As a young family on a budget looking for super fun things to do, one of our favorite destinations for a day out is Disney Springs at Walt Disney World! From free parking and entry, to artistic expressions and engaging activities, shopping, dining and more – you can make magical memories for any budget. Here’s how my family had the perfect morning out at Disney Springs for under $40.
Art Walk: A Canvas of Expression
Our first stop was to one of Disney Springs’ hidden gems – the Art Walk! With over 20 vibrant murals depicting the culture and heritage of featured artists, these displays are like a walking art gallery to enjoy in the sunshine. We visited one of the newest installations, Against All Odds by Brandon Hill, created for the recent Celebrate Soulfully celebrations for Black History Month!
Joffrey’s Coffee and Tea Company
As a lover of all things caffeinated, a visit to Joffrey’s was an absolute must to start our day. The specialty coffee of Walt Disney World, this Florida-based small business packs big flavor and always has fresh, seasonal offerings. I ordered the Frozen Cappuccino Dream with Caramel and I should have ordered a second. My drink for one quickly became a drink for two once my husband had a taste!
The LEGO Store
Okay – The LEGO Store has to be one of my new favorite places to take my daughter at Disney Springs. Not only do they have interactive stations near the store entrance where kids can tinker with LEGOs and race LEGO cars to their hearts content – but they can also make mini figures of their very own with the LEGO Minifigure Factory!
This experience was SO fun! While we talked her through the process, we let Eden fully design and customize her minifig as she saw fit. From the clothes she created to selecting the perfect hair and accessories to match, I loved seeing her creativity and excitement shine through as she and daddy designed her character… even if it was a sea witch named Jekyll.
Mom tip: Appointments are required for this experience! I recommend signing up at least one week in advance.
Marketplace Carousel & Marketplace Train Express
You can experience a touch of Magic Kingdom right at Disney Springs with a ride on a miniature carousel and kids-sized train. Each ride is $5, and the best part is that one parent can ride with their child for free. Eden loved choosing her own horse on the carousel, and when I asked her why she was smiling so much she said it felt like she was flying!
BONUS: Sassagoula River Cruise and Beignets at Port Orleans French Quarter
After strolling the sights at Disney Springs we wrapped up our day with a 15-minute boat ride, courtesy of complimentary resort water transportation, to Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter for a taste of their famous beignets. Drifting through the canals was so relaxing, and it was even better knowing Mickey beignets dipped in caramel sauce were waiting on the other side. Eden loved spotting the birds and waving at the passengers of other boats (and the amphicars!) we met along the way.
Mom tip: Speaking of complimentary transportation – did you know as an extra perk guests staying at Walt Disney World Hotels have access to free bus transportation to take them to and from Disney Springs?
Our three hours at Disney Springs showed us what this destination does best – delivering memorable experiences that are the perfect blend of entertainment and value. Eden STILL carries her LEGO creation everywhere she goes and asks when we can take another boat ride.
The best part is that there are so many options and fun things to do, every visit is different! Maybe our next trip will involve a morning flight on the world’s largest hand-painted helium balloon at Aerophile, a quick game of bowling at Splitsville Luxury Lanes or a thrilling performance of Drawn to Life Presented by Cirque du Soleil and Disney! For families looking to add extra magic to their day, Disney Springs is the perfect place to visit.
