Located in the enchanting Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Florida, The Smokehouse Disney Springs is a must-visit destination for food lovers and Disney enthusiasts. This outdoor dining complex offers a unique and immersive experience, combining mouthwatering barbecue dishes with the magic of Disney. With its rich history and diverse range of dining options, The Smokehouse Disney Springs is a culinary delight that shouldn't be missed.
A Brief History
The Smokehouse Disney Springs has a fascinating history that dates back to its opening in 1975 as Lake Buena Vista Shopping Village. Over the years, it has undergone several rebrandings and expansions, evolving into the vibrant complex it is today. From Walt Disney World Village to Disney Village Marketplace, and later Downtown Disney, the area finally became Disney Springs in 201This transformation was part of a larger renovation and expansion project that aimed to enhance the overall experience for visitors.
The complex is spread across 120 acres and is divided into four distinct areas: Marketplace, The Landing, Town Center, and West Side. Each area offers a unique atmosphere and a wide range of dining, shopping, and entertainment options.
Marketplace: A Charming Shopping Experience
The Marketplace area of The Smokehouse Disney Springs is reminiscent of an American Craftsman-style village from the 1930s. Here, visitors can explore a variety of shops and boutiques, offering everything from Disney merchandise to unique artisanal crafts. One of the highlights of this area is the Earl of Sandwich, the first restaurant in the popular chain. Guests can indulge in delicious sandwiches and other delectable dishes.
Another notable establishment in the Marketplace is the T-Rex Cafe, a dinosaur-themed restaurant operated by Landry's Restaurants. Featuring animatronic dinosaurs and a prehistoric atmosphere, this dining experience is perfect for families and dinosaur enthusiasts. The Rainforest Cafe, also operated by Landry's Restaurants, is another popular choice for visitors looking for a unique dining experience.
The Landing: A Nautical Oasis
The Landing area of The Smokehouse Disney Springs is inspired by a fictional town's transportation hub and marina. Visitors can explore a variety of nautical-themed restaurants and shops, immersing themselves in the ambiance of a waterfront oasis. Jock Lindsey's Hangar Bar, named after the character from the Indiana Jones films, is a must-visit for aviation enthusiasts. This dive bar offers a wide selection of craft beers and creative cocktails in a unique aviation-themed setting.
One of the highlights of The Landing is The Boathouse, which serves as the port for amphibious automobile cruises of Lake Buena Vista. Guests can embark on a scenic tour of the lake, enjoying breathtaking views and a one-of-a-kind experience. The Amphicar, an amphibious vehicle, is used for these cruises and adds to the charm of The Landing.
Town Center: A Vibrant Business District
The Town Center area of The Smokehouse Disney Springs is designed to resemble a vibrant central business district with Spanish Revival architecture from the 1920s. This area is home to a wide range of well-known retailers, offering visitors the opportunity to indulge in some retail therapy. From fashion boutiques to beauty stores, Town Center has something for everyone.
Guests can explore popular retailers such as Anthropologie, Uniqlo, Sephora, and ZARA, among many others. This area also features the namesake springs, which are artificial but add to the overall charm and ambiance of Town Center.
West Side: The Heart of Entertainment
The West Side area of The Smokehouse Disney Springs is the town's exposition center, featuring a 1950s-inspired theme. This area is home to a variety of entertainment venues, including the AMC Disney Springs 24 movie theater. Visitors can catch the latest films in a state-of-the-art cinema, complete with enhanced food service for a truly immersive movie experience.
While DisneyQuest, a virtual reality and gaming complex, has been closed since 2017, the NBA Experience briefly operated in this area. Unfortunately, it closed in 2020 due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the West Side continues to offer a vibrant atmosphere with its unique shops and entertainment options.
Transportation and Accessibility
The Smokehouse Disney Springs is easily accessible from other areas of Walt Disney World Resort. Buses and water taxis operated by Disney Transport provide convenient transportation between Disney Springs and other parts of the resort. Additionally, there are three parking garages and several surface parking lots available for guests who prefer to drive.
Disney Springs is also served by Lynx bus routes, providing transportation options for visitors who are not staying at a Disney resort. The area is designed to be pedestrian-friendly, with walkways and bridges connecting the various areas of the complex.
The Smokehouse Disney Springs is a culinary haven that offers a unique blend of delicious barbecue dishes and the enchantment of Disney. With its rich history, diverse range of dining options, and immersive atmosphere, it is a must-visit destination for food lovers and Disney enthusiasts alike. Whether you're exploring the charming Marketplace, enjoying the nautical ambiance of The Landing, indulging in retail therapy at Town Center, or immersing yourself in the entertainment of the West Side, The Smokehouse Disney Springs is sure to leave a lasting impression.
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