Will You Lose the Magic If You Move Near Disney?
There are so many reasons to call Orlando home, and being close to Walt Disney World is certainly a popular reason why Disney fans make the move. It's true, there is so much magic to experience as a local. Evening trips after work to hit the parks for dinner. After school, with the kids to get in a ride or two. A casual couple of hours meandering around the World Showcase. A Sunday afternoon visit for a Dole Whip or popcorn. The options are endless, and one you can really only experience as a local. One of our favorite ways to capture the magic? A staycation. Even if you live 10 minutes away, staying on-site at Disney can truly make for the ultimate in weekend escapes. A recent staycation overnight at Port Orleans French Quarter definitely cemented that very sentiment.
What Makes A Staycation Different From A Disney Vacation?
Just as someone from out of town experiences the chance to escape into the "Disney bubble", the same goes for a staycation. Getting off work on a Friday or heading over on a Saturday morning for a quick overnight gives you that same chance to immerse yourself in the magic. Like most vacationers to Disney, you find yourself spending all day and night at the parks with little opportunity to experience the resort. Staycations give you that chance to take advantage. At Port Orleans French Quarter, you can be on property early in the morning with an online check-in, head to the themed pool by 10am (check current hours of operation), and slip into vacay mode before you know it. Missed breakfast? Head to the Scat Cat Cafe for the French Quarter's signature beignets (Bonus: if you're visiting during the Halloween season, the Goulish Delight Beignets are a must-try!).
A fully themed pool with slide and ultimate kid's splash zone await the family. A poolside bar offers a selection of drinks and snacks to keep everyone fueled for a day in the sun. Pro Tip -> Seeking a quieter pool vibe? Head over early at 10am until around 12pm, perfect to experience jazz background music. After lunch, the music gets a bit louder with poolside games led by awesome Disney Cast Members.
On-site activities beyond the Resort Amenities
From firepit s'mores to Disney movies under the stars, there is so much more to do on-site than most vacationers get the chance to experience on one visit. There is truly something for everyone from afternoon tie-dye projects, make-your-own Mickey mosaic classes, painting, trivia, and so much more. Looking for an alternative way to get around the resort? You can rent a 4-person surrey bike or take a horse-drawn carriage ride alongside the Sassagoula River.
Boat rides to Disney Springs and Resorts
Ready for dinner or shopping? Head down to the riverside to access the river boats, taking resort guests and visitors to and from surrounding resorts or Disney Springs. Guests are dropped off on the east side of the Springs, where you will come out by Eet by Maneet Chauhan Restaurant, near the Disney Christmas store. Pro Tip: Allow plenty of time to travel to and from the resort. Depending on the time of day and demand, there will likely be a bit of a wait, especially on the weekends. We love seeing Disney Springs from the water and other resorts, including Saratoga Springs and the Treehouse Villas.
The Real Perk: More Magic, More Often
What will you find as a Disney local? It doesn't replace the magic of vacation; it truly multiplies it.
- Disney vacations become a lifestyle.
- Spontaneity is the biggest luxury.
- Living close unlocks experiences most visitors miss.
- Disney has never felt more like home, an extension of your backyard.
- There's always something new to explore and to be excited about.
If you're considering a move to Disney, why not work with local experts who love Disney as much as you do? You'll find that The Funk Collection team agents have tons of hyper-local knowledge when considering the communities near the parks. Start your explorations today and see the available homes within 30 minutes of the Magic Kingdom parking entrance using RealtyInOrlando.com's drive time tool.
Posted by Jeffrey G. Funk P.A. on
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