Your Disney vacation doesn’t have to begin when you walk through the park gates—it can begin the moment you arrive in Orlando. Whether you land early in the morning or later in the afternoon, your arrival day is the perfect opportunity to explore, relax, and start making magical memories before your first park day.
Many guests don’t realize that their arrival day can be one of the most enjoyable parts of the trip. From exploring Disney Springs and relaxing at your resort to enjoying unique dining experiences, there are plenty of ways to start your vacation before your first park day begins.
If you’re arriving through Orlando International Airport (MCO) or Sanford Airport (SFB), booking private transportation can help you maximize your time by taking you directly to your resort without the stress of navigating traffic or waiting for shared transportation.
1. Explore Disney Springs
Disney Springs is the perfect place to kick off your vacation.
You’ll find:
- World-class restaurants
- Disney merchandise
- Live entertainment
- Unique desserts
- LEGO Store
- World of Disney
Spend a few hours strolling, shopping, and soaking up the Disney atmosphere.
2. Relax at Your Resort Pool
Most Disney Resort pools are themed and designed to feel like attractions themselves.
Take a swim, enjoy a drink by the pool, or simply relax after your flight before your busy park days begin.
3. Visit the BoardWalk
Disney’s BoardWalk offers beautiful waterfront views, entertainment, and great dining.
Perfect for an evening stroll.
4. Ride the Disney Skyliner
You don’t need a park ticket to enjoy one of Disney’s best transportation experiences.
Hop aboard the Skyliner and enjoy incredible aerial views of Walt Disney World.
5. Try a Character Dining Experience
Start your vacation with breakfast or dinner alongside some of your favorite Disney characters.
Reservations are recommended.
6. Watch the Electrical Water Pageant
This hidden Disney classic has entertained guests for decades.
Several Magic Kingdom area resorts offer excellent viewing spots.
7. Go Resort Hopping
Visit iconic Disney resorts like:
- Polynesian Village Resort
- Grand Floridian
- Contemporary Resort
- Wilderness Lodge
Each has its own unique atmosphere and dining options.
8. Have Dinner at a Disney Resort
Some of Disney’s best restaurants aren’t inside the parks.
Consider:
- ‘Ohana
- Steakhouse 71
- Whispering Canyon Cafe
- Sanaa
9. Play Mini Golf
Disney offers two themed miniature golf courses that are fun for the whole family.
10. Shop at World of Disney
The largest Disney store in the world deserves its own stop.
It’s the perfect place to pick up souvenirs before the parks.
11. Watch Movies Under the Stars
Many Disney Resorts offer complimentary outdoor Disney movie nights.
Check your resort’s activity schedule.
12. Roast Marshmallows at Campfires
Several Disney Resorts host nightly campfires for guests.
It’s a relaxing family activity after a travel day.
13. Enjoy Live Music at Disney Springs
Live performances happen daily throughout Disney Springs.
No admission required.
14. Visit Animal Kingdom Lodge
Even without staying there, you can view giraffes, zebras, and other animals from the resort’s observation areas.
15. Try Disney’s Famous Treats
Arrival day is the perfect excuse for:
- Gideon’s Bakehouse cookies
- Dole Whip
- Ghirardelli ice cream
- Everglazed donuts
16. Explore the Monorail Resorts
Ride the monorail between:
- Contemporary
- Polynesian
- Grand Floridian
Each resort has unique shops and dining.
17. Browse Disney Gift Shops
Every resort offers exclusive merchandise worth exploring.
18. Take Family Photos
The first day is often the least crowded.
Capture those “Day One” vacation memories around your resort or Disney Springs.
19. Watch the Sunset Around Crescent Lake
One of Disney’s most peaceful spots.
20. Enjoy Resort Activities
Many Disney Resorts offer:
- Crafts
- Trivia
- Pool games
- Scavenger hunts
21. Visit the LEGO Store
Kids love the giant LEGO creations and interactive play areas.
22. Treat Yourself to Dessert
Disney Springs is home to some of Orlando’s best dessert spots.
23. Organize Your Park Bags
Prepare everything for your first park day:
- MagicBands
- Chargers
- Ponchos
- Water bottles
- Sunscreen
24. Get a Good Night’s Sleep
A rested family enjoys Disney much more than an exhausted one.
25. Start Your Vacation Stress-Free
The best Disney vacations begin the moment you arrive in Orlando.
Instead of worrying about transportation after your flight, choose a private airport transfer that gets you directly to your resort so you can spend more time enjoying your vacation and less time waiting.
At The Sun Shuttle, we provide private transportation from Orlando International Airport (MCO) and Sanford Airport (SFB) to Disney Resorts, Universal Orlando, Port Canaveral, and hotels throughout Central Florida. Our spacious vehicles, flight monitoring, and child car seats upon request help families start their vacation comfortably from the moment they land.
