Beyond the Rides: 7 Things to Do at a Theme Park if You're Not a Thrill-Seeker

Not into roller coasters? Here are seven other ways to have fun at an amusement park.

Related To:

If 100-foot drops and 360-degree corkscrews aren’t your idea of a good time, you may not think there’s much for you to do at an amusement park. (Perhaps you’ve only reluctantly visited them with adventurous friends or family members.) But there are actually plenty of ways to stay entertained even if you’re not into thrill rides: Many theme parks are stepping up their games with delicious food, high-quality shows and other not-at-all-terrifying activities. While your friends are waiting in line after line (or when they’re ready for a break), try these other fun theme park activities.

Eat

Photo by: Photo Courtesy of Knott's Berry Farm

Photo Courtesy of Knott's Berry Farm

You could easily spend an entire day sampling delicious foods you can’t get anywhere else at many theme parks. Before your trip, do some research on the park’s signature snacks. A trip to Knott’s Berry Farm, for example, isn’t complete without some sort of boysenberry treat (like this refreshing Boysenberry Icee). When you need a more substantial meal, many parks offer surprisingly creative cuisine right on the property or nearby. Disney Springs in Orlando is particularly well known for its one-of-a-kind restaurants.

10 Iconic Theme Park Foods

See All Photos

Boysenberry Icee, Knott’s Berry Farm

You can’t go to Knott’s Berry Farm and not try something with boysenberry. One of the best ways to enjoy the fruit and cool off from the summer sun is this frosty treat.

Photo By: Photo Courtesy of Knott's Berry Farm

Granny’s Apple Fries, Legoland Florida and California

A park original, these Granny Smith apple fries are dusted with cinnamon and sugar and come with a whipped cream dipping sauce.

Photo By: Photo Courtesy of Legoland

Dole Whip, Magic Kingdom and Disneyland

This light, refreshing treat is really just pineapple soft-serve, and it’s OK for park goers with a dairy allergy. Up the ante with a Dole Whip Float, a cup of pineapple juice topped with the frothy frozen goodness.

©Photo Courtesy of Walt Disney World

Nathan’s Famous Hot Dogs, Coney Island

What began as a nickel hot dog stand in 1916 is now a household name, thanks to the famous hotdog eating contest. But the original stand is still in business, and visiting this institution should be on every Coney Island bucket list.

Photo By: Shutterstock

Butterbeer, Wizarding World of Harry Potter

Frozen, iced and now hot. However you take it, ordering a mug of this creamy, sugary butterscotch overload will take you into the pages of J.K. Rowling’s wizard universe.

Photo By: Photo Courtesy of Universal Studios Orlando

Fresh-Baked Cinnamon Bread, Dollywood

You’ll smell the mouthwatering aroma as soon as you walk into the park. Find this park staple at The Grist Mill, the first fully operating grist mill built in the state of Tennessee in more than 100 years.

Photo By: Photo Courtesy of Dollywood

Cheese on a Stick, Cedar Point

This signature snack is less like a mozzarella stick and more like a giant corn dog with a hunk of molten cheese in the middle. Don’t think about the calories on this one.

Photo By: Photo Courtesy of Cedar Point

Ginger Molasses Cookies, Silver Dollar City

These snaps have become a fan favorite during the holiday season. Find them in the park at Eva & Delilah’s Bakery.

Photo By: Photo Courtesy of Silver Dollar City

Smoked Turkey Leg, Magic Kingdom and Disneyland

One of the most iconic Disney bites, this Renaissance-type snack is giant, and you can find it at multiple snack carts and quick service spots throughout the park.

Photo By: iStock

Mickey Waffle, Walt Disney World and Disneyland

There is no Disney food more Instagrammable than a Mickey Mouse waffle. And there’s nothing like that first breakfast in the park that says it’s vacation time.

