Hi Miranda!
Thanks for sending your questions to the Disney Parks Moms Panel! Downtown Disney recently had a name change and is now called
Disney Springs. With the name change came some very exciting new restaurants and shops! I would definitely recommend that you check out a restaurant called Morimoto Asia or The BOATHOUSE restaurant. The BOATHOUSE restaurant offers little boat tours in vintage cars. This is something you must see!
Disney Springs is different from
Disney's Boardwalk, which is located close to Epcot and Disney's Boardwalk Inn. Like Disney Springs, Disney's Boardwalk area has restaurants and a has a few nightlife spots that provide live entertainment. I highly recommend that you check out the links provided and browse through the pictures. If you haven't selected lodging, I would definitely check out Disney's Boardwalk Inn. This resort is one of my favorites!
As for park hours, these seem to be released about 180 days in advance. Here is the link to view the
Park Hours & Calendars. Right now, the calendar is available up to mid July, therefore I recommend you check back at the end of February or early March for September's park hours.
It has been a pleasure assisting you! If I can help you with any other questions, please feel free to send them my way!
Happy Planning!
Yael