Disney Springs, formerly known as Downtown Disney, is a vibrant and dynamic destination that offers a unique blend of shopping, dining, and entertainment options for visitors of all ages. Located in the heart of the Walt Disney World Resort in Florida, Disney Springs is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the magic of Disney beyond the theme parks. In this article, we will delve into the various shops and restaurants that can be found at Disney Springs, highlighting the unique experiences and offerings that make this destination so special.
Shopping at Disney Springs
Disney Springs is a shopper’s paradise, with a wide range of stores and boutiques offering everything from Disney merchandise and souvenirs to high-end fashion and luxury goods. Visitors can find unique and exclusive items at stores like the World of Disney, which is the largest Disney store in the world, offering a vast array of Disney-themed merchandise, including clothing, toys, and collectibles. Other popular shopping destinations include the Disney Style store, which offers trendy and fashionable Disney-inspired clothing and accessories, and the Build-A-Bear Workshop, where kids can create their own customized stuffed animals.
Specialty Stores
In addition to the Disney-themed stores, Disney Springs is also home to a variety of specialty stores that offer unique and exclusive products. The LEGO Store is a must-visit for kids and adults alike, featuring a vast array of LEGO sets and products, as well as a play area where visitors can build and create their own LEGO creations. The Sanuk store offers a wide range of comfortable and stylish footwear, while the Volcom store features a variety of action sports-inspired clothing and accessories.
Luxury Shopping
For those looking for a more luxurious shopping experience, Disney Springs offers a range of high-end stores and boutiques. The Tory Burch store features a wide range of stylish and sophisticated clothing and accessories, while the Alex and Ani store offers a variety of unique and elegant jewelry pieces. The Coach store features a range of high-quality leather goods and accessories, and the Kate Spade New York store offers a variety of stylish and colorful clothing and accessories.
Dining at Disney Springs
Disney Springs is also a foodie’s paradise, with a wide range of restaurants and dining options to suit every taste and budget. From quick-service eateries and snack stands to upscale restaurants and celebrity-chef owned establishments, Disney Springs offers something for everyone. Visitors can enjoy a variety of cuisines, including American, Italian, Mexican, and Asian, as well as a range of unique and exotic flavors from around the world.
Table-Service Restaurants
For a more upscale dining experience, Disney Springs offers a range of table-service restaurants. The Boathouse is a waterfront restaurant that offers a range of seafood and steak options, as well as a unique amphibious car experience. The Morimoto Asia restaurant, owned by celebrity chef Masaharu Morimoto, offers a range of pan-Asian cuisine, including sushi, noodles, and stir-fries. The Polite Pig restaurant offers a range of modern barbecue options, including brisket, ribs, and sausage.
Quick-Service Restaurants
For a quicker and more casual dining experience, Disney Springs offers a range of quick-service restaurants and snack stands. The D-Luxe Burger restaurant offers a range of gourmet burgers and sandwiches, while the Chicken Guy! restaurant, owned by celebrity chef Guy Fieri, offers a range of chicken tenders and sandwiches. The AristoCrêpes stand offers a range of sweet and savory crepes, and the Haagen-Dazs ice cream shop offers a range of unique and delicious ice cream flavors.
Unique Dining Experiences
In addition to the traditional restaurants and snack stands, Disney Springs also offers a range of unique and immersive dining experiences. The Star Wars: Secrets of the Empire experience allows visitors to become part of a virtual reality adventure, while enjoying a range of snacks and drinks. The Coca-Cola Store offers a range of unique and exotic flavors from around the world, as well as a rooftop bar with stunning views of the surrounding area.
| Restaurant | Cuisine | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Boathouse | Seafood/Steak | $20-$50 |
| Morimoto Asia | Pan-Asian | $15-$30 |
| Polite Pig | Barbecue | $10-$25 |
Entertainment and Activities
In addition to the shopping and dining options, Disney Springs also offers a range of entertainment and activities for visitors of all ages. The DisneyQuest Indoor Interactive Theme Park offers a range of virtual reality experiences and interactive games, while the AMC Disney Springs 24 Dine-In Theatres offers a range of movies and dining options. The Disney Springs Waterfront area features a range of live music and entertainment options, as well as a stunning view of the surrounding lake.
Live Music and Events
Disney Springs also hosts a range of live music and events throughout the year, including concerts, festivals, and holiday celebrations. The Disney Springs Live! series features a range of live music performances, from rock and pop to jazz and blues. The Disney Springs Christmas Tree Trail features a range of decorated Christmas trees and holiday decorations, while the Disney Springs Halloween Celebration features a range of spooky decorations and activities.
- DisneyQuest Indoor Interactive Theme Park
- AMC Disney Springs 24 Dine-In Theatres
- Disney Springs Waterfront
- Disney Springs Live!
- Disney Springs Christmas Tree Trail
- Disney Springs Halloween Celebration
In conclusion, Disney Springs is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the magic of Disney beyond the theme parks. With its unique blend of shopping, dining, and entertainment options, Disney Springs offers something for everyone, from families with young children to couples and solo travelers. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious shopping experience, a unique dining experience, or a fun and entertaining activity, Disney Springs is the perfect destination for your next vacation.
What are the different areas of Disney Springs, and what can I expect to find in each?
Disney Springs is divided into four main areas: Town Center, The Landing, Marketplace, and West Side. Each area offers a unique experience, with a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. Town Center is the newest area, featuring a mix of upscale and casual dining, as well as high-end shopping and entertainment options. The Landing is a waterfront district with a charming, small-town feel, offering a range of dining and shopping options, including The Boathouse and Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar.