Photo By: Deanne Revel

Drink

Photo by: Photo Courtesy of Walt Disney World

Photo Courtesy of Walt Disney World

After several hours of standing in the hot sun, there’s nothing better than a cold beverage. Many theme parks are branching out from kiddie drinks and serving craft brews and specialty cocktails. Take a break in the shade and try an African beer or wine at Animal Kingdom’s Dawa Bar.

Best Theme Park Bars

See All Photos

Dawa Bar, Animal Kingdom

Take a break from the heat in this shaded oasis. Sample African beers and look out for safari-themed tap handles. The bar also offers several frozen and specialty cocktails. What to Order: Tusker Lager

Photo By: Photo Courtesy of Walt Disney World

Hog’s Head Pub, Universal Studios Florida and Hollywood

Harry Potter fans looking for more than Butterbeer should head to the bar at the Hog’s Head Pub for wizard-themed drinks, plus a hog’s head that snorts at patrons. The bar also features its own Fire Whiskey, a cinnamon liquor featured in the Harry Potter books, and has several cocktail options. What to Order: Fire & Chata or Wizard’s Brew Stout

Photo By: Photo Courtesy of Universal Studios Orlando

La Cava del Tequila, Epcot

The best thing about Epcot is drinking around the world through the park’s extravagant foodie pavilions. But Mexico wins for best bar, best selection and best drinks. Walk through an ancient temple into a nighttime fiesta to access La Cava del Tequila, and sample more than 200 tequilas, Mexican beer and wine. Stay for a tequila flight or order drinks to go as you hop to other countries. What to Order: Wild Passion Fruit Margarita

Photo By: Photo Courtesy of Walt Disney World

Moe’s Tavern, Universal Studios Florida

Simpsons fans will enjoy visiting Homer’s favorite bar and posing with Barney and The Lover Tester. What to Order: Flaming Moe

Photo By: Photo Courtesy of Universal Studios Orlando

Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar, Disney Springs

While not inside a Disney park, this bar is located in Disney Springs, a shopping area with exclusive Disney merchandise, shows and attractions. Inspired by Indiana Jones' sidekick, this 1940s airplane hangar turned dive serves up adventurer-themed cocktails and has Instagrammable decor everywhere you look. What to Order: Wrong Island!

Photo By: Photo Courtesy of Walt Disney World

Tune-In Lounge, Hollywood Studios

Part of the 50s Primetime Cafe, this retro bar is decorated with old-school TVs playing black and white shows including The Mickey Mouse Club reruns. What to Order: Electric Lemonade With Glow-in-the-Dark Ice Cubes

Photo By: Photo Courtesy of Walt Disney World

Rose and Crown Pub, Epcot

Take a mini trip across the pond and take a seat at what feels like an authentic British pub. Enjoy pints and classic English, Scottish and Irish fare. What to Order: English Rose

Photo By: Photo Courtesy of Walt Disney World

Nomad Lounge and Cocktail Bar, Animal Kingdom

Sip exotic cocktails inspired by Asia, Africa and South America while lounging on the wraparound porch outside Tiffan’s, Animal Kingdom’s first signature restaurant. What to Order: Malaysian Mule

Photo By: Photo Courtesy of Walt Disney World

Full Throttle Sports Bar, Six Flags Magic Mountain

You won’t miss a play with 30 HDTVs playing different games and a giant scoreboard of TVs hanging from the ceiling. Sit on bleachers or check out Southern California sports team memorabilia while you wait. What to Order: Seasonal Cold Brew

Photo By: Photo Courtesy of Six Flags Magic Mountain

Trader Sam’s Enchanted Tiki Bar, Disneyland

Located in the Disneyland Hotel, this tiki bar with colorful cocktails was inspired by the iconic Jungle Cruise park ride. What to Order: Uh Oa!

Photo By: Photo Courtesy of Walt Disney World

Catch a Show

Photo by: Photo Courtesy of Busch Gardens

Photo Courtesy of Busch Gardens

From fireworks extravaganzas to riveting stage shows, many theme parks offer entertainment you don’t want to miss. Celtic Fyre, a dance show celebrating Irish culture, is one of the most popular performances at Busch Gardens Williamsburg. Consider paying the extra $5 for reserved seating.

