Disney Springs | Orlando, Florida…read more
A Little Disney Magic, a Lot of Walking, and Plenty of Ways to Spend Your Money!
Disney Springs is quite the destination! Between the restaurants, shopping, entertainment, and Cirque du Soleil, there's certainly no shortage of things to see, do, eat, and experience. It's an impressive entertainment complex, but be prepared. This is Disney, after all, and they've mastered the art of separating visitors from their money!
First, the good news: admission is free! You can wander, window-shop, enjoy the atmosphere, and take in the sights without purchasing a ticket. However, you'll still need to go through security screening, including bag checks and metal detectors.
Now, let's talk about parking. Bananas! The parking facilities are extensive, but getting in, finding a space, navigating the crowds, and eventually finding your way back to your car can be an adventure all by itself.
My biggest recommendation? Have a game plan before you arrive. Disney Springs is enormous, and there's a tremendous amount of walking involved. Know which restaurants, shops, and attractions you want to visit, and plan your route accordingly. Otherwise, you may find yourself doubling back, retracing your steps, and wondering how you managed to walk several miles without accomplishing half of what you intended.
The restaurant selection is particularly impressive, ranging from casual dining to some genuinely outstanding culinary experiences. As a serious foodie, that's what interests me most. There's no shortage of opportunities to enjoy a memorable meal, and I certainly did during this visit!
Shopping is plentiful, too, with an appealing mix of stores and specialty retailers. But let's be realistic: Disney Springs is a tourist destination, and the temptation to spend is everywhere. It's easy to get caught up in the excitement, so keep an eye on your budget.
And then there are the crowds. Oh, the crowds!
I visited in October, which you might think would be a quieter time of year. Not necessarily! Even outside the traditional summer vacation season, Disney Springs can be incredibly busy. For someone who appreciates a little breathing room and a more relaxed experience, that can take some of the enjoyment out of an otherwise lovely evening.
One of my favorite sights was the beautifully illuminated Aerophile balloon floating above the palm trees against the night sky. It's a wonderful reminder that Disney really does know how to create a little magic.
Would I return? Yes, but selectively. I'd come back for a particular restaurant, a special event, or an evening out with friends. It's not somewhere I'd choose to spend an entire day wandering through crowds, but for a planned visit with a specific destination in mind, it can be a lot of fun.
Disney Springs offers something for almost everyone, and I can appreciate the creativity, entertainment, and variety even if the overall tourist experience isn't entirely my cup of tea.
My advice: Wear comfortable shoes, plan ahead, allow extra time for parking and security, make dining reservations when possible, and bring a little patience. You'll enjoy yourself much more!
Life is too short not to eat well, sleep well, or travel well. Get out there, explore the world, discover something wonderful, and start living!