Florida

Dining at Disney Springs is a foodie’s dream. Allow us to provide you with our take for the best restaurants in Disney Springs, Florida.

Formerly known as Downtown Disney, the Disney Springs entertainment district has today transformed into a culinary hub offering visitors a diverse range of dining experiences, from fine dining to casual eateries, and from an array of distinctive food trucks to themed hideaways and decadent desserts. Cuisines cover everything from classic American comfort food to international flavors: whether you’re seeking a romantic dinner, a family-friendly option, a relaxed meal with live music, or simply a quick bite to eat, you’ll be sure to find it here at Disney Springs.

And oh! the chefs! Talk about taking creativity to the next level! From celebrity-owned restaurants to hidden gems (don’t worry, we will tell you about some of them…), you’ll find most dishes are made with locally-sourced, high-quality, fresh ingredients – and there are so many options available to you that you’ll be able to try something new each time you set foot in Disney Springs!

And one of the best things (aside the fact that Disney Springs is free to visit, of course!)? You don’t even have to be a huge Disney fan (yes Beck, we’re looking at you, kid!) – or even planning a Disney vacation at all – to enjoy what the Springs have to offer. That being said, Disney Springs often forms a part of many Disney fans’ visits to Orlando – and knowing how to navigate the plethora of dining options can be just as important as planning out your visit to Animal Kingdom and any other theme park in the area.

But fear not, helping guide our fellow travelers is what we do best – so we’ve got you covered when it comes to your rumbling tummy and salivating taste buds as you enter Disney Springs. Read on, fellow gastronomers and uncover the best restaurants in Disney Springs Florida.

Quick Tips 

Here are some insider tips to help you make the most of your visit to the Disney Springs’ food scene.

• Disney Springs offers visitors an extensive mix of dining options to suit every taste and every budget.
• For a fine dining experience, consider an upscale meal at Morimoto Asia, The Boathouse or Wine Bar George.
• Dining out with family? Some superb go-tos include Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’ Kitchen, Raglan Road Irish Pub and T-Rex Café.
• Looking for a romantic getaway with a loved one? If you’ve already tried Wine Bar George and The Boathouse, then The Edison could be the next best stop for you.
• Blaze Fast-Fire’d Pizza serve up some of the best dough (yes, cauliflower dough included!) in the region.
• The Polite Pig is for those of you craving wood-fired smoked meats and southern sides, paired with local craft beers.
• Gideon’s Bakehouse is famous for its decadent half-pound cookies – you’ve at least eight different flavors to choose between each day of the week.
• To avoid crowds and long wait times, consider dining during off-peak hours.
• Reservations are recommended for most of the table-service restaurants in Disney Springs (and some of them require it).
• Before choosing your restaurant, consider any dietary needs, restrictions or personal food choices amongst those in your group.
• Not sure what to order or where to go? Consider trying something new, asking for a recommendation from your server, or looking for the signature or “must-try” items on menus.
• Save room for dessert (enough said!).

Follow these tips and you’ll be ready to enjoy the Disney Springs Restaurants and foodie heaven.

Plan Your Trip

Dining at Disney Springs: An Overview

One of the many great things about Disney Springs is that it offers visitors an extensive mix of dining options to suit every taste and every budget (yes, even Miss Food Fussy Pants Beck!), so it’s always worth adding to any Disney vacation or stay in Orlando.

From the upscale ambiance of Morimoto Asia, to the farm-to-table comfort food of Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’, every meal at Disney Springs is more than just food – it’s an experience. And for some, it may just be the best adventure you have at Walt Disney World Resort!

Let’s check out some of the options available to you as you make your way around Disney Springs. Lets determine the best restaurants in Disney Springs Florida.

Fine Dining

For a luxurious, high-end dining experience, Disney Springs affords visitors several options where you can indulge your senses (yup, all of them!) in expertly-crafted dishes in chic, sophisticated settings. If you’re into fine dining (we know this is truly Mike’s forte!), below are some of our top recommendations.

Morimoto Asia

Morimoto is owned by award-winning Masaharu Morimoto, a Japanese chef best known for his role as an Iron Chef on both the Japanese and American versions of the televised cooking show Iron Chef. Morimoto Asia serves up modern pan-Asian fusion cuisine, focusing on fresh, high-quality ingredients, using Morimoto’s unique style of food presentation.

