If you haven’t been to Disney in a while, you might remember Downtown Disney — that fun little shopping and dining district where you could grab dinner, pick up a souvenir, and maybe catch some entertainment. Well, forget the small, laid-back version you remember, because today it’s Disney Springs — and it’s an entirely new experience.
Think of it as Disney’s answer to a lakeside entertainment city: sprawling, beautifully designed, packed with incredible restaurants, unique shopping, live shows, and enough atmosphere to make you feel like you’re inside the parks… but without paying for a ticket.
That’s what makes Disney Springs so special. You can stroll in any time — no reservations, no admission, no magic band required — and still get that “Disney magic” feeling.
We’ve come here on park days for dinner and on non-park days just to wander, eat, and soak in the atmosphere. It’s Disney at a slower pace, and we love it. Read on to find out all the reasons we think it’s the perfect place to plan your next trip.
What is Disney Springs?
So, what is Disney Springs exactly? It’s a massive shopping, dining, and entertainment district located at Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Florida, just outside Orlando. Unlike the parks, there are no rides (aside from a few small kid-friendly ones), no gates, and no tickets. But what it does have is the same level of detail, theming, and customer service that Disney is famous for.
The area is divided into four themed “neighborhoods”:
- Marketplace – Family-focused with shops like the LEGO Store, World of Disney, and plenty of Disney-themed boutiques. This is our go-to area for Disney souvenirs, decor, gifts and t-shirts.
- The Landing – Waterfront dining and specialty shops with a more upscale, relaxed vibe.
- Town Center – Trendy, open-air shopping with big-name brands and chic architecture. It’s like they brought the mall to Disney, for your convenience!
- West Side – The entertainment hub, home to the movie theater, Cirque du Soleil, Splitsville Bowling, and live music venues such as the House of Blues (one of our favorite spots to watch a live rock concert in all of Orlando!)
If you visited when it was still called Downtown Disney, you might remember it being much smaller. These days, it’s huge — the kind of place where you can spend an entire day and still not see everything.
The first time Josh and I came after the transformation, we couldn’t believe how much it had changed. The landscaping, the open spaces, the variety of dining… It felt like we were discovering a brand-new Disney park!
Where is Disney Springs?
So now that you know what this magnificent place is, you’re probably wondering, “just where is Disney Springs?” Well, it’s tucked right inside Walt Disney World Resort, close to Epcot and Typhoon Lagoon, with easy access from Interstate 4.
Getting here is easy, whether you’re driving yourself, using rideshare, or staying at a Disney Resort. The roads are clearly marked with big “Disney Springs” signs, so you won’t accidentally end up at the Magic Kingdom parking gates.
Parking at Disney Springs
Something that might surprise you: parking at Disney Springs is completely free. Yup — free, spacious, and conveniently close to all the action.
There are three main parking garages:
- Orange Garage – Ideal for Town Center and West Side.
- Lime Garage – Best for Marketplace and Town Center.
- Grapefruit Garage – Overflow garage connected by a pedestrian bridge.
Each garage has an electronic system that shows available spaces, which is incredibly helpful on busy nights. There are also surface lots and a paid valet option.
When we’re staying at a Disney Resort, we often skip parking altogether and take the complimentary bus service. My personal favorite way to arrive, though, is by boat. Resorts like Port Orleans, Saratoga Springs, and Old Key West offer a scenic ride along the Sassagoula River, and it feels like you’re arriving at a waterfront village.
Shopping at Disney Springs
Shopping at Disney Springs is like a magical treasure hunt. You’ll find the world’s largest Disney store right here — the World of Disney — and honestly, I’ve lost track of the hours I’ve spent wandering its aisles. From plush toys to limited-edition ears to kitchenware, it’s impossible to leave empty-handed.
But Disney Springs isn’t just about Disney merch. You’ve got big-name stores like Uniqlo, Anthropologie, Tommy Bahama, and Under Armour, along with boutique shops selling handmade jewelry, art, and unique souvenirs you won’t find in the parks.
Then there are the fun, themed shopping experiences that are worth visiting even if you’re just browsing.
The Coca-Cola Store is a must for collectors — you’ll find everything from apparel to home décor, plus the chance to personalize your own glass Coke bottle. And be sure to head up to the rooftop bar for a refreshing drink and one of the best views of Disney Springs.
Just around the corner, the colorful M&M’s Store will make you feel like a kid again. You can design your own custom M&M’s mix, hunt for quirky gifts, and snap some fun photos among the candy displays.
If you’re looking for something more playful, Once Upon a Toy is like walking into a magical toy box, filled with games and Disney-themed playthings. Star Wars Galactic Outpost is heaven for Star Wars fans, with apparel, collectibles, and even a chance to build your own lightsaber.
And if it’s holiday cheer you’re after, no matter the time of year, the Disney Springs Christmas Store is a wonderland of ornaments and seasonal décor — it’s the kind of place that instantly puts you in a festive mood.
