Whether you’re planning a non-park day, looking for incredible food, or just want to soak in a little Disney atmosphere without a park ticket, Disney Springs is the place to be. With over 100 shops, 60+ dining options, and world-class entertainment, this sprawling waterfront destination is much more than a shopping mall—it’s a vacation highlight in its own right.

Here are our top picks for must-do dining, shopping, and experiences to add to your Disney Springs bucket list.

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🍴 Must-Try Dining Spots

You could easily spend an entire trip just eating your way through Disney Springs. From celebrity chef restaurants to iconic Disney snacks, here’s where to grab your next bite:

The BOATHOUSE

This waterfront seafood restaurant is a fan favorite for good reason. Fresh oysters, lobster rolls, and their famous Gibson’s “Blue Star” burger make for a standout meal, but it’s the view that seals the deal. Snag a table on the dockside patio at sunset for extra magic.

Homecomin’ by Chef Art Smith

Craving comfort food with a Southern twist? Homecomin’ serves up fried chicken, mac & cheese, hush puppies, and moonshine cocktails in a cozy, rustic setting. Don’t skip the hummingbird cake—it’s legendary.

Morimoto Asia

Created by Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto, this sleek, two-story restaurant offers modern pan-Asian cuisine in a stunning space. Sushi lovers, noodle fans, and dim sum connoisseurs will all find something to love.

Polite Pig

This quick-service spot surprises many first-timers with just how good it is. Think Florida-style BBQ, smoky brisket, crispy brussels sprouts, and local craft beers on tap. It’s casual, quick, and consistently delicious.

Gideon’s Bakehouse

Known for half-pound cookies and gothic vibes, Gideon’s is a must-stop for dessert lovers. Expect a bit of a wait (it’s popular!), but the cookies are worth every second—especially the peanut butter crunch or the limited monthly flavor.

🛍️ Shopping Must-Dos

You’ll find a mix of Disney-exclusive shops, designer boutiques, and unique local brands scattered across Disney Springs. Here are a few not to miss:

World of Disney

This is the largest Disney store on Earth—and yes, it’s as magical as it sounds. From Minnie ears to mugs, pins, spirit jerseys, and toys, you can find just about every piece of official Disney merch here. It’s a great spot to shop for souvenirs without using park time.

The LEGO Store

Kids and collectors alike will love the giant LEGO sculptures and build-your-own stations. It’s interactive and fun, and even if you don’t buy anything, it’s a great spot to explore.

Coca-Cola Store Rooftop Bar

After browsing three levels of Coke-branded merchandise, head to the rooftop bar for fun international soda flights, frozen drinks, or a Coca-Cola float. The views of Disney Springs from up here are surprisingly great.

DisneyStyle & Ever After Jewelry Co.

For those looking for fashion-forward Disney finds, DisneyStyle offers trendy apparel and accessories, while Ever After Jewelry Co. is your go-to for high-end accessories, Loungefly bags, Pandora charms, and more.

🎭 Fun Experiences & Hidden Gems

Disney Springs isn’t just about eating and shopping—it’s packed with fun entertainment options too.

Amphicar Tours at The BOATHOUSE

Take a ride in a vintage amphicar that drives on land and into the water. It’s a unique and fun splurge, offering a 20-minute tour of the lake surrounding Disney Springs.

Drawn to Life by Cirque du Soleil

This Disney + Cirque du Soleil collaboration is visually stunning, emotionally moving, and family-friendly. It tells the story of a girl discovering her father’s animator desk—blending Disney magic with awe-inspiring acrobatics.

Live Music Everywhere

Throughout the evening, you’ll find talented local musicians playing live sets across Disney Springs. From jazz to pop to island-style tunes, the vibe is always upbeat and perfect for wandering.

Photo Ops & Free Fun

Don’t forget to explore the themed areas—there’s a lot of magic in the details. Snap photos with the oversized Disney balloons, walk across the Marketplace bridge at sunset, or grab a sprinkle-covered treat and people-watch by the water.

🧳 Our Pro Tips for Disney Springs Days

Go early or late: Midday can be busy—especially on weekends. Try visiting in the morning or after 5 PM for a more relaxed experience.
Use Disney transportation: Staying at a Disney resort? Take a complimentary bus or boat over to Disney Springs—parking lots can fill up quickly during peak times.
Make reservations: Many table-service restaurants book out in advance, so secure a dining reservation if you’ve got your heart set on somewhere special.
Leave room in your suitcase: You will want to shop!

✨ Let’s Make It Magical

Whether you're spending a full day at Disney Springs or popping in for dinner and shopping after a park day, there's something for everyone here. It's a place where Disney magic meets real-world variety—and we make planning it all easy.

At People Mover Travel, we can help you craft the perfect itinerary that includes Disney Springs highlights, dining reservations, and transportation tips—so all you have to do is show up and enjoy.

Want help planning the perfect non-park day at Walt Disney World? We’d love to help you map out meals, shopping breaks, and sprinkle in a little pixie dust along the way.

Let’s start planning your Disney dream trip—Disney Springs and all!

Free Walt Disney World Quote here!

Dining, Shopping & Magic: Must-Do Spots in Disney Springs