Top 10 BEST Things to Do at Disney World in the Summer: The Ultimate Summer Bucket List Revealed for 2024!

Are you looking for the best things to do at Disney World this summer for your vacation?

Look no further!

If you want to enjoy the best summer ever, a trip to Walt Disney World needs to feature somewhere in your plans. 

The sun is shining and the Florida temperature is hotting up just in time for summer break.

While Walt Disney World is magical any time of year, summer is an exceptional time to visit. 

The resort is bursting with exciting things to do, special events and parts of Walt Disney World that are best enjoyed with a dash of sunshine. 

Summertime at Disney World is incredible and there is a seemingly endless list of things to do but if you are looking for the BEST things to do in Walt Disney World in the summer, I’ve got you covered!

Slush Gusher and Summit Plummet at Blizzard Beach Water Park one of the best things to do at Disney World in the Summer!

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1. Explore EPCOT Flower and Garden Festival

EPCOT’s Flower and Garden Festival is one of the park’s biggest events on the calendar. 

Epcot Flower and Garden Festival 2023 Princess Tiana Topiary in the American Pavilion one of the best things to do at Disney World in the Summer!

Running from March to May, the Flower and Garden Festival sees EPCOT burst into color and vibrance in the springtime before transitioning the park into the summer months. 

Why This is One of the Best Things to Do at Disney World in the Summer

The festival is a celebration of nature with breathtaking gardens and captivating topiaries designed as beloved Disney Characters. 

Epcot Flower and Garden Festival 2023 Mickey and Minnie Mouse Topiary one of the best things to do at Disney World in the Summer!

The festival also offers an array of outdoor kitchens throughout the park showcasing creative culinary dishes inspired by the freshest, local ingredients and a farm-to-fork concept. 

Epcot Flower and Garden Festival 2023 Menu at Primavera Kitchen in the Italy Pavilion one of the best things to do at Disney World in the Summer!

A beautiful dedication to nature brought together by Disney Imagineers and Horticulturalists, EPCOT Flower and Garden Festival is a must-see event this summer and every summer.

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2. Visit a Disney World Water Park 

There is no better time to visit a Walt Disney World water park than over the summer. 

Racing water ride at Blizzard Beach Water Park one of the best things to do at Disney World in the Summer!
Blizzard Beach

The resort is home to two thrilling water parks; Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon and Disney’s Blizzard Beach. 

Both water parks feature unique and breathtaking designs with Blizzard Beach themed as a ski resort and Typhoon Lagoon themed as a storm-wrecked tropical island. 

Why This is One of the Best Things to Do at Disney World in the Summer

While both are great in their own way, Typhoon Lagoon is world-renowned due to its iconic wave pool and the famous Crush ‘n’ Gusher coaster raft ride. 

Summit Plummet Ride Drop at Blizzard Beach Water Park one of the best things to do at Disney World in the Summer!
Summit Plummet in Blizzard Beach at Disney World

Throughout the summer, Typhoon Lagoon also hosts an exciting nighttime extravaganza, Disney H2O Glow After Hours. 

Typhoon Lagoon Disney Water Park Lazy River one of the best things to do at Disney World in the Summer!
Typhoon Lagoon

This 3-hour evening event allows you to enjoy the park in the dark and allow shorter wait times for attractions. 

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There is also plenty of entertainment and Disney Character’s in attendance.

Whether you visit a water park by day or night, summer at Disney World is the perfect time to enjoy a splash.

3. Have Fun at a Disney After Hours Event

Disney World’s summer calendar is overflowing with exciting after hours events. 

Space Mountain at Disney's Magic Kingdom Entrance at Night during Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party one of the best things to do at Disney World in the Summer!

These events showcase the parks in a different light with extra entertainment and exclusive snacks. 

Why This is One of the Best Things to Do at Disney World in the Summer

They also offer shorter wait times and the chance to explore the parks in a cooler temperature. 

Epcot Food and Wine Festival Spaceship Earth view at night from Japan after hours event one of the best things to do at Disney World in the Summer!

EPCOT, Hollywood Studios and Typhoon Lagoon all offer 3-hour after hours events on select nights across the summer for you to enjoy the attractions after park closure.