Josh and I have some pretty special shopping memories over the years at Disney Springs, but there’s one in particular that means the most to us. After we got engaged (at midnight in front of Cinderella’s Castle) we stopped by one of the art stores at the Marketplace here at Disney Springs. We wanted to commemorate the moment so we had one of the Disney artists create a custom work of art for us. It’s a hand-drawn Mickey & Minnie and if you look closely in the pixie dust, it includes the blue sapphire engagement ring and the date.
Restaurants at Disney Springs
The restaurants at Disney Springs are reason enough to visit, and are one of the biggest reasons we keep coming back. With more than 60 restaurants at Disney Springs, you can eat your way around the world without ever leaving this lakeside promenade. Whether you’re craving something quick, an immersive themed meal, or a fine-dining experience, there’s something here for every mood (and every appetite).
We always make time for Raglan Road Irish Pub, which has become a bit of a tradition for us. Between the live Irish music, energetic dancers, and hearty food, it’s like being transported straight to Dublin. The fish and chips are perfection, and the atmosphere keeps us lingering long after our plates are cleared.
Families love T-Rex Café and Rainforest Café for their immersive, themed dining rooms, where you’re surrounded by life-sized moving dinosaurs or tropical jungle decor with thunderstorms rolling overhead.
If you’re in the mood for something a little more sophisticated, you have plenty of choices. The BOATHOUSE serves fresh seafood right on the water (and even offers Amphicar tours for a post-meal adventure). Morimoto Asia brings Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto’s take on Pan-Asian cuisine to Disney Springs, complete with stunning décor. STK Orlando blends upscale steakhouse dining with a lively lounge atmosphere, while Wine Bar George is a wine-lover’s dream, offering more than 140 wines by the glass, bottle, or ounce alongside incredible small plates.
And if you’re here for something quick and tasty, there are plenty of casual favorites. Chicken Guy! is Guy Fieri’s ode to crispy chicken sandwiches with a dizzying selection of dipping sauces. Blaze Pizza lets you build your own wood-fired pie in minutes, and D-Luxe Burger serves some of the juiciest burgers on property with hand-cut fries and creative milkshakes.
Of course, no trip is complete without something sweet. Gideon’s Bakehouse has earned cult status for its half-pound cookies and towering cake slices — just be ready for a wait, because everyone else knows how good it is too. The Coca-Cola Store Rooftop Bar is a fun stop for a refreshing float or a soda flight featuring flavors from around the world. If you prefer ice cream, Salt & Straw is known for its wildly creative flavors, and The Ganachery offers handmade chocolates and s’mores that are almost too pretty to eat.
One place that surprised us on a recent visit was The Edison. It felt like we were downstairs in some type of speakeasy, complete with amazing singers and cabaret performers. And the food and drinks are fantastic! That’s the beauty of dining here — you can have a different experience every time, depending on your mood.
Entertainment at Disney Springs
While the shopping and dining here are fantastic, the things to do at Disney Springs go far beyond browsing stores and eating your way around the lake. This place is alive with entertainment — from big-ticket shows to little surprises you stumble upon as you wander.
Drawn to Life by Cirque du Soleil
Drawn to Life by Cirque du Soleil is one of the crown jewels of Disney Springs — a mesmerizing blend of world-class acrobatics and the timeless magic of Disney animation. Through jaw-dropping stunts, whimsical choreography, and dazzling visual effects, beloved Disney characters and classic animation leap from the screen into a whole new dimension. Prepare to be amazed, we certainly were.
AMC Disney Springs 24
Sometimes you just want to slow down with a movie — and at AMC Disney Springs 24, you can do it in style. This isn’t your typical theater; it’s a state-of-the-art movie experience with oversized reclining seats, crisp digital projection, and sound that pulls you right into the action. Even better, it’s a dine-in theater, so you can enjoy burgers, flatbreads, or a big bowl of popcorn without leaving your seat. We’ve spent a rainy Florida afternoon here more than once, and it’s always the perfect low-key escape.
Splitsville Luxury Lanes
Bowling at Splitsville is like stepping into a retro dream — but with a modern, upscale twist. Spread across two floors, it features 30 lanes, stylish mid-century décor, and a surprisingly delicious menu that’s worth a visit on its own (seriously, the sushi here is better than you’d expect). Between games, you can sip a craft cocktail, catch some live music, or relax on the outdoor patio. Whether you’re competitive or just in it for fun, it’s a great way to spend a few hours with friends or family.
Over the years, we’ve had some pretty epic bowling tournaments with our family here. Always great memories!
Live Music & Street Performers
One of my favorite things about Disney Springs is how the entertainment often finds you. Stroll through the walkways in the evening and you’ll hear it — a soulful singer strumming a guitar, a jazz trio bringing the West Side to life, or even an energetic dance troupe drawing a crowd.
Things to Do at Disney Springs
While Disney Springs is packed with incredible entertainment, not every memorable moment here is a “show” or performance. Some of the best experiences are the hands-on activities, seasonal events, and little discoveries that happen as you explore.
