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Disney Springs, located in the heart of the Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida, is a captivating destination that offers a myriad of entertainment, dining, and shopping experiences for visitors of all ages. However, one of the essential aspects of planning a visit to this bustling entertainment district is ensuring convenient and stress-free parking. Navigating the various parking options at Disney Springs can be crucial to your overall experience. In this guide, we will explore the different parking facilities, give tips for a seamless parking experience, and provide everything you need to know to make the most of your visit to this enchanting destination. Whether you’re a local looking for a fun day out or a vacationer seeking a memorable experience, understanding the ins and outs of parking at Disney Springs is your first step toward a magical adventure.
Significant sections of Disney Springs
Ultimately, four major sections make up Disney Springs: the West Side, The Landing, the Town Center, and the Marketplace. It is imperative to understand these different areas as they will impact how you plan your day and could even determine where you park your car.
West Side
The West Side is an area that was once part of Downtown Disney and eventually a part of Disney Springs. The West Side has many infamous restaurants and an entertainment complex. The area even includes a bowling alley and a movie theater.
The Landing
The Landing, formerly known as Pleasure Island before the transition to Disney Springs, is an excellent spot for adults.
Town Center
Town Center is a new area of Disney Springs that was not a part of Downtown Disney. This section offers the waterfront towns overlooking Lake Buena Vista, over 30 shops, and many dining options. Restaurants in this section show the best view of Lake Buena Vista.
Marketplace
The Marketplace is the most family-friendly area that was a part of Downtown Disney before the switch to Disney Springs. This section is home to the most popular shops at Disney Springs, like the Lego Store and Mouse Gears.
Parking Options:
There are many different parking options offered at Disney Springs. There are three parking garages: the Orange, Lime, and Grapefruit Garage.
Parking Rates and Discounts:
Unlike the theme parks at Disney World, Disney Springs offers free parking garages for guests to enjoy. If you cannot park the car, there is a valet parking option for $20.
Parking Tips and Strategies:
Discover helpful tips and strategies for finding the best parking spot, navigating the parking areas, and maximizing your visit. As previously mentioned, understanding the different areas and layout of Disney Springs is vital. If you can map out your day efficiently, this will help you decide which garage you should park your car in.
Orange Garage
This garage is perfect for guests looking for easy access to the West Side, the western ends of the Town Center, and The Landing. Choosing this garage will offer the closest spots to significant destinations like AMC Theater, the Coca Cola Store, Planet Hollywood, and Splitsville.
Lime/Grapefruit Garage
This garage is perfect for guests looking to enjoy the Marketplace first at Disney Springs or the east end of Town Center and The Landing. Some of the most popular locations in these areas are the World of Disney, the Lego Store, T-Rex Cafe, and the Disney Marketplace Co-Op. The Grapefruit Garage is also close to these locations, just a little further away from the Lime Garage, as it is directly across Buena Vista Drive.
Transportation Options:
There are many different transportation options offered at Disney Springs, such as shuttle services, buses, and rideshare options within this section.
Disney Springs Bus Service
Disney Springs offers bus transport services like the theme parks and Disney Resorts. Buses will run between Disney Springs and the Disney Resorts. They will also run from the Disney Theme parks to Disney Springs free after 4 p.m., but they will not run to the theme parks. The Disney Springs drop-off location is known as the Marketplace bus loop, located near the Coca Cola store, in between the Orange and Lime Garages.
Disney Springs Boats
A unique option for guests at a few specific resorts would be to use the boat to visit Disney Springs. The boats will dock on the West Side and The Landing at Disney Springs for guests staying at Saratoga Springs Resort and Old Key West Resort. Those departing from Port Orleans French Quarter And Port Orleans Riverside will dock at the Marketplace in Disney Springs.
Additional boats will operate within Disney Springs and take guests to the different docks throughout Disney Springs.
Ride Sharing
Many people like to avoid the worry of parking in the garages and getting dropped off by using a ride-sharing app like Uber or Lyft or just a regular taxi when visiting Disney Springs. This option has two designated parking areas: the far west side of Disney Springs (located near the Cirque du Soleil building) and the bus stop on the east side near Wolfgang Puck Express.
Parking for Guests with Disabilities:
Disney Springs, like other Disney properties, provides accessible parking options for guests with disabilities to ensure a comfortable and convenient experience. Here are some critical points regarding parking for guests with disabilities at Disney Springs:
Accessible Parking Spaces
Disney Springs has designated accessible parking spaces available in various parking lots and garages. These spaces are located close to entrances and are designed to accommodate vehicles with the appropriate permits or tags.
