When I was growing up, vacations (and even fun family days in our hometown) often included a few rounds of miniature golf. I have so many wonderful memories of enjoying friendly competition on those whimsically themed putt-putt courses. Miniature golf may not come to mind when you are planning a Walt Disney World vacation, but did you know that there are 2 separate courses on Walt Disney World property?
Fantasia Gardens is located near the Swan and Dolphin resorts and has 2 separate 18-hole courses – the Fairways and the Gardens. No surprise, the theme is from Walt Disney’s Fantasia, complete with Sorcerer Mickey and the Magic Brooms. The theme is not over the top and the course is fairly difficult, especially for little ones. The most challenging aspect of our experience was the dead heat in the middle of the afternoon. Unfortunately, there’s just not much shade at this course. Fantasia and Sorcerer Mickey are favorites of mine so I enjoyed it anyway. I have to admit, our pricey WDW battery operated spray/misting bottles saved the day for us when we last visited Fantasia Gardens.
WinterSummerland is the second course, which also has 2 18-hole options. It is located adjacent to Blizzard Beach water park so it is important to note that unless you have a car, you might be hoofing it from Disney Springs after the water park has closed and transportation has ended for the day. The course is a bit easier, boasts more over-the-top fun themes, and is decidedly more shaded as it’s more protected by palm and oak trees. The two courses are Winter and Summer themed and so different that you’ll want to do them both. WinterSummerland is my recommendation for families with little ones, especially during the daytime or during the hotter parts of the year.
With that being said, both courses of both locations are worth checking out – especially if you build in a “rest day” as part of your Disney vacation. They are fun for kids and adults of all ages!
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Candice was raised in east Tennessee. While in college, her best friend dragged her to a Walt Disney World College Program recruiting session at the University of Tennessee and the rest is Disney history. In the Fall of 1999, Candice became a quick service food hostess for Sunset Ranch Market and Fantasmic at Disney-MGM Studios – or what is now known as Disney’s Hollywood Studios. While soaking up her time as a cast member, she met Ryan, a neighbor and a fellow college programmer who worked as a custodial host at Epcot. Four years later, Candice moved to the Midwest and married that boy from across the hall. They now live in Greenwood, Indiana with their two little boys. The Disney-loving foursome took their first family trip to The Happiest Place on Earth in 2013 and Candice is eagerly planning their return. Candice also works full-time at a community mental health center and enjoys taking photographs and blogging at Mommy in the Midwest.
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