Cruise the Lake in an Amphicar
This is one of the most unique experiences you’ll find anywhere. Part vintage convertible, part boat, the Amphicar Tours at The BOATHOUSE are a Disney Springs icon. You’ll start on land, cruise along the promenade, and then — to the delight of everyone watching — drive straight into the water. It’s a quirky, fun way to see the area from a new angle.
Aerophile Balloon Ride
If you want a view that will take your breath away, the Aerophile Balloon Ride is it. This tethered helium balloon soars 400 feet above Disney Springs, giving you panoramic views of all of Walt Disney World — and on a clear day, you can see for miles beyond. The flight lasts about eight minutes, but it’s enough time to snap some incredible photos and just soak in the beauty of the area.
Explore Seasonal Events & Pop-Ups
Disney Springs transforms with the seasons, offering limited-time events that are worth planning around. In summer, you might find special menus during Flavors of Florida, while the holidays bring the Christmas Tree Stroll, pop-up entertainment, and themed treats.
Play, Build & Crate
Families (and kids at heart, like Josh!) love the hands-on fun at the LEGO Store, where you can build, create, and snap photos with giant LEGO sculptures. You might also stumble upon interactive displays, art walls, or photo backdrops during seasonal festivals.
Take a Scenic Stroll
Sometimes the best “thing to do” is nothing more than walking and soaking it all in. Start at the Marketplace, follow the waterfront past The Landing, and loop around the West Side. Watch Amphicars glide across the lake, listen for live music drifting through the air, and keep an eye out for street performers.
I have to admit, there are so many times that we visit Disney Springs and mostly just walk around. We love just soaking up the ambiance, people watching, stumbling across some entertainment and maybe having just a snack or a drink.
There’s something charming about Disney Springs after dark, with the lights twinkling on the water and the buzz of the crowd fading into the night.
End the Night with Dessert
One of my favorite Disney Springs rituals is to grab a Gideon’s cookie or a decadent chocolate from The Ganachery and enjoy it on a quiet bench by the lake. It’s the perfect way to end a day at Disney Springs — simple, sweet, and a little bit magical.
Disney Springs for Kids
Just as Disney World has plenty of things for adults to enjoy, Disney Springs offers endless fun for the little ones, too. The LEGO Store is a huge hit, with giant Disney character sculptures and a free-play area. The Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique in the Marketplace is pure magic for little princes and princesses (book ahead). And the Marketplace Carousel and Train Express are affordable, charming rides that little ones adore.
Best Time to Visit Disney Springs
Disney Springs is open year-round, but evenings, weekends, and holidays are busiest. For quieter shopping and dining, visit on a weekday morning or early afternoon.
If you want the full entertainment experience — live music, a buzzing atmosphere, and maybe a post-dinner stroll by the water — aim for an evening visit.
Hotels Near Disney Springs
If you want to be close, Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort is within walking distance. Disney’s Old Key West Resort and the Port Orleans Resorts are just a short boat ride away. Several non-Disney “Disney Springs Resort Area” hotels are also nearby and often more budget-friendly. We’ve even stayed at a couple of the hotels across the street, and they are super convenient!
Tips for Visiting Disney Springs
Disney Springs is easy to enjoy no matter when you visit, but a few smart planning choices can make your day (or night) even better. Over the years, we’ve learned some little tricks that help us avoid crowds, make the most of our time, and squeeze in everything we want to see, eat, and do. It also helps that I worked at Disney for years (yes, I am THAT obsessed), so let me treat you to some insider pro-tips!
Whether it’s your first visit or your fifteenth, these tips will help you navigate the crowds, snag the best dining spots, and enjoy the magic at a more relaxed pace.
- Arrive early if you want easier parking.
- Wear comfortable shoes — it’s a big place.
- Check the entertainment schedule online.
- Make dining reservations for popular restaurants.
- Don’t be afraid to split your visit into two — afternoon for shopping, evening for dinner and entertainment.
Why We Keep Coming Back
For us, Disney Springs is the perfect in-between Disney experience. It’s got enough magic to satisfy that Disney craving, but it’s laid-back enough to be relaxing. You can make it a quick stop or a full-day adventure, and no matter how many times we visit, there’s always something new.
The last time we went over the holidays, my parents joined us for an evening out. After watching my parent’s favorite band who plays often near the Marketplace shops, we did a bit of pre-Christmas shopping together. And we found the PERFECT Disney Christmas sweater for Josh to wear on an upcoming Disney Cruise. We all laughed so hard and told Josh that he had to buy it and wear it with pride during the cruise – which of course, he did! . Honestly, it was one of the most fun nights of our trip — and we never even stepped foot in a park.
Ready to plan your own Disney trip? Visit our Disney Vacation page and grab our free Disney vacation planning template. It’s the easiest way to map out your days — and yes, make sure Disney Springs gets its own spot on your itinerary.