Must-See Theme Park Shows

See All Photos

Rivers of Light, Animal Kingdom

Part theater, part water show, part celebration of nature, this is one nighttime experience you don’t want to miss at Animal Kingdom. The new technology used to project images and footage onto water is stunning. And the lights are breathtaking. Take advantage of FastPass+ for prime viewing in this outdoor theater.

Photo By: Photo Courtesy of Walt Disney World

World of Color, Disney California Adventure

There’s just nothing like it anywhere else. Imagine the fountains at the Bellagio went to a rave and then add a dash of pyrotechnics. This spectacle will leave you awestruck by the sheer volume of water and power needed, but also by the technology used to project Disney footage onto giant screens of water.

Photo By: Photo Courtesy of Disneyland

Smoky Mountain Christmas, Dollywood

There’s tons of bluegrass, gospel and country entertainment at Dollywood year round, but there’s no better time to visit than Christmas. The park transforms into a holiday wonderland with Dolly Parton’s Parade of Many Colors and It’s a Wonderful Life stage show.

Photo By: Photo Courtesy of Dollywood

Festival of the Lion King, Animal Kingdom

If you haven’t seen the Broadway adaptation of this Disney classic, this is your next best bet. The giant puppets, stilt walkers, trapeze artists and fire dancers will blow you away and take you straight to the African savanna.

Photo By: Photo Courtesy of Walt Disney World

WaterWorld, Universal Studios Hollywood

This stunt spectacular has it all: high dives, fire, explosions and flying Sea-doos. This show should not be missed, unless you have little ones. It’s pretty loud and could be scary.

Photo By: Photo Courtesy of Universal Studios Hollywood

Celtic Fyre, Busch Gardens Williamsburg

Celebrate Irish culture and Celtic storytelling is this incredible dance show. It is one of the most popular performances at the park, so you may want to consider the extra $5 for reserved seating.

Photo By: Photo Courtesy of Busch Gardens

Fantasmic, Hollywood Studios

This show is popular for a reason. It’s one of your best bets to see Mickey Mouse, but it's not just for the kids. There’s pyrotechnics, laser lights and one million gallons of dancing water. Plus some iconic photo ops of Mickey shooting streams of light out of his fingers a la Fantasia.

Photo By: Photo Courtesy of Walt Disney World

Celestina Warbeck and the Banshees, Islands of Adventure

Most Harry Potter fans are in such a rush to visit Gringotts or ride the train, they don’t stick around Diagon Alley for performances. But these are just as magical. In the Carkitt Market area of Diagon Alley there are several special performances throughout the day, including wizard star Celestina Warbeck. Diehard fans will enjoy this minor character from the books come to life.

Photo By: OCTAVIAN CANTILLI

Matsuriza, Epcot

One of the best parts about Epcot’s World Showcase is the street performances in each country. France has an incredible acrobat. Mexico has a mariachi serenade. But Japan’s drum performance will stop you in your tracks. From the stunts to sheer sound, you’ll be stunned. Find a bench and take it in.

Photo By: iStock

Happily Ever After, Magic Kingdom

Ever wondered why the Magic Kingdom does fireworks at the end of each night? Walt Disney knew that leaving at the end of the day would be sad, so he wanted to send guests off with a goodnight kiss. And so, the castle fireworks show was born. While the park’s previous show “Wishes” dazzled and amazed guests with augmented reality and video projected onto Cinderella’s castle, we can’t wait to see what’s coming in the park’s new nighttime send off, “Happily Ever After,” coming late spring 2017.

Photo By: Photo Courtesy of Walt Disney World

Enjoy Hotel Amenities

Dollywood's DreamMore Resort

Dollywood's DreamMore Resort<br />

Kick back and relax at Dollywood's DreamMore Resort in the Great Smoky Mountains of Tennessee.

