Disney Springs Unique Experiences — 10 Beyond Shopping

Experiences at Disney Springs that escape the traditional theme park checklist.

Most folks don’t know what to expect when visiting Disney Springs. It’s not a typical shopping centre, but it takes a little advanced research to take full advantage of the offerings! This may involve learning about the restaurants or getting a checklist for shopping, but this is an easy way to get excited about what you’re about to experience.

USE THE CUPCAKE ATM

Sprinkles Cupcakes at Disney Springs
Sprinkles Cupcakes at Disney Springs (Image: Dustin Fuhs / StepstoMagic)

10 letters that I never knew would bring me so much joy, the Cupcake ATM at Sprinkles is exactly what you would imagine if your dreams came true. Anyone who says that it’s just for kids haven’t seen the lineup when the sun goes down;)

BUILD A DINO

Build A Dino Workshop at Disney Springs (Image: Dustin Fuhs)

We have all heard of Build-a-Bear from our local malls, but did you know that at the T-Rex restaurant you can actually Build-a-Dino? The back stories of some of the dinosaurs that come from this shop are masterfully created and some actually have instagram accounts!

Oh if we were kids again;)


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TRY THE SODA FLIGHT AT THE COCA COLA STORE

As a huge Coke fan, this is a must-do at Disney Springs! There are a number of things that you can try, but the International Tray ($16) gets you 16 sparkling & still beverages from around the world. Not a bad price at all! OR you could do the float tray, which is 8 drinks with ice cream, but that’s completely up to you.

Related Article – Fun Facts about the Coca Cola Store 

STEP INTO A BAKERY LIKE NO OTHER

Gideon’s Bakery at Disney Springs (Image: Dustin Fuhs / StepstoMagic)

When Gideon’s Bakehouse opened at Disney Springs, the excitement was never higher.

You should know that the best way to get into Gideons to pick up a cookie is to get into the virtual queue and start the anticipation. It may take 20-minutes or it may take a couple hours…you’ll definitely want to get inside though. One of the most elaborate and immersive experience (and the cookies are pretty cool too!)

FREE CHOCOLATE

Ghiradelli at Disney Springs (Image: Dustin Fuhs / StepstoMagic)

Walk into the Ghiradelli store in the Marketplace and you’ll be greeted with an amazing smell of chocolate…and a free sample! It’s definitely worth stopping in the quality that you get handed to you.


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CREATE YOUR TREAT

Goofy’s Candy Co. at Disney Springs (Image: Dustin Fuhs / StepstoMagic)

Not only is Goofy’s Candy Co. one of my favorite shops to spend time at Disney Springs, they also have a unique experience in which you can create your own personalized treat. Start with a base (krispy rice treat, cookies, specialty apple, pretzel rods, etc), choose your dip and toppings.

Dreams come true when you’re able to create your own sugar coma!

AEROPHILE – CHARACTERS IN FLIGHT

Disney Springs (Image: Dustin Fuhs)

Having the chance to get photos from 400 feet in the air is by far one of the coolest experiences on Disney property. For $29 per person ($25 for children) it’s a treat…but every so often you’ll be able to find a discount online (ie Groupon) so it can also be a great value as well!


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BOWL A GAME

Stop into Splitsville, because there’s nothing better on a vacation than having some fun on the lanes! I’m a huge bowling guy, in fact…I bowled for over 15 years when I was growing up. This is by far one of my favorite parts of Disney Springs, as it’s a great way to enjoy air conditioning with a unique menu.

PICTURE WITH A POLAR BEAR

Another fun experience at the Coca Cola Store @ Disney Springs is the ability to grab a photo with the Polar Bear! It’s up on the second floor, so either hop in the elevator or walk up the exterior walkway and you’ll be face to face with one of the CUTEST giant polar bears you’ll ever see!


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GLASS BLOWING

Arribas Bros
Arribas Bros – Photo by Dustin Fuhs

Step foot into the Arribas Brothers location in the Marketplace for an incredible in-person LIVE creation of custom and exciting pieces of art before your eyes. The skill on display is mindblowing and will make you want to add one of Disney-Inspired collectibles to your home immediately!

Arribas Bros are on DisneyStore.com, so if you want to enjoy the demonstration without carrying stuff around…check out their collection here!

Honourable Mentions

  • Drawn to Life presented by Cirque du Soleil
  • Vintage Amphicar Tours at The Boathouse
  • See a concert at House of Blues
  • Get a Personalized Birthday Button at Disney’s Days of Christmas
  • Brunch at Summer House on the Lake

Anything else we should check out the next time we’re at Disney Springs? Let me know in the comments!

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Dustin Fuhshttp://www.stepstomagic.com
I’m Dustin Fuhs, a theme park fanatic that has created this platform to showcase my passion, tools and opinions to create a fun and interactive experience for everyone who visits. My goal is to help you and your family have the most magical experience at Walt Disney World. In reading my articles and ideas, I hope that you can find some fantastic ways to bring your dreams into reality!