Located in the heart of Walt Disney World Resort in Florida, Disney Springs is a popular entertainment district that offers a unique blend of shopping, dining, and entertainment options for visitors of all ages. From thrilling attractions to relaxing experiences, Disney Springs has something for everyone. In this article, we’ll delve into the top attractions at Disney Springs, helping you plan an unforgettable day out with family and friends.
Themed Lands and Districts
Disney Springs is divided into four themed lands and districts, each offering a distinct experience.
West Side
The West Side is a vibrant entertainment district that’s home to some of the most popular attractions at Disney Springs. Here, you’ll find the legendary Bowie’s Outrageous Daredevil Thrill Show, a high-energy live performance featuring death-defying stunts and acrobatic feats.
Town Center
The Town Center is the central hub of Disney Springs, featuring a charming shopping promenade lined with boutiques, restaurants, and cafes. This area is also home to the iconic Disney Springs Live!, a live music and entertainment stage that hosts various performances throughout the day.
Marketplace
The Marketplace is a charming waterfront district that celebrates the nostalgia of classic Disney charm. Here, you’ll find unique shops, eateries, and attractions, including the timeless iconic Disney’s Pin Traders, where you can trade and collect Disney pins.
Landing
The Landing is a scenic waterfront district that offers stunning views of the Springs. This area is home to some of the most popular dining spots at Disney Springs, including The Boathouse, a waterfront eatery serving up fresh seafood and steaks.
Shopping at Disney Springs
With over 150 stores and boutiques, Disney Springs is a shopper’s paradise. From souvenirs to luxury fashion, you’ll find something to suit every taste and budget. Some of the top shopping attractions at Disney Springs include:
The LEGO Store
The LEGO Store is a must-visit for kids and adults alike. This 4,000-square-foot store features a vast collection of LEGO sets, toys, and merchandise, as well as an impressive LEGO model of Disney Springs.
World of Disney
World of Disney is the largest Disney store on the planet, spanning an incredible 50,000 square feet. This megastore offers an unparalleled range of Disney merchandise, from toys and collectibles to clothing and accessories.
Dining at Disney Springs
Disney Springs is a foodie’s heaven, with over 60 dining options ranging from quick bites to fine dining experiences. Some of the top dining attractions at Disney Springs include:
The Polite Pig
The Polite Pig is a modern barbecue joint serving up mouth-watering meats smoked on-site, including brisket, ribs, and chicken. Don’t miss their signature sides, like the “Notorious P.I.G.” nachos.
Morimoto Asia
Morimoto Asia is a pan-Asian restaurant from celebrity chef Masaharu Morimoto. This stylish eatery offers an extensive menu featuring sushi, noodles, and other Asian-inspired dishes.
Entertainment and Nightlife
When the sun sets, Disney Springs transforms into a vibrant entertainment district, offering a range of activities and attractions for visitors of all ages.
DisneyQuest Indoor Interactive Theme Park
DisneyQuest is a 100,000-square-foot indoor theme park featuring interactive games, virtual reality experiences, and classic Disney attractions. This is a great spot to escape the heat or rain and enjoy some family-friendly fun.
Splitsville Luxury Lanes
Splitsville Luxury Lanes is an upscale bowling alley that’s perfect for a night out with friends or family. This trendy venue features 30 lanes, a restaurant serving up gourmet eats, and a stylish bar serving craft cocktails.
Special Events and Seasonal Celebrations
Throughout the year, Disney Springs hosts a range of special events and seasonal celebrations that are sure to delight visitors of all ages. Some of the top events at Disney Springs include:
Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser
Experience the magic of the Star Wars universe with this immersive, out-of-this-world experience. Set aboard a starcruiser, this two-night adventure takes you on a journey through the galaxy, featuring encounters with beloved characters, thrilling space battles, and more.
Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party
Get ready for a spook-tacular time at Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, a special event that takes place on select nights in the fall. Enjoy trick-or-treating, costume contests, and Limited-time attractions like the “Mickey’s PhilharMagic” show.
Christmas Celebrations
Disney Springs transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season, featuring festive decorations, holiday-themed treats, and special events like the “Disney Springs Christmas Tree Trail” and “Santa’s Chalet.”
Practical Information
Before you plan your visit to Disney Springs, here are some practical tips to keep in mind:
Getting There
Disney Springs is easily accessible by car, with two parking garages and several surface parking lots available. If you’re staying at a Walt Disney World Resort hotel, you can take advantage of complimentary bus transportation.
Admission
Admission to Disney Springs is free, although some attractions and experiences may require a fee or ticket purchase.
Hours of Operation
Disney Springs typically operates from 10am to 12am, although hours may vary depending on the day and season.
Tips and Tricks
- Arrive early to beat the crowds and make the most of your day.
- Take advantage of the complimentary Wi-Fi available throughout Disney Springs.
- Don’t forget to download the official Disney Springs app for exclusive offers, maps, and information.
In conclusion, Disney Springs is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a fun-filled day out in Walt Disney World Resort. With its diverse range of attractions, dining options, and entertainment experiences, Disney Springs has something for everyone. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a foodie, or just looking for a relaxing day out, this vibrant entertainment district is sure to leave you spellbound. So why wait? Start planning your visit to Disney Springs today and unleash the magic!
