to themselves during your vacation.
6) Aunty’s Beach House
If you’re visiting Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa in Ko Olino, Hawaii, you’ll have the perfect opportunity for a date night (or afternoon). At Aunty’s Beach House, kids ages 3-12 can learn about Hawaiian culture, play island games, answer Disney trivia, enjoy Disney-inspired arts & crafts, and listen to exciting storytelling from Aunty herself. Access to this kids club is included with your stay. Adults will love having time to lounge by the beach, enjoy the adults-only pool areas, reserve a sunset meal at ‘AMA ‘AMA, or enjoy a day at Laniwai Spa.
7) Junior Adventurer Activities
Adventures by Disney is a truly unique experience that is designed for the whole family to immerse themselves in another culture. These trips take place on six continents! While most of the itineraries keep the whole family together, they do offer a few activities that are designed separately for kids and adults. While you get to relax and explore a new city, the kids will participate in Junior Adventurer activities designed just for them! They are supervised by Disney’s Adventure Guides, and they are well-trained in making sure everyone has an amazing experience.
8) Multi-Generational Trips
There’s nothing like the memories made when you get the whole family in on a big vacation. Plus, when you bring Grandma & Grandpa along, chances are they’d be willing to spend a little time with their precious grandkids while you get some date time. It’s also handy to have someone to trade off with while you’re using Rider Switch at the parks. The more, the merrier, right?
So don’t be afraid to plan some time for yourselves during your next Disney vacation. There may be some logistics to cover, but it’s worth making it your vacation too!
If you’re reading to start planning your trip, I’m here to help. I am a concierge vacation planner specializing in Disney Destinations. I help busy families take the stress out of making memories! The best part? My services are 100% free when you book your trip with me.
Contact me to request a free quote or simply more information about any Disney Destination. I hope I can help you make your next vacation truly incredible!
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“Adults are only kids grown up, anyway.” – Walt Disney
