An Evening at Disney’s Boardwalk

Disney’s ex-CEO, Michael Eisner, called the decade between 1990 and 1999 the “Disney Decade.” During that decade Disney added a new theme park and considerably expanded their resort hotel offerings to guests at Walt Disney World. One of the resorts built was Disney’s Boardwalk Inn.

As you drive up to the resort you will be transformed to a 1940’s Atlantic seaside village. Take a short walk through the lobby and down the steps to the back of the resort and you’ll find a replica boardwalk district filled with dining, shopping, family entertainment, and picturesque scenery. Disney’s Boardwalk is a true family destination.

The best time to visit Disney’s Boardwalk is at sunset when the evening is about to begin. Some families may choose to dine at one of the restaurants located on the Boardwalk like ESPN Club, or Flying Fish. Others may choose to relax with an ice cream treat or baked goods while sitting along Crescent Lake admiring Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club resort across the water.

As the evening progresses you will find live entertainers along the Boardwalk who make appearances on an unscheduled basis. These entertainers, called the Boardwalk Buskers, entertain guests most evenings along the Boardwalk district. Disney prefers to keep their scheduled appearances a secret in order to surprise guests. From sword swallowers, magicians, jugglers, and trick artists you’ll find these entertainers appeal to the entire family. The cost to see these entertainers is absolutely free. In fact, you may hear one of the Buskers jokingly say “We are the best freebie in all of Walt Disney World!”

Watching the Buskers perform is hardly a laid back experience. They encourage crowd interaction. The Buskers are notorious for picking guests out of the crowd to participate in their act. Be prepared to participate in a skit where you may be asked to perform a trick you never thought possible. Your family and the crowd will be supporting you along the way.

After you’ve seen your share of live entertainment you may decide to rent a surrey bike and take a ride around the picturesque Boardwalk. These bikes can hold up to 6 guests. Be warned though, it will take each one of your family members to successfully navigate and pedal the bike around Crescent Lake.

As the evening winds down your family may choose to walk towards the Atlantic Dance Hall where you can catch a glimpse of EPCOT’s evening fireworks show “Illuminations – Reflections of Earth.” Although your view will be somewhat obstructed, and there will be no music you will enjoy seeing the world’s number one evening fireworks spectacular at a theme park without park admission. If you choose to visit a theme park Disney’s Hollywood Studios and EPCOT are a convenient walk or boat ride away from the Boardwalk.

Part of your family vacation at Disney World is discovery. Strolling along Disney’s Boardwalk you’ll discover great dining, free entertainment, shopping, great views, and even a free fireworks show. An evening at Disney’s Boardwalk can be a fun family adventure. Best of all it can bring laughs and good times to your entire family at a very reasonable price.

Next Up: Winter and summer are more than just seasons at Walt Disney World.

Related Link: Disney’s Boardwalk overview

http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/destinations/disneys-boardwalk/