More Walt Disney World Resort Stories

Disney Parks Blog Weekly Recap Mar. 17, 2013

Thomas Smith

by , Editorial Content Director, Disney Experiences

We shared several big announcements on the Disney Parks Blog this week, including exciting plans for Disney Springs, our multi-year transformation of Downtown Disney at the Walt Disney World Resort.

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla., March 12, 2013 – Downtown Disney is undergoing a multi-year transformation, representing the largest expansion in its history. The renamed Disney Springs (as shown in this conceptual model) will double the number of shopping, dining and entertainment experiences, and feature an eclectic and contemporary mix from Disney and other noteworthy brands.

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Announcing Disney Springs at Walt Disney World Resort

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla., March 12, 2013 – With a flowing spring as a centerpiece, Disney Springs will feature four outdoor neighborhoods including the two shown in an artist’s conceptual rendering. The Town Center (lower portion of the image) will offer one-of-a-kind shopping and dining experiences along a promenade while The Landing (upper portion of the image) will include inspired dining and beautiful waterfront views.
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla., March 12, 2013 – Inviting and infused with character, Disney Springs will feature four outdoor neighborhoods including The Landing (as shown in this conceptual rendering) which offers inspired dining, retail and beautiful waterfront views.
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla., March 12, 2013 – As part of Disney Springs, the family-friendly Marketplace (as shown in this conceptual rendering) will continue to delight guests of all ages and include new experiences, such as an over-the-water pedestrian causeway.
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla., March 12, 2013 – Disney Springs will blend the familiar with the unexpected throughout its four outdoor neighborhoods including the West Side (as shown in this conceptual rendering) which will provide an exuberant atmosphere with lively entertainment, along with a series of new elevated spaces that provide both shade and an overlook to the activity below.
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla., March 12, 2013 – Downtown Disney is undergoing a multi-year transformation, representing the largest expansion in its history. The renamed Disney Springs (as shown in this conceptual model) will double the number of shopping, dining and entertainment experiences, and feature an eclectic and contemporary mix from Disney and other noteworthy brands.
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla., March 12, 2013 – Along with an eclectic and contemporary mix from Disney and other noteworthy brands, Disney Springs (as shown in this conceptual rendering) will feature a new gateway with a signature water tower and grand entry.
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When work is complete, Disney Springs will expand from 75 to more than 150 shopping, dining and entertainment venues, featuring some of the world’s most iconic brands and restaurants. Check Tom Staggs’ original story for more Disney Springs details, including information about each planned district.

“Opa!

And we also announced Opa! A Celebration of Greece, that’ll feature music, dance, art, food, history and more at “it’s a small world” Mall in Disneyland park and Paradise Gardens in Disney California Adventure park. The festivities begin May 25 at the Disneyland Resort. Erin’s original Opa! A Celebration of Greece story has a nice rundown of what’s planned.

Here are some of the other stories we worked on this week.

‘Limited Time Magic’ Disney Character ‘Egg’ Hunt Begins Next Week at Disney Parks – “Limited Time Magic” brings a special “egg” hunt to Disney Parks next week!

Explore the Musical Worlds of Disney When ‘Mickey and the Magical Map’ Opens at Disneyland Park May 25 – An all-new live show, “Mickey and the Magical Map,” is set to open May 25 at the Fantasyland Theatre in Disneyland park.

A Villain and Hero Highlight ‘Star Wars’ Weekends 2013 in Weekend I and Weekend II and a First Look at the 2013 Event Logo – Gary Buchanan shares the 2013 Star Wars Weekends logo and several celebrity appearances for this year.

Vote Now to Decide Which Long-Lost Disney Friends Visit the Disneyland Resort for ‘Limited Time Magic’ – Vote now on the Disney Parks Blog for which long-lost Disney characters you want to meet at Disneyland park as part of “Limited Time Magic!”

Hear Ye, Hear Ye! Fantasy Faire Now Open at Disneyland Park – Fantasy Faire opened this week at Disneyland park! Take a look at all the fun and magic waiting for you in this post.

It’s Baaack! Taste of Hollywood to Go with Fantasmic! Seats March 25-April 4 at Disney’s Hollywood Studios – Taste of Hollywood to Go returns for spring break! Find out how you can have a quick, delicious meal and reserve seats for Fantasmic! too.

Destinations: Walt Disney World Resort

Topics: Star Wars at Disney Parks