In contrast, Marketplace is a family-friendly area with a variety of shops and restaurants, including the iconic World of Disney store and the popular Rainforest Cafe. West Side is an entertainment-focused area, featuring a range of dining and nightlife options, including the AMC Disney Springs 24 Dine-In Theatres and the House of Blues. Regardless of which area you visit, you can expect to find a unique and immersive experience that showcases the best of Disney’s shopping, dining, and entertainment offerings. With so much to see and do, it’s no wonder that Disney Springs has become a must-visit destination for Disney fans and non-fans alike.
What are some of the most popular shops at Disney Springs, and what can I expect to find inside?
Some of the most popular shops at Disney Springs include the World of Disney, DisneyStyle, and Build-A-Bear Workshop. The World of Disney is the largest Disney store in the world, offering a vast array of Disney merchandise, from toys and clothing to home decor and collectibles. DisneyStyle is a fashion-forward store featuring the latest Disney-inspired clothing and accessories, while Build-A-Bear Workshop allows kids to create their own customized stuffed animals. Other popular shops include the LEGO Store, Sephora, and UNIQLO, each offering a unique and engaging shopping experience.
Inside these shops, you can expect to find a wide range of products and interactive experiences that bring the Disney magic to life. From exclusive merchandise and limited-edition collectibles to hands-on activities and personalized services, each shop offers something special and memorable. For example, the World of Disney features a range of interactive displays and experiences, including a virtual reality adventure and a Disney-themed photo studio. Similarly, Build-A-Bear Workshop offers a fun and interactive experience, where kids can choose from a variety of stuffed animals and accessories to create their own unique creations.
What types of dining options are available at Disney Springs, and are there any restaurants that offer character dining?
Disney Springs offers a wide range of dining options, from casual quick-service eateries to upscale table-service restaurants. Some popular dining options include The Boathouse, Morimoto Asia, and The Polite Pig, each offering a unique and delicious culinary experience. For character dining, guests can visit Chef Mickey’s or Akershus Royal Banquet Hall, which offer character breakfast and lunch experiences with Disney’s beloved characters. Other popular restaurants include the Rainforest Cafe, Planet Hollywood, and Wolfgang Puck Express, each offering a fun and lively atmosphere.
In addition to these options, Disney Springs also features a range of snack stands and food carts, offering everything from classic theme park treats like popcorn and cotton candy to gourmet snacks like artisanal ice cream and specialty coffee. For guests with dietary restrictions, many of the restaurants at Disney Springs offer special menus and accommodations, including gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian options. With so many dining options to choose from, guests are sure to find something that suits their tastes and preferences, whether they’re in the mood for a quick bite or a leisurely meal.
Are there any entertainment options available at Disney Springs, and are they suitable for all ages?
Yes, Disney Springs offers a range of entertainment options, including live music and dance performances, street performers, and interactive experiences. Some popular entertainment options include the Disney Springs Waterfront Stage, which features live music and dance performances throughout the day, and the Streetmosphere performers, who bring the area to life with their energetic and interactive performances. Other entertainment options include the AMC Disney Springs 24 Dine-In Theatres, which offer a unique movie-going experience with food and drink service, and the House of Blues, which features live music performances and a range of special events.
Many of the entertainment options at Disney Springs are suitable for all ages, including families with young children. However, some options, such as the House of Blues, may be more geared towards adults and older children. Additionally, some of the live music and dance performances may feature loud music or special effects, which may not be suitable for very young children. Guests can check the Disney Springs website or the My Disney Experience app for more information on the entertainment options available during their visit, including schedules, descriptions, and age recommendations.
Can I visit Disney Springs without a theme park ticket, and are there any special events or activities available throughout the year?
Yes, Disney Springs is open to the public and can be visited without a theme park ticket. Guests can park and enter the area for free, and many of the shops, restaurants, and entertainment options are available to everyone. Throughout the year, Disney Springs hosts a range of special events and activities, including holiday celebrations, live concerts, and limited-time experiences. Some popular events include the Disney Springs Christmas Tree Trail, the Easter Eggstravaganza, and the Disney Springs Food and Wine Festival, each offering a unique and festive experience.
In addition to these special events, Disney Springs also offers a range of seasonal activities and experiences, such as outdoor movie screenings, live music performances, and character meet-and-greets. Guests can check the Disney Springs website or the My Disney Experience app for more information on the special events and activities available during their visit, including dates, times, and locations. With so much to see and do, Disney Springs is a great destination for anyone looking for a fun and memorable experience, whether they’re visiting the theme parks or just looking for a unique and entertaining outing.
How do I get to Disney Springs, and are there any transportation options available from the theme parks or other Disney resorts?
Disney Springs is located near the intersection of Interstate 4 and State Road 535, and guests can drive and park in one of the several parking garages or lots. Alternatively, guests can use Disney’s complimentary bus transportation from any of the Disney theme parks or resorts. The bus ride typically takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic and the time of day. Guests can also use Uber or Lyft, or take a taxi or shuttle from their hotel or resort.
In addition to these options, Disney Springs is also accessible by boat from several of the Disney resorts, including Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa and Disney’s Old Key West Resort. The boat ride offers a relaxing and scenic way to travel to Disney Springs, and guests can enjoy the views of the surrounding waterways and landscapes. Once they arrive, guests can use the Disney Springs shuttle bus to get around the area, or walk or take a stroll along the waterfront. With so many transportation options available, getting to Disney Springs is easy and convenient, and guests can focus on enjoying their visit rather than worrying about how to get there.