Walt Disney World is filled with some of the coolest experiences at the theme parks, but did you know that the Disney Springs entertainment district is quite possibly the best hidden gem on property?
Gideon’s Bakehouse
This highly immersive bakery is a highlight for any trip to Disney Springs. It’s so impressive that the team behind the Disney Springs location actually won a THEA (Themed Entertainment Association) award for Outstanding Achievement!
SPRINKLES ICING SHOT
If you really want to take everything that Sprinkles Cupcakes has in store, you’re going to want to grab a full-size, mini-size AND an ICING SHOT!
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THE HIDEAWAY
When we were thinking about fun things to do at Disney Springs, Jill mentioned the idea of dressing up in 1920’s garb and hitting up Enzo’s Hideaway for a step back in time.
Great food, awesome environment and a 100% hidden gem!
PIN TRADING
A trip to Disney Springs just isn’t complete until you find that perfect pin for your collection! Remember to check out Pin Traders in the Marketplace in addition to every Disney-run retail location on property.
Bowling at Splitsville
Having something “to do” at Disney Springs can be overrated due to the amount of random fun – but if you wanted to build a day around something, maybe a couple of games of bowling at Splitsville could be do-able.
Is it the best option? No, but it’s a good way to get through the midday heat or a random rainstorm.
SHOPPING AT THE CO-OP MARKETPLACE
The Co-Op Marketplace is a retail spot with a number of smaller brands & concepts in one building. From technology to home decor and everything in between, you’re going to stumble upon a hidden gem for sure!
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STARBUCKS DRINK
Fun fact – the Starbucks at Disney Springs Marketplace is an awesome team of creative baristas! They are constantly coming up with new “Disney Inspired” drinks, which you won’t find anywhere else.
We’ve seen everything from holiday drinks (Christmas, Halloween, etc) to event-specific concoctions that are derived from RunDisney and Christmas in July!
COCA COLA INTERNATIONAL FLIGHT
Ever tried Beverly? Want to experience 15 other sodas from all over the planet in one sitting? Coke’s gotcha covered!
The Coca-Cola Store is home to 3 floors of entertainment, which includes a character meet and greet and unique shopping…on top of one of my best non-alcoholic drink experiences on property. The International Tray is something that you can do on your own or with a group, but it’s Instagram GOLD!
AEROPHILE
If you’re scared of heights…scroll down a little bit.
Fly 400 feet in the air in the world’s largest tethered helium balloon, which was actually custom built for this experience.
The balloon has some fun numbers:
- 210,000 cubic feet of helium
- 19-foot diameter basket
- Room for 29 guests (plus one pilot) per flight
- 10-mile sightline in every direction!
Not bad eh? Make sure that you do a google search for discounts, as there always deals to be had;)
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TAKE PHOTOS
Disney Springs is incredibly photogenic! With all the upgrades that came with the transition from Downtown Disney to the current iteration came a focus on sight-lines. From restaurants to retail, entertainment and even trash cans…grab photos! 🙂
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SPEND TIME AT THE ART OF DISNEY
Last but not least, you’ll want to spend time at one of my favorite stores on property….the Art of Disney at Disney Springs!
They’ve got Disney certified animators & artists drawing LIVE during the day, with commissions available. In addition, you can check out some of the best hand-drawn art in all forms and they sometimes have meet & greets with fan-favorite artists.
Anything else we should check out the next time we’re at Disney Springs? Let me know on the Steps to Magic Facebook Page!