Disney Springs News and Attractions
Last Updated on: December 18th, 2024
Disney Springs, a bustling hub of entertainment, dining, and shopping at Walt Disney World Resort in Florida, has a rich history that mirrors the evolution of contemporary retail and leisure spaces. Originally opened as Lake Buena Vista Shopping Village in 1975, it has undergone various transformations, reflecting the changing tastes and trends over the years. This article delves into the history of Disney Springs, spotlighting the various shops and restaurants that have come and gone, shaping its unique character.
A Brief History of Disney Springs
Lake Buena Vista Shopping Village
The story of Disney Springs begins with Lake Buena Vista Shopping Village, its initial incarnation aimed at serving the residents of the newly constructed Disney World Resort. Designed as a quaint shopping area, it featured a mix of unique shops and eateries. Notable establishments like the Pottery Chalet, the Candle Shop, and Heidelberg’s Deli offered guests a variety of shopping and dining options. The Village was known for its serene ambiance, with cobblestone walkways and a small stream running through it, encapsulating the idyllic charm of a lakeside village.
Downtown Disney
In 1989, the area was rebranded as Downtown Disney, signaling a shift towards a more entertainment-focused destination. This era saw the introduction of iconic venues such as Pleasure Island, a nightlife zone with clubs and themed entertainment, and the Marketplace, which expanded the retail offerings. Pleasure Island became famous for its New Year’s Eve party every night, featuring fireworks and live music. The 1990s also witnessed the arrival of the World of Disney store, the largest Disney merchandise store globally, and the LEGO Imagination Center, which became a hit with families.
Evolution to Disney Springs
The transformation into Disney Springs began in 2013, marking the most significant overhaul in the area’s history. This change aimed to double the number of shops, restaurants, and other venues, focusing on creating a diverse and upscale environment. The new Disney Springs drew inspiration from Florida’s waterfront towns, featuring four distinct neighborhoods: The Landing, Marketplace, West Side, and Town Center. High-end brands like Zara, UNIQLO, and Sephora established their presence, alongside gourmet dining options such as Morimoto Asia and The BOATHOUSE. The introduction of the Springs, a man-made body of water, added to the area’s scenic beauty.
Image courtesy Walt Disney World News
Shops and Restaurants Through the Years
Over the years, Disney Springs has been home to a dynamic range of shops and restaurants. Classic establishments like the Ghirardelli Soda Fountain and Chocolate Shop have delighted guests for years, while others like the Adventurers Club, a beloved nightclub with a cult following, have been replaced by modern offerings. Rainforest Cafe, T-REX, and Planet Hollywood have remained popular dining spots, showcasing the area’s ability to blend dining with thematic entertainment.
In retail, the shift has been towards a mix of Disney-themed stores and high-end brands. The Marketplace Co-Op, for instance, offers a rotating lineup of unique Disney-themed products, showcasing the innovative spirit of Disney Springs. The Art of Disney store remains a staple, offering exclusive Disney artwork and collectibles.
Today, Disney Springs stands as a testament to Disney’s ability to evolve and adapt to changing consumer preferences while maintaining the magic and allure that is synonymous with the brand. From its humble beginnings as Lake Buena Vista Shopping Village to the sprawling and vibrant Disney Springs, the area has continually reinvented itself, always striving to offer guests a unique and memorable experience. The shops and restaurants that have come and gone over the years each played a part in shaping the identity of this beloved destination, making it a must-visit for anyone traveling to Walt Disney World Resort.
Disney Springs Address:
1486 Buena Vista Dr, Lake Buena Vista, Florida 32830
Disney Springs Articles, Features and Directory Items:
Here is your complete guide to Walt Disney World’s Disney Springs including attractions, restaurants, shows and rides past, present and future. As always, new pieces are added to this collection regularly.
Current Restaurants
4 Rivers Cantina Barbacoa Food Truck | Disney World
Here is everything you need to know about the amazing 4 Rivers Cantina Barbacoa Food Truck at Walt Disney World’s Disney Springs including history, reviews, fun facts, photos and more. I hope you find this listing informative and helpful!
Amc – Macguffins | Disney World
Here is everything you need to know about the amazing Amc – Macguffins restaurant at Walt Disney World’s Disney Springs including history, reviews, fun facts, photos and more. I hope you find this listing informative and helpful!
