Check Out Disney Springs or Family Fun, Food and Shopping!

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After a day of workshops and presentations at the Florida Governor’s Conference, helping the different Florida communities to boost their presence in the tourism marketplace, we were ready to head over to Disney Springs for an evening under the stars. Disney Springs is an epic property located in Orlando, Florida.

Disney Springs originally opened as Downtown Disney and was opened in 1975! Later Disney changed the name to Disney Springs. Disney Springs is located near Disney World and several of their hotels. There are several entertainment venues, restaurants and retail stores.

Entrance to Disney Springs, Orlando, Florida
Disney Springs

We decided to call an Uber to get there. The Uber ran about $25 from downtown Orlando. Driving in Orlando is not for the faint of heart and it was my birthday so I wanted to have a cocktail!

Parking

Self-parking is complimentary in their surface lots and garages. Look for signs directing you to available parking.

Valet parking is available in the following 3 areas:

  • Near the entrance to the Orange Garage from 10:00 AM to 2:00 AM
  • On West Side in front of Cirque du Soleil from 4:00 PM to 2:00 AM
  • In the Lemon Lot near the World of Disney shop from 10:00 AM to 2:00 AM

The cost of valet parking is $20 and will be collected at the time of pick-up. Gratuity is not included.

Designated parking spaces for Guests with disabilities are available in both the Orange and Lime Garages. A valid disability parking permit is required. Wheelchair, ECV and stroller rentals are available at the nearby Sundries location next to the Town Center bus loop.

If you’re staying with them and prefer not to drive, complimentary transportation is available between Disney Resort hotels and Disney Springs.

What Does Disney Springs Offer?

We headed up the walkway, following behind families with stroller and couples on dates, I see this is a massive outdoor shopping mall with restaurants, movie theaters, entertainment on every corner and bars. We notice a line wrapped around the corner. The House of Blues had a concert and everyone was waiting to get in.

From intimate boutiques to stunning flagship locations, Disney Springs is home to over 150 offerings ranging from Disney-themed shops to noteworthy brands. While you’re here, be sure you visit the expanded World of Disney store, the largest Disney character store globally.

There’s so much to see and do at Disney Springs! Stores are brimming with merchandise ranging from fashion apparel and jewelry to collectibles and artwork. Stop for a snack and coffee or cold drink, listen to talented musical performers, or enjoy a gourmet meal at one of the many fine dining restaurants. And cap off your visit with a first-run movie or an exhilarating round of bowling.

Cirque De Soleil at Disney Springs
Cirque Du Soleil @ Disney Springs

Dining

Dining Reservations are available online. All Guests may now make dining reservations online up to 60 days in advance. Learn about updates to dining during the phased reopening of Walt Disney World Resort.

We decided to stop and have a drink with our new friend. Jamie was planning on taking me out to dinner for my birthday and we were a little early for our reservation.

Stargazer’s Bar had seats available and entertainment. We split a Margarita while we got to know the Boston Globe employee, Jeff. Meanwhile, this lovely couple was walking by and gave me a beautiful shot of the bride! Approximately 5,000 people get married each year at a Disney property.

Newlyweds at Disney Springs
Newlyweds Disney Springs Bride
Stargazers Entertainment Disney Springs

Jamie and I split up from Jeff, who was going to stay at Stargazer’s and head to Enzo’s Hideaway for dinner. We really had a hard time finding it! We walk down to a cave-like atmosphere. It was an Italian restaurant with all kinds of art and graffiti painted directly on the walls.

A Rum Runner Tunnel?

Here are some inside shots of Enzo’s that some locals referred us to as one as the best restaurants in Disney Springs. It is cleverly themed as a Jazz-era speakeasy, but Enzo’s Hideaway is actually located in a former access tunnel for Downtown Disney. Italian fare includes Eggplant Parmesan, Roasted Chicken Saltimbocca, and Nonna’s Pasta for Two, which mixes penne, braised short ribs, sausage, and meatballs in tomato sauce with Béchamel. They also offer wings, fresh fish, wings and beautiful salads. The cocktails are delightful, and you’ll want to save room for the specialty sundaes.

Patrons at Enzo’s Hideaway
Enzos Hideaway at Disney Springs
Prohibition Bar at Enzo’s Disney Springs

Another notable restaurant is Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’ from Florida native, Chef Art Smith serves homestyle Florida dishes at his restaurant including Church Lady Deviled Eggs, Shrimp & Grits, and probably the region’s best fried chicken. There is quite a bit of southern comfort food on the menu, but there are healthy options including salads, and grilled proteins. They offer moonshine selections as well. For dessert, there is a decadent Shine Cake that soaks a butter cake in moonshine syrup.

There are too many restaurants to list at Disney Springs. Here a a few of the top ones that offer full service and are recommended by locals.

