Disney Springs, formerly known as Downtown Disney, is a popular shopping, dining, and entertainment district located at the Walt Disney World Resort in Florida. With its rich history, exciting attractions, and endless options for fun, it’s no wonder that Disney Springs has become a must-visit destination for millions of visitors each year. But, have you ever wondered what’s open in Disney Springs? In this article, we’ll take you on a journey to explore the various shops, restaurants, and experiences that await you in this magical district.
A Brief History of Disney Springs
Before we dive into what’s open in Disney Springs, let’s take a brief look at its history. The district was first opened in 1975 as Lake Buena Vista Shopping Village, with a few shops and restaurants. Over the years, it underwent several transformations, including a major expansion in the 1990s, which added more shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. In 2015, the district was rebranded as Disney Springs, with a new focus on shopping, dining, and entertainment.
Shopping in Disney Springs
Disney Springs is a shopper’s paradise, with over 100 stores offering everything from Disney merchandise to unique gifts and souvenirs. Here are some of the top shopping spots in Disney Springs:
Disney-Operated Stores
- World of Disney: This massive store is a must-visit for any Disney fan, offering a vast selection of Disney merchandise, including toys, clothing, and collectibles.
- DisneyStyle: This trendy store offers a range of Disney-inspired clothing and accessories for kids and adults.
- Build-A-Bear Workshop: This interactive store allows kids to build and customize their own stuffed animals.
Specialty Stores
- LEGO Store: This colorful store is a dream come true for LEGO fans, offering a vast selection of LEGO sets, toys, and souvenirs.
- Build-A-Dino by Build-A-Bear Workshop: This unique store allows kids to build and customize their own dinosaur toys.
- Once Upon a Toy: This charming store offers a range of toys, games, and puzzles inspired by Disney movies and characters.
Dining in Disney Springs
Disney Springs is a foodie’s paradise, with over 50 restaurants and eateries offering everything from quick bites to fine dining experiences. Here are some of the top dining spots in Disney Springs:
Table-Service Restaurants
- The Boathouse: This waterfront restaurant offers a range of seafood and steak dishes in a nostalgic, upscale setting.
- The Polite Pig: This modern barbecue restaurant offers a range of meats and sides in a trendy, rustic setting.
- STK Orlando: This upscale steakhouse offers a range of premium meats and seafood dishes in a sophisticated setting.
Quick-Service Restaurants
- D-Luxe Burger: This trendy burger joint offers a range of gourmet burgers and shakes in a modern, industrial setting.
- Chicken Guy!: This quick-service restaurant offers a range of chicken tenders and sandwiches in a fun, casual setting.
- Aristocrepes: This charming creperie offers a range of sweet and savory crepes in a cozy, French-inspired setting.
Entertainment in Disney Springs
Disney Springs is not just about shopping and dining – it’s also a hub for entertainment and fun. Here are some of the top entertainment spots in Disney Springs:
Live Music and Shows
- Disney Springs Live!: This outdoor stage hosts a range of live music and shows, from rock bands to Disney character performances.
- Street Performers
: Throughout the district, you’ll find a range of street performers, from musicians to jugglers and magicians.
Attractions and Experiences
- Disney’s Pin Traders: This interactive store allows guests to trade Disney pins with cast members and other guests.
- Build-A-Bear Workshop: This interactive store allows kids to build and customize their own stuffed animals.
- The VOID: This immersive experience allows guests to step into a virtual world inspired by Disney movies and characters.
Special Events and Seasonal Celebrations
Disney Springs is always hosting special events and seasonal celebrations, from holiday festivities to exclusive shopping events. Here are some of the top special events and seasonal celebrations in Disney Springs:
Holiday Celebrations
- Disney Springs Christmas Tree Trail: This festive trail features a range of Disney-themed Christmas trees, each one decorated with a unique theme and decorations.
- Halloween Decorations: Throughout the district, you’ll find a range of spooky decorations and themed displays.
Exclusive Shopping Events
- Disney Springs After Dark: This exclusive shopping event allows guests to shop and dine in Disney Springs after hours, with special discounts and offers.
- Disney Springs Shopping Events: Throughout the year, Disney Springs hosts a range of shopping events, from sales to new product launches.
Getting Around Disney Springs
Disney Springs is a large district, but getting around is easy. Here are some of the top ways to get around Disney Springs:
Walking
- Walking Paths: Throughout the district, you’ll find a range of walking paths and sidewalks, making it easy to get around on foot.
Disney’s Complimentary Bus Transportation
- Bus Stops: Throughout the district, you’ll find a range of bus stops, offering complimentary transportation to and from Disney Springs.
Insider Tips and Tricks
Here are some insider tips and tricks to help you make the most of your visit to Disney Springs:
Arrive Early
- Beat the Crowds: Arriving early allows you to beat the crowds and make the most of your shopping and dining experiences.
Take Breaks
- Rest and Recharge: With so much to see and do, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. Take breaks to rest and recharge, and enjoy the entertainment and attractions on offer.
Use the My Disney Experience App
- Plan Your Day: The My Disney Experience app allows you to plan your day, check wait times, and even order food and drinks from your phone.