Disability Parking Permits
To use accessible parking spaces at Disney Springs, guests must have a valid disability parking permit or license plate. This includes permits for individuals with disabilities or disabled veterans.
Van-Accessible Spaces
Some accessible parking spaces at Disney Springs are marked explicitly as “van-accessible” spaces, designed to accommodate larger vehicles, including wheelchair-accessible vans.
Drop-Off Areas
In addition to accessible parking spaces, Disney Springs provides drop-off areas near entrances for guests with disabilities. These areas are ideal for dropping off or picking up individuals with difficulty walking long distances.
Transportation Assistance
If you require further assistance getting from the parking area to Disney Springs, you can contact a Disney Cast Member for help. They can provide information on available transportation options and assist you as needed.
Wheelchair and ECV Rentals
Inside Disney Springs, you can also find wheelchair and Electric Convenience Vehicle (ECV) rentals to accommodate guests with mobility challenges.
Complimentary Transportation
Disney offers complimentary transportation services between Disney Springs and various Disney Resort hotels. This can be especially helpful for guests who prefer to avoid driving or requiring mobility assistance.
It’s important to note that Disney Springs is committed to making the experience as accessible and enjoyable as possible for all guests, including those with disabilities. Suppose you have questions or require additional information regarding accessible parking or services. In that case, you can contact Disney Guest Services or visit the official Disney World website for the latest details and updates on their accessibility services.
Parking Rules and Regulations:
Familiarize yourself with the rules and regulations governing parking at Disney Springs to ensure a hassle-free visit.
Parking Areas
Disney Springs has several parking lots and garages, such as the Orange Garage, Lime Garage, Grapefruit Garage, and regular parking lots. Each has entrances and might have spaces for larger vehicles or people with disabilities.
Parking Hours
Disney Springs parking lots usually open in the morning and close after the last show or event. The exact times can vary, so checking the schedule is a good idea.
No Overnight Parking
You can only park your vehicle after a while at Disney Springs. The parking spaces are meant for daytime use only. If you’re staying at a Disney Resort hotel, you can use their transportation to get to Disney Springs.
Validation
Some restaurants and shops at Disney Springs might help you with parking costs. They could reduce or even remove your parking fees. Just ask them if they offer this service.
Remember that parking rules might change, so always check the latest information on the official Walt Disney World website or sign up at Disney Springs for the most up-to-date guidelines.
Parking Security and Safety:
Learn about security measures and safety protocols to protect your vehicle and belongings while parked at Disney Springs.
Parking and Event Days:
To plan accordingly, find out how Disney Springs handles parking during special events, holidays, and peak seasons. This is essential for a smooth experience when visiting Disney Springs.
Arrival Time
Arriving early when visiting Disney Springs is wise to ensure a parking spot. Parking lots tend to fill up swiftly, so plan to arrive well before the event begins.
Follow Event Signs
Look for event signage and follow the directions provided. Disney usually offers clear guidance to designated parking areas for each event.
Parking Fees
Depending on the event and Disney’s current policies, there may be fees for event parking. It’s essential to check the official Disney World website or event details for parking fee information at Disney Springs.
Valet Parking
If available, consider using valet parking services. Valet parking can be very convenient, particularly on busy event days when parking lots are crowded at Disney Springs.
Accessibility
Disney Springs continues to provide accessible parking options on event days. Look for designated accessible parking spaces near event entrances. Ensure you have the required disability parking permits or tags.
Rideshare Services
To avoid parking hassles, use rideshare services like Uber or Lyft. Disney Springs typically has designated pickup and drop-off areas for rideshares.
Alternate Transportation
Are you staying at a Disney Resort hotel or nearby? Consider using complimentary Disney transportation services to reach Disney Springs. This can reduce the need for event parking.
Planning Ahead
Review event details and parking information before attending an event at Disney Springs. The official Disney World website or event-specific communications offer the most up-to-date details, allowing you to plan accordingly for your trip to Disney Springs.
Please note that parking procedures and policies for events at Disney Springs can change. Therefore, always consult the latest information Disney or event organizers provided to ensure you have the most current details for your visit.
Conclusion
In summary, parking at Disney Springs is designed to be convenient and accessible for all visitors. You have different parking options, including garages and lots. There are unique spaces for people with disabilities, and some restaurants or shops might help you with parking costs. Just be aware that rules and fees can change, so check for the latest information on Disney’s website or when you arrive. Enjoy your visit!
