Overview of Disney Springs

Disney Springs is a vibrant shopping, dining, and entertainment complex located at Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida. Originally known as Downtown Disney, this destination has evolved into a must-visit spot, offering a blend of unique boutiques, world-class dining options, and lively entertainment for guests of all ages. With its picturesque waterfront setting and diverse offerings, Disney Springs provides a perfect break from the theme parks while still immersing visitors in the Disney magic.

Visitors can explore unique stores like World of Disney, the largest Disney merchandise shop, or high-end retailers like Uniqlo and Lululemon. Dining options range from casual favorites like Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’ to fine dining at The BOATHOUSE and Morimoto Asia. Entertainment is plentiful with options like the Cirque du Soleil show Drawn to Life, live music, and activities such as the Amphicar tours or Movie Theater. Seasonal events like the Christmas Tree Stroll add extra magic, making Disney Springs a must-visit for all ages.

Disney Springs offers convenient locations for Disney Guest Services and the Disney Ticket Office, making it easy for visitors to handle any ticketing needs or inquiries during their trip. The Disney Ticket Center, located near the Lime Garage, allows guests to purchase park tickets, upgrade passes, and make modifications to existing reservations. It’s also where you can handle any special event tickets or questions about My Disney Experience. Meanwhile, Disney Guest Services can assist with general information, lost and found, and help with any special accommodations you might need. Both locations provide a hassle-free way to manage your vacation logistics while enjoying all that Disney Springs has to offer.

When to Visit Disney Springs on Your Vacation

The best time to visit Disney Springs largely depends on your vacation itinerary and personal preferences:

Early in Your Trip: Consider visiting Disney Springs at the start of your vacation. It's a great way to ease into the Disney experience, allowing you to acclimate to the environment, do some shopping, and enjoy a meal before diving into the theme parks. I always suggest planning a dinner at Disney Springs if you arrive early on your arrival day. It’s a great way to get out of the resort without feeling overwhelmed, and it’s easy to get there.
Mid-Trip Rest Day: If you have a longer vacation planned, a mid-trip visit to Disney Springs can be a perfect way to rest your feet and enjoy a more relaxed day without the hustle and bustle of the parks. It provides a great opportunity to recharge while still experiencing Disney magic.
Evenings and Nights: Disney Springs comes alive at night with vibrant lights, live music, and entertainment. This is a great time to explore, dine, and take in the atmosphere after spending the day at the parks. Evenings are ideal for those looking to enjoy a lively, festive atmosphere with plenty of dining and shopping options.
Departure Day: If you have a late flight or are looking for something to do before heading to the airport, Disney Springs is a convenient spot to grab a last-minute souvenir, enjoy a final meal, or simply soak in the atmosphere before saying goodbye to Walt Disney World.

What Can You Do at Disney Springs?

Disney Springs offers a variety of activities and experiences for visitors:

Shopping: With over 100 retail stores, Disney Springs is a shopper's paradise. From Disney-themed merchandise at World of Disney to luxury brands like Coach and Pandora, there’s something for everyone. Unique boutiques, such as The Art of Disney and The LEGO Store, provide specialized offerings that can't be found elsewhere.
Dining: Disney Springs is known for its diverse dining options, ranging from quick-service eateries to upscale restaurants. Popular spots include The BOATHOUSE, where you can dine on the water, and Morimoto Asia, offering exquisite pan-Asian cuisine. For a more casual experience, try Earl of Sandwich or Blaze Fast-Fire'd Pizza. Don’t forget to satisfy your sweet tooth at places like Ghirardelli Soda Fountain and Chocolate Shop or Amorette's Patisserie.
Entertainment: Entertainment options abound at Disney Springs. Catch a movie at the AMC Dine-In Theatre, enjoy a live performance at the House of Blues, or take a ride on the Aerophile—a giant tethered helium balloon that offers stunning aerial views of the resort. The open-air stages throughout Disney Springs also host a variety of live music and entertainment acts, adding to the festive atmosphere.
Unique Experiences: Disney Springs offers several unique experiences, such as Splitsville Luxury Lanes, a combination bowling alley and restaurant, and the NBA Experience, where you can immerse yourself in the world of professional basketball. The kids can have fun at the interactive fountains or enjoy building and racing their own LEGO creations at The LEGO Store.

