5 Free Activites to Enjoy at Walt Disney World

When planning a vacation to Walt Disney World, you will quickly see that things can add up very quickly and what was once a very budget friendly trip is becoming a credit card's worse nightmare. But have no fear, there are activities that are free at Walt Disney World when you are staying at the Disney Resorts, that won't cost you a penny or a trip into one of the parks.

1. Pools: What a great activity for a day off of the Walt Disney World Parks. Each Disney Resort has at least two pools, and all of the pools are designed and themed around that resorts decor. Disney Coronado Springs Resort debatably has the greatest water slide, a slide that is in the midst of a 46-ft Mayan pyramid. Disney Polynesian Resort, Disney Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, and Disney Animal Kingdom Lodge have beautiful scenery wrapped around their zero entry pools that can take you away from all the hustle and bustle of Walt Disney World and the crazy crowds. Disney Boardwalk Resort has pools that kids go crazy for, Luna Park, that resembles a carnival, and features a ton of water activity. But the best pool would be at Disney Yacht Club, Stormalong Bay. This pools area is absolutely huge, with 2 ½ acres of water play, with a full-size ship with a slide, a sandy lagoon, and three separate pools throughout. There is definitely something for everyone here. The Disney Resort pools are to be used by guests staying at that resort only. Best of all, its a free activity.

2. Window Shopping in Downtown Disney: Downtown Disney is a great place to spend a lazy day or evening. The World of Disney is the place where you can find everything and anything Disney. It is like the official Disney Website all packed into a store - a definite must do on every trip to Disney. If you have a little princess travelling with you, or you are a big princess yourself, Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique is a great little activity. Here you can see little girls be pampered getting their hair, nails and makeup done, get into their favourite princess dress and get their pictures done - think Glamour Shots for the little ones. Disney's Days of Christmas is a great little shop for anytime of the year to buy custom and exclusive Disney ornaments and Christmas decor. There is a fun little store Once Upon a Toy, that features the 'fill a box' Mr Potato Heads and My Little Pony's that will keep your children happy for many hours. Downtown Disney also features the Lego Imagination Center that encompasses all things LEGO, including a life-size dragon and a family made out of Lego, your child is even able to use one of the tables there to build little LEGO men. A sports equipment and clothing store, Team Mickey Athletic Club. And even a little store for any cats and dogs out there that are Disney fans. Best of all (as long as you keep it to "Window Shopping"), it's a free activity.

3. Stroll down the boardwalk along the 45-acre waterfront that front's Disney's Boardwalk Resort. The boardwalk is reminiscent of a 1930's Atlantic coastal village. Take a walk through the entertainment district and enjoy the performances of buskers, musicians and magicians. Best of all....it's a free activity (getting the idea yet?)!

4. Watch the fireworks from one of the Disney Resort Beaches. You are able to watch Walt Disney World Magic Kingdom's Wishes from Disney's Polynesian Resort or Disney's Grand Floridian Resort and Spa. You are even able to watch the fireworks from Disney's Contemporary Resorts, California Grill, which is located at the top of the Resort and includes music and the story with the fireworks. Not only are you free of the crowds in the park but this activity is also free.

5. Head down to Fort Wilderness for an evening to enjoy a free Disney movie outdoors, followed by a campfire hosted by Chip and Dale. The campfire features a sing-a-long, roasting marshmellows to make s'mores and snacks. A great way to end a crazy day at one of the Disney theme parks. That's right, all these great activities at Fort Wilderness are free.

So as you can see, while Walt Disney World can be a very expensive trip, it should be no problem at all finding activities that are free or that don't cost alot.

What is your favorite free activities when visiting Walt Disney World?

Click here for more Walt Disney World information and tips by Amanda M. Rose