Photo by: Iran Watson

Iran Watson

If you need a little break from the excitement of the parks, you may find that your hotel has almost as much fun to offer (but with fewer crowds). Guests at Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort can enjoy family-style dinners, storytimes, children’s play areas and a family game room. Camp DW keeps kids entertained when the park is closed with nature walks and arts and crafts.

Top 10 Theme Park Hotels

See All Photos

LEGOLAND Hotel

For LEGO lovers, it’s not enough to explore all that LEGOLAND has to offer, like Miniland USA and Ninjago World. Take the experience to the next level with a stay at the LEGOLAND Hotel (Orlando and Southern California) where every room is a themed room, including Pirate, Kingdom, Adventure and LEGO Friends. Kids will love sleeping in colorful bunk beds, as well as early access to the park.

Photo By: Chip Litherland

Disney's Art of Animation Resort

At Disney’s Art of Animation Resort in Orlando, guests can stay in one of three themed family suites, including Finding Nemo, Cars and The Lion King. There are also The Little Mermaid-themed standard rooms. As a bonus, pose for selfies with life-size characters from the movies, like Lighting McQueen and Ursula. Splash in the largest resort pool at Walt Disney World, which even has underwater speakers.

Photo By: Matt Stroshane

Loews Portofino Bay Hotel

Mini Despicable Me fans will love the Despicable Me Kids Suites at Loews Portofino Bay Hotel at Universal Orlando. Each suite comes with a king bedroom plus two custom-created missile beds, allowing kids to sleep just like Margo, Edith and Agnes in the movie. As a bonus, look for Minion-themed bedding. You’ll feel totally immersed since every wall is wallpapered with Minions.

Photo By: KEVIN KOLCZYNSKI

Disneyland Hotel

Book a stay at the Disneyland Hotel in Anaheim in one of six Signature Suites, including the Fairy Tale Suite, which boasts a marble foyer, floor-to-ceiling windows and a delightful canopy bed. Perfect for princesses of all ages. Or, request the 1,600-square-foot Mickey Mouse Penthouse, which includes two bedrooms and Mickey Mouse decor throughout the suite, including sketches from the Disney library.

Photo By: Disneyland Hotel

Loews Sapphire Falls Resort

Cheerful and tropical, the brand new Loews Sapphire Falls Resort has a decidedly Caribbean feel thanks to waterfalls, lagoons and beachy accents across the property. Look for a massive swimming pool, a waterslide, a sandy beach, a fire pit and a fun children’s play area. Book a stay in one of the Kids’ Suites, which sleep up to five in an island-themed oasis with a king bed, two twin beds and a rollaway bed.

Photo By: KEVIN KOLCZYNSKI

Disney's Polynesian Village Resort

Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort has been a mainstay at Walt Disney World for many years, but the Bora Bora Bungalows, which sit right on the lake, are a must-book. Each bungalow has its own private deck, plunge pool and one of the best views of the nightly Magic Kingdom fireworks show. Only available to Disney Vacation Club members, this may be a good reason to finally sign up for the timeshare program.

Photo By: David Roark

Dollywood's DreamMore Resort

Decorated with guitars and album covers of its owner, Dolly Parton, Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort opened last summer at her Great Smoky Mountains theme park in Tennessee. Look for family-style dinners, storytimes and children's play areas. There’s even a family game room with air hockey and video games. Camp DW is a great place for kids to go for nature walks and arts and crafts when the park is closed.

Photo By: Iran Watson

Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort

Part of Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort, the Treehouse Villas each have three bedrooms, an open kitchen and two baths, making them perfect for families wanting a bit more space on their vacation. Set 10 feet off the ground, these hideaway treehouses even have flat-screen TVs, private decks and charcoal grills. Definitely no roughing it here. Take the water taxi to Disney Springs or splash around at five on-site pools.

Photo By: Kent Phillips

LEGOLAND Beach Retreat

The brand new LEGOLAND Beach Retreat in Florida has everything LEGO fans could want across this village-style resort boasting 83 colorful beach bungalows. Set on Lake Dexter, and adjacent to the theme park, guests have access to a sandy beach for fun in the sun, a daily all-you-can-eat breakfast and a kids’ clubhouse. Look for shaded patios and all kinds of outdoor LEGO-themed play areas.

