More Walt Disney World Resort Stories

Mermaid School, a New Chocolate Workshop and More Fun Activities Set to Bloom at Walt Disney World Resort Hotels this Spring

Thomas Smith

by , Editorial Content Director, Disney Experiences

A selection of new and returning experiences that offer memorable fun for guests of all ages are set to bloom at Walt Disney World Resort Hotels this spring! Chocolate tastings, painting activities, pirate adventures and more are now accepting reservations for guests planning a springtime getaway.

NEW! The Chocolate Workshop Presented by The Ganachery

Come discover the delights of chocolate – nature’s most beautiful ingredient! This hands-on chocolate workshop hosted at the new Disney’s Riviera Resort will give guests a taste of The Ganachery, a specialty chocolate shop located in Disney Springs. Participants will learn from an expert Chef Chocolatier from The Ganachery how to properly taste chocolate, observe a demonstration on how ganache is made and create their very own chocolate truffle pops. Starting in March, the workshops will take place on Sundays at 11 a.m. at Disney’s Riviera Resort. Classes are $60/person (plus tax). Reservations can be made through 407-WDW-PLAY.

Disney’s Riviera Resort

Mermaid School

Back by popular demand, Mermaid School at Walt Disney World Resort hotels gives guests ages 4 and older the chance to live out their mermaid dreams by participating in fun pool activities while wearing a swimmable “tail” – just like Ariel! At the end of the experience, guests will now receive a unique medallion to commemorate their time “under the sea.” Mermaid School will be back in session on select dates starting March 1, with classes offered in new additional locations. This year, Mermaid School experiences will be available at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort, Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort, Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club Resorts, Disney’s All-Star Music Resort, Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort and Disney’s Riviera Resort. Classes are $55/person (plus tax). Reservations for this experience are now open and can be made through 407-WDW-PLAY.

Crockett’s Craft Corner at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground

Guests can let out their inner-artist at Crockett’s Craft Corner at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground! This two-hour board-and-brush style workshop invites guests ages 8 and up to design, paint and take home their very own rustic wooden sign. As they paint, participants can enjoy a complimentary assortment of light food and beverage options. Crockett’s Craft Corner takes place on Wednesday afternoons inside Trails End Restaurant and is priced at $75/person (plus tax). Reservations can be made through 407-WDW-PLAY.

Walt Disney World Resort Fun Runs

Guests looking for a fun way to stay active during their vacation should check out one of the many Fun Run opportunities located at select Walt Disney World Resort hotels! These experiences offer scenic views of Walt Disney World, with courses ranging from 1.2-1.8 miles at the following resorts: Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort, Disney’s Riviera Resort, Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort, Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter, Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort, Disney’s Yacht & Beach Club Resorts, Disney’s BoardWalk Resort, Disney’s Old Key West Resort and Disney’s All Star Resorts. 

The total cost for this experience is $15/person (plus tax) and includes a custom bib, finishers prize and a selection of snacks. Guests 2 and under are free, and strollers are welcome during the runs. To reserve a spot, guests can call 407-WDW-PLAY.

Captain Hook’s Pirate Crew

Captain Hook’s Pirate Crew at Disney’s Beach Club Resort

Captain Hook’s Pirate Crew at Disney’s Beach Club Resort is bringing another year of swashbucklin’ fun! This immersive group experience invites kids ages 4-12 to go on an epic pirate adventure with Captain Hook and his crew as they search for hidden treasure, set sail for a short jaunt around Crescent Lake and enjoy a delicious Pirate feast! Captain Hook’s Pirate Crew is the perfect way for kids to make lasting memories in a safe and fun environment as parents enjoy time on their own, such as an evening at the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival, opening March 4. 

The cost for this experience is $55 (plus tax) per child. Now through May 31, Annual Passholders are eligible for a 10% discount. Disney Vacation Club Members are also eligible for a 10% discount with no end date at this time. For reservations and more information, guests can call 407-824-KIDS.