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10 Things That Walt Disney World Insiders Love About Disney Springs

Disney Springs offers twice as many stores and dining options as there were before when it was Downtown Disney. There is so much to love about Disney Springs, we could make a list that is five times as long as this and still leave things out. Here are ten things that Walt Disney World insiders love about Disney Springs. If you check them out you will love them as well.

10) Atmosphere

Disney Springs now has four lands, a theme, and a back story making it all gel together much better than before. It is supposed to have the feel of a Florida natural springs town back around 1900. Insiders agree that the new theme gives Disney Springs an element of escape that Downtown Disney never had.

9) Ice Cream

Insiders know that some of the best Walt Disney World ice cream choices can be found at Disney Springs. If you love chocolate you’ll want to stop by Ghirardelli Ice Cream & Chocolate Shop. It’s located in the Marketplace section. You’ll find all kinds of sundaes and other treats, featuring delicious Ghirardelli chocolate. If you’re over on the other side and an ice cream craving hits, try Haagen-Dazs at Disney Springs West Side. Another ice cream option that insiders love is Vivoli il Gelato in The Landing. Gelato is Italian ice cream, and this is about as authentic as you can get without booking a flight to Italy. The Vivoli family has been making gelato in Florence for 85 years, and they have brought their expertise to Disney Springs. Vivoli il Gelato is simply incredible.

8) Amorette’s Patisserie

Ok, we talked about ice cream… now some other sweet treats worth mentioning. Located in Town Center, almost behind The World of Disney Store, is a slice of heaven known as Amorette’s Patisserie. This is a sophisticated pastry shop that you won’t regret visiting and tasting one of their many mouth-watering pastries. They also offer specialty cakes that can be pre-ordered.

7) Morimoto Asia

One of the most exciting newer restaurants is Morimoto Asia. Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto is the Morimoto in question, and this is his first Pan-Asian restaurant. The building alone is spectacular, with giant chandeliers and two stories for dining. It is the food that insiders love the most, though. There’s a raw bar, sushi, dim sung, and other treats. You can order ribs, chicken, fish, noodles, vegetables, and so much more. Morimoto Asia may not have been open for very long, but insiders realize that it is the perfect place for a special meal.

6) World of Disney

Wish that you had picked up that special T-shirt at the Magic Kingdom, but don’t have time to go back into the park? Insiders know that the best place to look for another one (or something even better) is at World of Disney. They also know that it is a great place to find gifts for everyone back home. World of Disney is phenomenal. It is the largest Disney character store on the planet. You’ll find rooms packed full of goodies that you will want to take back home. There are T-shirts in all shapes and sizes, plush toys, jewelry, pins, cooking items, and countless other things. Insiders will tell you that World of Disney gets crowded as the day goes on, so go as early as possible. You’ll be glad that you did.

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5) The VOID

We are thrilled The VOID has joined the scene at Disney Springs. Star Wars: Secrets of the Empire and Ralph Breaks VR are fantastic entertainment options at Disney’s Springs The VOID. Perfect for tweens, teens, and adults, The VOID is an ultimate virtual reality experience. Team up (or be teamed up) with four guests and complete your mission. The multi-sensory environment makes virtual reality feel like…well, REALITY!

4) Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar

Insiders know that there is a cool new place to hang out and get a drink at Disney Springs. It’s Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar, and it is a lot of fun. Jock Lindsey was Indy’s pilot in Raiders of the Lost Ark, and the story goes that he settled down in Disney Springs and turned his hangar into a watering hole. There are surprises all over the place, with nods to the Indiana Jones movies. You’ll also find plenty of references to Jock’s pet snake, Reggie. The lounge is family friendly, and there’s a fun menu with appetizers such as “Squid! Why’d it have to be Squid?” and Rolling Boulders Sliders. There are non-alcoholic drinks such as Antidote, and signature alcoholic choices like Cool-headed Monkey. Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar is already popular, insiders love it and you will as well.

3) Planet Hollywood Observatory

Buzzworthy bites are winning over the masses at Planet Hollywood Observatory! This Disney Springs restaurant features an innovative cuisine courtesy of Guy Fieri, live entertainment and of course – awesome Hollywood memorabilia. Snag a reservation in advance as this is a popular dining destination.

2) Coca – Cola Store

You simply can’t miss the massive and rather impressive architecture of the Coca-Cola Store located in Town Center of Disney Springs. Head inside to discover three floors, all with unique touches celebrating Coca-Cola. The first floor features a fantastic shop. The second floor offers more shopping, plus a photo op with the Coca-Cola Polar Bear! The third floor is our favorite, as it is a rooftop beverage bar with fantastic views of Disney Springs.

1) The BOATHOUSE: Great Food, Waterfront Dining, Dream Boats

Insiders realize that The BOATHOUSE is more than just a signature restaurant. It is an experience. Sure, you’ll find the freshest menu around. Order from the Raw Bar, or start with an appetizer or salad. The entrees feature seafood, beef, chicken, and even pasta. There are also delectable desserts, such as Key Lime Pie in a Mason Jar or Whiskey Caramel Cornbread Cake. The nautical atmosphere also makes the restaurant special. There are three dining areas, and two private dining rooms. The BOATHOUSE also features three bars. The restaurant is just part of The BOATHOUSE experience. You can take a water taxi or a steamboat ride with chocolate covered strawberries and champagne. If you want to really splurge, sign up for a ride in a classic Amphicar. The unique vehicle can drive on both land and water. You’ll take a 20 minute tour of Disney Springs, and heads will turn. The BOATHOUSE also has a store, and a fleet of 19 rare boats. There are activities during the day, such as bugle performances and flag ceremonies. Walt Disney World insiders love The BOATHOUSE, and in one visit you will understand why.

About PaulaK

I grew up in Western Massachusetts. When I was nine my family went to Disneyland and I was hooked. I grew up, attended New England College in Henniker, NH and eventually moved to Virginia. I worked as a disc jockey, married and became a full time mom when our daughter was born. Fast forward several years. In 2010 we moved to Central Florida and my Disney obsession grew. I now work as a freelance writer and spend my spare time in the parks. Under the name Paula Brown I penned the novels Dream Wanderers and The Coffee Cruiser. I also am a co-author of Dining at Walt Disney World: The Definitive Guide. I'm obsessed with Star Wars, so this is a good time to live in Central Florida. I've been a vegetarian for well over a decade, a choice that my daughter eventually made as well. While my husband still hasn't joined us fully he has given up most meats except for seafood. I was relieved to find that vegetarian dining is not difficult at Walt Disney World.