Hidden Gems: Top Activities at Disney World You Must Try

If you’ve traveled to Walt Disney World, you probably already know about the popular park attractions like the Seven Dwarfs’ Mine Train and the Frozen ride in Epcot, but there’s much more at Disney World than rides!

From getting a haircut to speeding along in a NASCAR race car to surfing man-made waves, there are plenty of unique experiences guaranteed to make your visit even more memorable.

Get a Haircut

The Harmony Barber Shop is located on Main Street U.S.A. in the Magic Kingdom. It is a fully functioning barber shop, home to the famous barbershop quartet singers.

Haircuts at Harmony Barber Shop are offered to guests of all ages, finished off with the famous Disney sparkle gel. The cuts are surprisingly inexpensive (even by Disney standards), and the shop features a special “My First Haircut” package, which includes a cut, a printed certificate of bravery, and a pair of commemorative Mickey ears with “First Haircut” embroidered on the back.

Try Free Samples of Coca-Cola From Around the World

Free is a word rarely used at Disney, so take advantage of this experience. Located in Future World, guests of all ages can sample complimentary soft drinks from around the globe at Club Cool.

This tasting room, sponsored by Coca-Cola, is a welcome cool down from the sweltering Florida heat. Different Coke products are available, including Guarana Kua, a guarana berry flavored soda from Brazil; Inca Cola, a raspberry cream soda from Zimbabwe; Bibo, a kiwi-mango soda from South Africa; and a melon-flavored Fanta from Thailand.

Join Captain Jack’s Pirates League

The Pirates League, located in the Adventureland section of Magic Kingdom, transforms guests ages 3 and up (including adults) into salty swashbucklers.

Guests who join Captain Jack’s motley crew will be turned into a pirate, ghosted pirate, empress, or mermaid by a Pirate Master and gain access to a secret treasure room.

Shoot an Arrow like Merida

Does your child dream of being an archer like Merida in Brave? If so, take part in Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort’s archery program.

Each 90-minute session is limited to 10 guests. The program begins with safety information followed by guidance on how to hold and fire a compound bow. After that, you’ll have the chance to show off your new skills with target practice. This program is typically offered twice a day during the summer, and once a day after the high season ends.

Watch Fireworks Over Dessert

Disney World’s fireworks spectaculars are jaw-droppingly fantastic, but after a long day in the parks, navigating the crowds may be the last thing you want to do.

If you’re seeking a special, low-stress experience to cap off your day, consider attending one of the ticketed dessert parties held during the spectacular fireworks. Your ticket allows you to indulge in an array of desserts and drinks, all with a prime view of the fireworks show.

Attend these parties at various locations, including Tomorrowland Terrace and Plaza Garden at Magic Kingdom, the IllumiNations Sparkling Dessert Party at Epcot, and the Galactic Spectacular Party at Hollywood Studios.

Gather ‘Round the Campfire With Chip ‘n’ Dale

If your family enjoys a good old-fashioned sing-along, don’t miss Chip ‘n’ Dale’s Campfire.

This event, typically held from October through March, includes a delightful sing-along around the campfire, an appearance from Chip ‘n’ Dale, and a free screening of a Disney movie under the stars. You can also purchase a s’mores making kit and roast marshmallows while you sing along.

Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort is the most popular location for this event, but you can also attend campfires at multiple other Disney World resorts, such as Port Orleans Resort and Animal Kingdom Lodge.

Surf in the World’s Largest Wave Pool

Orlando may be miles from the ocean, but you can still hang ten at Disney World. Head to Typhoon Lagoon’s Water Lagoon Park before the park opens for a chance to surf the world’s largest outdoor wave pool.

The surfing sessions promise to deliver at least 100 waves during the hour-long event. These sessions are for experienced surfers only, limited to no more than 25 participants. For those who don’t know how to surf, lessons are also offered on select days, before the waterpark opens.

Go Off-Roading on a Segway

Combine nature with high-tech by joining the Wilderness Back Trail Adventure at the Fort Wilderness Resort. This two-hour tour is designed for beginners but is limited to guests aged 16 and older.

Experience the great outdoors on a Segway X2 Personal Transporter, guided by a knowledgeable instructor who will highlight the local flora and fauna, and assist you with getting your “Segway legs.”