Downtown Disney District: what to do, where to eat and what to buy
I discovered the shopping, dining, and entertainment district of Disneyland California. We tell you where it is, how to visit it without entering the parks, and what experiences to add to your vacation.
What is Downtown Disney District and where is it located?
A pedestrian-only area in Anaheim ideal for going out to eat, shopping for souvenirs, and enjoying the Disney atmosphere, even if you don't have tickets to the parks that day.
Downtown Disney District is the shopping, dining, and entertainment area located next to Disneyland Park y Disney California Adventure Park, at the Disneyland Resort complex in California.
It’s a convenient way to add to your trip without spending an entire day at the park. You can browse shops selling Disney merchandise, take a break for lunch, try some artisan ice cream, or stroll through the district at sunset.
Pedestrian access to the district does not require admission to Disneyland Park or Disney California Adventure. However, its restaurants and shops normally charge for products and services, and parking is paid.
When is the best time to visit it?
It is ideal for your first night in Anaheim, after visiting a park, or on a more relaxed day. You don't have to choose it instead of a park: it works very well as a complement.
If you are already staying nearby, it can also be a good stop for dinner and to explore shops without having to make long trips.
Get to know our guide to Disneyland California ↗
Stores worth knowing
One of the great reasons to visit Downtown Disney is to explore its shops, both the classic Disney ones and the more recent additions.
- World of Disney: clothes, stuffed animals, Mickey ears, toys and souvenirs for every taste.
- LEGO Store: building kits, themed sculptures, and customization options.
- Avengers Reserve: Superhero and collectible products inspired by Marvel.
- Disney Storyland Boutique: themed items, gifts, and collections that can be renewed.
- Disney Wonderful World of Sweets: sweets, treats and options for gifts.
Where to eat in Downtown Disney District
The gastronomic offering goes far beyond fast food: there are restaurants where you can sit down in peace and ideal alternatives for a brief break.
Among the establishments that stand out are: Din Tai Fung, known for its Taiwanese cuisine and dumplings; Walk, with a Mexican proposal; Black Tap Craft Burgers & Shakes, with hamburgers and smoothies; and Naples Ristorante e Bar, With Italian cuisine.
Another option to explore is Parkside Market, They offer different gastronomic concepts, allowing you to choose according to the tastes of the group. Some restaurants accept reservations, while others offer different service options.
- Book in advance when the property allows it, especially if you are traveling during peak seasons.
- Check the menus and options for children before choosing.
- If you plan to dine after the park closes, check the restaurant's current hours of operation.
A plan that is also enjoyed outside the parks
In Downtown Disney you can combine shopping, a quiet dinner and dessert without needing a day pass to Disneyland. It’s a practical way to add vacation time in Anaheim.
Ice cream, desserts and something delicious to take away
Not everything has to be a full meal. Downtown Disney has places where you can stop for an ice cream, dessert, or snack before continuing on your way.
Salt & Straw It stands out for its artisanal ice creams, seasonal flavors and original combinations. You can also find alternatives such as Disney Wonderful World of Sweets, Pastry shops and snack stands.
The flavors and products change throughout the year, so it is advisable to take advantage of the options available during the visit without planning the tour around a specific product.
What to do in Downtown Disney besides shopping
The district is an open-air promenade where the atmosphere changes according to the time of day and the season.
Walking and discovering details
Take a walk along the various facades, look at the shop windows and take advantage of the outdoor spaces. It’s a good option for a relaxing afternoon in Anaheim.
Seasonal entertainment
Disney may schedule live music and special activities. The offer depends on the date and is not guaranteed every day.
Returning after the park
Lighting the promenade, a dinner or dessert are an alternative to prolong the day without planning another attraction within the park.
Are you planning your itinerary in California? We can help you combine the two parks with a visit to Downtown Disney.
Planning my vacation ↗How to get to Downtown Disney and what to know before going
Admission to the park does not require a park ticket, but arriving by vehicle and parking does require planning.
The parking indicated by Disneyland Resort to visit Downtown Disney District is Simba Lot, Located next to Disneyland Drive, between West Katella Avenue and Pixar Place Hotel.
If you are staying near the Disneyland Resort, you can consider arriving by foot. There are also specific drop-off and pick-up areas for vehicles and contracted transportation. Security checks for access to the resort apply.
Locals may have different schedules between themselves. Disney publishes general schedules for the district, but it is advisable to check the availability of stores, restaurants, and shows before leaving.
Data to organize your arrival
Location: Anaheim, within the Disneyland Resort.
Entrance to the promenade: without entry to the parks.
Parking: Simba Lot.
Restaurants: Some accept reservations.
Purchases: Budget based on the products selected.
Reference for the first hour of parking at Simba Lot, according to conditions published in October 2026.
Possible with a minimum purchase validation of USD 20 at district locations, in addition to the first paid hour.