Recommended: Top 5 Ways to Find Cheap Disney World Tickets for Your Vacation!

4. Eat Your Way Around Epcot Food and Wine Festival

After the Flower and Garden Festival, EPCOT’s Food and Wine Festival takes its place. 

Epcot Food and Wine Festival Flavors of Fire Beef Brisket on Chips one of the best things to do at Disney World in the Summer!

Running from July/August to November, this festival is the biggest event of the year at EPCOT. 

Japan Frothy Ramen at Epcot Food and Wine Festival one of the best things to do at Disney World in the Summer!
Epcot Food and Wine Festival (Frothy Ramen in Japan Pavilion)

Celebrating the food and beverages of six continents, the Food and Wine Festival is an incredible way to experience the unique cuisine and delicacies across the globe. 

Why This is One of the Best Things to Do at Disney World in the Summer

This festival offers some of Disney’s most mouthwatering dishes and delectable snacks with a side of global education. 

Epcot Food and Wine Festival loaded mac and cheese one of the best things to do at Disney World in the Summer!

The event is accompanied by phenomenal live music events and is one of the best things to do in Disney World in the summer.

WATCH NEXT: Top 10 BEST Things to Do at EPCOT Food and Wine Festival!

5. Hangout at Your Resort Pool 

If you are staying on-site at a Disney Resort, there is no doubt you have beautiful pools to enjoy. 

Yacht and Beach Club Resort Walt DIsney World Pool one of the best things to do at Disney World in the Summer!
Yacht and Beach Club Resort

Resort pools are perfectly in key with the theming of each resort and offer both a spot of tranquility and a dash of excitement. 

Disney Riviera Resort Fountains near entrance Best Disney Resorts for Adults one of the best things to do at Disney World in the Summer!
Disney’s Riviera Resort

There is no need to compromise on your summer vacation on a trip to Disney World as you can enjoy the best of both types of vacation. 

Spend the morning exploring the parks and the afternoon recharging by the pool or for additional pool time, take a rest day from the parks and spend the day hanging out at your resort. 

Why This is One of the Best Things to Do at Disney World in the Summer

Throughout the summer, Disney pools also host exciting events including family-friendly activities, pool parties, games and trivia. 

There is no better time to enjoy your resort pool than in the summer.

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6. Enjoy the Summer Treats 

There is no denying that snacks are a big part of the Disney experience. 

Epcot China Pavilion Flower and Garden Festival Chicken Skewer one of the best things to do at Disney World in the Summer!
Chicken Skewer

Summertime in Disney World is accompanied by a brand new selection of Disney Eats. 

Both Disney Parks and Resorts are in on the action and there is a new dish or treat to try almost everywhere. 

Why This is One of the Best Things to Do at Disney World in the Summer

There is something new for everyone with a wide variety of new additions including the:

  • Korean-style IMPOSSIBLE burger found at multiple Disney resorts
  • New sundaes in Animal Kingdom
  • A beautiful Strawberry Shortcake Croissant Roll at BoardWalk Deli 

Make sure to check out the Disney Eats guide before your visit so you don’t miss a treat that will tantalize your taste buds. 

Hipster Power Tip: Don’t miss out on the Flavors of Florida festival over in Disney Springs this summer!

7. Sip and Learn at Sangria University

An exciting activity at Disney World in the summer is the chance to unleash your inner mixologist at the Sangria University experience. 

Disney Sangria University Non Alcoholic Options at coronado springs one of the best things to do at Disney World in the Summer!

Explore a world of flavor and fun as you discover the art of crafting the perfect sangria. 

Why This is One of the Best Things to Do at Disney World in the Summer

Under the guidance of expert instructors, you’ll learn about the history and techniques of this beloved beverage while savoring delicious samples. 

Disney Sangria University Apple Juice Orange Juice at Coronado Springs one of the best things to do at Disney World in the Summer!

Then, you will experiment with various fruits, wines and spirits to create your own personalized concoction. 

Disney Sangria University Diploma at Coronado Springs one of the best things to do at Disney World in the Summer!

Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or simply looking for a unique experience, Sangria University promises an unforgettable adventure for your taste buds.

