Outside of the popular and exciting Disney World theme parks is Disney Springs. This shopping, dining and entertainment district is home to some of the BEST experiences without the need for a ticket! If you are a foodie, love shopping or enjoy free live entertainment, this place should be on your radar! Best yet, parking is free.
First, for any Disney related travel plans, let me encourage you to utilize the service of a travel professional that specializes in Disney Destinations.
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The former Downtown Disney area was reimagined in 2018. Since then, it has evolved even further. The district offers guests the most incredible shopping, dining and entertainment. If you’re wondering what all the hype is about, here are 5 reasons why you should visit on your next trip to the Orlando area.
Shopping at Disney Springs
Much like Downtown Disney at Disneyland Resort, Disney Springs is home to a variety of retailers that don’t only include Disney related merchandise. If you are looking to purchase souvenirs, World of Disney (the largest retail Disney store in the area), The Marketplace Co-Op and Goofy’s Candy Co is where you will find a wide selection to choose from.
In addition to shopping for souvenirs, visitors can also shop retailers such as Lululemon, Pandora, Coach, and Under Armour just to name a few.
If you’re worried about the kids being bored, don’t be! Places like The Lego Store, M & M, The Coca Cola store and Dino-Store at T-Rex offer larger than life facades that are inviting to kids of all ages. In fact, the Lego store has full scale Lego masterpieces that greet guests from the entrance and beyond.
All these locations not only thrill the kid in all of us, but also allow for the little ones to run around, play and imagine. It is Disney after all!
Entertainment at Disney Springs
Do you enjoy live entertainment? Disney Springs has all types of artists and entertainers to fill your day or evening. You can catch live music at multiple locations throughout the district. You can enjoy performances inside and outside bars and restaurants like The House of Blues or Raglan Road.
There are also staged areas scattered throughout the open areas. The largest of which is Waterside stage where visitors can sit, dance, sing along with special musical guests that perform nightly for all to enjoy.
Added bonus! Entertainment is offered in other forms. You can take a ride in an amphibious car around Lake Buena Vista and sail high up above in a helium filled balloon to get a remarkable arial view. Disney Springs is also where you can bowl, see a movie, or attend Drawn to Life, a Cirque de Soleil show inspired by Disney animation.
In addition, there are many great Disney Good Neighbor hotels within walking distance of Disney Springs. That includes The Drury Plaza, The Wyndham and more brand name resorts. Saratoga Springs Resort and Spa, a Disney deluxe level choice is also a walkable distance away.
Dining at Disney Springs
Disney Springs is a foodie’s paradise! The district several restaurants run by James Beard award winning chefs. Morimoto Asia, Fontera Cucina, Wolfgang Puck Bar and Grill are only a few. Also included in the prestigious list is Chef Art Smith, an Orlando native who owns and operates Homecomin. Here guests indulge in a rich, southern comfort style menu while sampling a variety of custom moonshines.
Visitors to the Springs also have several options for both table service and quick service meals. Do you want BBQ? How about fresh seafood? Maybe you’re looking for Italian or you want to try Canada’s famous poutine. Disney Springs offers all of this and more.
Perhaps you want Spanish style tapas, or a spicy margarita to wash down some delicious Mexican cuisine. You will not be short on options to try. From flaming cheese at Wine Bar George to Chicken tenders with a menu of sauce options, you will find every style of dining you could ask.
Cocktails at Disney Springs
Disney Springs has a lot of places where guests can find specialty cocktails as well. Those cocktails come with amazing views. If you are in search of a cool atmosphere, try Jock Lindsey’s Hanger Bar. This is an Indiana Jones inspired lounge! You can also visit The Edison, a 2-story steampunk style bar and restaurant.
Dessert at Disney Springs
Dessert anyone? Salt and Straw, a specialty ice cream shop based in Portland, can be found on the West End. Sprinkles cupcakes has a location at Disney Springs. Guests can even try new Dole Whip creations or a flight of Dole Whip if you so choose at Swirls on the Water. Lastly, Gideons Bake Shop is so popular and decadent, visitors are encouraged to join a virtual queue to get inside.
There are many reasons to visit Disney Springs in Orlando, Florida on your next trip to the area. If you haven’t been or haven’t been recently these are just a few. The shopping and dining district offers so many options to enjoy a day of fun and/or a night out. If you would like to know more, you can also check out Disney Springs-Beyond the Theme Parks.
Continue to follow my blog and visit my tools page for information on how to make the most of your vacation to Disney destinations or Universal Studios.
Thinking about your next vacation? Reach out to DizN Vacations. Their expert advice and professional experience will help you customize your vacation. You can also submit a free no obligation quote request for help with your travel plans.
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