Photo By: Chip Litherland

Disney's Contemporary Resort

Yes, Disney’s Contemporary Resort has been at Walt Disney World for years, and yes, the monorail runs through the hotel, but that’s why it’s such a must-book. The hotel boasts one of the most popular character breakfasts at Chef Mickey’s and now there’s a new Sunday brunch option at California Grill (hello, make-your-own Bloody Mary bar). Watch the Magic Kingdom fireworks from the rooftop lounge. Incredible.   

Photo By: Matt Stroshane

Celebrate the Holidays

France Pavilion at Epcot

France Pavilion at Epcot During the Holidays<br />

Enjoy festive decorations and seasonal foods during the holidays in each of Epcot's 11 country pavilions in the World Showcase.

Photo by: Erin Gifford

Erin Gifford

If you find yourself at a theme park during the winter months, there’s bound to be plenty of holiday festivities to keep you busy. Walt Disney World, in particular, goes all out. At Epcot, you can experience the holidays around the globe in the World Showcase area: Watch a traditional Feliz Navidad celebration in Mexico, or celebrate Three Kings Day near World Showcase Plaza. Plus, check out festive decorations in every country, like these fun giant ornaments in France.

Walt Disney World's Holiday Fun

See All Photos

Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party

Held between early November and the week of Christmas at the Magic Kingdom, Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party is an extra special treat for families. Little ones will love the children’s dance party with DJ Kringle at Club Tinsel and live shows, like “Mickey’s Most Merriest Celebration” on the steps of Cinderella’s castle. The Holiday Wishes fireworks spectacular lights up the sky each night at 10 p.m.

Photo By: Kent Phillips

Christmas Tree Trail

At Disney Springs, walk along the Christmas Tree Trail to see 15 Christmas trees decorated in the spirit of classic Disney characters and movies. There’s a "Mickey and Minnie" tree, a "Beauty and the Beast" tree, even a "Frozen" tree. Don't miss the festive tree lighting ceremony each night at 6 p.m.

Photo By: Erin Gifford

Starbright Holidays - an Intel Collaboration

While at Disney Springs, see the brand new show, “Starbright Holidays – An Intel Collaboration.” Starting in late November and running through early January, 300 drones will light up the sky in twice-nightly performances. Set to classic holiday tunes, the synchronized drones dance and sparkle to the delight of guests throughout the holiday season.

Photo By: Intel Corporation

Candlelight Processional

A holiday favorite at Epcot, the Candlelight Processional returns from late November through late December. Each night, a celebrity narrator reads the Christmas story accompanied by a 50-piece orchestra and robed choir. Past celebrity readers have included Whoopi Goldberg, Meredith Vieira and Neil Patrick Harris. No special tickets are required, but seats do fill up quickly.

Photo By: Garth Vaughan

Holidays Around the World

While at Epcot, enjoy festive holiday decorations, foods and activities at each of the 11 nations in the World Showcase. Watch a traditional Feliz Navidad celebration in Mexico or celebrate Three Kings Day near World Showcase Plaza with shredded beef tamales, coconut milk and avocado crema. Every country is dolled up for the holidays. Look for Santa and Mrs. Claus at The American Adventure.

Photo By: Erin Gifford

Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM!

At Disney’s Hollywood Studios, a new holiday nighttime spectacular complete with special effects, festive music and fireworks enchants audiences nightly. The new "Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM!" takes guests on a journey to return Santa to the North Pole by Christmas Eve. Scenes from Bambi, Cinderella and The Nightmare Before Christmas come alive on the buildings inside the park.

Photo By: David Roark

Holiday Dessert Parties

Look for special dessert parties throughout Walt Disney World during the holidays, like the Fireworks Dessert Party at Tomorrowland Terrace. For an extra fee, enjoy chocolate-dipped strawberries, character-themed desserts, even create-your-own cookies, as well as hot drinks, like cocoa and apple cider. As a bonus, you’ll have access to a special viewing area for the nightly fireworks show.

