Let’s be honest—Disney World is magical, but it can also be exhausting and expensive if you’re visiting the parks every single day. That’s why non-park rest days are essential, especially if you’re traveling with kids or trying to make your Disney budget stretch further.

The great news? Disney Resort guests have access to plenty of free and low-cost activities that are just as fun and memorable as the theme parks. Even better, in 2025, resort guests can visit a Disney water park for free on their check-in day—a huge win for budget-conscious families.

Here are the Top 10 budget-friendly non-park activities at Disney World resorts your whole family will enjoy. For a free downloadable copy of this guide click the link below!

1. Visit Typhoon Lagoon or Blizzard Beach on Check-In Day (Free in 2025)

New in 2025, guests staying at a Disney Resort hotel receive complimentary admission to a Disney water park—either Typhoon Lagoon or Blizzard Beach—on their check-in day. It’s a great way to start your trip with a splash, without needing a park ticket.

Budget Tip: Pack swimwear and water shoes in your carry-on so you can head to the water park before your room is ready.

Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park

2. Relax at the Resort Pool

Every Disney Resort features at least one pool, with most offering a large feature pool and additional quiet pools. Many moderate and deluxe resorts include waterslides, splash pads, and kids’ play areas, making them a perfect option for a low-key, fun-filled day.

Budget Tip: Enjoy the resort pools all day on your check-out day even if you have a late flight!

3. Watch a Disney Movie Under the Stars

Nearly every Disney Resort offers complimentary outdoor movie nights. Movies typically begin around sunset, and some resorts even sell concessions like popcorn, candy, or drinks. During our stay at the Polynesian, they paused the movie during Magic Kingdom fireworks so everyone could enjoy the show from the beach.

Ask guest services for the movie schedule when you check in as the movies do not always run every night depending on the resort.

4. Roast Marshmallows at a Resort Campfire

Many resorts offer nightly campfires with free marshmallow roasting. You can purchase a s’mores kit on-site or bring your own supplies. Fort Wilderness takes it up a notch with Chip ‘n’ Dale’s Campfire Sing-Along on select nights, combining character meet-and-greets with classic campfire fun.

5. Take Part in Water-Based Resort Activities

If your resort is located near a lake, you might be able to enjoy boating or fishing.

• Rent a canoe or kayak at Fort Wilderness
• Take a guided fishing excursion or fish from a dock
• Watch the Electrical Water Pageant float by at night along Seven Seas Lagoon and Bay Lake

6. Resort Hop Using Disney Transportation

Use your off day to explore other resorts using complimentary Disney transportation—buses, boats, monorails, and the Skyliner.

Some ideas:

• Watch animals at Animal Kingdom Lodge
• Stroll through the Grand Floridian or Contemporary
• Ride the Skyliner and explore the resorts along the route

Budget Tip: Bring refillable water bottles and snacks to avoid unnecessary spending while exploring.

7. Enjoy a Day at Disney Springs

Disney Springs is a vibrant, open-air shopping and dining destination with free entry. You’ll find everything from unique gift shops and Disney merchandise to casual and upscale restaurants.

Budget-friendly ideas:

• Browse the World of Disney store
• Enjoy live street performers
• Get a sweet treat from Gideon’s Bakehouse or Amorette’s Patisserie
• Refill your souvenir popcorn bucket at one of the kiosks

8. Spend Time at Disney’s BoardWalk

The BoardWalk area near EPCOT offers vintage charm and free entertainment like street performers and musicians in the evening. It’s a fun place to walk, explore, or grab a casual bite.

Optional paid extras:

• Rent a surrey bike and ride around Crescent Lake
• Play mini-golf at Fantasia Gardens nearby

9. Watch Fireworks from Your Resort

You don’t need to be inside the parks to enjoy Disney fireworks. If you’re staying at a Magic Kingdom-area resort—like the Polynesian, Grand Floridian, or Contemporary—you can watch the show from the beach or balcony, complete with synchronized music.

Guests staying near EPCOT (like Beach Club, BoardWalk or even Caribbean Beach) can also catch the nighttime spectacular from just outside the park.

10. Join In Other Resort Activities

Most Disney resorts offer daily activities, some free and others with a small fee. These might include:

• Mickey tie-dye shirts
• Trivia games
• Cookie decorating
• Scavenger hunts
• Resort arcades
• Pony rides and carriage rides at Fort Wilderness and Port Orleans

Ask for the resort activity schedule when you check in to plan your day.

Bonus Budget Tips

• Bring snacks and refillable water bottles
• Use your refillable resort mugs if you purchased one
• Schedule a midday rest to recharge for evening fun
• Capture photos at less crowded resort locations
• Let kids complete free scavenger hunts or craft projects

Disney Magic on a Budget Is Still Magical

Non-park days can be some of the most relaxing and memorable parts of your trip. Whether you’re resting poolside, exploring another resort, or enjoying free nighttime entertainment, there are plenty of ways to enjoy Disney without breaking the bank.

Save this guide for your next trip by clicking on the link below!

Don’t forget to share your favorite budget-friendly Disney activities in the comments!