Possible through validation at participating restaurants for table service, in addition to the first paid hour.
The above figures are indicative and correspond to the conditions consulted in October 2026. They do not constitute a guaranteed rate for 2027; please validate amounts, participating establishments, and access rules to plan your visit.
How to make the most of Downtown Disney in a few hours
A possible route to discover the highlights of the district without making the walk a race.
Start with the stores
Log in to World of Disney and choose one or two additional stores based on your interests. If you’re looking for special souvenirs, compare options before making a purchase.
I took a break
Make a reservation or choose a quick option. If you prefer something more informal, take some time to explore Parkside Market or another establishment.
It ends with something sweet
Add an ice cream, a visit to a candy store, or a walk through the illuminated areas before returning to the hotel.
Downtown Disney California and Disney Springs Orlando: they are not the same
Both offer gastronomy, shopping and entertainment, but they belong to different complexes.
Downtown Disney District
It is part of Disneyland Resort, Along with Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure. This is the area we are talking about in this guide.
Exploring Disneyland Resort ↗Disney Springs
It is part of Walt Disney World Resort. For years it was called Downtown Disney, but today it is known as Disney Springs.
Learn about the stores in Disney Springs ↗More guides to organize your vacation at the Disneyland Resort
Plan Downtown Disney in conjunction with the parks and the experiences that interest you.
Frequently asked questions about Downtown Disney District
What you need to know to visit the Disneyland California district and avoid confusion with Orlando.
Where is Downtown Disney District?
It is located in Anaheim, California, within the Disneyland Resort. It is an area of shops, restaurants, and entertainment near the Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park.
Is Downtown Disney in Orlando?
No. Downtown Disney District is in Anaheim, California. At Walt Disney World, Orlando, the former Downtown Disney is called Disney Springs.
Do I need to buy a ticket to enter Downtown Disney?
No. To access the district, you do not need a ticket to Disneyland Park or Disney California Adventure. Shopping, dining, and certain activities do have their own costs.
Is admission to Downtown Disney free?
Pedestrian access to the district is free. Parking, dining, shopping, and some entertainment may have a cost.
Can you visit Downtown Disney without going to the parks?
Yes. You can dedicate a few hours to it as a standalone activity, for example an afternoon or evening, without entering the theme parks.
Which stores are worth visiting?
World of Disney is one of the main options. You can also explore the LEGO Store, Avengers Reserve, Disney Storyland Boutique and collectibles stores. The offer may change.
What restaurants are there in Downtown Disney?
Current options include Din Tai Fung, Black Tap Craft Burgers & Shakes, Paseo, Naples Ristorante e Bar, and restaurants from Parkside Market, among others.
Can you book a table at Downtown Disney?
Some restaurants that serve food to go allow reservations, but others operate without them. It is advisable to check the current policy of each restaurant and make reservations in advance when available.
Where can you get an ice cream in Downtown Disney?
Salt & Straw is a well-known option for its artisanal ice cream and seasonal flavors. There are also other dessert and snack options that may change.
How long does it take to get around Downtown Disney?
A quick visit can take between one and two hours. To stroll around in peace, shop, have dinner, and try a dessert, reserve about three or four hours, depending on your preferences.
Where do you park to visit Downtown Disney?
The parking lot designated for the district is Simba Lot, near Disneyland Drive. The parking lot is paid and can accept validations from participating local businesses.
How much does it cost to park in Downtown Disney?
As a reference consulted in October 2026, the first hour at Simba Lot costs 10 USD. Disney publishes validation benefits for purchases or restaurants; amounts and conditions may change.
How does parking validation work?
As a 2026 reference, a minimum purchase of 20 USD validated in a district store allows three additional hours, and a table-service restaurant can validate up to five additional hours. This is in addition to the first hour paid. Please check the conditions before parking.
Is Downtown Disney the same as Disney Springs?
They are spaces with a similar concept, but they are located in different complexes: Downtown Disney District is in Disneyland Resort, California; Disney Springs is in Walt Disney World, Florida.
Does Downtown Disney have attractions like those at Disneyland Park?
Their main offerings are shopping, dining, and entertainment. The attractions at Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure are within the parks and require valid admission.
Can you go at night?
Yes. It's a nice walk after a day at the park, according to the current opening hours of the shops. The lighting and some entertainment options make the evening walk enjoyable.
Are there any special music or activities?
Disney offers entertainment and seasonal offerings in the district. Shows, their schedules, and their availability may vary depending on the day.
Does Magic Holidays help organize a trip to Disneyland California?
Yes. You can request advice on choosing dates, hotels, tickets, and day distribution at Disneyland Resort, and take advantage of Downtown Disney within the itinerary.
Would you like to add Disneyland California to your next vacation?
Tell us the dates, number of travelers, and the experiences you would like to enjoy. Our team helps you organize parks, hotels, and time to explore Downtown Disney, with advice in Spanish.