Morimoto Asia gets excellent reviews from most guests, with praise given for the food quality, stunning and very moden main dining area, and attentive and knowledgeable staff. It can be a wonderful place to consider dining for that special occasion.

Some must-try dishes at Morimoto Asia include:

• Miso Soup (both cups and bowls are available)
• Morimoto Peking Duck (note: this dish serves two people – at least!)
• Orange Chicken Set (one of three “Course Lunch Sets” currently available – excellent value!)
• Spicy Tuna Rolls (a classic for sushi lovers!)

Are you a vino drinker (like Mike!) looking to pair your meal with a refreshing red or white wine? Morimoto Asia also stock an excellent wine selection, as well as specialty cocktails, draft beers, numerous sake options, and Morimoto signature drinks.

There’s no question: if you’re looking to try some innovative culinary experiences whilst in Orlando, then Morimoto Asia could definitely be the place for you!

Insider tip. Morimoto Asia may not be for those on a tight budget. That being said, prices are in line with typical high-end Disney restaurants, with dinner appetizers starting at US$10 and main Ramen dishes starting at US$20.

Insider tip. On a budget? For the best bang-for-your-buck, consider visiting Morimoto during lunch on a weekday.

The Boathouse

For a sophisticated dining experience – this one right on the waterfront – The Boathouse is another excellent choice.

Specializing in fresh seafood, steak and an oyster bar, this full-service restaurant with stellar service offers an award-winning menu of high-quality food made of fresh ingredients, including options for kids. They also offer private dining and event space options, including private covered outdoor waterfront dining (how cool is that?).

Some must-try dishes at The Boathouse include:

• Maine Lobster Bisque
• Firecracker Shrimp (one of their most popular appetizers!)
• Raw Bar (including fresh oysters)
• Market-fresh fish (that pan-roasted corvina sounds delicious!)
• Gibsons Heritage Steaks (there are at least six different steaks currently available on their menu)

Insider tip. For the best dining views, try to request a waterfront table at the time of reservation. If you’re making the reservation through the My Disney Experience or OpenTable app, you should be able to make your request in the “special request” or “notes” section.

Fun fact. The Boathouse also offers captain-guided tours of Lake Buena Vista in colorful vintage amphibious cars: the “Amphicar Tour”. Beck has yet to try this “ride” – but every time she sees the vehicles in the water, she giggles in childish delight … they just look so much fun! In great news, if you’re not overly hungry, you can partake in this unique water activity without dining at the restaurant itself.

Wine Bar George: A Restaurant & Bar

Are you a wine-lover like Mike? Then head on over to the Wine Bar George, a wine-lover’s paradise, located just a few steps away from the aforementioned Boathouse. Consider starting your evening here … or finishing it here … or spending the entire night here, as they serve food too!

Wine Bar George is sophisticated yet casual. It’s spacious. It’s rustic-chic. And it offers guests a diverse selection of curated wines, globally-inspired small plates (as well as family-style entrees), and patio seating. “Win-win all round!” says Mike.

Fun fact. Wine Bar George is the only wine bar in the entire state of Florida led by a Master Sommelier. All the credit here goes to George Miliotes!

Some of the stand-out dishes at Wine Bar George include:

• Saganaki on Fire (griddled Greek cheese served tableside with a flame – ladies, pull back those ponytails!)
• House-made meatballs (served with polenta and tomato sauce)
• The Big Board (as the name suggests, it’s a giant charcuterie board!)
• Crispy Mac & Cheese Bites (ask your server which wine to best pair with these!)
• Olive Oil Cake (who knew there was such a thing, eh?)

Insider tip. Not up for a full evening meal here? No worries! Check out the bar’s brunch, served every Saturday and Sunday from 10.30am to 2pm – or their “Bites and Boards”, served on weekends from 2pm-3pm.

And our drink recommendations?

• Leeuwin Estate Chardonnay (from Australia’s famed Margaret River region)
• DeToren Fusion V from South Africa or Broadside from California (both cab savs, Mike’s favorite!)
• Dole Whip frozen old-fashioned (I know, right!?)

