Downtown Disney

[UTgirl]

We've never ventured over to Downtown Disney before. Is it worth taking time from the parks or your resort/pool - and what are the best things to do with two small boys (7 and 2)?

 

[marconat]

Downtown is a wonderful place, there are lots of great shops (Disney store is one of the best)... I love that place and my kids love it too... last time I was there my daughter was 4 and son was 8 and they both enjoyed it very much.. here is what I found on allearsnet.com that I think your kids will enjoy, hope this helps:

Goofy's Candy Company opened Spring 2005 in an expanded form in the former Disney at Home store. The new shop features an interactive show kitchen filled with unique and tasty confections.

LEGO Imagination Center -- From the makers of the world's best-selling construction toys, the LEGO Imagination Center showcases LEGO models that include a larger-than-life dinosaur family, a 30-foot sea serpent, an alien family with spaceship and a group of construction workers "building" the store. Great photo opportunities!

Once Upon A Toy - A great store for kids of all ages! New Disney-themed offerings, popular Hasbro items, and classic games and toys with a Walt Disney World twist. Mr. Potato Head with colorful Disney theme park accessories, a version of the classic detective game Clue set inside Disney's Haunted Mansion attraction, Lincoln Logs, Play Dough, Star Tours action figures from the "Star Wars"-inspired attraction and more. There is even an automated package delivery kiosk to expedite service at the cash register.

World of Disney -- The largest Disney character merchandise store with just about anything Mickey Mouse you can think of! The World of Disney store is HUGE! It is very easy to get separated and/or lost in the store. Keep close watch of your children. When you enter, pick out a landmark so you can more easily find your way out.


The Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique now also offers a boys' experience called "Cool Dude." Cool Dude offers hair styling, colored gels/sparkles and Mickey stencils for young men looking to enhance their appearance.

All this still does not give it any justice... so just go for a stroll, so much surprises there, have fun!

 

[jjoobrien]

DH and I went (w/out dd) in May of 2005. We had a nice date night out at downtown disney, but didn't see where it was all that for a family affair. But, maybe nice for older children, but we just have one toddler and I would vote for a hit or miss. However, if you have some shopping in mind, then this may be the place to hit up so you don't have to carry everything around with you in the parks. You will find the exact same stuff here at downtown disney.

 

[Desnik]

jjoobrien
Were you just at Pleasure Island and the West Side? If so then I get what you are saying and agree. But that is not true for the Marketplace. It is so kid/family friendly.
Legoland, Once upon a toystore, the World Of Disney store, Rainforest Cafe, Carosel(sp?), train ride, and so much more. It is great and we never go to WDW without spending time here. There are great restaurants, and a cute shop where everything is under $10! Icecream and candy, boats to rent during the day. I think it's definately worth a visit. Maybe spend the morning/afternoon at your resort swimming. Then head over to DtD, rent a boat, go to dinner, let the kids ride the trai, carosel, then explore all the shops. My kids could stay in the Lego place forever. Lot's of hands on stuff and an outside slide/play area. Also lot's of cool things made out of legos, like people, dogs and the serpent in the water. Really cool looking. the toy store is great too. But nothing compares to the World of Disney store. It is huge and the kids will get a kick out of it. There's even a new pirate theme room.
One of the reasons we are staying at SSR this trip is because we will be so close to DtD, we can walk there. In the off season when the parks close early it's a great way to spend the evening.
Have fun!

 

[katiesmom2]

If I remember correctly, there is a carousel. There is definitely a little mini-train ride. Our DD rode it last year.

We always visit Downtown Disney. I personally wouldn't take time from a park or pool to do it though. We always go in the evening, after dinner and before bedtime. It's the perfect way to end the day.