Transportation Options to Disney Springs

Disney Springs is accessible by several transportation options within Walt Disney World Resort:

Disney Resort Buses: Complimentary buses run from all Disney resort hotels to Disney Springs, making it convenient to visit no matter where you’re staying. Buses typically start running around 9 a.m. and continue until about 2 a.m., providing ample time to enjoy everything Disney Springs offers.
Water Transportation: If you are staying at Disney's Port Orleans Resort, Disney’s Old Key West Resort, or Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort, you can take a relaxing boat ride to Disney Springs. The water transportation operates regularly and offers a scenic and peaceful journey.
Walking Paths: Guests staying at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort can easily walk to Disney Springs via a designated walking path. This is a great option for those looking for a quick and convenient way to access Disney Springs without relying on other transportation.
Personal Vehicles and Rideshares: There are ample parking garages (Lime, Orange, and Grapefruit) and surface lots at Disney Springs, offering complimentary self-parking. Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft can also drop guests off at designated locations.

How to Incorporate Disney Springs into Your Disney Vacation

Here are some tips on how to make the most of your visit to Disney Springs during your Disney vacation:

Plan Ahead: Consider making dining reservations in advance, especially for popular restaurants. This will ensure you have a table at your desired time, especially during peak dining hours.
Combine with a Park Visit: If you have a park-hopper ticket, consider starting your day at a theme park and then heading to Disney Springs in the late afternoon or evening for dinner and entertainment.
Use as a Rest Day: Use a day at Disney Springs as a break from the parks. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your resort, head over to Disney Springs for some shopping and lunch, and return to your hotel for a restful evening.
Plan for Departure: If your departure day is flexible, spend a few hours at Disney Springs before heading to the airport. It’s a great way to extend your Disney experience a little longer.
Explore Seasonal Events: Disney Springs hosts various seasonal events throughout the year, such as holiday decorations, food festivals, Dreams that Soar Drone Show and special entertainment. Check the schedule to see if there’s anything special happening during your visit.

Disney Springs offers a diverse array of activities and experiences, making it a perfect addition to any Disney vacation. Whether you’re looking to shop, dine, or enjoy some entertainment, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Things for Kids to do at Disney Springs

Disney Springs offers a variety of fun activities for kids, making it a great spot for family outings. Young adventurers will love exploring the Lego Store, where they can build and race their own creations. T-Rex Café is a hit with its dinosaur-themed decor and interactive experiences. For a sweet treat, kids can create their own candy at Goofy’s Candy Co., and the Carousel is perfect for a classic ride. During the holidays, the Christmas Tree Stroll adds extra festive fun, while live entertainment, like the Moving Piano or the Talking Tree, keeps kids entertained throughout their visit.

Our Family’s Favorite Things to Do at Disney Springs

Disney Springs is a must-visit for us on every Disney trip. It’s filled with fun dining experiences, entertainment, and a variety of activities that our whole family loves. Here’s a look at some of our favorite things to do there:

Favorite Restaurants

The BOATHOUSE: This is our all-time favorite restaurant at Disney Springs. It offers an amazing menu featuring fresh seafood, juicy steaks, and their famous rolls. We love the waterfront views, and if you’re feeling adventurous, you can even take a ride on the Amphicars, vintage cars that drive straight into the water! This has been on our Disney bucket list for a while, and maybe 2025 will finally be the year we take the plunge.
Morimoto Asia: A fine-dining gem created by Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto, this restaurant offers an unforgettable Asian fusion experience. The Peking duck is a must-try, and the sushi is always fresh and expertly prepared. We love the upscale, elegant vibe, making it perfect for a special family dinner.
Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’: Southern comfort food at its finest! We always indulge in the fried chicken and mac & cheese, but you really can’t go wrong with anything on the menu. The atmosphere is cozy and welcoming, and it’s a great spot to enjoy some authentic Florida flavors.
Wine Bar George: This spot is a favorite for adults looking to relax with a glass of wine (or two). The kids love the small plates, and the grown-ups appreciate the impressive wine list curated by Master Sommelier George Miliotes. Their charcuterie boards are perfect for sharing, and the rooftop patio offers a lovely view of Disney Springs.
T-Rex Café: A hit with the kids! It’s a dinosaur-themed restaurant where you can eat surrounded by animatronic prehistoric creatures. Be prepared—the kids will beg for the souvenir cups and dinosaur toys, but the fun atmosphere makes it worth the trip. The menu offers plenty of family-friendly options, from burgers to pasta and beyond.
Salt & Straw at Disney Springs is an artisanal ice cream shop that offers a one-of-a-kind dessert experience. Known for its inventive and unexpected flavor combinations, Salt & Straw often features seasonal creations that use locally sourced ingredients. Some popular choices include flavors like olive oil, honey lavender, or even more adventurous options like roasted strawberry and balsamic vinegar. It’s a must-visit for ice cream lovers who are looking for something outside the ordinary, and it’s a fun treat for the whole family.
Summer House on the Lake, set to open in 2025 at Disney Springs, will bring a breezy, coastal vibe with a menu inspired by California’s fresh and vibrant cuisine. With its focus on light, refreshing meals like seafood, salads, and wood-fired flatbreads, it’s expected to be a perfect spot for a relaxing meal by the water. The restaurant will feature outdoor seating with scenic views of the Disney Springs lakefront, making it an ideal place to unwind with family and friends.