  • Jaleo by Jose Andres – Spanish
  • Morimoto Asia – Asian Fusion
  • Raglan Road – Irish

After dinner, we continued to walk around and take in the sights and sounds of Disney. There were families and couples enjoying the warm Florida evening.

Enjoy the photos!

Entertainment at Disney Springs
Entertainment Disney Springs
Hot Air Balloon at Disney Springs
Helium Balloon Disney Springs
Disney Springs
Entertainment at Disney Springs
Entertainment @ Disney Springs
House of Blues Disney Springs
House of Blues @ Disney Springs

Of course, Disney Springs did not disappoint! We saw couples and families with multiple generations walking the streets. There is something for everyone here!

Disney Springs provides dining, shopping and entertainment for all walks of life. They even have an AMC Movie Theater, bowling alley and Helium Balloon, Aerophile, that goes 400 feet up in the air! Don’t worry, it is tethered. You are not going far!

There is free parking or valet parking for a nominal fee of $20.00. Disney guests can also arrive by water from certain properties!

If you are staying at a Disney Resort hotel, they encourage you to use their complimentary bus and water transportation to Disney Springs. From Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa, a pedestrian bridge lets you walk directly to Disney Springs Marketplace.

Bus transportation links Walt Disney World Resort Hotels to a stop at Disney Springs Town Center. These hotels offer water transportation to each of the Disney Springs neighborhoods:

Learn more about transportation and parking at Walt Disney World Resort.

Here is a link to the FAQ for Disney Springs

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78 responses to “Check Out Disney Springs or Family Fun, Food and Shopping!”

  1. Angela Greven | Mean Green Chef Avatar
    Angela Greven | Mean Green Chef

    What fun! I had no clue that 5k people a year get married in Disney, wow! Would love to try Enzo’s and will certainly give it a try when we get back up that way! Great photos I love seeing people having fun and enjoying life, thanks so much for sharing 🤗

    1. Tricia Snow Avatar

      Oh yes, not only do they get married but also ashes are spread there. It is crazy how people make Disney such a big part of their lives.

  2. Missy Avatar

    I like that Disney guests can also arrive by water. That would be fun.

  3. Lara Avatar

    So many things to do and see. What a great adventure!

  4. Tiffany Avatar

    Never spent much time in this area of Disney – looks a bit more upbeat than expected!

    1. Tricia Snow Avatar

      Very upbeat and fun!

  5. Clara Avatar
    Clara

    I’ll be honest, I had never heard of Disney springs so I’m glad I now know about it! Thank you for sharing.

  6. Cindy Avatar

    This looks like a fun place with a festive atmosphere! Thanks for sharingg

  7. Sandi Avatar
    Sandi

    Great photos, I love hanging out in Disney Springs

    1. Tricia Snow Avatar

      I will definitely be heading back!

  8. Amanda Avatar

    I had no idea that Disney Springs opened in 1975, before I was born! I feel a little cheated now haha I only found it about 5 years ago! Thanks for sharing all the great photos.

    1. Tricia Snow Avatar

      I had no idea either! Thank you!

  9. life beyond zebra Avatar
    life beyond zebra

    I have never heard of this and now i must go

    1. Tricia Snow Avatar

      Lol let me know how you like it!

  10. Julie Avatar

    Disney Springs is our go to when people come to town, but don’t want to visit the parks!!

    1. Tricia Snow Avatar

      It is perfect for that!

  11. Hera Avatar

    Love Cirque du Soleil, seen it twice and I don’t think have actually seen the whole show the stage is so busy.

  12. Heather Avatar

    I’m glad “Downtown Disney” is getting back to it’s entertainment routes and it’s more than just a shopping place. When I was in my early twenties I went to Pleasure Island with a friend and had a blast.

    1. Tricia Snow Avatar

      Pleasure Island!!! I remember that place from the 80’s!! WOW!

  13. Janine Avatar
    Janine

    I love the environment of the Roman restaurant! The whole thing looks like lots of fun.

    1. Tricia Snow Avatar

      It was pretty cool! Hard to find!

  14. Lori Nielsen Avatar

    I have never been to Disney Springs, as we spend every waking moment in the parks. But this looks like it would be a fun addition to an Orlando vacation!

    1. Tricia Snow Avatar

      We only went with my parents. My kids wanted to be in the parks too!

  15. Erin Avatar

    This is an awesome find! While I’m not going to the area anytime soon, I’m glad I know this here. So much fun stuff to do!

  16. Kim Avatar
    Kim

    How fun! I would go just to visit that Prohibition bar!

  17. Shirley Avatar

    Way to ride share with the other Uber guy!! Love it!

    1. Tricia Snow Avatar

      Lol yeah, he was pretty cool!

