Credit: DisneyWhen it comes to the Disneyland Resort, most Guests think about the parks or hotels. But as Downtown Disney at the Disneyland Resort continues to evolve and grow, so have the crowds that flock to the district daily!
Related: Resort President Teases “Next Chapter” For Downtown Disney
What exactly makes the Downtown Disney District worth a visit, we will let you know in this ultimate Downtown Disney guide!
Getting to Downtown Disney at the Disneyland Resort
Simba Parking Lot-
There are a few ways to access the Downtown Disney District depending on where you are located at the Disneyland Resort. If you are visiting the district for the day, you can utilize the resort’s Simba Parking lot that is located off West Katella.
Harbor Entrance
Downtown Disney is also accessible at the opposing Harbor entrance. This entrance can be reached on foot by walking from any of the adjacent hotels that sit on Harbor Street across from the Resort. There is also a drop-off loop that is perfect for any ride-sharing services and/or taxis. If your hotel does offer a shuttle service, you will also be brought to this entrance. You will then cross the Esplanade, both theme park entrances, and ticket booths to access the Downtown Disney District.
Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa
If you happen to be staying on Disneyland Resort property, access to the Downtown Disney District is easy as entering the Disney parks. Just as there is a convenient entrance from the Grand Californian Hotel into Disney California Adventure Park, Guests have direct and convenient access to the district. This entrance will take you to the center of Downtown Disney at Disneyland Resort. If you are coming from the Disneyland Hotel, you have a bit of a walk, but there’s a path that feeds into the entrance of the Downtown Disney area. Whereas, Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel is a bit further from Downtown Disney,
Activities at Downtown Disney at the Disneyland Resort
One of my favorite activities at the Downtown Disney District is to knock down a few pins– and I’m not talking about Disney pin trading! I’m talking about bowling a few frames at Splitsville. This locale has 20 luxury lanes for you and your friends, family, and loved ones to enjoy.
If that’s not enough, enjoy some live entertainment at Splitsville’s outdoor dining patio. Or make it a group event! Splitsville has special offers available for birthdays, bachelor and bachelorette parties! You can book one of these special offers or and indoor or outdoor dining reservation by going to the Splitsville website.
Between all that fun and entertainment, you can’t forget about the shopping at Downtown Disney.
Shopping at Downtown Disney at the Disneyland Resort
The shopping at Downtown Disney in Anaheim is unmatched and unique! There are so many retail locations to choose from and there is some Disney magic for everyone!
World of Disney– One place you have to visit is Downtown Disney’s World of Disney! This is every Disney lover’s haven! From toys and clothing to accessories and more — the World of Disney has it all. This location is perfect for your souvenir shopping or to expand your Disney collection.
Disney Home Store– Looking to spruce up your living situation, look no further than the Disney Home Store. This shopping spot has everything you need for your Disney home décor for no matter what occasion.
Disney Dress Shop– The Disney Dress Shop is the perfect retail spot for the fashionistas in your life! They offer unique and one-ok-a-kind Disney-influenced creations and accessories to match! And if you’re looking for something shiny, they offer a great jewelry selection as well.
Marceline’s Confectionary– This one is for the Disney fan who also loves the sweeter things in life! Choose among an array of delectable confections and treats! You can’t miss this sweet spot in the middle of Downtown Disney
Star Wars Trading Post– Formerly the Rainforest Café, this retail spot is perfect for the Star Wars lovers in your family! They can check Rey’s speeder out front and shop for authentic Star Wars merchandise that is out of this world!
WonderGround Gallery– This retail location also acts as an art gallery. Many renowned artists have lent their Disney-inspired works and made them available for purchase. Most of these artists will even be in person to sign and discuss their works and the inspiration behind their art. The displays change often, so you never know what you might see next at the WonderGround Gallery.
Other retail locations at the Downtown Disney District are:
- California Sole
- Curl Surf
- Disney’s Pin Traders
- The LEGO Store
- PANDORA Jewelry
- Sephora
- Sugar Boo & Co.
- Sunglass Icon
After all that shopping, it’s easy to work up a bit of an appetite! Downtown Disney District is the perfect place to grab a bite!
Related: Decorative Topiaries Are Back at the Downtown Disney District
Eating Options at Downtown Disney at the Disneyland Resort
The Downtown Disney District is a great area for dining no matter what you’re craving or what your budget looks like!
Black Tap Craft Burgers & Shakes– This eatery has some of the best burgers throughout the Disneyland Resort! Even the appetizers are great, like their fried pickles. But nothing compares to their CrazyShakes. These shakes are piled high with delectable toppings and they’re unlike anything you’ve ever seen. And if it is only shakes that you’re into, visit their convenient CrazyShake window.
Naples Ristorante e Bar– This Italian eatery offers some incredible pizza and some more incredible house-made gnocchi. All pizzas are authentic and wood-fired, which makes for some delicious and perfectly crispy crust. Pair with a sangria flight and you will be in heaven!
Ralph Brennan’s Jazz Kitchen- This two-story dining locale will have you feeling like you’re in the heart of Louisiana. And with the delicious Cajun-style menu, you will not be disappointed. And make sure you pop on over next door to grab some fresh beignets at Ralph Brennan’s Jazz Kitchen Express!
Salt & Straw– For dessert, you can’t go wrong with Salt & Straw! Just the smell of fresh waffle cones being made is enough to stop anyone in their tracks. And because their menu changes often, due to the fact that they make small and seasonal batches of their ice cream, you’re going to want to make this a regular stop while visiting the District.
Here are some other dining locations you can enjoy at the Downtown Disney District:
- Ballast Point Brewing Co.
- Catal Restaurant
- Earl of Sandwich
- Jamba
- La Brea Bakery Café/Express
- Napolini Pizzeria
- Sprinkles
- Starbucks
- Taqueria at Tortilla Jo’s
- Tortilla Jo’s
- Uva Bar & Cafe
- Wetzel’s Pretzels
There’s everything you need to know about Downtown Disney at the Disneyland Resort. We hope this ultimate guide to the Downtown Disney District will help you on your next trip!