If you’re looking for a glass of some of the finest wine from grape-growing regions around the world, then this is the place to be. Oh, and Wine Bar George also offer cocktails, spirits and beer – so if you’re visiting with wine-lovers but aren’t a fan yourself, you won’t be left out!

Insider tip. Feeling especially extravagant? Why not try Wine Bar George’s “The King’s Experience”? One ounce each of four different wines from around the world – all for the low cost of just US$260. When a bottle of the French-produced Dujac alone sells for well over US$1,000, this wine flight isn’t the worst deal you’ll find at Disney!

Insider tip. Indulge your senses in a 90-minute “Wine Experience”, led by the Master Sommelier George Miliotes himself. You’ll be offered a blind tasting of several wines, charcuterie board pairings, and an open discussion with the Master about the art of wine-tasting. Who’s in?

Fun fact. Wine Bar George offer over 200 wines by the bottle, glass or ounce. Two hundred! 

Family-Friendly Options

There are numerous restaurants at Disney Springs that offer family-friendly dining. The following – more casual – recommendations generally cater to a wide range of tastes (including the pickiest of eaters – we see you standing in line to take a seat, Beck!), and include kid-specific menus.

Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’ Kitchen

According to our waiter (Jeff) when we last visited Chef Art’s, this is the number one restaurant in the entire Walt Disney World Resort complex. We had no idea! Their farm-to-table menu is extensive and certainly covers a wide range of options, whilst still focusing primarily on traditional Southern-inspired comfort food and local ingredients.

The restaurant offers guests a bright, spacious dining area in a casual setting with superb staff – and oh, check out their range of t-shirts for sale near the front door … they’re super fun and well-priced!

Most famous for their signature fried chicken and in-house moonshine, some other must-try dishes you may wish to consider at Chef Art’s include:

• Fried Chicken & Donuts (because we mean hey, why not?)
• Jasper Board (a stacked-to-the-edges charcuterie board that includes candied pecans and grapes)
• House-made Hushpuppies (melt-in-your-mouth mmmm!)
• Harvest Salad with Grilled Chicken (Beck’s usual go-to – and she was quite impressed!)

Insider tip. Chef Art’s Rise & Shine weekend brunch is a great way to enjoy this popular restaurant’s “sunrise starters”, “shining features” (we hear the Short Rib Hash is to die for!) and infamous cocktails (the Princess Mimosa sounds like something Mike might go for, right?).

Raglan Road Irish Pub

For a popular, family-friendly Irish pub atmosphere with modern, authentic Irish cuisine, and fantastic live Celtic house bands and award-winning dancers every day of the week, Raglan Road is definitely the place to go! It’s here that you’ll be treated to a memorable experience that’s the heart-and-soul of Ireland, right in the heart of Disney Springs.

Inspired by traditional Irish flavors, this full-service restaurant offers a small menu that includes everything from Soul Soup to Shepherd’s Pie, and from classic Fish and Chips to salads. The menu isn’t overly extensive, so it may not cater to everyone’s tastes – but hopefully you can find something that takes your fancy, as the atmosphere and entertainment alone is worth a visit!

Some of the must-try dishes at Raglan Road include:

• When Ireland Dates America (a new menu addition that features a unique combination of bacon and cabbage mac and cheese bites, slaw, more bacon, and puree)
• Bangers and Mash (the classic!)
• The Slow Lamb (a hearty braised lamb stew)
• Guinness-glazed homemade Irish soda bread with olive oil dip

Insider tip. Want to down some traditional Irish drinks whilst you’re here? Consider pairing your meal with a creamy pint of Guinness, one of Raglan’s famous whiskey flights, or even one of their signature cocktails (you’ve got 14 to choose between!).

Insider tip. Raglan Road is not a gluten-free / allergen-free restaurant. They are very transparent about not being able to guarantee that their dishes have escaped any cross-contact.

T-Rex Café

Just east of Raglan Road – across the bridge, not more than a 3-minute walk away – you’ll find the expansive T-Rex Café, a dinosaur-themed restaurant serving classic American cuisine, coupled with an interactive pre-historic experience.

