Downtown Disney
Outside of the parks, Downtown Disney is the biggest draw for tourists and locals alike at Walt Disney World. Combining shopping, dining, entertainment and several attractions, a visit to Downtown Disney is a must for guests visiting the area. It’s often a stop for visitors on their first, last or a non-park day when a little change of pace is called for.
Split into three sections – Marketplace, Pleasure Island, and West Side – everyone in the family will find something of interest, from a five story interactive arcade called DisneyQuest, to a variety of shops featuring Disney merchandise and more. Dining is also a big part of Downtown Disney, with a number of different cuisines represented, and live entertainment is regularly featured at a number of locations throughout the district.
The Marketplace was the first section of present day Downtown Disney to open, first welcoming guests back in 1975. Along with several restaurants, shoppers will find the huge World of Disney Store here, along with a variety of other Disney and non-Disney stores. A marina is also located at the Marketplace, as well as a carousel and miniature train ride for small children.
The second section to open was Pleasure Island, debuting in 1989. Originally built with several clubs to compete with downtown Orlando hotspots, the area has shifted focus in recent years to more dining and shopping locations.
West Side is the most recent expansion of Downtown Disney, opening in 1997. The West Side is home to DisneyQuest, the five-story interactive arcade, a 24 screen AMC theater, and La Nouba by Cirque du Soleil, along with several shops and restaurants.
Learn more about Downtown Disney, from how to get around to details on all of the shops, attractions and more using the links on the upper right of this page.