Photo courtesy of Walt Disney World Resort

From iconic attractions to photos with fairytale princesses, Walt Disney World offers quite the range of entertainment and experiences. The average Disney vacation is filled with family time, thrilling roller coasters and the occasional Mickey Mouse ice cream bar. However, there’s a side to the mouse that goes beyond character dining and endless queue lines. It’s a magical world filled with hidden gems for adults. If you’re looking for a mature theme park experience that’s still sprinkled with pixie dust, be sure to add one of these experiences to your Orlando agenda.

Victoria & Albert’s

Skip the frozen chicken fingers and dine at the only AAA Five-Diamond restaurant in Central Florida. This restaurant is filled with Riedel crystal, Christofle silver from France and renowned cuisine from Chef Scott Hunnel. With its low lighting and limited tables, you're instantly transported to a level of luxury that's both comfortable and exquisite.

Epcot International Food & Wine Festival

Returning for its 22nd year Aug. 31 through Nov. 13, 2017, this record 75-day event attracts the likes of celebrity chefs, wine experts and a myriad of culinary talent. The festival boasts over 30 different food and beverage stations as well as countless seminars and special guests. Bring your appetite and stretchy pants to this epic celebration of both food and wine.

Perfecting Your Putting Game

With year-round sunshine and warm temperatures, Disney is the perfect place to break out your clubs. Famed golf course architect Joe Lee designed the Magnolia, Palm and Lake Buena Vista courses, and the luxurious 18-hole Tranquilo Golf Club at the Four Seasons Resort was designed with care by Tom Fazio. After a day of pars and birdies head to Plancha, which is adjacent to the Four Seasons pro shop, for some Cuban-American cuisine. At Disney there’s a golf outing waiting for every type of player.

Be Pampered

Walt Disney World Resort has a handful of full-service spas. Senses at Saratoga Springs offers natural spa therapies with techniques from around the world. Recently renovated, the spa at the Grand Floridian offers over a dozen treatments rooms for relaxation services like massages, herbal wraps and aromatherapy. For the ultimate spa day, head to the Four Seasons Resort and explore their 13,000-square foot space. This luxurious environment is made complete with an adult-exclusive pool that’s just steps away from the spa.

Savor the Savanna

Step inside a private safari vehicle and enjoy an expedition through the Harambe Wildlife Reserve at Animal Kingdom. Along this private journey you’ll visit an exclusive viewing area to sample a selection of regional beers and wines as well as African-inspired tapas. Escape the crowds with libations and encounters with incredible wildlife.

Segway Tour

Take these transporters out for a spin at the Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground, a serene area tucked away from the busyness of the parks. This two-hour tour will take you through Disney’s version of the “great outdoors” and you’ll be well equipped to handle the Segway after your overview and training of this high-tech device.

Private Island Access

Round out your Disney World experience with a trip aboard their cruise line. Castaway Cay, Disney’s private island, reserves Serenity Bay for adults only. This pristine area of tropical water and warm sand gives way for the ultimate relaxation time with lounge chairs and two-person hammocks. And, of course, there’s plenty of beverages and lunch options nearby for enjoyment.

While known for delighting children, Walt Disney World can be equally enjoyable for the “big kids” too.

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