Kids – and yes, okay, probably some adults too! – will love the life-sized animatronic dinosaurs, simulated meteor showers, and giant woolly mammoths, as well as the dinosaur-themed retail store and an immersive “Paleo Zone”. The Paleo Zone is a highlight of any visit – especially for young budding paleontologists! This hands-on play area affords kids the opportunity to explore and learn more about prehistoric times: dig for hidden dinosaur fossils in the sandpit, pan for precious gems and stones in the water mill, and engage in educational kiosks.

With menu items given some pretty funky dinosaur-themed names, some of the must-try dishes at T-Rex Café include the following:

• Supersaurus Sampler (meatballs, wings, queso, flatbread … and more!)
• Prehistoric Pasta (the classic and a family-favorite)
• Megasaurus Burger (another American classic)
• Chocolate Extinction (a huge, decadent dessert that can serve the whole family!)

Romantic Dining

If you’re looking for a romantic meal or evening out, and you’ve already tried Wine Bar George and The Boathouse (scroll up for more information on these two excellent options!), The Edison might also be worth considering.

The Edison

The Edison is an excellent choice for a romantic date, especially in the evenings. This multi-level restaurant and bar offers guests a lavish atmosphere with live nightly entertainment – think burlesque dancers, aerialists, cabaret singers, and smooth jazz bands. Another thing we really love about The Edison? Okay, something Beck really loves about it? The unique industrial-gothic style (think 1920s abandoned power plant: industrial machinery, exposed gears, and vintage furnishings) that evokes an impression of old-world sophistication and charm.

With additional themed spaces, the setting within The Edison is warm, exciting and intimate, all at once. Ready to eat and drink the night away here? Consider some of their signature dishes, mostly featuring contemporary American fare:

• Deviled Eggs (cage-free)
• Electri-Fries (served with their famous Edison sauce)
• High-Voltage Chicken Sandwich (we love it simply for the name!)
• Short Rib (served with some sumptuous sides)
• High Roller Cocktails (including A Fire in Vermont and Desperado)

The Edison also offers a selection of core, seasonal and rotating cocktails.

Insider tip. The Edison offers a Happy Hour every weekday from 3pm-6pm.

Fun fact. Inside The Edison there are seven distinct dining and bar areas in total. They include the Gothic, Industrial, Art Nouveau, and Art Deco, to name a few.

Quick Bites and Sweet Treats

No time for a full sit-down meal? Only feeling a tad peckish but still hear your stomach rumbling? Great news, as Disney Springs also offers a host of “quick bites” and excellent fast-food-type joints to help satisfy your cravings. Below are some of the quick-service restaurants and casual options we would recommend considering during your time in Disney Springs.

Blaze Fast-Fire’d Pizza

Looking for something quick and tasty? Blaze Pizza is an excellent option! When you first walk in the door of this hip, casual, counter-service pizzeria, you’ll be asked “How do you Blaze?”. Great question! Because it’s here you’ll be afforded the opportunity to either choose one of the Blaze signature crispy thin-crust pizzas, or build one of your own – you can customize it with unlimited toppings!

Each and every pizza is made with high-quality, fresh ingredients (including creative toppings and sauces) and then cooked in an open-flame oven. Service is efficient and friendly, and all menu items are well-priced. There’s also plenty of seating available for customers, both inside and outside to suit the weather and your own preferences.

Not sure what pizza to try first? Consider one of the recommendations below:

• BBQ Chicken (Beck’s favorite! – well, minus the gorgonzola…)
• Red Vine (Mike’s favorite – a classic pizza with mozz, tomatoes, parmesan and basil)
• Pesto Garlic Cheesy Bread

… and of course, you can always build your own pizza – with unlimited toppings! Or simply go for one of Blaze’s basic side salads or dessert selections.

Insider tip. Blaze is well-known for accommodating diners with special dietary needs or restrictions. They offer a good selection of vegan crusts and toppings, as well as gluten-free and dairy-free options.

Fun fact. Blaze prepare their dough from scratch every day, with a 24-hour fermentation period. You can choose between original dough, high-rise dough, cauliflower crust, or gluten-free dough.

Fun fact. Each Blaze pizza only takes 3 minutes to cook!