What is Disney Springs, and how does it differ from the main Disney theme parks?
Disney Springs is an outdoor shopping, dining, and entertainment district located at the Walt Disney World Resort in Florida. It’s a separate entity from the main Disney theme parks, such as Magic Kingdom, Epcot, and Hollywood Studios. While the theme parks require admission tickets, Disney Springs is free to visit and open to the general public. This makes it an excellent option for those looking for a more relaxed Disney experience or a break from the hustle and bustle of the theme parks.
Disney Springs has undergone significant transformations over the years, evolving from a simple shopping village to a vibrant entertainment hub. Today, it boasts a wide range of attractions, restaurants, and experiences that cater to all ages and interests. From virtual reality adventures to live concerts, Disney Springs offers something for everyone, making it an ideal destination for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.
What are the top attractions at Disney Springs?
The top attractions at Disney Springs include the virtual reality experience, Star Wars: Secrets of the Empire, and the virtual reality adventure, Ralph Breaks VR. Other popular attractions include the DisneyQuest Indoor Interactive Theme Park, the NBA Experience, and the Build-Your-Own-Stuffed-Animal Workshop at Build-A-Bear Workshop. Additionally, Disney Springs is home to the world’s largest Disney store, World of Disney, which offers an immersive retail experience.
Visitors can also enjoy the breathtaking views of Disney Springs from the Characters in Flight helium balloon, take a ride on the vintage-inspired Disney Springs Aerophile, or explore the beautiful Disney Springs Marina. With so many attractions and experiences to choose from, Disney Springs has something for every interest and age group, making it an must-visit destination for anyone looking for a magical and memorable experience.
Can I meet Disney characters at Disney Springs?
Yes, Disney Springs offers various opportunities to meet and greet with your favorite Disney characters. Character meet-and-greets can be found throughout the district, including at the Disney Style store, where you can meet Disney princesses, and the Character Spot, where you can meet Mickey Mouse and his friends. Additionally, some restaurants, such as Akershus Royal Banquet Hall, offer character dining experiences where you can enjoy a meal while interacting with Disney characters.
Be sure to check the Disney Springs schedule and the My Disney Experience app for character meet-and-greet times and locations, as they are subject to change. You can also make dining reservations for character dining experiences up to 180 days in advance. Meeting Disney characters is a great way to create lifelong memories, and Disney Springs provides the perfect setting for these magical encounters.
What are the best dining options at Disney Springs?
Disney Springs offers a diverse range of dining options to suit every taste and budget. From quick-service eats to table-service restaurants, there’s something for everyone. Some popular dining spots include The Boathouse, a waterfront restaurant serving up seafood and steaks, and Morimoto Asia, a pan-Asian restaurant created by celebrity chef Masaharu Morimoto.
Other top picks include The Polite Pig, a modern barbecue joint, and Wine Bar George, a wine bar and restaurant led by Master Sommelier George Miliotes. For sweet treats, visitors can head to The Ganachery, a chocolate shop offering handcrafted ganache, or Amorette’s Patisserie, a French-inspired bakery. With its varied dining options, Disney Springs is an ideal destination for foodies and families alike.
Are there any special events and festivals at Disney Springs?
Yes, Disney Springs hosts various special events and festivals throughout the year, making it an exciting destination for visitors of all ages. One of the most popular events is the Disney Springs Christmas Tree Trail, a festive holiday experience featuring decorated trees and character meet-and-greets. Another beloved event is the Disney Wine & Food Festival, which celebrates the art of food and wine with cooking demonstrations, wine tastings, and live music.
Additionally, Disney Springs often hosts seasonal celebrations, such as the Disney Springs Mardi Gras Celebration, and limited-time experiences, like the Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser event. Be sure to check the Disney Springs website and social media for upcoming events and festivals, as they’re subject to change. These special events add an extra layer of magic to the Disney Springs experience, making it an unforgettable destination for visitors.
How do I get to Disney Springs?
Disney Springs is located at the Walt Disney World Resort in Florida, and there are several ways to get there, depending on your starting location. If you’re staying at a Walt Disney World Resort hotel, you can take advantage of the complimentary bus transportation service, which drops you off at the Disney Springs bus stop. Alternatively, you can take a Minnie Van, a paid transportation service, from your resort hotel or other locations within Walt Disney World.
If you’re driving, Disney Springs offers plenty of parking options, including a parking garage and surface lots. Once you arrive, you can take a short walk or ride the Disney Springs shuttle bus to get to the main area. If you’re using ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft, there are designated pick-up and drop-off areas near the main entrance. Getting to Disney Springs is convenient and easy, making it an excellent addition to your Walt Disney World vacation.
Can I visit Disney Springs without a park ticket?
Yes, you can visit Disney Springs without a park ticket. Disney Springs is a separate entity from the main Disney theme parks, and admission is free. This makes it an excellent option for those who want to experience the magic of Disney without committing to a full-day park ticket. You can enjoy the shopping, dining, and entertainment options at Disney Springs without worrying about park admission fees.
However, some experiences and attractions within Disney Springs may require a separate admission fee or reservation. Be sure to check the Disney Springs website or the My Disney Experience app for pricing and availability information. With its wide range of attractions and experiences, Disney Springs is an excellent addition to your Walt Disney World vacation, whether you’re looking for a quick visit or a full-day adventure.