Disney Springs offers a lot of shopping options, but it is much more than just a shopping center. There are restaurants, a movie theater, a bowling alley, a splash pad, a carousel, a train ride, and even a hot air balloon ride. There is definitely something for the whole family at Disney Springs. Many families like to visit this area on their arrival day, a day off from the parks, and/or on their departure day.

Disney Springs is free to enter and parking is also free (Preferred Parking and Valet Parking are available for a fee). You can also get to Disney Springs by traveling by Disney boats and/or buses.

The Disney Springs area is divided into four sections:

• The West Side – Lots of restaurants, Splitsville Bowling Alley, and AMC Movie Theatre
• Town Center – Shopping (Over 30 Shops) & Restaurants
• The Landing – Dining (with waterfront views) & Shopping
• Marketplace – The Marketplace is probably the most family-friendly area of Disney Springs. In addition to the shops, restaurants, splash pad, train, and carousel, The Marketplace has an open-air venue along Lake Buena Vista. There are special events, activities, and live performances that take place every day and night at the venue.

See a full map of Disney Springs HERE.

25 Exciting Things to Do at Disney Springs with Kids

1. Splash Pad (FREE)

The free splash pad is located in the Marketplace area of Disney Springs -right next to Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique and Earl of Sandwich. It is a great activity for little kids.

2. Build and Race Lego Cars (FREE)

Kids can build and race their own race cars at the LEGO store. This activity is free and kiddos (and parents) love it. Of course, you can step inside the LEGO store and look at all of the LEGO and LEGO kits available for purchase.

*** PLEASE NOTE *** This activity may be altered or canceled complying with local regulations and safety guidelines (our visit was BEFORE Covid). Please call the LEGO store directly and ask if this activity (or similar activity) is happening during the time of your visit.

3. Rainforest Cafe

The kiddos will love the fun atmosphere and jungle theme at Rainforest Cafe. They will feel like they are eating in a jungle, surrounded by moving jungle animals. At some point during your meal, you’ll hear thunder and the animals will make noises. This restaurant serves American cuisine and is very popular. Reservations are recommended to avoid a long wait time.

Rainforest Cafe is located in the Marketplace area. You can take the bridge from the LEGO store to reach the Rainforest Cafe.

4. Marketplace Carousel

Kids will love this cute Venetian carousel that is located in the Marketplace area of Disney Springs.

Pricing

• One ride is $5
• 2 rides for $10
• 6 rides for $20
• One adult may ride for free with one child under 42 inches tall

Important Information

• Guests of all ages may ride.
• Children under 42 inches tall must ride with an adult (18 or over).
• The ride lasts about 2 minutes.

Read more HERE.

5. Marketplace Train Express Ride

Located in the Marketplace area of Disney Springs, this train is the perfect ride for little kids (parents can ride, too).

Pricing

• One ride is $5
• 2 rides for $10
• 6 rides for $20
• One adult may ride for free with one child under 36 inches tall

Important Information

• Guests of all ages may ride.
• Children under 36 inches tall must ride with an adult (18 or over).
• The ride lasts about 2 minutes.

Read more HERE.

6. Aerophile (Hot Air Balloon Ride)

This hot air balloon is the world’s largest tethered helium balloon. You will be carried 400 feet high and will be able to see for miles. This ride can be found on the West Side of Disney Springs, near Splitsville Bowling Alley. This activity is weather permitting.

The cost is:

• $25 for adults (ages 10 and older)
• $20 for children (ages 3 to 9)
• Prices updated 06/2023

Read more about Aerophile HERE.

7. Shopping

There are tons of shops at Disney Springs, and many of them are high-end stores. But, here is a list of shops that kids would enjoy:

• Marvel Super Hero Headquarters
• Goofy’s Candy Kitchen
• Dino Store at T-Rex
• Disney’s Candy Cauldron
• Disney Style – this is a popular place to take photos in a Disney teacup
• World of Disney
• Once Upon A Toy
• Disney Pin Traders
• Disney’s Wonderful World of Memories
• The LEGO Store
• Star Wars Trading Post
• Star Wars Galactic Outpost
• Disney’s Days At Christmas

See all Disney Springs’ Shopping Stores HERE.

