The Best Places to Run at Disney World

Who says you can’t keep that waistline in check at Disney – even though it is rather tricky! Good news… if you’ve accidentally eaten a couple of turkey legs and Mickey ice creams, Disney has excellent places to go running. Here are the best places to stretch those running legs while at Disney.

1 – Epcot Resort Area

Arguably one of the best and most beautiful running paths would have to be through the Epcot Resort area. Whether you begin at Disney’s Boardwalk, Yacht Club, or Beach Club Resort, you will enjoy the path that travels by these gorgeous resort areas around Crescent Lake. Particularly in the early morning, the sun rising over Crescent Lake makes the sweat all worth it! Maybe you’re feeling extra energetic and can continue through the path that connects to the Swans and Dolphin Resort area. You could also follow the longest stretch and start running towards Hollywood Studios by following Epcot Resorts Boulevard and Buena Vista Drive. There is also a fantastic path that guests at Disney’s Riviera Resort and Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort can enjoy. With so many options for distance and scenery, the Epcot Resort Area gets our vote!

2 – Seven Seas Lagoon

With magic under your feet, another great place to run at Disney would be around the Seven Seas Lagoon with a view of Magic Kingdom and Cinderella Castle. Start at either the Grand Floridian Resort or the Polynesian and follow the path between the two for roughly a 1-mile run one way. Not only will you have spectacular views, but you will even get to run by Disney’s Wedding Pavilion next to the Grand Floridian Resort. You can even make your run longer and run on the path from Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort to Magic Kingdom! Hopefully, you’ll have a chance to watch a ferry boat cruise by or, better yet, the monorail! 

3 – Art of Animation Resort

Disney and Pixar come to life right in front of your eyes. Hopefully, that doesn’t mean you’re dehydrated and hallucinating, but rather you’re simply checking out the Art of Animations jogging trail. We put this trail up on the best places to run list because it reminds you that you are still within the Disney World realm! Along this 1.38-mile path, you’ll get to pass several Art of Animation’s courtyards, which are filled with bright colors that seem to come to life! Cars, Nemo, The Little Mermaid, and scenes from the Lion King may just appear along your trek through animation.

4 – Fort Wilderness Resort Area

Take a deep breath and enjoy the fresh air! With the forest surrounding you, you can take a quick jog or long run through the beautiful trails. Pass by the cabins, campsites, and nothing but nature as you run through gorgeous loops and along the canal. Just don’t trip over Chip n’ Dale along the way!

5 – Lake Buena Vista Golf Course

Maybe you’re not the golfing type, but enjoy the lush greens and wide-open views a golf course has to offer. Take a jog around and throughout the Lake Buena Vista Golf Course that surrounds Disney’s Old Key West and Saratoga Springs. Old Key West offers a 1.75-mile-long path while Saratoga Springs has a 1.44-mile or 0.8-mile loop. Not only will you enjoy checking out the golf course, but the beautiful scenery and waterways either resort has to offer. Tip – if you hear someone yelling, “FORE!” duck!

6 – And More!

Looking to burn off that Jambalaya you for enjoyed at Port Orleans Boatwright’s? Head out for a run on the Port Orleans jogging path that stretches across the Riverside and French Quarter along the Sassagoula River on a 1.7-mile path. Disney’s All-Star Resort has a 1-mile jogging trail connecting 3 resort areas (Movies, Music, and Sports) with one path. Disney’s Coronado Springs also has a 0.75-mile-long trail with scenic views of the wetlands. Caribbean Beach Resort offers a 1.2-mile trek around Barefoot Bay. The Contemporary has a 0.9-mile path circling Bay Lake Tower and the South Garden Wing of the resort. Pop Century even gets in on the running action with a 1.1-mile or 1.38-mile loop around Hourglass Lake. With so many running trails, there really is no excuse… well, except for maybe you’re on vacation!

Don’t forget to check with Guest Services at your Disney Resort for a jogging path map. Some folks may decide to take a break from running while on vacation at Disney. However, Disney didn’t forget about you go-getters! Pick a path, and enjoy your run. If you find yourself struggling, just look around for some Pixie Dust to get you to your finish!