8 Fantastic Additions to Downtown Disney in 2018
2018 has shaped up to be an absolute landmark year for Downtown Disney at Disneyland Resort. It was such a transformative year for Disneyland’s shopping district with everything from new eateries, boutiques and more springing up over the past twelve months. In fact, there have been so many incredible changes that we here at MickeyBlog thought we’d re-cap 8 of our favorites!
Star Wars: Secrets of the Empire by ILMxLAB and The VOID
Visitors to Downtown Disney looking to do something out of the ordinary need look no further than this hyper-reality, multi-sensory experience. This brand new family-attraction is the first of it’s kind and is a fully immersive experience. Groups of four are recruited to go undercover as stormtroopers to capture Imperial Intelligence that is vital to the survival of the rebellion! Advanced tickets are recommended and can be purchased here. The VOID also recently released a new VR experience inspired by “Ralph Breaks the Internet” providing a brand new adventure dubbed Ralph Breaks VR.
Disney Home
For those looking to bring the Disney magic home with you then this new retailer is your perfect one-stop-shop. Here you’ll find a carefully curated assortment of Disney-themed houseware items from glasswear to linens, kitchen good and more. The assortment changes with each season so no matter when you visit there is bound to be something new!
Splitsville Luxury Lanes
From family fun to date nights, Splitsville is an exciting destination for the whole family. This 40,000 square-foot, two-story venue houses 600 dining seats, offers 2 craft cocktail bars, 20 bowling lanes and an outdoor patio with live entertainment. The venue also features an impressive and diverse menu where you’ll find everything from top-notch sushi to loaded nachos and delicious burgers!
The Disney Dress Shop
For ladies looking for a Disney-themed look, The Disney Dress Shop is the place to be! Here you’ll find delightful apparel and accessories created especially for Disney Parks. Guests will find retro-designed items inspired by some of your favorite Disney characters and theme park attractions. Whether you’re looking to complete your Disney-bounding look or for fun ways to commemorate your visit to Disneyland Resort, The Disney Dress shop is filled with unique items perfect for showing off your Disney style.
Naples Ristorante e Pizzeria
This Downtown Disney mainstay underwent an impressive renovation this year which includes the addition of an upstairs restaurant and walkout patio. New twinkling chandeliers cast a warm and inviting glow. Inside guests can lounge in plush booths while watching their meals being prepared in the open concept kitchen. Guests can also order up one of Napolini’s famous fresh-baked pizzas from a new ground-level patio. You’ll find individual 10-inch pies available or 20″ inch options for those looking to share with friends and family.
Salt & Straw
This scoop shop is the first in Orange County for Salt & Straw, a Portland-based, family-run ice cream company know for it’s “taste-provoking” flavors. Co-founders and cousins Kim and Tyler Malek created Salt & Straw as a one-of-a-kind experience that encourages guests to sample from a diverse menu. Upon entering Salt & Straw, guests are greeted by one of the shops experts who will lead you on a unique tasting journey. The shop’s offerings are handmade in small batches using local, organic and sustainable ingredients. Monthly specials also showcase seasonal flavors. Visitors can enjoy scoops on handmade waffle cones, with fudge or rainbow sprinkles or pick up a pint on the go.
Re-Imagined World of Disney
This year Downtown Disney’s giant Disney store underwent a massive transformation. The re-imagined World of Disney now makes shopping for your favorite Disney items easier and more fun. The transformation includes the store’s exterior which now features new marquees and magical window displays. Inside guests will love the open atmosphere with uniquely themed areas. The decor was inspired by Walt Disney Animation Studios and features sketches, artwork and posters that jump to life. Let’s not forget the shopping. Here you’ll find “must-have” Disney merchandise and collections.
Wetzel’s Pretzels
Pretzel lovers can rejoice as Wetzel’s Pretzels, innovators of soft, fresh-baked pretzels recently re-opened their Downtown Disney District shop after an extensive renovation. The newly re-imagined space features a California-inspired design with an indoor-outdoor feel and a modern, upscale look. Here you’ll find all of your Wetzel’s Pretzel favorites including the Cheese Meltdown, Pepperoni Twist, Wetzel Dog, Cin-A-Bitz and the original. You’ll also find the shop’s famous frozen lemonades. Pretzels are baked from scratch throughout the day featuring simple ingredients like flour, filtered water, yeast and a touch of salt.
These are just 8 of the many reasons why it’s worth setting aside some time to enjoy all that Downtown Disney has to offer during your next Disneyland visit! Readers are encouraged to keep following along with MickeyBlog for the latest in Disneyland news and updates.
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