Photo By: Vernon Wentz

Behind-the-Scenes Holiday Magic Tours

During the holidays, look for two behind-the-scenes tours, including Disney’s Yuletide Fantasy, a three-hour behind-the-scenes look into how Walt Disney World gets ready for the holidays. The second tour, Disney’s Holiday D-Lights, takes guests on a five-hour tour to learn how the decorating team lights up the entire Walt Disney World resort, including all four parks and multiple on-property hotels.

Photo By: Erin Gifford

Frozen Holiday Wish Show

Frozen’s Queen Elsa appears twice nightly as part of “A Frozen Holiday Wish,” using her powers to transform Cinderella’s castle into an ice palace, illuminating the castle with more than 200,000 sparkling twinkle lights. Little ones will love seeing Anna, Elsa, Kristoff and Olaf sing and dance before the castle begins to shimmer, shine and sparkle. A quick burst of fireworks completes this magical show.

Photo By: Erin Gifford

Mickey's Once Upon a Christmastime Parade

Twice nightly, line Main Street, U.S.A. at Magic Kingdom for Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade featuring Mickey, Minnie, Anna and Elsa, as well as marching toy soldiers and gingerbread men. Even Santa makes an appearance and you may see snow fall (yes, even in Orlando). Before or after the parade, take time to explore the storefronts that are all dressed up for the holidays.

Photo By: Ryan Wendler

Discover Little-Known Attractions

Photo by: Photo Courtesy of Universal Studios Orlando

Photo Courtesy of Universal Studios Orlando

When you’re not spending your time waiting in lines, you can find all the hidden gems that others often overlook. At the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, for example, don’t miss the talking snake at the Magical Menagerie in Diagon Alley, and be sure to dial 62442 (MAGIC) in the phone booth just outside of King’s Cross Station.

10 Theme Park Hidden Gems

See All Photos

Phone Booth, Wizarding World of Harry Potter

A lot of Harry Potter fans are so excited to visit Diagon Alley that they rush past a red phone booth just outside the entrance. But take the time to step inside and dial 62442 (MAGIC).

Photo By: Photo Courtesy of Universal Studios Orlando

Barber Shop, Magic Kingdom

Did you know you can get your hair cut at Walt Disney World? Hidden in plain sight on Main Street U.S.A., this barbershop features a real barbershop quartet who may pop in to entertain you.

Photo By: Michaela Whidby

Club Cool, Epcot

Most people whiz past this attraction on the way to popular rides, but they’re missing a major freebie. Club Cool lets you cool off and sample soda from all around the world. Make sure to visit this spot during the hottest part of the day for a sweet break.

Photo By: Photo Courtesy of Walt Disney World

Model Shop, Legoland Florida

This store sells tens of thousands of Lego bricks, but the real draw is a chance to watch builders repair and work on Lego models that are used in the park.

Photo By: Photo Courtesy of Legoland

Old Flames Candles, Dollywood

This shop in the Craftsman's Valley section of the park sells handmade candles and has an area where you can dip your own candle for a unique souvenir.

Photo By: Photo Courtesy of Dollywood

A Pirate’s Adventure, Magic Kingdom

In the Adventureland area of Magic Kingdom, just outside the Pirates of the Caribbean ride, you can embark on an interactive treasure hunt with really beautiful maps that make great (and free!) souvenirs.

Photo By: Photo Courtesy of Walt Disney World

Talking Snake, Wizarding World of Harry Potter

Slytherin fans should head to the Magical Menagerie in Diagon Alley, where you’ll find a snake that talks to you in Parseltongue (a language used by snakes in the Harry Potter books) and then in English.

Photo By: Photo Courtesy of Universal Studios Orlando

Psychic Reading, Universal Studios Islands of Adventure

The Lost Continent area of the park has several interesting shops, but head to the back of Star Souls for a psychic reading. Take a break from the lines and cool off in the shade while you learn what your future holds.

