Hi Bridget,
Great to see you back at planDisney with a fun question about visiting Disney Springs at the Walt Disney World Resort! I love exploring Disney Springs – whether I’m in town on business, as part of a family vacation, or just meeting up with friends when passing through Orlando – so I’m excited to share more about this special destination with you.
Disney Springs is an expansive, outdoor complex on the Walt Disney World Resort property. The current tagline is “happily whatever you’re after” and I think that suits the vibe! It has loads of gorgeous shopping destinations, entertainment, and dining options. There are several large parking garages for bringing your own vehicle or complimentary transportation is available from Disney Resorts Collection hotels via bus or boat. The best part about this magical destination is that it does not require a theme park ticket for entry, and therefore no theme park reservations are required. Think of it as the biggest, best outdoor town center or mall you’ve ever been to and then add a touch of Disney whimsy, service, and style!
By the numbers, Disney Springs offers:
- 99 places to shop and browse for merchandise from top brands
- 68 dining locations, both full-service restaurants and quick service or snack stands
- 19 attractions, shows, and entertainment events, including a large movie theatre
In each category you’ll find offerings from major brands found nationwide, some unique places that are hard to find elsewhere, and some Disney-specific themed locations.
Please see this map of Disney Springs for a sense of the space and exact shops or restaurants currently available.
I often include a visit to Disney Springs on a Walt Disney World theme park vacation for a fun day outside the parks. The setting is stunning, with an immersive backstory of settlers establishing these marketplaces near the beautiful springs. Last week I enjoyed an evening here for a drink at
Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar (themed around our pilot pal from the
Indiana Jones films), a quick-service barbeque dinner at
The Polite Pig, and finally got through the virtual queue for freshly baked ginormous cookies at
Gideon’s Bakehouse! It was a beautiful evening to stroll, people watch, enjoy the lovely water views, and savor some delicious food and drinks.
The vibe at Disney Springs is always relaxed, but energetic! I never seem to have enough time to browse every shop that catches my eye. When I have work trips in the area, I love to swing into Disney Springs for a touch of the magic and some fun experiences with no ticket or reservation required. Please know that many of the wonderful restaurants do take
dining reservations, which can be made up to 60 days in advance on the Walt Disney World Resort website.
I hope this has piqued your interest in a special trip to Disney Springs the next time you’re in town, Bridget! Please let us know how else we can help or share some additional tips to make the most of your visit.
Cheers,
Amy