Things at Disney World that are Better at Night

Disney World is a completely different place when the sun goes down. Why? Because Disney REALLY likes using atmospheric storytelling elements, like lights and ambience. But the question is quite simple…what’s better after dark?

I’ve put together a list of the Top After-dark Experiences, featuring everything from dining to attractions and everything in between. Just make sure that you’re caffeinated and well rested, because this is going to be a must-do checklist!

AEROPHILE: CHARACTERS IN FLIGHT AT DISNEY SPRINGS

Just imagine going up in a balloon to a height of 400 feet and looking for miles in every direction! You know what would make it better? Less crowds, more lights and a sense of adventure that can only be had when you CAN’T SEE THE ROPE!


Article Continues Below

WANDER AROUND THE WORLD SHOWCASE

As someone who actually worked in the Canadian Pavilion, I can honestly say that some of my favorite memories happened in the World Showcase at night. From the amazing lighting that the pavilions have incorporated to tell the story to the crowds that are almost non-existent…you’ll basically have the entire place to yourself!

It’s also a great time to have conversations and interactions with cast members, as they won’t be dealing with the intense heat of the Florida daytime.

TREE OF LIFE

Don’t get me wrong, the icon of Disney’s Animal Kingdom is breathtaking and amazing from every angle at every minute of the day. But why is it better at night?

The lighting effects and projection mapping brings the story of the park to a whole new level. Even without the evening shows, the details that are evident ONLY after sunset will send shivers up and down your spine.

GRAND FLORIDIAN TO POLYNESIAN VILLAGE RESORT WALK

We’ve had a few opportunities to dine at Victoria & Alberts. This is a 5-diamond restaurant with a 10-course meal that actually takes around 4-5 hours to complete, leaving you stuffed and not wanting to leave. Well what’s a better way to extend the romance and escapism by wandering along the water from the Grand Floridian to the Polynesian Village Resort.

On top of amazing views of the resorts themselves, you’re able to potentially see the Magic Kingdom fireworks in a whole new light!

Related Article: Where You Can Walk in Disney World

OUTDOOR ATTRACTIONS

I was thinking about listing individual attractions, but each of the descriptions had a similarity….lighting.

From the Tower of Terror‘s token screams to the Haunted Mansion’s eerie feeling, you’re going to get a completely different (and some would argue better) experience after the sun goes down.

  • Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
  • Seven Dwarfs Mine Train
  • Expedition Everest
  • Test Track
  • Jungle Cruise

LATE NIGHT BARS AND ADULT-ONLY ENTERTAINMENT

You know what’s better at night? Things that are ONLY open at night!

From Trader Sam’s @ Polynesian Village to Jellyrolls @ The Boardwalk, there are bar/lounges that truly come to life after the sun goes down. You can hang out at Jock Lindsey’s Hanger Bar or Enzo’s Hideaway at Disney Springs, and even top the evening off with a trip to the Cupcake ATM at Sprinkles! 😉


You haven’t completed a Bucket List at Disney World without experiencing its magic and adventures after dark, so be sure to get out when everyone else is going to bed! Over the summer, it’s easier to accomplish this, as you’ll be taking a mid-day nap anyway;)

Dustin Fuhshttp://www.stepstomagic.com
I’m Dustin Fuhs, a theme park fanatic that has created this platform to showcase my passion, tools and opinions to create a fun and interactive experience for everyone who visits. My goal is to help you and your family have the most magical experience at Walt Disney World. In reading my articles and ideas, I hope that you can find some fantastic ways to bring your dreams into reality!

Related articles

7 Unused Items You Shouldn’t Pack for Disney World

When it comes to planning a Disney vacation, the excitement often leads us to overpack or bring things we think will enhance our experience. However, not all of these purchases prove to be necessary

Problems in Walt Disney World that Nobody Expects

Discover the Top 10 unexpected challenges you might face at Walt Disney World, from ride shutdowns to out-of-stock merchandise.

20 Unbeatable Ways to Experience an Adult-Only Disney World Trip

Having an adult-only vacation in Disney World is more than hanging out at the pool.

The Ultimate Guide to Guilty Pleasures at Walt Disney World: From Character Selfies to Dessert-First Buffets

Discover the ultimate guide to guilty pleasures at Walt Disney World. From snapping selfies with characters to starting buffets with dessert, our list adds a sprinkle of unconventional fun to your magical trip!

8 Christmas Activities at Walt Disney World You Can’t Miss

Celebrate Christmas in Disney style! Uncover '8 Christmas Activities at Walt Disney World You Can’t Miss' for holiday magic.

10 Experience Gift Ideas Kids Will Love At Disney World

A growing trend is to gift kids “experiences” instead of "stuff" toys for birthdays and holidays. When you're planning a trip to Disney, why not get them excited by sharing something that they get to do.

5 ways to Sightsee via complimentary transportation in Disney World

Learn about complimentary Walt Disney World Resort transportation options to sightsee

Top 10 Attractions for Photographers

When you look at Walt Disney World, there are only a few attractions that stand out for folks who love to be behind the lens. This list will bring to light the experiences that you should just put the camera away and enjoy the magic that the Imagineers have created!

Top Ten Disney Advance Dining Reservations to get ASAP

Discover the essential Disney advance dining reservations for an awesome Walt Disney World experience.

Top 10 Hilarious Jungle Cruise Puns

Embark on a pun-filled adventure! Discover the top 10 Jungle Cruise puns that will make you laugh, groan, and fall in love with Disney humor.

10 Things We Will Never Do Again at Disney World

Learn from our mistakes! Uncover the 10 things we vow never to do again at Disney World for a smoother, happier vacation experience.

Things That We Wish We Bought at Disney World

Shop smarter, not harder! Read about the items we regret not purchasing at Disney World to make your next trip's shopping spree guilt-free.
39 Shares
Pin36
Share3
Tweet