The Polite Pig

Are barbecue and local craft beers your jam? Then the convenient, family-run (and family-friendly!) Polite Pig might just be the place for you. Modern and with quick service, The Polite Pig is famed for its tasty, wood-fired smoked and grilled meats and southern sides, focusing on “bringing new twists to local flavors and BBQ”.

Fun fact. The Polite Pig is family-run, and owners James, Julie and Brian are the only “chef present” restaurant at Disney Springs!

Not sure where to start with the menu? We know, it’s quite a diverse one! Perhaps consider one of their more popular dishes to get you started:

• Hop Salt Pretzel (with beer cheese fondue – now that’s taking a spin!)
• Smoked Chicken Salad Wrap (Beck’s go-to!)
• Low & Slow Brisket Sandwich
• Brisket Burnt Ends (Mike’s choice for a hearty lunch)
• Street Corn (mmmmm)
• Bourbon on the Rocks Cookie (there’s no harm in a little something sweet after dinner…)

Insider tip. Did you enjoy your meal at The Polite Pig? Have a desire to slide into your suitcase some of their famous sauces and dips? No worries, because you can purchase both right on site – or even online once you return home!

Insider tip. There’s no reservation needed to dine at The Polite Pig.

Fun fact. The bourbon bar at The Polite Pig is home to over 60 different bourbon and whiskey offerings.

Gideon’s Bakehouse

Craving something sweet after your meal? Weren’t overly impressed by the dessert selection at the restaurant where you dined? Or are you simply keen to try one of the famous half-pound cookies at Gideon’s Bakehouse, about which you’ve heard so much? Then join the (often long) line outside the award-winning Gideon’s (directly opposite Raglan Road) for your sweet-tooth fix!

Gideon’s typically offer seven different cookie flavors each day, as well as a limited-edition (or seasonal) cookie that changes each month. Each cookie is handcrafted from scratch and packed with rich ingredients – just as unique as the bakery’s decor itself, with its gargoyles and moody ambiance!

Fun fact. Gideon’s cookies take over 24 hours to prepare!

Now, where to start deciding on which cookie to try? Gideon’s standard flavors include:

• Original Chocolate Chip
• Peanut Butter Crunch
• Cookies & Cream
• Candied Walnut Chocolate Chip (only available on Wednesdays!)
• Pistachio Toffee Chocolate Chip (Mike’s favorite!)
• Triple Chocolate Chip (wow, that’s a lot of chocolate!)
• Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookie

Fun fact. The Coffee Cake Cookie, also available in a Dark Chocolate version, is also on their daily menu – and only available at Disney Springs!

At the time of writing, Gideon’s monthly special was a Carrot Cake Cookie. They also offer the ridiculously decadent dipped-in-more-chocolate Gideon’s Bites (four different “quarter cookies” – you get to choose the flavors, perfect for those who truly can’t decide on just one!), and we’ve seen some other limited additions that include Banana Bread Chocolate Chip Cookie and Kris Kringle Cookie.

Insider tip. Be sure to check out Gideon’s online menu for their latest offerings, especially the limited edition cookies.

Insider tip. Not keen to join that awfully long line you see queued up outside Gideon’s? We know, it can be a tad daunting. But fear not, due to the popularity of Gideon’s (especially on holidays and weekends), they offer guests a virtual queue to help manage wait times. Yay! Simply sign up with one of the Gideon staff members at the entrance to the bakehouse – then return when you receive the text message that says you’re up next!

Tips to Help Enhance Your Disney Springs Dining Experience

To make the most of your dining experience at Disney Springs, a little planning goes a long way. Below you’ll find some tips and recommendations to help you prepare for an amazing meal out, and ultimately help you make the most of your entire visit to the Springs.

The Best Time to Visit

To avoid crowds and long wait times, consider dining during off-peak hours. Weekday lunches and early dinners tend to have shorter (if any!) wait times – they’re also often less busy, affording you a more relaxed dining experience. Arriving at a restaurant as soon as their weekend brunch opens is another smart choice.

Making Reservations

Reservations are recommended for most of the table-service restaurants in Disney Springs (and in fact, some of them require it). Popular restaurants – think Morimoto Asia and The Boathouse – tend to fill up quickly, so be sure to book dining reservations well in advance. You can use the My Disney Experience or OpenTable app to reserve a table at a specific time, as well as check wait times for last-minute walk-ups.

