Best Things to Do at Disney Springs: Shopping, Dining & Entertainment You Can’t Miss
If you think Disney Springs is just a shopping center beside Walt Disney World, let me lovingly stop you right there. As a Florida resident and frequent Disney visitor, I can honestly say Disney Springs has become one of my favorite places to spend an afternoon or evening — even without stepping foot inside a theme park.
Formerly known as Downtown Disney (I miss those days), Disney Springs has evolved into a vibrant open-air dining, shopping, and entertainment district packed with incredible restaurants, live music, specialty shops, desserts worth waiting in line for, and enough Disney magic to make it feel like an attraction all on its own.
And the best part? Admission and parking are completely free.
Whether you’re taking a park break, arriving on a non-park day, or simply looking for a fun Orlando night out, here are the best things to do at Disney Springs.
Shop at World of Disney
Let’s start with the crown jewel of Disney Springs shopping: World of Disney.
This massive store is basically the holy grail of Disney merchandise and the largest Disney character shop on Earth. If there’s a Disney souvenir, spirit jersey, Loungefly backpack, mug, ear headband, or seasonal item you’ve been hunting for, chances are you’ll find it here.
Honestly, I could spend an embarrassing amount of time browsing inside.
And if you’re into trendy Disney merch and unique collectibles, don’t skip the Marketplace Co-Op nearby, which always has fun limited-edition finds and more boutique-style Disney items.
Eat Your Way Around Disney Springs
One of the biggest reasons people visit Disney Springs? The food.
The dining scene here rivals many major cities, with more than 70 restaurants, snack stops, lounges, and bars spread throughout the property. You’ll find everything from celebrity-chef restaurants (think Chef Art Smith, José Andrés, Chef Morimoto, and Wolfgang Puck) and gourmet desserts to barbecue, burgers, Mexican, Irish pub fare, and quick-service favorites.
A few of my favorites include:
- The Polite Pig for incredible barbecue and unforgettable side dishes
- Chicken Guy! for loaded sandwiches, crispy tenders, and lip-smacking good dipping sauces
- Wine Bar George for frozé and elevated small plates
- Raglan Road Irish Pub for authentic Irish food (homemade brown soda bread), live music, and world-class Irish dancers
- The Boathouse for waterfront dining and those famous Amphicar tours (more below)
And here’s my biggest tip: if you want a sit-down meal at Disney Springs, make reservations ahead of time because the popular restaurants book up fast.
Treat Yourself to Disney Springs Desserts
Disney Springs might honestly be dessert heaven.
People willingly line up for hours at Gideon’s Bakehouse for their legendary half-pound cookies — and honestly, they’re worth the hype. Rich, gooey, oversized, and absolutely indulgent, these cookies are basically a Disney Springs rite of passage at this point.
Meanwhile, Amorette’s Patisserie creates some of the prettiest desserts I’ve ever seen at Disney property. The cakes, pastries, and petite sweets are almost too beautiful to eat.
Almost.
And if you’re an ice cream lover like I am, you absolutely cannot skip Salt & Straw. I’m not exaggerating when I say this may be the best ice cream at Walt Disney World, but Ghirardelli is always a tasty choice, too.
Explore the Four Disney Springs Neighborhoods
Disney Springs is divided into four unique neighborhoods:
- Marketplace
- The Landing
- Town Center
- West Side
Each area has its own personality and attractions, which makes the entire complex feel much larger and more immersive than a traditional shopping district.
Marketplace is especially family-friendly and home to favorites like the LEGO Store, Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique, and Rainforest Cafe.
West Side leans heavily into entertainment with attractions like Splitsville Luxury Lanes, AMC Dine-In Disney Springs 24, and the legendary House of Blues Orlando.
Take an Amphicar Ride at The Boathouse
One of the coolest experiences at Disney Springs is riding inside a vintage Amphicar at The Boathouse.
Yes, these restored classic cars literally drive directly into the water and become boats.
It’s quirky, fun, and one of those “only at Disney” experiences people remember forever.
Sip Sodas from Around the World
Head upstairs at the Coca-Cola Store Rooftop Beverage Bar for rooftop views and international soda flights featuring Coca-Cola products from around the globe.
Some are delicious. Some are… an acquired taste. But honestly, it’s a fun experience and a nice break from the crowds. Photo ops are epic but for some reason I cannot put my finger on any of the shots I have taken in the past.
Bowl at Splitsville Luxury Lanes
Splitsville Luxury Lanes has been one of Disney Springs’ most popular entertainment spots for years, and honestly, it’s way more fun than your average bowling alley.
You’ll find upscale food, sushi, cocktails, live sports, and a lively atmosphere that works equally well for families, date nights, or groups of friends.
Enjoy the Live Entertainment
One thing I love most about Disney Springs is the atmosphere.
There’s almost always live music somewhere — from acoustic guitar performances and jazz musicians to Irish bands and dance performances. At night especially, the entire area comes alive with energy.
It feels festive without requiring a park ticket.
Shop Beyond Disney Merchandise
While Disney shopping gets most of the attention, Disney Springs also has plenty of non-Disney stores worth exploring.
I love browsing:
- Basin for bath products and skincare
- Jo Malone London for perfume and candles
- Trendy fashion boutiques throughout Town Center
- Specialty gift shops and art stores
There’s honestly enough shopping here to fill an entire day.
Helpful Disney Springs Tips
A few things that make Disney Springs even better:
- Parking is completely free in the Orange and Lime garages
- Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the property
- Disney transportation connects Disney Springs to Disney Resort hotels
- It’s fully walkable and stroller-friendly
- Evening visits are especially pretty, thanks to the lights and live music
Final Thoughts on Disney Springs
Disney Springs has become so much more than a shopping district. Between the incredible food, unique entertainment, live music, desserts, Disney magic, and relaxed atmosphere, it’s honestly one of the best places to spend time at Walt Disney World — even if you never step inside a park.
As someone who visits Disney frequently with my Florida Annual Pass, I stop by Disney Springs often for meals, shopping, desserts, and to enjoy the vibe. You’ll want to experience it, too.
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