8. Take Photos with Characters and Lego Figurines (FREE)

These LEGO creations and Disney statues may not be as exciting as meeting the characters at the parks, but taking photos with them seems to be really popular. There are several Instagram-worthy spots all throughout Disney Springs, especially in the Marketplace area.

9. T-Rex Restaurant

I guess you can already tell that T-Rex is a dinosaur-themed restaurant. You experience all of the sights and sounds of the prehistoric world. While waiting for your table, kids can play in the giant sandpit with hidden bones and basins to pan for jewels.

This restaurant is located in the Marketplace area of Disney Springs (near the Lego Store). Read more and see the menu HERE.

10. Build A Dino (by Build A Bear Workshop) at T-Rex

If your kiddos love dinosaurs, they will be in heaven at Build-A-Dino. They can create their own dinosaur (just like you can create your own teddy bear or stuffed animal at Build-A-Bear Workshops).

11. VINTAGE AMPHICAR & ITALIAN WATER TAXI TOURS

The Vintage Amphicars are located at The BOATHOUSE restaurant in The Landing area of Disney Springs. The whole family can cruise and tour Lake Buena Vista aboard a vintage amphibious car or an Italian water taxi.

If this is something you have always wanted to do, this is the time and place to do it. This is the only location in the world where you can take a ride in a vintage Amphicar. Each ride costs $125 and lasts 20 minutes. Book tours from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM daily (weather permitting).

**Families can also ride a ferry boat from Disney Springs to a few Disney Resorts (and back again). These ferry boat rides are free.

12. Watch A Movie at AMC Dine-In Movie Theatre

The theater offers comfy chairs, tables, and silverware so you can enjoy your meal while you enjoy your movie. In addition to popcorn and candy, here are the meal options that they offer:

• Appetizers: Nachos, Wings, Crab & Avocado Sushi Roll, Loaded Brisket Fries, Wedge Lettuce Cups, and Shrimp Sushi Roll
• Entrees: Flatbreads, Bowls, Salads, Wraps, Burgers, Sandwiches, Chicken Tenders, Taco Trio, Shrimp, Fish and Chips, and Chicken Quesadillas.
• Desserts – Milkshakes, Churros, and Brownie Ice Cream Sundae

Kid’s menus are also available. See the full menu HERE.

The restaurant does offer reserved dining, which you can make through Fandango.

13. Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique

Located in the Marketplace, this unique salon is designed to help young girls and boys become princesses or knights. It is for kiddos ages 3-12. Reservations are highly recommended and can be made up to 180 days before your visit. Read more about the services at Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique HERE.

14. World of Disney

Located in the Marketplace section of Disney Springs, World of Disney is the perfect place to find all things Disney. This is the perfect place to shop for Disney Souvenirs, Mickey Ears, plushies, clothes, and toys. You can also walk around the corner (on the outside of the store) and let Stitch spit water on you! Learn more HERE.

15. Meet Coke Bear at World of Coke

If your kiddos love meeting characters, they will love meeting and getting a hug from the Coke Polar Bear. It is also a great photo opportunity. Your pic can be added to your Photo Pass account.

The Coca-Cola Bear is on the second floor of the Coke building. You can also head to the top of the Coke Building for a rooftop view of Disney Springs. No purchase is required to visit this area, but they do offer drinks for sale.

See the Coke Polar Bear availability calendar HERE.

16. Ghiradelli Soda Fountain and Chocolate Shop

Take the whole family for a sweet treat (don’t forget your FREE Sample!) at Ghiradelli Soda Fountain and Chocolate Shop. Try a Specialty Sundae, Milkshake, Hot Cocoa, Banana Split, Coffee, Brownies, and Cookies.

17. Disney’s Candy Cauldron

Located on the West Side of Disney Springs, this show kitchen lets visitors see how candy creations are made. And you can get some sweet goodies while you are here. Read more about the Candy Cauldron HERE.

