Walt Disney World for Adults

In the 1990s, Walt Disney World seemed to be focusing on attracting adults, couples and those looking for romance, as well as families. In fact, there were several books published just for adults traveling to Walt Disney World. Recently, the focus seems to be more on attracting families. So the question is, "What is there for adults without kids to do at Walt Disney World?" And what about quiet, romantic places?

My answer? Eat and drink your way around Walt Disney World. There are plenty of places for adults to enjoy an adult beverage and fine meal with nooks and crannies tucked away for romantic and/or restful interludes. Here are some of my favorite adult experiences.

One of my favorite places to enjoy a cool libation on a hot day is the Trout Pass Bar at Wilderness Lodge. Situated next to the pool, there are only five or six seats right up at the bar. And the British bartender we had last year was hilarious. And it's not just for out-of-state tourists. We were sitting with other locals enjoying a little getaway. One woman lived in Tampa and she needed to let her hair down from time to time and this was one of her favorite spots. In fact, this is a big reason why we often stay at the Wilderness Lodge and it's an easy boat ride over to the Magic Kingdom.

Another favorite bar is at Cap'n Jack's. It's friendly, welcoming, and removed from where kids might be dining. Two more fun drinking and dining experiences: Bongos and Rainforest Cafe. There's also the Margarita Bar with outside seating overlooking the water at Downtown Disney; another great place to enjoy the scenery while cooling off with a drink.

One of my favorite places to hang out for a refreshing libation in one of the parks is the Cantina, of course, at the Mexico Pavilion in World Showcase in Epcot. There's nothing like an ice cold margarita and a plate of nachos with a view of the lagoon. We've also enjoyed a nice glass of Pouilly Fuisse in France (it goes well with a French pastry).

But my favorite lounge in a resort hotel has to be Mizner's Lounge in the Grand Floridian. Lobby piano music alternates with the jazz orchestra playing on the mezzanine level outside the lounge. Drinks and snacks are served and it's a wonderful place to relax in-between park hopping or before or after dinner at one of the restaurants at the Grand Floridian.

However, most of our experiences of imbibing in the World have been during meals at the sit down restaurants, like Rose&Crown (they have a nice beer and/or scotch sampler) and Le Cellier in World Showcase in Epcot. Favorite resort restaurants are the Flying Fish at the Boardwalk, Artist Point in the Wilderness Lodge, The Yachtsman at The Yacht Club, and Jiko in the Animal Kingdom Lodge. All of these restaurants have a nice wine list and a specialty drink menu, which you can order from in the restaurant or in the adjoining lounge.

And speaking of the Animal Kingdom Lodge, Victoria Falls is a great place to people-watch and have a drink while waiting for your Advance Dining Reservation (ADR) at either Jiko or Boma. Victoria Falls is centrally located and you really do feel like you're on safari with a friendly group of people. There's something about the isolation of this lodge that makes you feel like you're all on a big adventure together.

These are just a few of my favorites. With a little research and planning, you can put together your own adult itinerary. The secret is to try booking your favorite places during the off-hours when almost any place can feel relaxing, romantic, and more adult.