🎄 46 Days to Go! Why I’m Dreaming of Disney Springs This Holiday Season

Okay, so call me crazy—but by this time of year, I usually have a good chunk of my Christmas shopping done. Yes, I’m that person who thrives on checking off gift lists before the holidays even fully swing into gear. Why? Because I want to enjoy the season. When I’m running around like a lunatic trying to find “just one more thing,” the magic starts to slip away.

And even though our next Disney trip isn’t until December, all this holiday prep has me seriously missing one of my favorite places on Earth: Disney Springs.

🛍️ Why Do People Skip Disney Springs?!

Random rant segue—can we talk about how many people go to Walt Disney World and never visit Disney Springs? It blows my mind! It’s one of my favorite rest-day spots and a perfect place to start or end a resort-hopping adventure. Between the shopping, dining, and entertainment, I feel hard-pressed to skip it. In fact, when we were in Orlando last July for my daughter’s dance nationals, we made not one but two separate trips to Disney Springs. That’s how much we love it.

There’s just something about being in the Disney bubble that feels safe. On our first non-Disney Orlando trip, I’ll admit—I was a little nervous. But the moment we stepped into the bubble, it was like a cozy blanket of comfort wrapped around us. Everything felt better.

🛒 Retail Therapy, Disney Style

So what makes Disney Springs so special? Let’s start with the shopping. It’s home to the largest World of Disney store (yes, really!) and a whopping 93 retailers. Many are your hometown favorites with a sprinkle of Disney magic—hello, Lululemon, I see you! If you’ve ever wondered whether Disney gets its money’s worth on merchandise, a stroll through Disney Springs will confirm it.

🍴 Foodie Heaven

But it’s not just about the shopping. Disney Springs boasts over 70 food options, and I’ve got favorites. One of my top picks? The Polite Pig —

thank you, Jamie, for nudging me to try it! And don’t sleep on the food trucks. The 4 Rivers Cantina Barbacoa Food Truck is drool-worthy. I know, I know—food trucks at Disney? Sounds cringy. But trust me, you won’t be disappointed.

One spot I’m beyond excited to try on our next trip is Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar. Not only are the reviews stellar, but they transform it into a holiday-themed bar for the Christmas season—and this girl lives for a good Christmas experience!

🎶 More Than Just Shopping and Snacks

Of course, Disney Springs wouldn’t be Disney without entertainment. There are over 20 entertainment options, from outdoor concerts and hot air balloon rides to movie theaters, bowling, and even a photo shoot at the Disney PhotoPass Studio.

If you’re using Memory Maker, I highly recommend stopping by. Even my grumpy, non-Disney-loving husband enjoyed it—and that’s saying something!

So while I sit here in chilly Minnesota, dreaming of the shopping I could be doing if I were at Disney Springs, I want to hear from you:

What’s your favorite pastime at Disney Springs—the unofficial 7th Disney Park? 😉