The Magic Kingdom sits just across Bay Lake from Disney's wedding pavilion, so it is no surprise that couples spend romantic days and nights romping through this playground. Few locations embrace a love story like Cinderella's Castle, especially at night. Add photo ops with Mickey and Minnie, the dark mystery of Pirate's of the Caribbean and a scary ride through the Haunted Mansion, and fun romance begins to fill the air.
The Magic Kingdom opens every day of the year, but hours vary by season. During busier times around the holidays and in the summer, the park stays open late into the evening.
Magic Kingdom
Walt Disney World Resort
Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830
407-824-4321
disneyworld.disney.go.com/parks/magic-kingdom
Couples interested in a trip around the world will appreciate the international flavor of Epcot's World Showcase. Enjoy a romantic stroll through authentic English gardens or take a photo by a Parisian fountain with the Eiffel Tower in the distance. Then journey to Italy or China for authentic cuisine. Epcot boasts 11 countries and several fine dining restaurants along with wine and beer choices from all over the world. Epcot opens from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily but sometimes stays open later on holidays.
Epcot
Walt Disney World Resort
Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830
407-824-4321
disneyworld.disney.go.com/parks/epcot
Tucked into the heart of Downtown Orlando, Lake Eola Park offers paths for a relaxing stroll, lushly landscaped grounds for a romantic picnic and charming swan boats for a short sail around the lake. The park is popular with locals and visitors should add this to their list of things to see for a taste of Orlando romance. The park opens daily from 6 a.m. to midnight. The swan boats operate daily with later hours on the weekends.
Lake Eola Park
195 N. Rosalind Ave.
Orlando, FL 32801
407-246-2827
cityoforlando.net/FPR/HTML/Parks/lakeeola.htm
For romance on the high seas, try a specialty cruise at Walt Disney World. Some cruises include a captain and crew, while others offer the opportunity to watch the Magic Kingdom or Epcot fireworks from the water. Reservations are required for some cruises, so call ahead for availability and pricing. Cruises depart from participating resort hotels, which are adjacent to Epcot and the Magic Kingdom.
Disney Specialty Cruises
Walt Disney World Resort
Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830
407-939-7529
disneyworld.disney.go.com/tours-and-experiences/specialty-cruises
Nothing says romance like champagne, sunrise and a hot air balloon. Orlando Balloon Rides set to the skies at dawn and float over Orlando's popular attractions. Rides last around an hour, but times can fluctuate with the weather.
Balloon excursions include a champagne toast and buffet breakfast and depart from the Ramada Orlando Celebration Resort on U.S. Highway 192. Balloon rides cost $175 per person (as of April 2010), and riders must make reservations in advance.
Orlando Balloon Rides
P.O. Box 560572
Orlando, FL 32856
407-894-5040
800-586-1884
orlandoballoonrides.com