Photo By: Photo Courtesy of Universal Studios Orlando

Adventurers Outpost, Animal Kingdom

This is your best spot for ensuring your little ones get a photo op with Mickey and Minnie without waiting in line for hours.

Photo By: Photo Courtesy of Walt Disney World

Pin Trading, Disney Parks

It's already awesome to get a button from Disney when celebrating things like birthdays and anniversaries, but one of the coolest pieces of Disney parks culture is pin trading. You can trade Disney pins with any cast member once a day at any Disney park. It’s a great way to trade for vintage or rare Disney pins that make for a memorable souvenir.

Photo By: Deanne Revel

Go Behind the Scenes

Venture off the beaten path at Disneyâ  s Animal Kingdom during a new, immersive, add-on experience, Wild Africa Trek.  Small groups of adventurers take off on personalized, guided excursions that include a bushwalk through unexplored areas of the forest and in customized vehicles across an animal-filled savanna. On these expert-led treks, extended time is spent observing and learning about the wildlife. For a limited time, Disneyâ  s Animal Kingdom guests can enjoy a $50 discount on treks when booked for 11:45 a.m. or later. Reservations for Wild Africa Trek (ages 8 and up) can be arranged by calling 407/939-8687. More information: Disneyworld.com/trek (Kent Phillips, photographer)

Embark on a Wild Africa Trek

Venture off the beaten path at Disney’s Animal Kingdom during a new, immersive, add-on experience, Wild Africa Trek. Small groups of adventurers take off on personalized, guided excursions that include a bushwalk through unexplored areas of the forest and in customized vehicles across an animal-filled savanna. On these expert-led treks, extended time is spent observing and learning about the wildlife. For a limited time, Disney’s Animal Kingdom guests can enjoy a $50 discount on treks when booked for 11:45 a.m. or later. Reservations for Wild Africa Trek (ages 8 and up) can be arranged by calling 407/939-8687. More information: Disneyworld.com/trek (Kent Phillips, photographer)

Photo by: Kent Phillips

Kent Phillips

For an extra fee, some theme parks offer special tours with behind-the-scenes access to the park. If you love Kilimanjaro Safaris at Animal Kingdom, you’ll want to sign up for the three-hour Wild Africa Trek. Step outside the Jeep for a guided walk along the savanna and an up-close look at the majestic animals. 

More Behind-the-Scenes Tours

See All Photos

Disney's Keys to the Kingdom Tour

If you’ve ever wanted to pull back the curtain to learn the secrets behind Disney’s Magic Kingdom, the Keys to the Kingdom Tour is about as close as you can get. Not surprisingly, this tour is for adults only (why spoil the magic for the littles). This five-hour tour offers backstage access to hidden areas, including the super-secret underground service tunnels (which is why you’ll never see Mickey in two places at once).

Photo By: Atlantide Phototravel

Star Wars Guided Tour

We may need to wait until 2019 for Star Wars Land to open up at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, but for now guests can sign up for the seven-hour Star Wars Guided Tour for an all-access pass to all things Star Wars. Enjoy a screening of Star Wars: Path of the Jedi, Jedi Training, meet-and-greets with Chewbacca and Kylo Ren, a special dessert party (featuring “inter-stellar sweets,” of course) and reserved fireworks viewing.

Photo By: David Roark

Ultimate Disney Classics VIP Tour

For lovers of iconic Magic Kingdom rides, like Pirates of the Caribbean and Dumbo the Flying Elephant, the brand new Ultimate Disney Classics VIP Tour is for you. Not only will you receive VIP treatment over four hours, but you’ll enjoy better-than-FastPass+ access to classic rides. As in, no wait at all. This is ideal for those who want to spend less time in line, more time taking in the magic of Magic Kingdom. 