Amc Disney Springs 24 Dine-In Theatres | Disney World
Here is everything you need to know about the amazing Amc Disney Springs 24 Dine-In Theatres at Walt Disney World’s Disney Springs including history, reviews, fun facts, photos and more. I hope you find this listing informative and helpful!
Amorette’s Patisserie | Disney World
Here is everything you need to know about the amazing Amorette’s Patisserie restaurant at Walt Disney World’s Disney Springs including history, reviews, fun facts, photos and more. I hope you find this listing informative and helpful!
Aristocrepes | Disney World
Here is everything you need to know about the amazing Aristocrepes restaurant at Walt Disney World’s Disney Springs including history, reviews, fun facts, photos and more. I hope you find this listing informative and helpful!
B.B. Wolf’s Sausage Co. | Disney World
Here is everything you need to know about the amazing B.B. Wolf’s Sausage Co. restaurant at Walt Disney World’s Disney Springs including history, reviews, fun facts, photos and more. I hope you find this listing informative and helpful!
Beatrix | Disney World
Please note: Beatrix was a coffeehouse planned for Walt Disney World’s Disney Springs before the pandemic. Since the reopening of Disney World in 2020, the project was put on hold and in June 2022, we got word that Beatrix will no longer be opening at Disney Springs and in its place will be Summer House on the Lake.
Blaze Fast-Fire’d Pizza | Disney World
Here is everything you need to know about the amazing Blaze Fast-Fire’d Pizza restaurant at Walt Disney World’s Disney Springs including history, reviews, fun facts, photos and more. I hope you find this listing informative and helpful!
Bongos Cuban Café | Disney World
Here is everything you need to know about the extinct Bongos Cuban Café Restaurant at Walt Disney World’s Disney Springs including history, reviews, fun facts, photos and more. I hope you find this listing informative and helpful!
Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’ | Disney World
Here is everything you need to know about the amazing Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’ restaurant at Walt Disney World’s Disney Springs including history, reviews, fun facts, photos and more. I hope you find this listing informative and helpful!
Current Shops
M&Ms Store | Disney World
Here is everything you need to know about the amazing M&Ms Store at Walt Disney World’s Disney Springs including history, reviews, fun facts, photos and more. I hope you find this listing informative and helpful!
Current Shows
8TRAX | Disney World
Here is everything you need to know about 8TRAX at Walt Disney World’s Downtown Disney including history, reviews, fun facts, photos and more. I hope you find this listing informative and helpful!
BET SoundStage Club | Disney World
Here is everything you need to know about the BET SoundStage Club at Walt Disney World’s Downtown Disney including history, reviews, fun facts, photos and more. I hope you find this listing informative and helpful!
Comedy Warehouse | Disney World
Here is everything you need to know about the Comedy Warehouse at Walt Disney World’s Downtown Disney including history, reviews, fun facts, photos and more. I hope you find this listing informative and helpful!
Drawn to Life Presented by Cirque du Soleil | Disney World
Here is everything you need to know about the amazing Drawn to Life show at Walt Disney World’s Disney Springs including history, reviews, fun facts, photos and more. I hope you find this listing informative and helpful!
Mannequins Dance Palace | Disney World
Here is everything you need to know about the Mannequins Dance Palace at Walt Disney World’s Downtown Disney including history, reviews, fun facts, photos and more. I hope you find this listing informative and helpful!
Pleasure Island Jazz Company | Disney World
Here is everything you need to know about the Pleasure Island Jazz Company at Walt Disney World’s Downtown Disney including history, reviews, fun facts, photos and more. I hope you find this listing informative and helpful!
Rock ‘n’ Roll Beach Club | Disney World
Here is everything you need to know about Rock ‘n’ Roll Beach Club at Walt Disney World’s Downtown Disney including history, reviews, fun facts, photos and more. I hope you find this listing informative and helpful!
The Adventurer’s Club | Disney World
Here is everything you need to know about the The Adventurer’s Club at Walt Disney World’s Downtown Disney including history, reviews, fun facts, photos and more. I hope you find this listing informative and helpful!
Current Activities
NBA Experience | Disney World
Here is everything you need to know about the extinct NBA Experience at Walt Disney World’s Disney Springs including history, reviews, fun facts, photos and more. I hope you find this listing informative and helpful!
Current Nighttime Spectaculars
