Located in the heart of Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida, Disney Springs is a vibrant shopping, dining, and entertainment district that has undergone significant transformations over the years. Formerly known as Downtown Disney, this 120-acre complex has evolved into a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the Orlando area. But is Disney Springs worth the trip? In this article, we’ll delve into the various aspects of Disney Springs, exploring its history, attractions, shopping, dining, and entertainment options to help you decide.
A Brief History of Disney Springs
Disney Springs has its roots in the 1970s, when it was first conceived as a shopping and entertainment district called Lake Buena Vista Shopping Village. Over the years, the area underwent several transformations, with the most significant renovation taking place in 2015, when it was rebranded as Disney Springs. This multi-year transformation brought new life to the district, introducing a range of innovative attractions, restaurants, and shops.
Attractions and Experiences
Disney Springs offers a diverse range of attractions and experiences that cater to all ages and interests. Some of the top attractions include:
Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach Water Parks
While not directly located within Disney Springs, these two water parks are nearby and offer a fun-filled day of water slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers.
DisneyQuest Indoor Interactive Theme Park
This indoor theme park is a haven for gamers and thrill-seekers, featuring a range of interactive games and experiences, including virtual reality adventures and classic arcade games.
Aerophile
For a unique perspective on Disney Springs, take a ride on the Aerophile, a tethered helium balloon that soars 400 feet above the district, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding area.
Virtual Reality Experiences
Disney Springs is home to several virtual reality experiences, including Star Wars: Secrets of the Empire and The VOID. These immersive experiences allow you to step into your favorite Disney movies and interact with the characters and environments in a completely new way.
Shopping
Disney Springs is a shopper’s paradise, with over 100 stores and boutiques offering everything from Disney merchandise to high-end fashion and unique souvenirs. Some of the top shopping destinations include:
World of Disney
As the largest Disney store in the world, World of Disney is a must-visit for any Disney fan. This 50,000-square-foot store offers an vast array of Disney merchandise, including exclusive items and collectibles.
DisneyStyle
For the latest Disney fashion trends, head to DisneyStyle, a boutique offering a range of Disney-inspired clothing and accessories.
Build-A-Bear Workshop
This interactive store allows kids to build and customize their own stuffed animals, making for a fun and memorable shopping experience.
Dining
Disney Springs is renowned for its diverse dining options, with over 50 restaurants and eateries serving everything from quick bites to gourmet meals. Some of the top dining destinations include:
The Boathouse
This waterfront restaurant offers a range of seafood and steak options, as well as a unique dining experience aboard a vintage amphicar.
The Polite Pig
For a taste of Southern comfort food, head to The Polite Pig, a modern barbecue restaurant offering a range of meats and sides.
D-Luxe Burger
This gourmet burger joint offers a range of unique burgers and toppings, as well as a build-your-own burger bar.
Entertainment
Disney Springs is a hub of entertainment, with a range of live music, street performances, and special events throughout the year. Some of the top entertainment options include:
Disney Springs Live Music
Catch live music performances at various venues throughout Disney Springs, including the Waterside Stage and the Exposition Park Stage.
Street Performances
Disney Springs is home to a range of street performers, including musicians, jugglers, and magicians.
Special Events
Throughout the year, Disney Springs hosts a range of special events, including holiday celebrations, concerts, and festivals.
Is Disney Springs Worth the Trip?
So, is Disney Springs worth the trip? The answer is a resounding yes. With its unique blend of shopping, dining, and entertainment options, Disney Springs offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a Disney fan, a foodie, or simply looking for a fun and memorable experience, Disney Springs is a must-visit destination.
Insider Tips and Tricks
To make the most of your visit to Disney Springs, here are some insider tips and tricks:
Arrive Early
Arrive early to beat the crowds and make the most of your day.
Use the My Disney Experience App
The My Disney Experience app allows you to plan your day, check wait times, and even order food and drinks from your phone.
Take Advantage of Free Parking
Disney Springs offers free parking, making it an affordable option for a day out.
Enjoy the Free Entertainment
Disney Springs offers a range of free entertainment options, including live music and street performances.
Conclusion
Disney Springs is a unique and exciting destination that offers something for everyone. With its rich history, diverse attractions, and extensive shopping and dining options, it’s a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the Orlando area. Whether you’re a Disney fan, a foodie, or simply looking for a fun and memorable experience, Disney Springs is sure to delight. So why not start planning your visit today and discover the magic of Disney Springs for yourself?
What is Disney Springs, and how does it differ from other Disney theme parks?
Disney Springs is a shopping, dining, and entertainment district located at the Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida. Unlike other Disney theme parks, such as Magic Kingdom, Epcot, and Hollywood Studios, Disney Springs does not require an admission ticket. It is open to the public and offers a unique experience that combines Disney magic with a more relaxed, casual atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy a range of activities, from shopping and dining to live music and entertainment, without the need for a theme park ticket.
One of the main differences between Disney Springs and other Disney theme parks is the lack of thrill rides and attractions. Instead, Disney Springs focuses on providing a more laid-back experience, with plenty of opportunities to browse shops, enjoy a meal or snack, and take in the sights and sounds of the area. This makes it an ideal destination for those looking for a break from the hustle and bustle of the theme parks or for visitors who want to experience a taste of Disney without committing to a full-day theme park ticket.
