There are over 65 merchandise locations at Walt Disney World that carry pins and pin accessories, but not every one is equal. In fact, there are only a handful…say 10…that we at Steps To Magic would suggest you visit!
Please note that this information can change at a moments notice, as Walt Disney World is constantly evolving. We’ll do our best to update as things come to light.
FANTASY FAIRE – FANTASYLAND @ THE MAGIC KINGDOM
I love this shop! It’s always changing it’s merchandise, which is why it makes an appearance on our list. I’ve never had a negative experience at this location, in fact the cast members are always some of the most friendly pin traders that I’ve found across property!
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ROCK AROUND THE SHOP – SUNSET BOULEVARD @ DISNEY’S HOLLYWOOD STUDIOS
Not sure how much longer this merchandise location will be themed to Rock n Roll with the current tenant, but getting awesome unique pins is why we keep going back all the time! Sometimes, you just have to Walk This Way to get this best pins;)
FRONTIER TRADING POST @ FRONTIERLAND IN THE MAGIC KINGDOM
So the Frontier Trading Post has a few things going for it.
It’s a fairly tiny store (sq footage wise) but as pins only require a simple display, the store has a perfect layout. The cast members know that they are a “must see” location for pin traders, so the actual trade itself is pretty lackluster.
OH…but they are the only other location outside of the Emporium that carries special limited edition pins from events like Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party!
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BOUTIKI @ DISNEY’S POLYNESIAN VILLAGE RESORT
Have you ever resort-hopped around property and thought to yourself….”where is the best pin trading stores at a resort?”. Well the answer is BouTiki! Stop in the next time that you’re at the Polynesian Village Resort and check it off your list:)
MAIN STREET USA @ MAGIC KINGDOM
The Emporium and The Art of Disney are main-stays on Main Street USA for merchandise, but are they the best experience? Probably not!
It’s not that the store isn’t immaculate or built scientifically for retail optimization…it’s that the pin section is stuck in a spot where you really don’t have the chance to browse. That being said, there are more cast members at the Emporium per square foot that any other retail location on property…so more Pin Trading;)
UNITED KINGDOM
Ok, so full disclosure…when I worked in the Canadian pavilion, our neighbour was the UK Pavilion and we had a great time with the cast! They really loved their role within the story of providing a great experience personalized for every guest, and that’s why the UK finds it’s way up so high on our list! Great location, open concept, great cast and always fun pin trading with folks from the United Kingdom.
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WORLD OF DISNEY AND ART OF DISNEY – DISNEY SPRINGS
The World of Disney store is by far one of the more fun experiences that you’ll have on Disney Property. You’ll walk in and lose all track of time…because they have everything that you’ll ever want.
For pin traders, you’ll want to spend as much time as possible within the store, because cast members make hundreds of trades every hour with guests who are (like you) trying to find specific pins that they can add to their collection. This will allow you to get some of the most random finds around property…..except of course for our number one location!
BIG TOP SOUVENIRS – NEW FANTASYLAND @ THE MAGIC KINGDOM
What makes Big Top Souvenirs special? Well it’s HUGE! Fun fact – BTS was saved during the Fantasyland expansion because they rival any other merchandise location in Walt Disney World for traffic and sales….so when you walk inside…it’s a plethora of merchandise that belongs in my office;) Their pin selection isn’t the best, but they’ll have all the starter packs you’ll need!
RANDOM SPOTS ON PROPERTY
Disney’s been having fun with pin boards, so keep your eyes peeled for these random fun magic makers!
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DISNEY’S PIN TRADERS @ DISNEY SPRINGS
Build your collection or trade to further your pin portfolio at the BEST location on Walt Disney World property!
Disney’s Pin Traders gives you a variety of options, including:
- Character Exclusive and specific pins. Do you want a pin of Meeko from Pocahontas? Well they have a few options for you!
- Event Exclusives. Would you like a Friday the 13th, Valentines Day, Presidents Day or Happy Friday pin? They have a full selection of special events that we may take for granted but someone wants a pin for…like Best Friends Day!
- Pin Trading game that makes me smile every time I think about it. Think about the concept of Pin Trading, but on a whole new level!
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BONUS TIP
#FunFact If you ask a cast member to pin trade, and it’s not incredibly busy, they will bring out their Pin Trading board.
We’ve found hidden Pin Boards at:
- Momento Mori @ The Haunted Mansion
- Northwest Mercantile @ Canadian Pavilion
- Fantasy Faire @ Fantasyland, Columbia Harbour House
- and SO MANY OTHERS!
Keep an eye out and always ask:)
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LOOKING FOR PINS?
Check out Ebay for their Disney Pin Trading Lots, as you’re able to have a starting point for trading in the parks. I tend to also buy individual pins, like attraction or special event designs, but having a bag of good traders for pin boards or cast member experiences just makes things easier.
Related Article – Pin Trading Tips to Get the Best Pins
Did we miss any hidden spots for Pin Traders to build their collections?