Downtown Disney was a fun place to walk around, look at shops (or souvenirs I'm not going to buy), and people watch. There always seemed to be something going on with musical performances at particular times. There were a variety of Disney and non-Disney themed shops selling everything from housewares to artwork to toys to baby clothing. There are quite a few restaurant options but there also places to eat just outside the area as well.
On my recent visit I discovered a few changes some good some not so good. First If you're a fan of the Rain Forest cafe or the ESPN zone ,or the House of Blues they are no longer open. The house of Blues has moved to the garden walk along with the AMC Theaters. Some new restaurants have opened and many of the other ones remain. Also there are some new shops, some I enjoyed ( the dress shop) and others I don't expect to still be there when I return in two years but that's just my opinion. I do hope the Rinse gets a better spot and stays I enjoy the products I purchased . Always a good place to grab a bite outside of the parks and spend time in the World of Disney staying cool.
Downtown Disney has tons of enjoyable restaurants, shops and music. The evenings are so much fun because there is always live music. The many fountains and lovely lighting and landscaping make this a magical area to unwind and enjoy a beverage, meal or treat. It is a great place to people watch, too. There is a restaurant or food cart to fit almost any appetite. The shops are fun to browse around in, too.
Visiting Downtown Disney during the holidays, seeing the Disney holiday decorations, and listening to the holiday music is so very uplifting. Shopping at the shops and eating at any of the different restaurants is a great Disney experience without even paying to go into Disneyland or California Adventure. I often visit Downtown Disney just to walk through the venue to get that “happy” place feeling.
On a 4 night stay in The Grand Californian, we ate in the parks, in Disney hotel restaurants and in Downtown Disney. Downtown Disney was the best value BY FAR. The restaurants here are independent, so you don't get saddled with the "Disney premium." There is plenty of variety to choose from, so something for everybody. The quality of food and service here at all of the places we ate was every bit as good, if not better, than the Disney locales. We just wish we figured it out sooner.