Dietary Needs and Restrictions

Before choosing your restaurant at Disney Springs, consider any dietary needs, restrictions or personal food choices amongst those in your group. If you’re looking for vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free or lactose-free options, the great news is that Disney Springs has plenty of them! Also be mindful of specific allergies, though we generally find that allergens are one of the first things a Disney Springs restaurant server will ask you as they start to share the menu with you – and they’re excellent at asking the chef(s) for more information, as well as confirmation of dishes or modifications to menu items to accommodate your needs.

Insider tip. Menus for all Disney Springs restaurants are posted online and on the My Disney Experience app. Check the menus in advance to make sure they suit you and your groups’ needs, before making a reservation at a particular restaurant.

I Don’t Know What I Want to Eat!

One of the many great things about Disney Springs is that there’s something there for everyone’s tastes (yes, even Beck’s fussy food patterns!). Craving fried chicken? Check. Fresh seafood? They’ve got it! What about a large, healthy salad? Double check! Something quick for on-the-go? They’ve got those too!

Unfortunately, we know that choice can also be overwhelming. Not sure what to order or where to go? Consider trying something new (Disney Springs restaurants are known for their numerous unique dishes!), asking for a recommendation from your server, or looking for the signature or “must-try” items on menus. Truly can’t find something that takes your fancy? Don’t be shy about asking your server for a special request – we’ve not yet had one denied!

Save Room for Dessert

Do you have a sweet tooth like Mike? With all the decadently delicious (and Instagrammable!) desserts available throughout Disney Springs, be sure to leave a little room for a little something sweet at the end of your meal, or the end of your visit. From Gideon’s cookies to the Ghirardelli Soda Fountain and Chocolate Shop (one of Mike’s go-tos!), and from Amorette’s Patisserie to Vivoli il Gelato, you’re bound to find something to help satisfy those cravings.

Plan for a Full Experience

Make sure to take your time when dining at Disney Springs – linger a little longer to really soak up the atmosphere of your chosen establishment. Many restaurants offer live music or other types of entertainment, boast themed decor or interactive dining, or simply extend to guests a lively, fun vibe – all to help enhance your meal. Your surroundings are part of the overall experience!

Insider tip. If you’re at Disney Springs to celebrate a special occasion (birthday, anniversary, graduation … or anything in between!), make sure to tell your server. You might be surprised with how many restaurants will help you celebrate the occasion with a surprise treat!

Final Thoughts

Visiting Disney Springs is always one of the highlights of our trips to Orlando – in fact, no trip to central Florida would be the same without it, even if you’re not a Disney fan! This expansive entertainment and dining district offers visitors a comprehensive mix of bars, restaurants and small stand-alone eateries: no matter what cuisine takes your fancy, or what mood you find yourself in on the day, you’ll find something here to satisfy your needs.

Foodies in particular will love the variety of menus and edible fare available at Disney Springs. At the same time, each meal here is more than just about the food: from the innovation of Morimoto Asia to the easygoing comfort of Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’ (and everything in between!), dining at Disney Springs is an experience in and of itself.

So next time you visit Walt Disney World Resort – or simply find yourself in Orlando for a few days – make sure to schedule some time to dine at some of the best restaurants in Disney Springs Florida.

Where will you eat first? Now that you know the best restaurants in Disney Springs Florida, let’s start planning your next dining adventure to Disney Springs! 

There’s something undeniably magical about a vacation at Walt Disney World. For many of us looking to blend adventure with comfort—Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort offers the perfect balance. Tucked along the shores of Lake Buena Vista, this charming Disney Vacation Club Resort blends Victorian elegance with relaxed, countryside vibes.

And one of its biggest perks? Its direct and incredibly scenic access to Disney Springs. As you may know, Disney Springs is the vibrant shopping, dining, and entertainment district at Walt Disney World Resort, offering something magical for every visitor—day or night. No ticket required.

If you’re wondering how to get from Saratoga Springs to Disney Springs, you’ve come to the right place. Whether you’re here for a romantic stroll, a little shopping, or simply looking to unwind after a long park day, we’re sharing all the details you need—including our personal favorite: the picturesque walkway that makes the journey just as enjoyable as the destination.

