A Free Family Fun Center!
We have been to WDW numerous times, but on our recent trip we discovered a hidden gem! Simba’s Clubhouse is a wonderful change of pace tucked away at the Animal Kingdom Lodge.
For years, the Disney Deluxe Resorts offered a babysitting services on premises. This service is no longer provided in this manner, but is offered in room through a third party. When the service ended, the centers were turned into free/low cost “family fun centers.” Disney and “free” don’t necessarily go hand in hand, so we are hoping these wonderful centers remain!
We luckily discovered Simba’s Clubhouse while visiting The Animal Kingdom Lodge for one of our favorite treats, Zebra Domes! Zebra Domes are delicious desserts offered at Boma (Table Service) and The Mara (Quick Service). The Mara is also another family favorite. You do not need to stay at a resort to enjoy their dining options. In fact, we head over for Zebra Domes on almost every WDW vacation, regardless of where we are staying!
After lunch, we let the kids burn off some energy at the playground. (We were leaving that day and had a long drive ahead of us!) As I was walking to the restroom, this sign caught my eye.
The backpack immediately interested me, knowing my kids would absolutely love to make it! The info directed me to Simba’s Clubhouse. But where was Simba’s Clubhouse?!? I had never heard of it. Turns out it was literally steps away!
I asked about the backpack, but unfortunately it was only offered on certain days. But the wonderful cast member did let me know about all the fun options available. Some were free and some did require a fee, but the prices were very reasonable. I informed her we weren’t staying on site, as I didn’t know if it was for resort guests only. She happily told me it was for anyone!
I walked back over to my family and told them about the clubhouse. They initially didn’t want to go (after all, they love a good playground), but after I got them inside they never wanted to leave!
Simba’s Clubhouse is very comfortable with lounging areas, bean bag chairs, tables for crafts, TV’s, computers for games, and its own bathrooms. The windows even look out onto the resort savannah!
The kids (and the parents!) spent at least an hour making free crafts. This included kids scratch art, Disney character magnets to color, and suncatchers. They weren’t anything fancy, but just fun. Had it not been our last day, we would have mostly likely made handmade “ears” for $8 each.
We wholeheartedly recommended Simba’s Clubhouse! It is a great option anytime, but definitely on a “resort” day, or if you are visiting one of the many great restaurants at the Animal Kingdom Lodge.