A Late Anniversary, Adults-Only Disney Getaway: Thanksgiving Week Magic

This year, we decided to celebrate our anniversary a little differently—and a little later than usual. Instead of a traditional getaway, we planned an adults-only trip to Walt Disney World during the week of Thanksgiving. While Disney is often thought of as a family destination, this trip was a perfect reminder that it can be just as magical, relaxing, and meaningful for adults—especially when you let go of rigid plans and embrace the experience.

Traveling during Thanksgiving week comes with the expectation of crowds, but we went into the trip with a different mindset. This wasn’t about checking every attraction off a list or racing from park to park. It was about slowing down, enjoying each other’s company, and celebrating how far we’ve come together. And that mindset made all the difference.

One of the biggest joys of this trip was not being tied to a strict schedule. Without dining reservations dictating our day or a packed itinerary pushing us forward, we were free to wander, stop when something caught our eye, and truly be present. If we wanted to take a midday break, linger over a snack, or people-watch from a shaded bench, we could—and we did. That flexibility brought a sense of calm that’s sometimes hard to find in a theme park environment.

Speaking of snacks, Disney never disappoints. One standout moment was indulging in the adorable (and delicious) alien cupcakes. Equal parts whimsical and tasty, they were one of those small Disney details that made us smile. There’s something about sharing a themed treat, laughing over the design, and savoring the moment that feels especially meaningful on an anniversary trip. It wasn’t just about the cupcake—it was about slowing down enough to enjoy it together.

Another highlight of the trip came while waiting in line for TRON Lightcycle / Run. As adults, we sometimes hear the assumption that rides like this are “for kids,” but standing in that line only reinforced how Disney brings people together across generations. The older couple behind us struck up a conversation, and before long, we were swapping Disney stories, travel tips, and laughter. They shared how long they’d been coming to Disney together, and it was genuinely inspiring to see that same sense of excitement and connection still so strong. By the time we boarded the ride, it felt less like waiting in a long queue and more like sharing a moment with new friends.

That sense of connection—both with each other and with the people around us—was a recurring theme throughout the trip. Without kids in tow or a tight schedule to manage, we found ourselves more open to conversations, more patient, and more appreciative of the atmosphere Disney creates. Whether it was chatting with Cast Members, enjoying the background music, or simply taking in the details of each park, we felt grounded in the experience rather than rushed through it.

Thanksgiving week also added a subtle layer of gratitude to the trip. Amid the decorations, seasonal offerings, and festive energy, we found ourselves reflecting on how thankful we were for the ability to travel, to celebrate our anniversary in such a special place, and to continue making memories together. Disney has a unique way of amplifying those emotions—not by being grand all the time, but by offering countless small, meaningful moments.

This late anniversary trip reminded us that Disney World isn’t just about childhood nostalgia or family vacations. It’s a place where couples can reconnect, celebrate milestones, and enjoy time together in a way that feels both playful and intentional. By letting go of a strict plan, embracing spontaneous moments (like alien cupcakes and new friendships), and focusing on what truly mattered, we experienced Disney in a way that felt deeply personal.

As travel planners, experiences like this reinforce why we love what we do. Every trip looks different depending on who you’re traveling with and what season of life you’re in—and that’s the magic. Whether you’re planning a family vacation, a honeymoon, or an adults-only anniversary getaway, Disney has something special waiting for you.

And sometimes, the best memories are the ones you don’t schedule at all.