Let’s explore how to get from Saratoga Springs Resort to the heart of Disney Springs, and why this journey is one of the best-kept secrets at Walt Disney World Resort.

Quick Tips

Here are some insider tips to help you make the most of your visit to Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort and your journey to Disney Springs entertainment and shopping district.

• Thoughtful planning is the key to making your Disney experience smoother, more relaxed, and ultimately more magical.
• Make sure to use the My Disney Experience app—it’s your go-to for checking wait times, making dining reservations, joining virtual queues, mobile ordering food, and keeping track of your plans all in one place.
• Be sure to build in some downtime—Disney’s more fun when you’re not trying to do it all at once. Strolling around the resort or lounging by the pool are perfect ways to slow things down and recharge.
• Wear your most comfortable shoes—Disney World is huge, about the size of San Francisco, so you’ll be getting those steps in!
• Pack plenty of water and don’t forget the sunscreen—the Florida sun doesn’t mess around.
• Keep an eye on important booking windows—if you’re staying at a Disney resort, you can start making dining and experience reservations 60 days before check-in for your whole stay (up to 10 days).
• Make the most of Disney’s resort transportation—buses, boats, and even the Skyliner or monorail, depending on where you’re headed. Give yourself plenty of time to get around. It’s a great chance to rest your feet and recharge on the way to one of the four amazing theme parks or two water parks.
• Disney Springs and the parks can get really crowded, so plan with that in mind—it’s all about managing expectations and keeping the magic alive.
• No ticket needed—unlike the parks, Disney Springs is free to enter and open to everyone.

Follow these tips and you’ll be ready to easily navigate your travels from Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort to Disney Springs and back.

Plan Your Trip

Why Stay at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort?

First things first—why base your Walt Disney World vacation here?

Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa is a tranquil retreat that feels worlds away from the hustle of the theme parks, while still offering easy access to all things Disney. Inspired by the historic New York horse-racing destination, the resort is known for its charming Carriage House, manicured lawns, golf course views, and serene lakeside ambiance.

Whether you’re staying in a deluxe studio, one-bedroom villa, or the unique Treehouse Villas, this Disney Deluxe Villas property has something for every traveler. It’s a great place to slow the pace, sip a cocktail from the pool bar, or relax in one of the resort’s feature pools, including the High Rock Spring Pool, Paddock Pool, or Congress Park Pool, each with their own hot tubs, water slides, and leisure pools.

Proximity to Disney Springs, though, is perhaps the crown jewel—and that’s what we’re diving into next. 

The Best Way to Get from Saratoga Springs to Disney Springs

So what’s the best way to go from Saratoga Springs to Disney Springs? While there are multiple options, we think the answer is clear: take the Disney Springs walkway and enjoy the relaxing and incredibly picturesque walk.

If you’re up for some light exercise, the walking path from the Congress Park section of Saratoga Springs to Disney Springs is not only practical—it’s beautiful. 

Not staying in the Congress Park section? No worries. In fact, much of the magic lies in simply wandering the Saratoga Springs Resort grounds themselves. The walk remains accessible and timely from any location on the resort campus, thanks to a thoughtfully designed network of walkways, signs, and scenic pathways that meander through the property. From lush gardens to tranquil lake views, the journey is part of the experience.

We especially recommend planning your journey to include the stroll along the Congress Park waterfront, which starts adjacent to The Springs buildings. This peaceful, lakeside walkway offers sweeping views of Disney Springs, with its iconic skyline shimmering in the distance, and a sense of serenity that’s hard to find elsewhere at Walt Disney World Resort. Along the way, you’ll find well-marked signs, benches to pause and soak it all in, and that unmistakable feeling that you’re exactly where you’re meant to be.

It’s a wonderfully peaceful way to start your day—or wind down after an evening of dining, live music, or shopping at World of Disney or the Coca Cola Store.

Is the Walk Really That Scenic?

Yes! As you walk, you’ll enjoy views of the Marketplace Boat Dock, the bridge crossing the lake, and often catch sight of the boat traffic that connects other resorts like Old Key West and French Quarter.

