The flavors of Seattle have finally arrived at Walt Disney World’s most popular shopping marketplace. Starbucks has opened the first, and smaller, of two locations at Downtown Disney. This location is located on the marketplace side attached to the World of Disney store and near… Read More »Starbucks Grounds First Location in Downtown Disney Orlando
Among the many things announced by Walt Disney World yesterday, was the first new area of Downtown Disney to open as part of its transformation into Disney Springs. “The Landing” will be set by the water front and feature nationally known restauranteurs. None have been officially announced, but it’s expected to include concepts from the Patina group (Via Napoli) and Steven Schussler (T-Rex, Yak & Yeti, and Rainforest Cafe). The Landing will occupy part of the area formerly known as Pleasure Island (basically behind where Raglan Road is now).
Disney also released a bunch more information about the transformation of Disney Springs (which will be the official name for the area commencing with the opening of The Landing. For summer 2014, outdoor entertainment will bring Downtown Disney to life, with nine different acts scheduled nightly – more than 30 live performances daily, a free highlight of the Downtown Disney experience. Special events like Car Masters Weekend (June 14-15) puts the spotlight on classic and exotic cars for Father’s Day weekend, and includes character experiences featuring favorite Disney*Pixar “Cars” characters.
New this summer for Downtown Disney:
Two new Starbucks locations – a storefront at Downtown Disney West Side and a kiosk near World of Disney at Downtown Disney Marketplace. Look for the familiar green roof at the West Side flagship Starbucks, part of the company’s commitment to be environmentally conscious. The design includes a covered patio overlooking the waterfront and a fireplace, as well as the new Clover Bar, featuring special reserve coffees brewed to order. A high-tech screen behind the Clover Bar will show images from coffee regions around the globe, and a new Human Connection Wall will include large touch-screen monitors that allow guests to use their finger to draw images.
Read More »Disney Springs “The Landing” – New Shopping and Dining District Opening in 2015
Yesterday in part one of this update we looked at some fresh concept art and changes on the Westside of Downtown Disney as it transforms into Disney Springs. Today we’ll take glimpse at the area that will become the “Waterfront District” and the Marketplace Marina area.
Up first is a little video highlighting a few of the changes going on near the water front and marina areas.
Below the jump we have more updates in our photo gallery
Read More »Disney Springs Construction Update – April 2014 – Part II
New garage is rising on the Westside
Walt Disney World’s Downtown Disney is the main shopping, dining, and night time entertainment area for the resort. Over the years it has seen a few transitions, but current project promises change on a new scale – mostly upscale, as it turns out.
As part of Disney’s efforts to add more elements that appeal to families with, how shall we say it, extra-spending cash, Downtown Disney will become Disney Springs and bring with it new upscale shopping, high end dining experiences, and new entertainment options. To go along with the increased expectation in crowds, Disney is adding new parking garages as well.
I recently stopped by to grab some photos and video of the transition and was amazed at how much work is going on already. So much, in fact, that I’ve had to split this update into two parts.
Part one today looks mostly at the concept art that’s up around Downtown Disney and a few of the projects going on on the Westside of Downtown Disney. Tomorrow, we’ll dive into changes at Pleasure Island (soon to become the “waterfront district”) and the Marketplace (where Downtown Disney got its start).
Read More »Disney Springs Construction Update – April 2014 – Part I
Car Masters Weekend returns to Downtown Disney Orlando for Father’s Day weekend 2014. Celebrating it’s 4th year of automotive fun, the classic car show with a modern twist is the perfect way to spend a little family time during June 14-15. Featuring all things “Cars,”… Read More »Car Masters Weekend Returns to Downtown Disney June 14-15, 2014
It can’t be that hard, right? On April 25-26 Walt Disney Studios will be holding a competition to potentially award one lucky (and very skilled) amateur pitcher with $1 million to promote their latest film “Million Dollar Arm.” The premise is simple: throw a very… Read More »Want $1 Million? Throw a Strike and You Could Win It
Friends, the gluten-free, health-nuts, and lovers of delicious desserts lend me your ears. I come not to disappoint you with news of the closure of the BabyCakes NYC Bakery at Downtown Disney, but to reassure you that you can still get your healthy gluten-free vegan… Read More »BabyCakes NYC Still Available Despite Closure of Downtown Disney Location
Downtown Disney Marketplace is now home to a brand new kiosk called Happy Hound—a place to find all kinds of fun dog accessories. It sells everything from accessorized collars and leashes to toys and clothes, and is sure to offer some kind of special souvenir… Read More »New Dog-Themed Kiosk at Disney World Lets You Spoil Your Furry Friend