In conclusion, Disney Springs is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a fun and memorable experience. With its rich history, exciting attractions, and endless options for shopping, dining, and entertainment, there’s something for everyone in this magical district. Whether you’re a Disney fan, a foodie, or just looking for a fun day out, Disney Springs is the perfect place to visit. So why wait? Start planning your visit today and discover the magic of Disney Springs for yourself!
What is Disney Springs, and how does it differ from the Disney theme parks?
Disney Springs is a shopping, dining, and entertainment district located at the Walt Disney World Resort in Florida. It is a unique destination that offers a distinct experience from the Disney theme parks, such as Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom. While the theme parks are designed to transport visitors to immersive and fantastical worlds, Disney Springs is more focused on providing a relaxed and casual atmosphere, with a wide range of activities and attractions that cater to different interests and ages.
Disney Springs is open to the general public, and admission is free, making it an attractive option for those who want to experience the Disney magic without the need for a theme park ticket. The district is divided into four main areas: The Landing, Town Center, West Side, and Marketplace, each offering a unique character and a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues.
What are some of the new additions and experiences that have opened in Disney Springs recently?
Disney Springs has undergone significant transformations in recent years, with several new additions and experiences that have enhanced its appeal. Some of the recent openings include new restaurants, such as The Polite Pig and Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar, which offer a range of culinary delights, from barbecue to exotic cocktails. The district has also welcomed new retail stores, including the LEGO Store and the DisneyStyle store, which offer a wide range of merchandise and exclusive Disney products.
In addition to new dining and shopping options, Disney Springs has also introduced new entertainment experiences, such as the NBA Experience, which allows visitors to engage in interactive basketball activities, and the Star Wars: Secrets of the Empire virtual reality experience, which puts guests in the middle of a Star Wars adventure. These new additions have further solidified Disney Springs as a must-visit destination for Disney fans and non-fans alike.
What are some of the most popular restaurants and eateries in Disney Springs?
Disney Springs is a foodie’s paradise, with a diverse range of restaurants and eateries that cater to different tastes and preferences. Some of the most popular restaurants in the district 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 popular options include D-Luxe Burger, which serves gourmet burgers and shakes, and Ghirardelli Soda Fountain and Chocolate Shop, which offers decadent chocolate treats and ice cream sundaes.
In addition to these popular restaurants, Disney Springs is also home to a range of quick-service eateries and snack stands, which offer everything from classic theme park treats like popcorn and cotton candy to more substantial meals like sandwiches and salads. Visitors can also enjoy a range of specialty drinks, including coffee, wine, and craft beer, at various locations throughout the district.
Can I find any exclusive Disney merchandise in Disney Springs?
Yes, Disney Springs is a treasure trove of exclusive Disney merchandise, with a range of unique and limited-edition items that can’t be found anywhere else. The district is home to several Disney-owned retail stores, including the World of Disney, which is one of the largest Disney merchandise stores in the world, and DisneyStyle, which offers a range of fashion-forward Disney apparel and accessories.
In addition to these Disney-owned stores, Disney Springs is also home to a range of specialty retailers that offer exclusive Disney merchandise, such as the LEGO Store, which offers a range of LEGO Disney sets and exclusive LEGO Disney minifigures, and the Build-A-Bear Workshop, which allows guests to create their own custom Disney-themed stuffed animals. Visitors can also find exclusive Disney artwork and collectibles at various locations throughout the district.
Are there any entertainment options available in Disney Springs?
Yes, Disney Springs offers a range of entertainment options that cater to different ages and interests. The district is home to several live music venues, including the Waterside Stage, which hosts live concerts and performances throughout the day, and the Raglan Road Irish Pub and Restaurant, which offers live music and Irish dancing. Visitors can also enjoy a range of street performances, including musicians, jugglers, and magicians, at various locations throughout the district.
In addition to live music and street performances, Disney Springs is also home to several entertainment venues, including the AMC Disney Springs 24 Dine-In Theatres, which offers a range of movies in a state-of-the-art theater, and the DisneyQuest Indoor Interactive theme park, which offers a range of virtual reality experiences and classic arcade games. Visitors can also enjoy a range of recreational activities, including bowling and virtual reality experiences, at various locations throughout the district.
Can I visit Disney Springs if I’m not staying at a Disney hotel?
Yes, Disney Springs is open to the general public, and visitors do not need to be staying at a Disney hotel to visit. The district offers free admission and parking, making it an attractive option for those who want to experience the Disney magic without the need for a theme park ticket or a Disney hotel stay.
Visitors who are not staying at a Disney hotel can access Disney Springs by car, with several parking garages and lots available throughout the district. Visitors can also use Uber or Lyft to get to Disney Springs, or take advantage of the district’s complimentary bus transportation from several nearby locations, including the Disney theme parks and other Disney resort hotels.
Are there any special events and festivals held in Disney Springs throughout the year?
Yes, Disney Springs hosts a range of special events and festivals throughout the year, which offer visitors a unique and memorable experience. Some of the most popular events include the Disney Springs Christmas Tree Trail, which features a range of elaborately decorated Christmas trees, and the Disney Springs Food and Wine Festival, which offers a range of food and drink samples from around the world.
In addition to these events, Disney Springs also hosts a range of seasonal celebrations, including Halloween and New Year’s Eve parties, which offer live music, decorations, and special activities. Visitors can also enjoy a range of outdoor movie screenings and live concerts throughout the year, which are often held on the Waterside Stage or other outdoor venues throughout the district.