During a runDisney race weekend, you are often trying to fit everything you can into a few days. Explore the parks, run the race(s), eat the food.
There are really two ways to tour the parks during a runDisney race weekend – before the race or after. Here are a few tips to help with your park touring depending on what your schedule will allow!
Pre-Race Weekend
Head to the parks early. With an early wake-up call for the race, you will want to make sure that you are back in your room earlier to rest your legs and get a good night of sleep. Therefore, try to have your park touring occur in the morning and early afternoon hours. As tough as it is, the fireworks and nighttime shows may need to wait!
Save thrill rides for later. Unless you know that your body can handle it, it may be best to save the thrill rides (and the spin rides) until after your race. The last thing you want is to feel woozy during all of those magical miles!
Carry a water bottle. If your plan is to take in the parks before your race, make sure that you stay hydrated. It is easy to get focused on the fun and forget about taking in water. Bring along a water bottle and fill it regularly. (Tip: Most quick service locations will give you a glass of water at no charge.)
Hold off on the sweets and alcohol. While passing on a Mickey bar or one of the many beverage options throughout the World Showcase may seem tough, your body will thank you for it on race day. Instead, take this time to plan out what your celebration treat will be!
One park per day. Even though it will be tempting to “see it all”, do your best to focus on one park per day prior to the race. This way you have a less likely chance of over-doing it, and wearing out your legs before your big race. Also, be aware that some parks are larger than others, so plan accordingly.
Post-Race Weekend
Take on the thrill rides. Now that your race is over – live it up! Take a spin on the teacups. Party with Aerosmith on Rock N Roller Coaster. Or, for those whose idea of thrill is a little different, head to that attraction that you skipped before the race.
Watch the fireworks. While making your plans, be sure to decide which fireworks or nighttime show is on the top of your list. If you will be staying at Disney for another few days, you can see more than one, now that the early wake up call is over!
Splurge on your favorite meal. Celebrating is yet another magical part of a runDisney race weekend. There is always a food item or beverage that you have been dreaming about, so now is the time to splurge! If it is a restaurant, be sure to make the reservations well in advance.
Don’t over-do it. Even though your race may be over, it is still easy to over-do it in the parks. (Especially on the same day of your race.) Taking a short break for a nap is absolutely fine! If you are planning on staying in the park, it may be wise to include attractions that allow you to sit down and rest your legs.