Every morning at Walt Disney World thousands of people make their way to the buses, boats, monorails, or the Disney Skyliner heading to one of Disney’s four fabulous theme parks. In contrast to this mass commute, you’ll find some Disney resort guests who seem to take a more leisurely approach to their day. Many guests who stay for a longer vacation take some time away from the parks. It’s a smart move to pace yourself. With so many recreational and relaxation features available, you can plan a full day of fun without leaving your resort. One of the best locations for a “resort day” is Disney’s Majestic Wilderness Lodge. With just a little planning, you can find something to do there from sunrise to sunset.
Get Some Exercise
Set on Bay Lake amongst the pines, an early morning stroll on the hike and bike trail can be refreshing before the day warms up. If you prefer a gym experience, you can work up a sweat at the Sturdy Branches Health Club.
Breakfast at Whispering Canyon Café
Known for its rowdiness, there is absolutely no whispering in this ironically named restaurant. Food and fun are available in ample supplies. Dining at the Whispering Canyon Café is a great kick-start to your morning. Enjoy an all-you-can-eat breakfast with family-style skillets. Brace yourself because many simple requests may be met with a comical reaction from your server.
Take the Guided Tour
The resort is enormous, so it is easy to miss some of its features. Wilderness Lodge Rangers give guided tours of the property regularly. The hourlong tour is very popular and offers guests a deeper exploration of the Lodge and its history.
Take Your Own Tour
It’s easy to do a self-guided tour of the property. If you prefer to go on your own, ask the front desk for tips, including details on the Lodge’s Hidden Mickey Hunt. They can provide you with clues to help you discover some of the secrets of the resort.
Lunch at Geyser Point
Geyser Point Bar & Grill is a casual dining option with open-air seating and a lakeside view. Although advertised as quick service, the menu offers some hearty options. If you are looking for a handcrafted charcuterie or a tasty bison cheeseburger with marionberry sauce, this is the place for you.
Set Your Watch by Fire Rock
Be sure to catch the eruption of Fire Rock Geyser. This homage to Old Faithful blasts more than 100 feet in the air hourly at the top of the hour.
Enjoy the Water
Copper Creek Springs is the main pool at the resort, and it is one of the most stunning pools on Disney property. There is a splash pad for younger guests and hot tubs for those seeking a more leisurely soak. If you would like to get out on Bay Lake & Seven Seas Lagoon, you’ll find boat rentals available. Want a longer boating experience? You can book a fishing expedition or a customized tour.
Grab a Coffee and a Seat
Simply sitting for a moment and enjoying the beauty of the resort is a joy in itself. The counter service dining option at the Lodge is a good place to grab a cup of coffee. The courtyard by the pool is right next to the picturesque Copper Creek Falls and is a nice spot to take it all in. There’s also a seating area just outside the main lobby overlooking the peaceful flow of Copper Creek.
Story Book Dining with Snow White
The Lodge’s famed Artist Point restaurant is now a character dining venue. If you’re wishing you could dine with Snow White, Dopey, Grumpy and even the Evil Queen herself, this is your grand opportunity. Entrees are your choice from a themed prix fixe menu. Similar to other dining experiences, you’ll be entertained throughout your meal and have an opportunity to engage with the characters. Be sure to check the menu for some very creative drink and dessert options, including the Smoking Mirror cocktail (Whisky, Wildberry, Lime, Rosemary Smoke) or the “Poison” Apples, featuring sugar encrusted White Chocolate Mousse apples with a sour center.
Cozy Up to the Campfire
In the evening you’ll find a blazing campfire near Geyser Point. If you enjoy smores, be sure to stop by.
Movies Under the Stars
After a smore or two it’s show time. On most nights you can catch one of your favorite Disney films on a large outdoor movie screen.
Catch a Parade
Find a nice beach chair, dip your toes in the sand, and watch the nightly performance of the Electrical Water Pageant. The classic light show on the water passes by the Lodge around 9:30 p.m.
Nightcap
Before you turn in for the day you may want a nightcap. The Territory Lounge is a cosy bar and a great place for a snack and an adult beverage. They also have non-alcoholic options for the kids like a Sparkling No-Jito or a Coconut Elixir.
A Final Pro-Tip
Be sure to ask the insiders for tips. Check with Cast Members about planned and un-publicized opportunities. For example, in the past, the Wilderness Lodge used to appoint a Flag Family daily to help raise the flags above the resort. While the practice is currently suspended, it could be reinstated. Disney is full of surprises. Helpful Cast Members can give you an itinerary of upcoming events and tips on how to find the specific adventure you are seeking.
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