The Most Romantic Spots at Disneyland and Walt Disney World

Image Credit: Magical Strolls.

While Disney Parks are known as destinations for families and friend groups, they have also become a favorite with couples. Indeed, both Disneyland in California and Walt Disney World in Florida have more romantic spots than one may expect.

For special occasions like Valentine’s Day, date nights, anniversaries, or honeymoons, couples can cozy up on romantic rides, relax in a beautiful hotel, or savor a meal at an upscale eatery. With so many choices, finding the perfect spot for you and your significant other can feel overwhelming.

Both coasts offer so much to guests looking for romance, and we have a handy guide for all the romantics planning a special trip.

 

1. Snow White’s Grotto (Disneyland)

Snow Whites Grotto Disneyland 1
Image Credit: Marianne Paluso.

At Disneyland in Anaheim, California, Snow White’s Grotto has a peaceful ambience and lovely aesthetics perfect for tender, romantic moments. Tucked away next to Sleeping Beauty Castle, it’s less iconic but no less beautiful.

The carved statues of Snow White and the seven dwarfs sit atop a hill of cascading waterfalls and act as a backdrop for the large wishing well. Between the relaxing sound of water and the sweet music that plays periodically, it’s one of the most serene areas of the park.

Unlike anywhere else, the grotto is simple, low-key, and more about the feelings it evokes. Consequently, it’s become a popular place for proposals, pretty photos, and wishes.

 

2. Blue Bayou Restaurant (Disneyland)

Blue Bayou Restaurant Disneyland
Image Credit: Lisaland.

Arguably the most popular restaurant at Disneyland, it may seem cliché for couples to dine at the Blue Bayou Restaurant. After all, most couples desire cozy, out-of-the-way places. Still, between the ambiance and menu, the Blue Bayou remains unmatched.

One unique aspect of the Blue Bayou is that the restaurant is located inside the Pirates of the Caribbean attraction. Guests on the boats float by the diners who sit below the glowing lights, feeling as if they are outside in an authentic New Orleans eatery.

Everyone, but couples especially, should request a water table. It offers the best views and makes the dining experience even more enjoyable. While the menu rotates, guests can expect staples such as prime rib or filet mignon, roast chicken, market fish, gumbo, crab cakes, hearty salads, and tasty desserts like chocolate cake or crème brûlée. It’s also one of the handful of Disneyland restaurants that serve alcohol. Couples looking to toast a special occasion or enjoy a romantic drink have a list of wines, beers, and specialty cocktails to choose from.

 

3. Mark Twain Riverboat (Disneyland)

 
Mark Twain Riverboat Disneyland 1
Image Credit: Marianne Paluso.

Since opening day in 1955, the Mark Twain Riverboat has taken guests on a peaceful journey through the Rivers of America. The ship itself is a beautiful replica of an authentic steam-powered paddle wheel boat of a bygone era. The ship’s multiple levels include:  

• The Main Deck, which has shaded cushioned seating in the middle of the deck.
• The Promenade Deck, which features chairs at the bow and stern, a small indoor salon, and some deck space to enjoy the views and sunshine.
• The Texas/Sun Deck, with the best for views of the river.
• The Pilothouse or top deck with the wheelhouse, which randomly chosen guests can visit.

On this 14-minute ride, couples can take advantage of the quiet serenity, cozy up in a hidden nook or seat, take in the sights up high, or even share a slow dance. Of all the attractions at Disneyland, none offers as much simple romantic atmosphere as the Mark Twain.

 

4. Disney’s Boardwalk Inn (Walt Disney World)

Disney Boardwalk Night
Image Credit: Magical Strolls.

Of all the Resorts in Walt Disney World, the Boardwalk Inn has the most for anyone looking for romance. The hotel’s architecture and room designs are inspired by classic seaside boardwalks from the early 1900s. This resort tour by Super Enthused showcases all the beauty and this resort’s style and accommodations.

Of course, the romantics looking for a fun date night don’t have to stay at the resort to enjoy most of what it has to offer. The Boardwalk area itself is brimming with charming atmosphere and numerous dining options. Couples can enjoy a fine Italian meal at Trattoria al Forno, a coffee from Carousel Coffee, or a cocktail and live magician at Abracadabra Bar.

At the Belle Vue Lounge, you can cozy up on the verandah or 1930s sitting room while enjoying a drink and listening to vintage radio programs. Visitors can also grab a sweet treat from Boardwalk Ice Cream, sit on a bench by the water, or take a leisurely stroll, content with your loved one and the overall general splendor.

 

5. Na’vi River Journey (Disneyland’s Animal Kingdom)

Navi River Journey Disney Animal Kingdom
Image Credit: WDW Zoom 4K.

Pandora, inspired by the Avatar films, has been a fan favorite of Animal Kingdom since its debut in 2017. Although Flight of Passage is the more popular attraction, the Na’vi River Journey offers couples a uniquely romantic experience.