  18. Jennifer Avatar

    This looks like such a fun event! I love events that have many different aspects and so much to see and do!

  19. Sharon Avatar

    My family loves going to Disney Springs! So much fun entertainment and shopping. You did a wonderful job describing some places I now want to check out Enzo’s Hideaway… you’re making me thirsty! 😜

    1. Tricia Snow Avatar

      There is so much to do and see there I think it would literally take a year to try it all!

  20. Meagan Avatar

    I want to go there so badly! It looks like so much fun!

    1. Tricia Snow Avatar

      Can’t wait for you to check it out!

  21. Michele Vadnais Avatar

    I’ve never even heard of Disney Springs, but it looks like a great place to visit! Sometimes you just need something different from the main parks!

    1. Tricia Snow Avatar

      It is a great place to get a break!

  22. Paloma Cotton Avatar
    Paloma Cotton

    I really want to visit Florida one day. When I do, I would love to check out Disney Springs! There is so much to enjoy!

  23. jen Avatar

    Disney posts are Always great!

  24. Brittany Avatar
    Brittany

    We love Disney and can’t wait to get ack next year with our kids! Disney Springs has majorly changed since my husband and myself were there 5 years ago! Can’t wait to see it!

    1. Tricia Snow Avatar

      So much I did not even know I had been there before!! Thank you!

  25. kmf Avatar

    Great pics and tips for families heading to Disney!

  26. Karla Avatar

    This looks like so much fun. I’m over 50, but still raising young children, so my bedtime often matches theirs. Some day I will get some grown up fun. 😉

    1. Tricia Snow Avatar

      Lot’s of families were there! There is even a bowling alley!

  27. Leigh Ann Avatar

    This looks like an amazing trip. So good to get away!

  28. Christella Avatar

    I love Disney Springs! I try to take my kids at least once a year. It looks like you enjoyed it!

    1. Tricia Snow Avatar

      We had a great time, thank you!

  29. Lina Avatar
    Lina

    I can’t believe I have not heard of Disney Springs as well! We have been out to Orlando a few times and was not aware. May need to make another trip out there 🙂

    1. Tricia Snow Avatar

      The town that has everything!

  30. Carolina Frederick Avatar

    We were there a few months back. I really loved it there and there is so many things to do and great places to shop. We were there for hours but I feel like we didn’t get to see it all. Next time I will schedule a whole day to spend there. Great pics!

    1. Tricia Snow Avatar

      I think you could definitely spend a lot of time there!

  31. Caitlin Avatar
    Caitlin

    How awesome, never been to this area of Disney before. Will have to check it out!

    1. Tricia Snow Avatar

      Let me know how you like it!

  32. Hollysbirdnest Avatar

    What a great place to spend an evening of fun entertainment for the whole family! Great post! Thank you for sharing!

  33. Pauline Avatar
    Pauline

    Every time I read your posts, it makes me want to go to the east coast. This looks so much fun!

    1. Tricia Snow Avatar

      Awesome! You need to do it!

  34. Heather Avatar

    Disney Springs is one of my favorite places to go while at WDW. There are so many great restaurants and shops. A couple of weeks ago we tried STK Steakhouse. It was excellent. My family and I have done the balloon ride. That was fun, but a bit terrifying. Brunch at Homecoming is fantastic. I am drooling thinking about the rolls.
    I look forward to my next visit in June.

    1. Tricia Snow Avatar

      Nice! I would love to try that steakhouse!

  35. Shannon Delaney Avatar

    I just love everything Disney! Thanks for sharing.

  36. Kristi @ Way Beyond The Norm Avatar

    We love Disney Springs. Well, we love everything Disney. 10 more days and we’ll be there again!

    1. Tricia Snow Avatar

      Wow! I can’t wait to hear about it!

  37. Ramae Avatar

    I love the photo of the newlyweds with the Mickey Mouse hats! What a fun place to get married. It looks like a fun place to be no matter the occasion!

    1. Tricia Snow Avatar

      So many people get married there! I loved them too!

  38. Lisa Avatar
    Lisa

    That sounds like a fabulous time! LOve Uber!

  39. Anna Avatar

    Disney Springs! Have not been there yet, but it is one of my top places to go. Thank you for sharing your experience! Looks like a great place for any generation.

    1. Tricia Snow Avatar

      Absolutely! Let me know how you like it!

  40. T.M. Brown Avatar

    We LOVE, LOVE, LOVE to head over to Disney Springs and just spend hours upon hours there. Whether we’re going to watch a movie, watch some entertainment, shop or enjoy a delicious dinner ~ there is always something amazing to do there. So glad you had the opportunity to enjoy this part of Walt Disney World!!!!

    1. Tricia Snow Avatar

      I can not believe in all the years of going to Disney, I had no idea this was here!

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