Photo By: Ali Nasser

Roller Coaster Insider Tour

If you’ve ever wanted to do a deep dive into the science and engineering behind roller coasters, sign up for the three-hour Roller Coaster Insider Tour at Busch Gardens Williamsburg. This tour takes guests behind-the-scenes before the park even opens for the day to learn why certain coasters are designed the way they are and how they reach top speeds. As a bonus, step out at the top of the Griffon for 360-degree views.

Photo By: Scott K. Brown

Behind the Seeds Tour

The Living with the Land ride at Epcot has long been a favorite, enabling guests to float along in a boat through the greenhouse to learn about the future of agriculture. The one-hour Behind the Seeds Tour goes one step further, taking guests into four greenhouses and a fish farm to educate them on new techniques to grow bigger and better fruits and vegetables. There’s even a ladybug release, helping to protect the plants.

Photo By: Matt Stroshane

LEGOLAND VIP Experience

There’s so much more to LEGO than simply attaching one brick to another brick. Sign up for the LEGOLAND VIP Experience and you’ll be escorted around the park to learn all the behind-the-scenes scoop on LEGO. Even better, get ready for an exclusive tour of the Model Shop (where all the magical LEGO creations begin) and build your own creations with an actual Master Builder.

Photo By: Chip Litherland

“Walk in Walt's Disneyland Footsteps” Guided Tour

Guests who want to learn more about Walt Disney as a visionary should book a spot on the “Walk in Walt's Disneyland Footsteps” Guided Tour at Disneyland in California. Perfect for historians of all ages, this morning tour will take you back to a time when Disneyland was a mere idea to learn about the trials, tribulations, challenges and inspirations behind one of the most famous theme parks in the world.

Photo By: Paul Hiffmeyer

SeaWorld Orlando Behind-The-Scenes Tour

Lovers of marine animals, like manatees and sea turtles, may want to sign up for the 75-minute SeaWorld Orlando Behind-The-Scenes Tour, during which the park’s animal experts discuss how they rescue and rehabilitate sea animals at SeaWorld. As a bonus, guests can interact with one of the adorable king penguins. Ten percent of the tour price goes to marine conservation projects. A tour with a purpose. Nice.

Photo By: Jason Collier

Wild Africa Trek

Lovers of Kilimanjaro Safaris at Animal Kingdom, will want to sign up for the three-hour Wild Africa Trek for a more in-depth look at the animals that make Animal Kingdom their home, like rhinos, giraffes and hippos. Step outside the Jeep for a guided walk along the grasslands and savanna. As a bonus, Disney photogs capture it all, so you won’t miss a moment of your journey across the Harambe Reserve.

Photo By: Kent Phillips

Halloween Horror Nights Behind-The-Screams: Unmasking the Horror Tour

For horror enthusiasts, it’s a must to sign up for Halloween Horror Nights Behind-The-Screams: Unmasking the Horror Tour at Universal Orlando. Choose a two- or four-hour tour for a backstage look into how the design team brings the horrifically scary haunted houses to life, much to the delight of guests who revel in all things frightening and bone-chilling. As you can imagine, this tour is not for children under 13.

Photo By: KEVIN KOLCZYNSKI

Next Up

6 Tips for a Successful Theme Park Visit

A little prep work goes a long way toward a fun and hassle-free trip.

Quiz: What's Your Amusement Park IQ?

Think you’re a theme parks pro? Answer these trivia questions to see how well you know some of the world’s most popular parks and rides.

Around the World at Epcot's International Flower and Garden Festival

See your favorite Disney characters as topiaries.

Hosts' Fave Roller Coasters

Hosts share the thrill rides that still make them feel like a kid.

Orlando's Top 5 Attractions

See Orlando's top 5 attractions.

7 Classic U.S. Amusement Parks With Retro Attractions

Experience family-friendly rides and nostalgia at these iconic fun zones.

11 Things to See and Do at Walt Disney World’s New Pandora Land

Even if you're not an Avatar fan, there's so much Disney magic.

America's Scariest Roller Coasters

Take a ride on these scream machines.

Postcard From Dollywood

Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

Travel Channel's Guide to Orlando

Get Travel Channel's Guide to Orlando.