Disney Springs: History, Attractions, and Unforgettable Experiences
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History of Disney Springs
Disney Springs, formerly known as Downtown Disney, is a vibrant entertainment, shopping, and dining district located within Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida. Its history dates back to 1975, when it first opened as Lake Buena Vista Shopping Village, a shopping center geared toward local residents and visitors of the resort.
Over the years, this space has undergone several transformations:
1989: Became Disney Village Marketplace, with a greater focus on tourism.
1997: Expanded and renamed Downtown Disney, incorporating areas such as Pleasure Island, which offered nightly entertainment with themed bars and clubs.
2015: Began a major renovation and expansion, renaming itself Disney Springs, with a design inspired by the history of a spring village in Florida.
Today, Disney Springs is one of the most visited destinations at Walt Disney World, offering more than 150 shops, restaurants and experiences for the entire family.
Disney Springs Themes and Environments
Disney Springs is divided into four themed districts, each with its own unique charm and experiences:
1️ The Landing
Inspired by a historic Florida harbor, The Landing is a sophisticated waterfront venue offering fine dining and unforgettable dining experiences.
Highlights:
The BOATHOUSE — A lakeside restaurant and bar, famous for its seafood and amphibious car cruising experience.
Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar — A themed bar inspired by the Indiana Jones pilot.
George Wine Bar — A wine lover’s paradise, with an incredible selection of international labels.
2️ Marketplace
This is the most family-friendly and shopping-oriented area, featuring iconic Disney stores and interactive experiences.
Highlights:
✔️ World of Disney The world’s largest Disney store, featuring apparel, toys, and collectibles from every franchise.
✔️ LEGO Store A store with giant LEGO sculptures and children’s play areas.
✔️ Once Upon a Toy Disney-themed toys and souvenirs.
✔️ Rainforest Café A jungle-themed restaurant with special effects.
✔️ Goofy’s Candy Company Custom candy and treats featuring Disney characters.
3️ Town Center
The commercial heart of Disney Springs, featuring luxury brands, exclusive shops, and elegant architecture inspired by early 20th-century Florida.
Highlights:
✔️ ZARA, UNIQLO, and Coach – High-quality fashion stores.
✔️ Coca-Cola Store – Coca-Cola souvenir shop with a panoramic terrace and beverages from around the world.
✔️ The Polite Pig – Barbecue restaurant with flavors of the American South.
✔️ Chicken Guy! – Guy Fieri’s restaurant with the best chicken tenders and sauces.
4️ West Side
Entertainment area with live shows, a movie theater, bowling, and interactive experiences.
Highlights:
✔️ Cirque du Soleil – Drawn to Life An exclusive Cirque du Soleil show inspired by Disney animation.
✔️ AMC Dine-In Theatres Luxury theater where you can enjoy a movie with food and drinks.
✔️ Splitsville Luxury Lanes Luxury bowling alley with a restaurant and bar.
✔️ House of Blues Live music concerts with a great selection of Southern food.
The Best Restaurants at Disney Springs
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Disney Springs is a foodie paradise, with more than 60 dining options, from fast food to gourmet experiences.
Fine Dining Restaurants
✅ STK Orlando – Steakhouse with a modern atmosphere and a live DJ.
✅ Morimoto Asia – Asian fusion restaurant helmed by Chef Masaharu Morimoto of “Iron Chef.”
✅ Paddlefish – A floating restaurant specializing in seafood and fresh lobster.
✅ The Edison – An industrial-era-themed bar with live entertainment.
✅ Enzo’s Hideaway – A speakeasy with signature Italian dishes.
Fast and Casual Food
✅ Earl of Sandwich – Legendary sandwiches with fresh ingredients.
✅ D-Luxe Burger – Gourmet burgers with homemade sauces.
✅ Blaze Pizza – Custom pizzas baked in minutes.
✅ Guy Fieri’s Chicken Guy! – Fried chicken with over 20 sauces to choose from.
Desserts and Snacks
✅ Gideon’s Bakehouse – Giant cookies and irresistible cakes.
✅ Amorette’s Patisserie – Artisan pastries inspired by Disney.
✅ Salt & Straw – Handcrafted ice creams with unique flavors.
✅ Everglazed Donuts & Cold Brew – Extravagant donuts with delicious combinations.
Entertainment and Nightlife at Disney Springs
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Disney Springs is the best place to enjoy a night at Disney World, with live music, exclusive bars, and shows for the whole family.
✅ Cirque du Soleil – Drawn to Life – A masterpiece that combines the magic of animation with the art of the circus.
✅ House of Blues – Live music with renowned artists and an incredible Southern menu.
✅ The Edison – Themed nights with cabaret shows and handcrafted cocktails.
✅ The BOATHOUSE Amphicar Tours – Rides in cars that turn into boats, a unique experience!
The Best Shops at Disney Springs
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If you love shopping, Disney Springs has options for every taste, from clothing and accessories to Disney collectibles.
✅ World of Disney – The largest Disney store in the world.
✅ DisneyStyle – Fashion and clothing inspired by Disney characters.
✅ Star Wars Galactic Outpost – Shop featuring Star Wars collectibles.
✅ Sephora – High-end perfumes and makeup.
✅ Superdry, Oakley, Tommy Bahama, Lacoste – Premium fashion brands.
Tips for Enjoying Disney Springs
✔️ Free admission – You don’t need a ticket to enter, just enjoy!
✔️ Free parking – There are several free parking lots available.
✔️ Ideal for a day off – Perfect if you’re looking for a day away from the theme parks.
✔️ Make reservations at popular restaurants – Use the Disney app to book in advance.
✔️ Visit at night – The nighttime atmosphere is magical, with lights, music, and live shows.
Disney Springs: An Experience You Can't Miss
Disney Springs is much more than a shopping center; it’s an immersive experience where the magic of Disney blends with world-class entertainment, dining, and shopping. Whether you want to discover exquisite flavors, purchase exclusive merchandise, or enjoy an unforgettable show, this destination has something for everyone.
Discover Disney Springs and experience a unique experience at Walt Disney World!