When reading the title I’m sure there are some thoughts that jump to the front of your mind. By definition a millenial is someone born between 1981 and 1996, but I think there is so much more that comes to mind when you hear someone talking about this generation. We’re emotional, lazy, technology obsessed, and on and on and on. For more on this I’d definitely check out the podcast “In the Interest of Justice” which just released an episode talking all about millenials and some 90s nostalgia!
In the past year or so on social media this title has really taken off as some parents are seemingly upset with millenials for visiting Disney Parks since its “just for kids”. I find this interesting because Walt Disney himself made it clear that Disney is for everyone. Disney is for families, couples, and “kids of all ages” and I think as a vacation planner it’s important to remember that there is something there for everyone. There are adults only experiences like spending a night at JellyRolls near the Boardwalk Resort (which I HIGHLY recommend) and there are more kid centric experiences like the Disney Junior offerings at Hollywood Studios. Whether you’re looking for a family vacation that works for everyone from the little ones to the grandparents, Disney can make it happen at their resorts or around the world with their cruises and Adventures by Disney.
I think the “childless millenial” label goes hand in hand with the “Disney Adults” that also seem to get a bad rap on social media. I’ve seen videos poking fun at so these adults by framing them as crazy, Disney obsessed people who think about nothing else. I can confirm that while most of the “Disney Adults” I know do love Disney and all that comes with it, we’re not as crazy as the videos you see on tik tok or reels. Did I cry during the fireworks on my last visit? Absolutely. Do I still ride Dumbo even though I’m a full blown adult? Yup. Will I always wear Minnie ears the second I arrive in Orlando? Guaranteed.
The time I felt most like a “childless millenial” at Disney was when I took a trip with my best friend this past year. We got to do whatever we wanted, whenever we wanted and it was such a blast. We power walked to rides as we were unencumbered by strollers, ate and drank at our favorite restaurants, and hit every single rider line we could! There are some things in Disney that are just easier to do when there are no kiddos around. One thing did stay the same for us as kids and adults, we love a good power nap and couldn’t pass up an early bedtime some nights. This trip made me realize that Disney, while definitely family centered, is such a great place for a trip with anyone at anytime to celebrate! There is great food, fun experiences, and amazing attractions for all ages.
I will add that travelling as a “Disney Adult” with another adult did make me reminisce on the trips we took as a family and made me SO excited to take my own little ones someday to experience all of the magic. For those that get it, and those that read my last blog, they know that Disney to me holds such a sense of nostalgia and fun and allows me to play and be a kid again! If this makes me a crazy Disney Adult then so be it! One of my favorite quotes that I think is important for everyone to remember is, “If it makes you happy it doesn’t have to make sense to others”. Whatever makes you happy, as long as it doesn’t hurt anyone of course, DO IT.
