Walt Disney World is undoubtedly one of the most valued attractions by tourists visiting Florida (Law, 2020). This 40-square-mile resort offers magic and entertainment for audiences of all ages at its six parks and specialty locations (Visit Florida, n.d.). Among them, Disney Springs stands out for its incredible offer of shops, restaurants and leisure experiences.

Origins and areas of Disney Springs

This place is the result of the remodeling of the old Downtown Disney. His style is inspired by water fountains as natural spaces that give rise to various activities. In fact, it is based on the tradition of small Florida towns that sprang up around springs (Brigante, 2013).

It is divided into four large areas, each with its own charm (Magic Traveler, 2021):

Town Center

It welcomes visitors with a wide range of well-known brands. The most popular clothing and footwear stores are located there. It also has a few restaurants to enjoy.

The Landing

This island located in front of Town Center is the gastronomic center of the complex, although it also has some shops.

Marketplace

It is the must-see place if you are looking for Disney stores and toy stores. It also concentrates stores of products not available in any of the Disney parks and collection.

West Side

It is the center of live entertainment of the complex, although it also has Disney and other brand stores. In addition, it houses the take-off platform of the hot air balloon with passengers that rises over the entire resort.

Today, this area of Disney World is home to more than 150 Disney-themed stores and world-renowned brands. There you will find a wide variety of products: from clothing and jewelry to works of art and collectibles (Disney World, n.d. a).

What does this shopping spot offer that isn’t found elsewhere in the state, such as Aventura Mall and Sawgrass Mills? Well, these are unique and exclusive options that provide an entertainment experience in themselves. This is the case of the local princess costume Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique, the impressive Lego store or a place to buy Disney Christmas decorations at any time of the year, such as Disney Days of Christmas (Orlando shopping guide, 2017).

Gastronomic experiences

Disney Springs‘ more than 50 restaurants don’t disappoint, especially when it comes to variety. On the one hand, there’s casual cuisine, as well as coffee shops, food trucks, and quick-service establishments. On the other, there are restaurants serving specialized and gourmet cuisine. In addition, it has themed food businesses to delight adults and children (Disney World, n.d. a).

Some of his most outstanding restaurants are (Levine, 2022):

  • Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’ (The Landing), American home food.
  • Ranglan Road (The Landing), a traditional Irish pub.
  • D-Luxe Burger (Town Center), for the best burgers and milkshakes in the area.
  • The Polite Pig (Town Center), which concentrates on barbecue-style sandwiches.
  • Jaleo by José Andrés (West Side), specialized in Spanish cuisine.

Shows & Entertainment in Disney Springs

There is more than shopping and dining in Disney Springs. It is also a place full of unique things to do. Some of the most attractive activities include (Magical Traveler, 2021):

  • Climb into the Aerophile hot air balloon and see the entire resort from above.
  • Attend a Cirque du Soleil show.
  • Enjoy the interactivity of the NBA Experience.
  • Listen to live music in streets and restaurant terraces.
  • Navigate the waters of its lagoon in a traditional amphibious car.

How to get there

Disney Springs is located southeast of Disney World, near Typhoon Lagoon Water Park and Epcot. You can get there by car: parking is free. If you’re staying at a Disney Resort hotel, there’s a water shuttle to get there, as well as a bus (Disney World, n.d. b).

Additionally, it can be reached on foot from Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa by crossing a pedestrian bridge that ends at the Marketplace (Disney World, n.d. b).

Without a doubt, Disney Springs is an unmissable destination to shop, taste and live unique experiences within Disney World, all with its own charm and unparalleled.

References

Brigante, R. (2013). The Story Behind Disney Springs: Imagineers Bring Natural Florida Attractions Into Modern Day Walt Disney World. InsideTheMagic.com.

Disney World. (n.d. a). Disney Springs: frequently asked questions.

Disney World. (n.d. b). Disney Springs: frequently asked questions.

Law, L. (2020). 15 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Florida. PlanetWare.

Levine, A. (2022). The 12 Best Restaurants in Disney Springs. TripSavvy.

Magical Traveler. (2021). Disney Springs.

Visit Florida. (n.d.). Your Guide to Walt Disney World in Florida.