In the evening, the skyline of Disney Springs glows with string lights and neon reflections on the water. It’s a stunning way to arrive for dinner reservations or to just enjoy the vibe.

Thoughtful planning is key to getting the most out of your Disney vacation—and we encourage you to view this scenic 15- to 20-minute walk not as a chore, but as yet another memorable Disney experience. It’s more than just a way to get from place to place; it’s a peaceful, picturesque moment worth savoring amidst the magic.  

Other Transportation Options to Disney Springs

Not a fan of walking? No problem. The resort offers a couple of alternate ways to make the journey from Saratoga Springs to Disney Springs.

Water Taxi (Boat Service)

The boat launch near The Carriage House provides a relaxing ride to the Marketplace Boat Dock. It’s one of the most iconic Disney transportation experiences and a huge hit with guests looking for something more serene than the usual bus service.

• Boats generally operate every 15–30 minutes.
• Great for guests staying further from Congress Park or for those with mobility concerns.
• Boats run throughout the day and into the evening.

Insider tip: Arrive early for the boat if you’re visiting during busy times. Depending on the time of day, there may be a short wait—especially after Disney Springs opens or near closing hours.

Bus Service

If you’re staying in sections like The Carousel, Grandstand, or Paddock, or if it’s raining, the bus might be the most convenient choice.

• The Congress Park bus stop also offers service to Disney Springs, along with other locations within Walt Disney World.
• Just be mindful of the last bus timing when planning your night out.

Exploring Disney Springs

Once you’ve arrived at Disney Springs, you’re entering a world of entertainment, shopping, and culinary adventures. Whether you’re stopping by for lunch, browsing dining options, or catching a show, the proximity of Saratoga Springs makes it incredibly convenient.

We love spending time here without having to worry about transportation logistics. You can shop ‘til you drop, enjoy a cocktail by the lake, or catch a performance—all knowing your resort is just a walk or boat ride away.

Looking for some favorites?

• Restaurants: Try The Boathouse for lakeside dining, or Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’ for comfort food.
• Shopping: Don’t miss World of Disney, the largest Disney store on Earth!
• Nightlife: Live music, lounges, and rooftop bars make this a fun spot to end the day.

Tips for Disney Vacation Club Members and First-Time Guests

If you’re a DVC member, this is one of the best resorts for flexibility and location. The ability to walk or take a boat to Disney Springs gives you more time to enjoy your trip, and less time coordinating transportation.

If you’re staying as a regular guest, you’ll still enjoy all the perks of this Disney resort hotel, including access to the Community Hall, complimentary basketballs, board games, spa services, and the main lobby with its front desk assistance and concierge support.

Whether you’re heading to Disney Springs in the morning, for a relaxing evening, or sneaking in one last shopping run before check-out, the easy access is unmatched. 

Is It Walkable with a Family or Stroller?

Absolutely! The walkway is wide, conveniently located, and walking distance is quite manageable even with strollers or wheelchairs. We recommend:

• Bringing water, especially in warmer months
• Wearing comfortable shoes
• Checking the My Disney Experience app for any real-time alerts or services related to transportation 

What to Know Before Your Next Visit

Before your next visit, here are some quick thoughts to keep in mind:

• Confirm boat and bus service times at the main building or via the app store.
• Keep an eye out for updated signs along the path and near the surface lots for directions.
• Take your time of day into account: early morning walks are peaceful; evenings are romantic.
• Know your exit options from Disney Springs when heading back—bus, boat, or walk. 

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for the perfect blend of convenience, charm, and comfort during your Walt Disney World vacation, look no further than Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa. And when it comes to getting from Saratoga Springs to Disney Springs, the options are plentiful—but the walkway might just steal your heart.

It’s not just about getting from point A to point B. It’s about the experience—the quality time together, the gentle breeze off the lake, the anticipation of a night out, or the satisfaction of returning from a full day of exploring.

From the main pool to the Marketplace Boat Dock, from Treehouse Villas to rooftop cocktails, this resort invites you to slow your pace, soak in the scenery, and reconnect with the joy of travel.

So lace up those walking shoes, cue up your favorite Disney playlist, and make the most of every moment—from Saratoga Springs to Disney Springs.

Let’s start planning your next magical getaway.