Sidebar: The Little Joys That Made Springtime Surprise Weekend Magical

My favorite parts of any RunDisney weekend are all the little joys that can be discovered outside the race itself. The miles are memorable, but the snacks, sights, quiet corners, and unexpected moments are what round out the whole experience. Here are a few of the standout favorites from my Springtime Surprise 10K trip.

Favorite Dessert: Lemon Meringue Croissant

A buttery croissant filled with bright lemon curd and topped with toasted meringue (basically sunshine in pastry form). It was the perfect post‑race treat and one of the best delights I’ve ever grabbed from a Disney bakery case.

Favorite Experience: Flower & Garden Festival (Elsa Topiary)

EPCOT’s Flower & Garden Festival never disappoints, but the Elsa topiary stopped me in my tracks. The detail, the colors, and the artistry were pure magic and the perfect backdrop for a spring race weekend.

Favorite Work of Art: Riviera Mosaics

The mosaics at Disney’s Riviera Resort are breathtaking every time I see them. They feature scenes from Peter Pan and Tangled. Each panel is grand in scale, intricate in detail, and full of storytelling. Walking through that archway feels like stepping into a fairytale.

Favorite Break from the Parks: Wildflowers at Wilderness Lodge

In between the hustle and bustle of race weekend and park time, the wildflowers around Wilderness Lodge were the calm I didn’t know I needed. Quiet paths and cheerful colors created a little slice of calming nature away from the crowds.

Favorite Sandwich: 10‑Hour Smoked Pulled Pork Sandwich (Wilderness Lodge)

Pulled pork tossed in apple‑barbecue sauce, topped with creamy slaw, served on a sweet brioche bun with fries equals absolute perfection. This was hearty, flavorful, and exactly what I wanted after a long morning on my feet.

Favorite Souvenir: RunDisney Brooks Shoes

I couldn’t resist the RunDisney Brooks styles, including Genie, Tigger & Pooh, Chip & Dale, Mickey Mouse, and more. They are fun, bright, and the perfect blend of runner practicality and Disney whimsy.

Photo credit: Brooks

Favorite Mode of Transportation: Skyliner

Fast, breezy, and offering some of the best views on property, the Skyliner wins every time. It’s transportation, but it’s also an attraction in its own right.

In the end, the little moments, the treats, the art, the quiet corners, the characters, the unexpected favorites, are what make a RunDisney weekend so much more than a single race. Can’t wait to return sometime soon!