8. Colors of Coronado Painting Experience 

If you’re looking to indulge your creative spirit this summer, the Colors of Coronado Painting Experience is an immersive activity that you can enjoy at Walt Disney World. 

Coronado Springs Grand Destino Tower one of the best things to do at Disney World in the Summer!

Dive into the world of art as you channel your inner Picasso and bring your imagination to life on canvas. 

Why This is One of the Best Things to Do at Disney World in the Summer

With expert guidance from talented instructors, you’ll learn various painting techniques and unleash your artistic flair. 

Painting at Disney World

Explore the vibrant colors and picturesque landscapes of Walt Disney World as you create your own masterpiece. 

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The Colors of Coronado Painting Experience offers a unique and relaxing way to express yourself and create lasting memories during your visit to Walt Disney World. 

9. EPCOT Seas Adventures – DiveQuest 

DiveQuest is one of the most thrilling and unique experiences to embark on during a summer visit to Walt Disney World. 

Coral Reef Restaurant at Epcot in Disney World Aquarium with diver swimming with sharks DiveQuest one of the best things to do at Disney World in the Summer!

Dive into the underwater world and explore the depths of The Seas with Nemo & Friends Pavilion. 

Why This is One of the Best Things to Do at Disney World in the Summer

This incredible scuba diving adventure offers an up-close encounter with an awe-inspiring array of marine life. 

Coral Reef Restaurant at Epcot in Disney World Aquarium with black fin shark DiveQuest in the Seas Pavilion one of the best things to do at Disney World in the Summer!

You’ll swim alongside sea turtles, sharks and tropical fish in a mesmerizing underwater habitat. 

Coral Reef Restaurant at Epcot in Disney World Aquarium with diver on DiveQuest in Seas Pavilion one of the best things to do at Disney World in the Summer!

DiveQuest provides an unforgettable opportunity to witness the beauty and tranquility of the ocean firsthand, making it a must-do adventure for any diving enthusiast or underwater adventurer seeking an extraordinary experience at Walt Disney World.

Ready to plan your theme park trip? Watch the best vacation planning tips on YouTube. Get started here!

10. Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party

Walt Disney World takes Halloween seriously and starts the celebrations early so if you’re heading to the parks towards the end of summer, you can enjoy this iconic autumnal event. 

Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party at Disney's Magic Kingdom Theme Park Let's Boo This Candy Bag for Trick or Treating one of the best things to do at Disney World in the Summer!

Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party is a spooktacular event that adds a touch of magic to the Halloween season at Walt Disney World. 

Why This is One of the Best Things to Do at Disney World in the Summer

This exclusive after-hours party offers a unique and family-friendly experience filled with thrilling entertainment, trick-or-treating and delightful Character encounters. 

Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party at Disney Magic Kingdom Theme Park Boo to You Halloween Parade in front of Cinderella Castle with Characters Winnie the Pooh, Goofy, Snow White, Aladdin, Alice. One of the best things to do at Disney World in the Summer!

Enjoy special Halloween-themed parades, fireworks and stage shows, all while wearing your favorite costume. 

Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party at Disney's Magic Kingdom Theme Park Fireworks Show over Cinderella Castle one of the best things to do at Disney World in the Summer!

Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party is a must-do event when visiting Walt Disney World and as the party kicks off in August.

Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party at Disney's Magic Kingdom Theme Park Haunted Mansion View at Night one of the best things to do at Disney World in the Summer!

So this means that you can enjoy the Halloween event even in the summer months.

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My Final Thoughts on Enjoying the Best Things at Walt Disney World in Summer

Summer is the ultimate time to visit Walt Disney World and hosts some of the best events of the year. 

Theme Park Travel Guide to the 10 Best Things to do at Disney World For summer.
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If you want to enjoy a magical summer vacation, there is no place on Earth a better destination than Walt Disney World.

Until next time, Happy Park Hopping Hipsters!

Stephanie the Theme Park and Disney Writer at ThemeParkHipster.com

About the Author

Steph is a UK-based freelance travel writer and theme park enthusiast.

She currently lives in England with her partner and son but is passionate about exploring the world.

(Original Article Date: July 9, 2014/Updated on March 27, 2024)

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