Dreams That Soar: A Disney Drone Show

In the summer of 2024, Disney debuted a spectacular new show called Dreams That Soar at Disney Springs. This drone show featured hundreds of drones lighting up the night sky, creating magical scenes and even some iconic Disney imagery. We’re hoping it becomes a regular summer event, as it was definitely the highlight of our summer visit. Fingers crossed it returns in 2025!

Christmas at Disney Springs

During the holiday season, Disney Springs transforms into a winter wonderland with a variety of festive activities:

Christmas Tree Stroll: One of our favorite holiday traditions! You can take a stroll around Disney Springs and admire beautifully decorated Christmas trees, each one themed after a different Disney movie, character, or park. Pick up a map and enjoy finding each tree—you might even get a small prize at the end!
Meet Santa at Once Upon a Toy: Each year, Santa sets up shop at Once Upon a Toy. Families can join the virtual queue (to avoid long lines) and meet the big guy himself, perfect for capturing those magical holiday memories with the kids.
Holiday Performances: Throughout the winter months, you can catch holiday-themed performances, including carolers, musicians, and festive entertainment in the outdoor areas of Disney Springs.

Mother’s Day at Disney Springs

Mother’s Day is extra special at Disney Springs, where they go all out with themed activities and dining options. Many of the restaurants offer special menus, and there are opportunities for personalized shopping experiences. Treating Mom to a day of pampering, whether it’s with a delicious brunch at Chef Art Smith’s or a custom charm from Pandora, is a great way to celebrate. Some locations even offer Mother’s Day packages, complete with gifts or exclusive services.

Unique Entertainment

The Moving Piano: One of the coolest things you’ll stumble upon while wandering through Disney Springs is the moving piano. It’s not just any piano—it’s played live while rolling around the streets of Disney Springs, delighting guests of all ages with fun, upbeat music. Keep an ear out and be ready to join in the fun when it passes by!
The Talking Tree: A whimsical touch during the holiday season, the Talking Tree is an interactive experience where a festive, animated tree chats with guests. It’s great fun for the kids, who love seeing a tree “come to life” and share some Christmas cheer.

Disney Imagination Campus Performance

I’ve even had the incredible experience of watching my daughter perform at one of the stages at Disney Springs through Disney Imagination Campus, which was an absolute blast! Disney Imagination Campus offers students a chance to showcase their talents in an iconic setting, providing opportunities to perform in front of Disney guests.

Cirque du Soleil: Drawn to Life

Drawn to Life is an incredible Cirque du Soleil show exclusive to Disney Springs, telling the story of a young girl named Julie, whose father was a Disney animator. The performance beautifully merges Cirque’s iconic acrobatics with Disney’s timeless love for animation, taking audiences on a breathtaking journey of creativity and imagination. The show is filled with stunning visuals, jaw-dropping stunts, and emotional storytelling, making it an unforgettable experience for the whole family.

Disney Springs offers something for everyone, from delicious dining to unforgettable entertainment. Whether you’re visiting during the holidays, looking for a Mother’s Day treat, or just enjoying a night out, it’s a great spot to incorporate into your Disney vacation!

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Overview of Disney Springs