Walt Disney World Downtown Disney’s re-branding to Disney Springs became official in late September. This month we’re going to focus on some of the shopping and entertainment district’s features, starting with these 5 things we think are pretty phenomenal!
Over the past year or so, Walt Disney World Resort has been in the process of re-branding and expanding its entertainment and shopping district, Downtown Disney. While much of the construction is complete, the project will continue to develop into 2016. However, in late September the new name became official, and Guests to the Most Magical Place on Earth can now visit Disney Springs!
As with any Disney destination, the venue, of course, has a back story. In this case, the name Disney Springs pulls from Florida’s rich history and natural appeal, with the idea being that this “town” originated around some natural springs dating back to the 1800s. Like Florida’s fabled fountain of youth, modern amenities fill the area and bring a rejuvenation the district!
We’ll be further exploring Disney Springs throughout the month of November, but here are 5 things we think are pretty phenomenal about this newly improved part of Walt Disney World Resort:
- Disney Springs will consist of 4 unique, outdoor neighborhoods. This will effectually create a an intimate feel. With each locale having a bonding theme, it will make the Springs seem less touristy and more homelike.
- Disney Springs will be home to +150 shops, making it easy for Guests to find whatever it is they’re looking for, whether it’s that special Walt Disney World souvenir, trendy surf style attire, or simply a pair of socks!
- Disney Springs will feature 30 restaurants and eateries, and many will comply with the Disney Dining Plan. Spend a few hours or stay all day, and you won’t go hungry. New restaurants that have recently joined the lineup include The Boathouse, The Landing: Jock Lindsey’s Hanger Bar, and Morimoto Asia.
- Disney Springs will have 2 parking garages. I know not every visitor will appreciate this, but those who drive their own vehicles or who live locally are absolutely thrilled to see this parking relief come to fruition. And the best part is that they are “smart structures,” with green lights hanging over open parking spaces and red lights over occupied spots. There are also digital signs displaying the number of open slots on each level. There they go bringing Disney magic to even mundane things like parking lots
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- Disney Springs has a dedicated exit from I-4 that takes drivers directly into the Orange parking garage. Again, this may not appeal to everyone, but it’s huge progress and makes it so much easier for Guests driving in from other areas.
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Today’s Takeaway:
As we stated above, when Disney Springs is completed sometime in 2016, there will be over 150 shops to explore. Today, help your children understand and appreciate the value of the dollar.
United States dollar bills measure approximately 2-1/2 inches by 6 inches. Make play money by cutting out green construction paper rectangles with those dimensions. Decorate your currency as you desire. Maybe instead of George Washington, you might draw Mickey Mouse, or place a sticker in the center.
Assign varying amounts to your “dollars” and arrange them in stacks. You may also want to create coins using gray construction paper for quarters, dimes and nickels, and orange for pennies. To make “coins,” simply trace the shape and cut it out.
While the children are busy making money (haha!), have one parent place Post-it Note pricetags on vaious items in your home. Give each child $100 in play money. Discuss with them the things you buy when you grocery shop or shop for souvenirs or other necessities. Ask them to list things they think they would need or want. Then send them shopping in your “store.”
Let them shop one time without much assistance to see if they can purchase all their items with their $100. How’d they do? Take time to discuss estimating costs and budgeting. Help them rework their lists and give it another try.
SCHOOL SUBJECT: Economics
SKILL LEVEL: Elementary
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The post 5 Phenomenal Features of Walt Disney World’s Disney Springs originally appeared on Magical Mouse Schoolhouse. Think outside the textbook and expand your home classroom with Walt Disney entertainment! ©2012 Magical Mouse Schoolhouse