10 Fun Things to do for Dad at the Walt Disney World Resort

Disney isn’t just about little girls and Princess dresses. Walt Disney World Resort salutes dads every day with some Dad friendly activities sure to get him out of the “man cave” and into some Disney fun.

Walt Disney created Disneyland as a place for moms and dads to enjoy with their children and this idea extends to all of the Disney theme parks today, including Walt Disney World Resort. Here’s some manly options to make dad feel like a king on his next Disney vacation:

Wild Africa Trek: This VIP African expedition is just right for the dad with an adventurous spirit, and there’s no passport required. At Disney’s Animal Kingdom dad can explore exotic African wildlife in their natural habitat on a privately guided journey through a savannah. Wild Africa Trek also invites trekkers to a serene, savannah-view overlook while enjoying African-inspired food and beverage. Wild Africa Trek is $189 to $249 per person, plus tax  (prices subject to change). Please note this tour requires a separate admission ticket to Disney’s Animal Kingdom theme park.

Guided Fishing Excursion: Whether a seasoned sportsman or an amateur angler, there’s nothing more relaxing than fishing at sunrise on Bay Lake with spectacular views of the Magic Kingdom.  Dads can reel in the fun with an unforgettable two- or four-hour, catch-and-release fishing trip that includes a private guide and all the fishing supplies.  Call 407-939-2277.

World-Class Spas Aren’t Just for Mom:  To soothe and unwind after a day at the theme parks, treat dad to some spaaaaaaaah time. With two newly re-imagined full-service spas, dad can rejuvenate and recharge with a variety of treatments including sports massage, reflexology, custom firm, or a Swedish massage. Call 407-939-7727.

Golfing Galore: An active dad is a happy dad.  While the family enjoys the theme parks, dad can hit the links with three 18-hole championship courses, or a 9-hole walking course.  There’s even Fantasia Gardens Miniature Golf with one course that resembles a traditional golf course but built on a miniature scale. This challenging skills course offers sand traps, bunkers, water hazards and sloping greens.

Richard Petty Driving Experience: Does dad feel the need for speed? Does he dream about driving a Ferrari or Lamborghini? At Richard Petty Driving Experience he can get a dose of adrenaline behind the wheel of an exotic sports car, or a real NASCAR race car at Walt Disney World Speedway.  Cheer along dad while he lives out his dream of being a NASCAR driver on this mile-long, tri-oval racetrack. Call 407-WDW-PLAY.

Food Lover’s Paradise: With hundreds of eateries at Disney there’s everything from casual to gourmet to satisfy dad’s appetite. From fresh seasonal dishes at California Grill and first-rate oak-fired beef at Yachtsman Steakhouse, to a nostalgic meal in a 50s-style drive-in at Sci-Fi Dine In, the sky is the limit. And if dad is a foodie, there’s a culinary extravaganza featuring celebrity chefs, wine tasting, craft beers and savory samplings during the annual Epcot International Food and Wine Festival Sept. 19-Nov. 10, 2014.

ESPN Club: Dad doesn’t have to miss watching his favorite team or that big playoff game while on vacation.  ESPN Club at Disney’s BoardWalk Resort is the ultimate sports bar featuring 100 big screens, interactive games, dozens of beers, plus nachos, fries and ESPN Wings.

ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex: Head to the ballpark with dear dad and catch the Atlanta Braves during a spring training game. Or, hit the pitch to watch the Orlando City Soccer Club take on its USL-PRO rivals. The Lions head to the MLS in 2015. This 220-acre complex – a place for both pro and amateur athletics — features more than 170 annual events.

Splitsville Luxury Lanes:  Take dad out to a night of good old fashioned bowling in a retro, vintage-style venue at Downtown Disney. This trendy, two-level location features 30 lanes, plus live entertainment, a balcony bar, and a variety of dining options with all dads favorites like filet sliders, pizza and even sushi.

Sosa Cigars: This fifth generation premium cigar store showcases the art of hand-rolling cigars. An authentic, solid cedar humidor room keeps the stogies fresh for a primo smoking experience. Treat dad to more than 80 brands of cigars including Auturo Fuente, Padron, Imerio Cubano, and Guente Guente Opus XE.

There’s an adventure for dad in every corner of the Vacation Kingdom.

Wishing you Faith, Trust, and Pixie Dust

Sunshine