What are the different areas of Disney Springs, and what can I expect to find in each one?
Disney Springs is divided into four main areas: The Landing, Town Center, West Side, and Marketplace. The Landing is a waterfront area that offers a range of dining and shopping options, including The Boathouse and Morimoto Asia. Town Center is the central hub of Disney Springs, featuring a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues, such as the DisneyStyle store and the AMC Disney Springs 24 Dine-In Theatres. West Side is home to the House of Blues and other live music venues, as well as the DisneyQuest Indoor Interactive theme park. Marketplace is a shopping and dining area that offers a range of Disney-themed merchandise and treats.
Each area of Disney Springs offers a unique experience, so it’s worth exploring all four to see what they have to offer. Whether you’re looking for a specific type of cuisine, a unique shopping experience, or live entertainment, you’re sure to find it in one of the Disney Springs areas. Be sure to check the Disney Springs website or mobile app for a map and to plan your visit, as the areas can be quite spread out and you’ll want to make the most of your time.
What are some of the top shopping destinations in Disney Springs?
Disney Springs is a shopper’s paradise, with a range of stores offering everything from Disney-themed merchandise to unique gifts and souvenirs. Some of the top shopping destinations in Disney Springs include the World of Disney, which is the largest Disney store in the world, and the DisneyStyle store, which offers a range of Disney-inspired fashion and accessories. Other popular shopping spots include the LEGO Store, Build-A-Bear Workshop, and the Disney’s Pin Traders store.
In addition to these Disney-themed stores, Disney Springs is also home to a range of other retailers, including Sephora, Vera Bradley, and Johnston & Murphy. You’ll also find a range of specialty stores, such as the Candy Cauldron and the Ghirardelli Soda Fountain and Chocolate Shop, which offer unique treats and gifts. Whether you’re looking for a specific item or just want to browse, Disney Springs has something for every type of shopper.
What dining options are available in Disney Springs, and are there any character dining experiences?
Disney Springs offers a range of dining options, from quick-service meals to table-service restaurants. Some popular dining spots include The Boathouse, which serves up seafood and steak in a waterfront setting, and Morimoto Asia, which offers pan-Asian cuisine created by celebrity chef Masaharu Morimoto. Other options include the Polite Pig, which serves up barbecue, and the D-Luxe Burger, which offers gourmet burgers and shakes.
While there are no traditional character dining experiences in Disney Springs, there are a few options that offer character meet-and-greets or other interactive experiences. For example, the Disney Junior Character Breakfast at the Hollywood & Vine restaurant offers a character breakfast with Disney Junior characters, and the Star Wars: Secrets of the Empire experience allows guests to interact with Star Wars characters in a virtual reality environment. Be sure to check the Disney Springs website or mobile app for more information on these experiences and to make reservations.
Are there any entertainment options in Disney Springs, and are they included in the cost of admission?
Yes, there are a range of entertainment options in Disney Springs, including live music, street performances, and movie screenings. Some popular entertainment options include the Disney Springs Waterfront Stage, which hosts live music performances throughout the day, and the AMC Disney Springs 24 Dine-In Theatres, which offers movie screenings in a state-of-the-art theater. Other options include the DisneyQuest Indoor Interactive theme park, which offers a range of interactive games and experiences, and the Star Wars: Secrets of the Empire experience, which allows guests to interact with Star Wars characters in a virtual reality environment.
Most of the entertainment options in Disney Springs are included in the cost of admission, which is free. However, some experiences, such as the DisneyQuest Indoor Interactive theme park and the Star Wars: Secrets of the Empire experience, may require a separate admission fee or reservation. Be sure to check the Disney Springs website or mobile app for more information on these experiences and to plan your visit.
Can I visit Disney Springs if I’m not staying at a Disney hotel or don’t have a theme park ticket?
Yes, anyone can visit Disney Springs, regardless of whether they are staying at a Disney hotel or have a theme park ticket. Disney Springs is open to the public and offers free admission, making it a great option for those who want to experience a taste of Disney without committing to a full-day theme park ticket. Visitors can park in one of the Disney Springs parking garages or lots and then explore the area on foot or by using the Disney Springs shuttle bus.
One thing to note is that some experiences in Disney Springs, such as the DisneyQuest Indoor Interactive theme park and the Star Wars: Secrets of the Empire experience, may require a separate admission fee or reservation. However, there are plenty of other things to see and do in Disney Springs that are included in the cost of admission, including shopping, dining, and live entertainment. Be sure to check the Disney Springs website or mobile app for more information on these experiences and to plan your visit.
How do I get to Disney Springs, and are there any transportation options available?
Disney Springs is located at the Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida, and is accessible by car or by using Disney transportation. If you’re driving, you can park in one of the Disney Springs parking garages or lots, which offer free parking. If you’re staying at a Disney hotel, you can use the Disney Springs shuttle bus, which offers complimentary transportation to and from Disney Springs.
In addition to the Disney Springs shuttle bus, there are also other transportation options available, including Uber and Lyft, which offer pick-up and drop-off at Disney Springs. You can also use the Minnie Van service, which offers private car service to and from Disney Springs. Be sure to check the Disney Springs website or mobile app for more information on these transportation options and to plan your visit.