If you live in or visit the Central Florida area and are looking for something to do during the holiday season, a visit to Disney Springs at Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando might just be perfect for your family! I recently had the chance to explore all that Disney Springs has to offer, as part of a hosted (and complimentary) media tour provided by Walt Disney World. There is SO much to do at Disney Springs that you could spend an entire day (or more) there. I loved seeing the holiday decor, browsing the stores, and sampling a bit of the food selections from various restaurants. It was beautiful to see Disney Springs at night, but equally nice when I went back for a day trip with my family during Thanksgiving weekend. (My mom had not been in years and was astounded by the many changes since she had last visited!) Let’s see the many ways you can celebrate the holidays at Disney Springs!
Celebrate the Holidays at Disney Springs: 7 Ways for Families to Have Fun!
1. Christmas Tree Trail
Sure you’ve seen Christmas trees decorated before, but can you imagine an entire trail of them, each with their own Disney theme? The Christmas Tree Trail is fun for Disney fans young and old, as you walk through “snow” and browse the individual trees with themes from various Disney characters or stories.
2. Santa’s Chalet
Along the Christmas Tree Trail, you’ll have an opportunity to meet with Santa and take photos. The great thing is that instead of waiting in line, you’ll need to sign up ahead of time and will receive a mobile text message when it’s time to head to the queue! This means you can continue exploring Disney Springs while you wait. (Tip: Start heading back near the expected time of your text message so you can already be in the area when you receive your text and meet Santa as close to your time as possible.)
3. Holiday Shopping
With over 100 shopping options available at Disney Springs, you’ll have no problem getting some holiday shopping done! From our favorites World of Disney and Star Wars Galactic Outpost, to the beautiful finds at the new Ever After Jewelry Co. & Accessories and unique selections at Lefty’s and LittleMissMatched, you’ll have lots to shop! Be sure to check out the Disney Springs gift guide for specials and offers from various stores!
4. Stitch’s Holiday Gift Hunt
Your little ones will enjoy hunting for items on Stitch’s lost list as you walk through and explore the holiday offerings at Disney Springs. Simply pick up a gift hunt booklet at various locations throughout Disney Springs to start their journey!
5. Spectacular Dining
The only problem you’ll have with dining at Disney Springs is choosing from the vast selection of restaurants and dining spots! There are just way too many choices, from quick bites to full dining experiences you may want to reserve for a kid-free night.
6. Holiday Photos at Disney PhotoPass Service Studio
A new-to-me experience, the Disney PhotoPass Service Studio is fun and great for families who wish to avoid the “who’s going to take the photo?” game. Simply walk in (no reservation needed) and have your photos taken by a Disney photographer with digital backgrounds of your choice. You do not need to purchase prints on the spot, so you can add your photos to a PhotoPass card, link them to a My Disney Experience account, or purchase Memory Maker for unlimited digital downloads!
7. Family Entertainment
From bowling at Splitsville Luxury Lanes, enjoying a movie at the AMC Movie theater, or catching a Cirque du Soleil La Nouba show before its last show December 31 to (free) live concerts and stage shows on the Marketplace Stage, there are many family-friendly entertainment options at Disney Springs to choose from!
Celebrate the holidays at Disney Springs! You’ll love taking a trip with your family as there’s plenty to do for everyone. It’s beautifully decorated and it’s a fun way to spend a day or evening this holiday season.
Have you visited Disney Springs lately? Will your family celebrate the holidays at Disney Springs with a day trip to explore all they have to offer?
All photos © Melanie Edwards/modernmami™, except where noted. Complimentary items received during media tour of Disney Springs. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Courtnee says
This is a fantastic post, Melanie! Thank you so much for sharing.
Melanie Edwards says
So glad you enjoyed it!