Disney Springs Guide Map
Disney Springs, formerly known as Downtown Disney, is a premier entertainment and shopping destination located in the heart of Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida. With its beautifully designed streets, waterfront views, and world-class entertainment, it’s no wonder that Disney Springs is a top choice for travelers from all over the world. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will take you on a journey through the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports that Disney Springs has to offer.
Top Attractions
Disney Springs is home to a wide variety of top-rated attractions that cater to all ages and interests. If you’re a fan of Disney movies, you won’t want to miss out on the World of Disney store, which is the largest Disney merchandise store in the world. If you’re looking for a thrill, head over to the Aerophile balloon ride, where you can take in stunning views of Walt Disney World Resort from 400 feet in the air. For an interactive experience, check out The VOID, where you can immerse yourself in virtual reality adventures ranging from Star Wars to Wreck-It Ralph.
Hidden Gems
While Disney Springs has plenty of well-known attractions, there are also some hidden gems that are worth discovering. For example, the Art of Disney store features unique artwork and collectibles from Disney animators and artists. The Coca-Cola Store Rooftop Beverage Bar offers a refreshing respite from the Florida heat, with a variety of Coke-inspired drinks and a stunning view of the waterfront. For a quiet moment of reflection, head over to the beautiful St. George Chapel, which is open to visitors of all faiths.
Food Scene
Disney Springs is a food lover’s paradise, with over 60 dining options ranging from quick bites to fine dining. Some of the must-try restaurants include Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’, which serves up classic southern cuisine with a modern twist, and the Boathouse, which offers fresh seafood and waterfront views. For dessert, be sure to stop by Amorette’s Patisserie for their famous Mickey Mouse-shaped macarons.
Budget-Friendly Tips
While Disney Springs offers plenty of high-end shopping and dining options, there are also ways to experience the area on a budget. Many of the entertainment options, such as live music and street performances, are free of charge. You can also take advantage of happy hour specials at some of the bars and restaurants, or grab a quick bite at one of the food trucks located throughout the area.
Outdoor Adventures
For those who love the great outdoors, Disney Springs has plenty of options to explore. Take a scenic boat ride on Lake Buena Vista, or rent a bike and explore the nearby trails. If you’re feeling adventurous, try your hand at wakeboarding at the Orlando Watersports Complex, which is located just a few miles away.
Historical Landmarks
Disney Springs has a rich history that dates back to the 1970s, when it was first developed as the Lake Buena Vista Shopping Village. Today, you can still see some of the original landmarks, such as the iconic water tower and the Carousel of Progress, which was originally located in Disneyland before being moved to Walt Disney World Resort in 1975.
Family-Friendly Activities
Disney Springs is the perfect destination for families, with plenty of activities that cater to all ages. Take a ride on the vintage Amphicar, which can be driven on land and in water, or visit the LEGO store to build your own creations. The Disney Springs Marketplace also offers a variety of interactive experiences, such as the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique, where kids can transform into their favorite Disney characters.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
While Disney Springs is a popular tourist destination, there are also some off-the-beaten-path experiences that are worth seeking out. For example, the Art in August event showcases the work of local artists, while the Springs Overlook area offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the main area.
Natural Wonders
While Florida is known for its beaches and theme parks, there are also some natural wonders to explore in the area surrounding Disney Springs. Take a day trip to Wekiwa Springs State Park, where you can hike, swim, and kayak in a beautiful natural setting. You can also visit the nearby Gatorland, which is home to over 2,000 alligators and crocodiles.
Vibrant Nightlife
Disney Springs comes alive at night, with a variety of bars and clubs that offer live music and entertainment. The House of Blues hosts concerts ranging from rock to blues, while the Raglan Road Irish Pub offers traditional Irish music and dancing. For a more laid-back vibe, head over to the Wine Bar George, which has an extensive wine list and a relaxing atmosphere.
Local Markets
For a taste of local flavor, be sure to check out the various markets located throughout Disney Springs. The Farmers Market offers fresh produce and artisanal goods, while the Artisanal Pop-Up Shop showcases the work of local craftsmen. The Disney Springs Marketplace Co-Op also features a variety of unique and handmade items.
Beaches and Mountains
While Disney Springs is located in the heart of Florida, you can still experience the beauty of the beach and the mountains nearby. Take a short drive to Cocoa Beach, where you can swim, surf, and soak up the sun. Or head inland to Mount Dora, a charming town located in the rolling hills of central Florida.
Cultural Immersion
Disney Springs is a melting pot of cultures, with a variety of international cuisine and experiences to explore. Visit the Morimoto Asia restaurant for a taste of Japanese cuisine, or check out the Havanah Cigar Company for a taste of Cuba. You can also attend cultural events such as the Chinese New Year Celebration or the Latin-inspired Flavors of Florida event.
Art and Music Scene
Disney Springs is home to a thriving art and music scene, with a variety of galleries and performance spaces to explore. The Art Gallery at Disney Springs features a rotating collection of artwork from Disney animators and artists, while the House of Blues hosts a variety of live music performances. You can also check out the Cirque du Soleil show, which features stunning acrobatics and music.
Walking Tours
One of the best ways to explore Disney Springs is on foot, with a variety of walking tours available. The Disney Springs Historical Tour takes you on a journey through the area’s rich history, while the Wine Walk offers a self-guided tour of the various wine bars located throughout Disney Springs. You can also take a culinary tour, which includes tastings at some of the top restaurants in the area.
Architectural Marvels
Disney Springs is known for its stunning architecture, with a variety of buildings and structures that are worth admiring. The Coca-Cola Store features a beautiful glass chandelier made from recycled Coke bottles, while the Town Center area is home to a variety of modern and sleek buildings. The Paddlefish restaurant is housed in a former riverboat, while the Edison restaurant is located in a former power plant.
Historical Sites
In addition to its rich history, Disney Springs is also home to a variety of historical sites that are worth visiting. The Disney Springs Railroad is a replica of a steam-powered train that was used to transport goods in the late 1800s. The Springs Bottling Company building is a former bottling plant that now houses the Coca-Cola Store. And the World of Disney store is located in a former grocery store that dates back to the 1940s.
Biking Routes
If you’re a fan of cycling, Disney Springs has plenty of biking routes to explore. The West Orange Trail is a 22-mile trail that takes you through the scenic countryside of central Florida, while the Little Econ Greenway Trail is a 7-mile trail that winds through the beautiful Econlockhatchee River. You can also rent a bike and explore the various paths and trails located throughout Walt Disney World Resort.
Wellness Retreats
For those who are looking for a wellness retreat, Disney Springs has plenty of options to choose from. The Senses Spa at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort offers a variety of treatments, including massages, facials, and body wraps. You can also take a yoga class at the nearby Full Circle Yoga studio, or enjoy a relaxing float at the Orlando Float & Massage spa.
Adventure Sports
For adrenaline junkies, Disney Springs has plenty of adventure sports to choose from. You can take a ride on the Aerophile balloon ride, which offers stunning views of the surrounding area from 400 feet in the air. You can also try your hand at wakeboarding at the Orlando Watersports Complex, or take a high-speed ride on the popular Characters in Flight