These relaxing boat rides take guests through evocative and colorful scenes throughout Pandora’s bioluminescent rainforests. You’ll see mystical creatures, plant life, and incredible animatronic figures, particularly the Shaman of Songs, who, as the official site says, “sends positive energy out into the forest through the power of her music.”

Couples will love the serenity of this attraction as they can cuddle closely together and let this beautiful world envelop all of their senses.

 

6. Broken Spell Lounge (The Disneyland Hotel)

Broken Spell Lounge Disneyland Hotel
Image Credit: Lisaland.

At the Disneyland Hotel, couples must try the Broken Spell Lounge, an enchanting and elegant out-of-the-way spot themed to the classic animated film Sleeping Beauty. Located at the former Steakhouse 55 in the hotel’s main building, this bar/lounge offers an impressive assortment of drinks and a surprisingly well-rounded menu full of delicious food. Various Live musicians also play for patrons, adding to the lounge’s classy vibe.

The decor is reminiscent of a dark, mystical forest with ambient lighting and colors that evoke the animated film. Many of the drinks also take inspiration from this aesthetic, such as the “Benevolent Faerie” or “Make it Pink, Make it Blue” cocktails.

Couples can cozy up close, enjoy a drink, and a tasty meal of anything from a turkey club to prime rib or steak frites. You could also skip straight to dessert with a slice of cheesecake or molten lava cake. Just make sure to plan accordingly for this date night, as seating and hours are limited, open from 4 to 10pm or midnight.

 

7. La Cellier Steakhouse (EPCOT)

La Cellier EPCOT
Image Credit: WrightDownMainStreet.

For the couple looking for a top-tier meal in a beautiful and rustic atmosphere, head to Le Cellier Steakhouse at the Canadian Pavilion in EPCOT. As one of Walt Disney World’s most renowned restaurants, La Cellier will often have long wait times for walk-ins, so reservations are recommended. These spots go quickly, so for anyone looking to book a special night for themselves and their significant other, I recommend getting a reservation as far in advance as possible.

The restaurant itself evokes a dark but stylish wine cellar in a medieval castle with wooden beams, stone walls, and evocative lighting. Being a steakhouse, the menu offers the finest cuts of beef, including rib eye and filet mignon, but there is also salmon, pork chop, lamb, chicken, salads, poutine, and a famous cheddar potato soup.

Guests should note that the noise level can be loud at times, as you can see in this video from The Noble Way. Still, it remains one of the best romantic spots for those wanting a top-tier meal.

 

8. Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel (Disneyland)

Disney Grand Californian Hotel
Image Credit: SoCal Disney Dad.

Of the three Disneyland Resorts, The Grand Californian has become the crown jewel of hotels. With stunning architecture and decor inspired by the wilderness lodges of America’s national parks, this hotel blends the wonders of nature with modern luxury.

As the most luxurious of the three hotels, a stay at the Grand Californian will naturally be quite the splurge. Standard rooms range from $700 to $900 per night, and suites will run you upwards of $1800 or more.

Still, for those who can, the Grand Californian offers deluxe accommodations. Plus, anyone looking for a fancy night out need not book a room. The lobby has a romantic atmosphere with large fireplaces, piano music, and plenty of seating for anyone to enjoy. Couples can also dine at Napa Rose, a pricey but incredible dining experience. More budget-friendly options include the Hearthstone Lounge, located right by the lobby, or the GCH Craftsman Grill for low-key, poolside dining, available to all.

 

9. California Grill (Disney’s Contemporary Resort)

California Grill Disney Contemporary Resort
Image Credit: The Noble Way.
Walt Disney World aficionados know that one of the premier dining spots is not located in one of the four parks. Indeed, for romantics in search of more than a good meal and pretty ambiance, but rather an incredible dining experience, look no further than California Grill at Disney’s Contemporary Resort.
 
The restaurant sits on the 15th floor of the resort and features large windows that give patrons stunning, vast views of Seven Seas Lagoon, the Grand Floridian wooded area, and Cinderella Castle in Magic Kingdom. Dining during the golden hour and sunset offers an added touch of romantic beauty sure to inspire awe and wonder.
 
Likewise, the restaurant offers exceptional views of the Magic Kingdom fireworks, dimming the lights, piping in the music, and creating absolute magic. They also allow guests who dined earlier in the day to come back and enjoy the fireworks on the outside terrace with a receipt from their meal.
 
It’s an utterly romantic experience, but also a big splurge with a prefix menu of $99 per person, as well as a dress code.
 

10. Storybook Land Canal Boats (Disneyland)

Storybook Land Boats Disneyland
Image Credit: Marianne Paluso

One of Disneyland’s most underrated attractions, this calm and lovely boat takes guests through a miniature world of Disney classics such as Pinocchio, Alice in Wonderland, Cinderella, Aladdin, and Frozen. Soft music plays as your guide narrates the story of each area.

Although the boats are not for individual parties, this ride can still be an enjoyable one for couples. The intricate details of each miniature, the pretty music, the sounds of the water lapping, and the peaceful nature of all the Storybook Land Boats evoke a romantic atmosphere. It remains one of Disneyland’s sweetest rides.

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