Exploring Downtown Disney

What with the Magic Kingdom Theme Park, Epcot Centre, Disney’s Hollywood Studio’s attractions, two water parks and the Animal Kingdom, you would think that there couldn’t possibly be much else to see and do within Disney World Orlando. This thought however, is incorrect.

At the Disney World resorts in Orlando, Florida there is the constant buzz of activity and the Downtown Disney Area is of no exception. As a constant hive of activity, Disney’s Downtown area is constantly alive with entertainment, dining facilities and a complete shop till you drop atmosphere.

The Downtown Disney Area makes for a great place to visit after your busy day exploring the many other offerings that Disney World Orlando has to offer. Perhaps you’ve had an educational day at the Epcot Theme Park, or you’ve simply spent a lazy day by the pool, either way, pay a visit to the Downtown area in the evening and wind down with some of the finest entertainment experiences the world has ever showcased.

Perfect for couples or the whole family, the Downtown Disney Area is divided into three distinct sections; Downtown Disney West Side, Downtown Disney Market Place and the well-known Pleasure Island. The entire Downtown Disney Area is an ever changing environment. There is always something new and exciting to discover, and a twenty four hour, seven day a week schedule means you won’t ever feel as though you have nothing to do.

Downtown Disney’s West Side boasts some of the most fabulous restaurants, a twenty four hour movie theatre and a host of quaint little shops and uncommon boutiques. The main attraction to this part of Downtown Disney however has to be the extravaganza that is the Cirque Du Soleil. A must see entertainment spectacle this world famous act is nothing short of phenomenal. Along with lavish sets, outstanding choreography, stimulating lighting and exciting music, the La Nouba show headlines a stunning array of mesmerizing high wire and flying trapezes, world class acro-gymnastic performances and other energetic displays of human coordination and strength. Another great must see attraction in this part of the resort is the DisneyQuest interactive, indoor theme park, there truly is nothing like it anywhere else in the world. Offering a one of a kind gaming experience, this theme park is great for the kids and adults alike. Set over five floors the DisneyQuest theme park boasts the very best in technology and virtual reality and 3D experiences. There is also the opportunity to go back in time and play with some of the older style video games and consoles.

The Downtown Disney Marketplace provides a great place to escape from the noise and screams of the Disney Theme Parks and Water Parks. It’s the perfect place to slowly meander around and soak up the incredible atmosphere. The Marketplace is home to the largest Disney character merchandise store in the world, so if it’s Disney memorabilia you are after, this is certainly the place to get it. With everything from magnets to cuddly toys and music, you are guaranteed to find something that will remind you of your fabulous Disney World holiday in Orlando, Florida. After you’ve taken the time to examine all the offerings within the Disney Character store, why not unwind with an exquisite dinner at a lakeside restaurant.

Pleasure Island, which is located in the Downtown Disney Area, underwent some amazing transformations in 2011. The new Pleasure Island area is now more exciting than ever. With its mix of dining and shopping experiences, this is the one area you will not want to miss. Having everything from authentic Irish pubs and bars to world class dining facilities, this part of Disney World Orlando has something to please practically everybody.

If you have had a busy and action packed day in one of the many Disney theme parks there is no doubt at all that you are going to be hungry. Eating and dining in the Downtown Disney Area is an experience in itself. With ever type of food available that you could possibly imagine, the food courts and restaurants are sure to indulge even the fussiest of eaters. As well as a number of fast food style diners, there is an enticing parade of restaurants offering regional, ethnic and cultured brilliance. Most of the many diners and restaurants are well situated to give you an exquisite panoramic view of the Buena Vista Lagoon while others provide live entertainment or encompass themselves with children’s play areas like at the ever popular T-Rex and rainforest café.

As you can see, there is certainly more the Disney World Orlando than thrilling theme park rides and exciting water parks. The Downtown Disney Area offers its visitors a welcome break from all the excitement and noise that comes along with certain parts of the resort. As the perfect place to wind down and relax after an action packed day, the Downtown Disney Area is another site that is most certainly cannot be missed.