In case you didn’t know, Downtown Disney at Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida is undergoing a major renovation! The new Downtown Disney will be called “Disney Springs”.
The revamped area will replicate turn-of-the-century lakeside towns of Florida. We know that Disney loves to tell stories, so the area will focus around an all new “town center”, with several bubbling springs leading to three other areas called The Landing, Marketplace, and West Side all centering around the story of this “town”. The expansion should be complete in 2016. There will also be two parking structures added, which I am happy to see because quite frankly, the parking lots and traffic can get dicey at certain times of the day.
Once complete, Disney Springs will have more than 150 shopping, dining and entertainment options with an amazing open-air atmosphere. Guests are already enjoying some of the new offerings available, like the vintage merchandise at Marketplace Co-Op and two Starbucks locations.
Of course I love the sports offerings at the new store!
Also, a newly-opened bridge offers a great walkway between Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa and Downtown Disney. The Marketplace boat dock now provides an easy way to get to the West Side area and Pleasure Island.
Don’t worry, Disney is not getting rid of all of the current stores, you can still experience your favorites like the Lego store and the World of Disney store!
There is a lot going on, so Disney recently released a few tips for their guests to help the flow of traffic, and to make your time at Downtown Disney stress free and enjoyable.
1.) Use Complimentary Resort Transportation – Whether it be by resort bus or watercraft, take advantage of this free service if you are staying on property so you don’t have to try to find a parking spot!
2.) Allow Plenty of Travel and Parking Time – If you are headed to Downtown Disney for a meal or something else happening at a certain time, be sure to allow yourself an hour of travel time so you aren’t late!
3.) Use Valet Parking – For a special treat, use Downtown Disney’s valet parking. It is available from 10 a.m.-1 a.m. at the Downtown Disney Marketplace, and from 2:30 p.m.-2 a.m. at the West Side. The cost is $20 per vehicle.
Want to take a trip and see the new renovations at Downtown Disney for yourself? Contact heather@travelwiththemagic.com for a free, no obligation quote. You can also find me on Facebook or Twitter.
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