18. Once Upon A Toy

You can tell when you walk up to Once Upon A Time, that this place offers a fun and unique experience. Located in the Marketplace area of Disney Springs, this store has plushies, board games, playsets, and many other toys.

Kiddos (and adults) can also take pictures with figurines and displays. When we there, Buzz Lightyear and Mr. Potato Head were right outside the front of the store for photo ops. Read more about Once Upon a Toy HERE.

19. Splitsville Luxury Lane Bowling

This HUGE bowling alley (50,000 sq. feet) offers bowling, pool tables, and even live entertainment.

In addition to all the fun activities, Splitsville offers a fantastic menu – it’s not your regular bowling food. The menu includes pizza, burgers, appetizers, kids’ meals, and even sushi. They also have a bar and offer a variety of beer, wine, and specialty drinks. See the full menu HERE.

See more from our visit to Splitsville HERE.

20. Star Wars Trading Post & Star Wars Galactic Outpost

• Star Wars Galactic Outpost – Located on the West Side of Disney Springs, this store carries all things Star Wars. It’s the perfect place to get Star Wars-themed toys, apparel, and collectibles.
• Star Wars Trading Post – This store is located in the Marketplace area of Disney Springs (behind the mini train). Here you will find Star Wars-themed toys, apparel, and accessories. You can even build your own lightsaber or droid.

21. Enjoy Your Face (Face Painting)

This face-painting kiosk is located in the Marketplace area of Disney Springs. You can choose from some popular designs or get your own custom creation. Learn more HERE.

22. Goofy’s Candy Company

Located in the Marketplace area of Disney Springs, Goofy’s Candy Company is a dream for those with a serious sweet tooth. They offer lots of candy, cake pops, flavored popcorn, and other sweet treats.

You can even make your own candy creation! Choose from apples, gingerbread cookies, marshmallows, Rice Krispies, etc., and then choose your toppings. These count as a snack credit if you’re on the Disney Dining Plan. Read More about Goofy’s Candy Company HERE.

23. Sprinkles Cupcake Shop

Sprinkles Bakery is located at Town Center at Disney Springs. The high-quality cupcakes are made fresh every day. They are very popular – the creative cupcake flavors keep people coming back for more. If you visit after closing, you can still get a cupcake through their ATM. You can also get ice cream, cookies, and coffee drinks here. Read more about Sprinkle’s Cupcakes and see their menu HERE.

Here are some other great shops to get sweet treats:

• Ghirardelli Ice Cream & Chocolate Shop – Don’t forget to ask for a free chocolate sample.
• Amorette’s Patisserie – French-style bakery
• Erin McKenna’s Bakery NYC
• Haagen-Dazs– Ice Cream Kiosk
• Vivoli IL Gelato

24. Planet Hollywood Restaurant

Planet Hollywood has really spruced up the food at this restaurant. In addition to classics like NY Strip Steak and Chicken Crunch, they also now serve burgers and sandwiches by celebrity chef Guy Fieri. There is also an upstairs bar that serves specialty cocktails and has a DJ.

The restaurant also features artifacts and memorabilia from Hollywood/movies. It also has a 4,500-square-foot video wall featuring sound and media.

**BONUS: Other kid-friendly restaurants at Disney Springs:

• Chicken Guy
• Pizza Point
• Daily Poutine
• Blaze Fast-Fired Pizza
• The Polite Pig
• D-Luxe Burger
• The Smokehouse
• Bongos Cuban Cafe Express
• Earl of Sandwich
• Chef Art Smith’s Homecoming
• Frontera Cocina
• The BOATHOUSE

See all Disney Spring’s Restaurants HERE.

25. Attend a Concert or Event

There’s always something exciting happening at Disney Springs. See the full calendar of Disney Spring’s Concerts and Events HERE.

For more great ideas for family-friendly things near Disney World – 15+ Things to do on Your Day Off from Disney Parks

Have you been to Disney Springs lately? Any fun places to recommend?

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