On Thursday, Walt Disney World revealed its plans to revamp Downtown Disney, transforming it into Disney Springs, a destination reminiscent of early 20th-century lakeside towns in Florida. This multi-year project aims to revitalize the area.
Tom Staggs, Chairman of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts, stated that the goal for Disney Springs is to create a welcoming and comfortable environment where families can spend quality time together and feel at home. He emphasized the importance of offering relaxation, entertainment, unique shopping experiences, and world-class dining, all centered around a story that showcases Disney’s renowned creativity and place-making abilities.
The last expansion of the area was in 1997. Disney Springs will feature four distinct neighborhoods: Town Center (with shops, a promenade, and dining options), The Landing (a commercial area with dining and waterfront views), Marketplace (which will include an expanded World of Disney store), and West Side (home to entertainment and overlook areas). This area, like the current Downtown Disney, will be located outside of the parks and will not require an admission fee.
The design and atmosphere of the renovation are inspired by small Florida towns from the turn of the century and Disney’s historical connections to the state. Staggs mentioned that Walt Disney’s parents met and married in the now-defunct town of Kismet, Florida, in 1888.
Staggs explained that the narrative of Disney Springs involves it developing around natural springs in Central Florida, eventually becoming a thriving community. The goal is for guests to feel immediately at home.
Key features of the new destination include:
- Town Center: A sophisticated mix of shopping and dining with a promenade for guests to relax and reconnect.
- The Landing: A vibrant commercial district with inspired dining and beautiful waterfront views.
- Marketplace: A family-friendly area that combines new experiences, such as an over-the-water pedestrian causeway, with classic Disney favorites, including an expanded World of Disney store.
- West Side: An energetic area with lively entertainment and elevated spaces providing shade and overlooks to the activities below.
Construction will begin next month, with Disney Springs opening in phases and expected to be completed by 2016. This new development will also create 4,000 new jobs.
Below, Imagineer Kathy Magnum and Tom Staggs, Chair of Disney Parks & Resorts, provide an overview of the model for Disney Springs, which uses digital projection to animate the model from day to night, aiding in attracting tenants to the newly named development.