A Knight's Tale

I have two sons, so a Disney vacation is very different for me than someone traveling with daughters. Although my boys know all of the Disney princesses, we tend to pass by most princess related activities. They are always happy to meet the princesses, but would definitely prefer to meet a Disney villain. 

There are a lot (I mean, a lot) of activities at Disney that are perfect for girls. Afternoon tea at the Grand Floridian or a special princess meal at Cinderella’s Royal Table are wonderful, I’m sure, but don’t interest my guys at all.

Do they have anything for boys?  I mean, look at the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique, an entire boutique that changes girls into princesses.  But, wait!  Did you know that the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique is GREAT for boys too?  Yes, it’s true.  They offer a knights package (which costs much less than the princess options) that will turn your son into a knight - sword and all.  

(these cute knights and princess are my cousin's...)

Along with the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique, there are plenty of activities that are perfect for boys at Walt Disney World. 

The Pirate League at the Magic Kingdom – Another experience that is great for boys (and pirate girls!)  Your guy can get dressed like Jake from Jake and the Neverland Pirates or a cool pirate.  Girls can get pirate or mermaid makeup.  Fun, fun, fun!

Star Wars Weekends – We’ve never made it to Disney World for Star Wars weekends in the spring, but I can only imagine how thrilled my boys would be to see Darth Maul walking through Hollywood Studios!  Hollywood Studios also allows Jedis to get some practice using the Force at the Jedi Training Academy, which takes place daily.  This interactive show allows kids to dress up like Jedis and use the Force against Darth Vader.  If your kids are interested, stop by when you first arrive to get them signed up for the Academy.

Pirates and Pals Fireworks Voyage – Embarking from the Contemporary Resort, this boat ride allows young pirates to travel the Seven Seas Lagoon hearing pirate tales, watching fireworks (compliments of the Magic Kingdom) and eating plenty of snacks.  You’ll even get to meet Captain Hook and Smee!  Adventures take place many evenings, and run about an hour and a half.  This is certainly an activity you’ll want to look into for available dates and book before heading to Walt Disney World.

Pirate Adventure – Similar to the Pirates and Pals experience, the Pirate Adventure is a morning program for younger kids (ages 4-12).  It allows them to look for clues and search for buried treasure around the Seven Seas Lagoon and Bay Lake.  Ahoy mateys!

Sports – Disney offers a variety of great sporting options as well as the thrills of the theme parks.  You probably know that there are wonderful golf courses and bikes are available to rent at a number of locations.  Did you also know that you can go fishing at Walt Disney World?  Guided fishing tours are available at many of the “water front” hotels.  Speaking of water, many of these same hotels also offer small boat rentals.  Take the crew out in a canoe, paddle boat, sail boat or a number of other boats.

Tri-Circle-D Ranch and Farm – There is a great farm and petting zoo over at Fort Wilderness Lodge.  There are also pony rides available.  Bring your little farmers.  They’ll love it!  

Attractions – Take a look at a few of the park maps and you’ll be amazed at the number of attractions that any boy will love!  Think about these great options:

Magic Kingdom 

• Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin (spaceships!)
• Walt Disney World Railroad (trains!)
• Tomorrowland Speedway (cars!)

EPCOT

• Mission: Space (space!)
• Test Track (fast cars!)
• Ellen’s Energy Adventure (dinosaurs!)

Hollywood Studios

• Star Tours (Star Wars)
• Lights, Motors, Action!  Extreme Stunt Show (fast cars!)
• Studio Backlot Tour (stuff blowing up!)

·         Animal Kingdom

• It’s Tough to be a Bug (creepy, crawly bugs!)
• The Boneyard (dinosaurs!)
• Triceratops Spin (more dinosaurs!)

Wow!  There really is a ton for boys at Walt Disney World!  I think I've got to add a few days to our next trip.  Very soon, I'll explore some great options for girls...


Amy