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Now that security checkpoints have been changed, spending time in Downtown Disney is easier and less crowded than ever before! The themed shopping district and third entity of the Disneyland Resort is often shuffled under the rug and cast aside as a less important and interesting area, but in reality it's an incredibly unique destination with shopping, dining, and entertainment you can't find elsewhere! ​UPDATED 2 Feb 2018
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Dining Experiences
Most restaurants in Downtown Disney are not owned by Disney, but they are all dining experiences you can't find in the parks. From sports bars to Spanish cuisine and tasty desserts, you'll find something that everyone will enjoy. If you are an Annual Passholder, you also get discounts at every restaurant in the district! These are some of the more noteworthy places to keep an eye out for:
- ESPN ZONE - This is the only sports bar in the entire resort, so sports fans should keep their eye on this place if you're at Disneyland on a game night.
- RAINFOREST CAFE - Obviously, there are many of these across the country, but there's nothing else like this tropical dining setting in the parks so it can be a unique experience for your family.
- CATAL RESTAURANT - If you're in the mood for Spanish-inspired food, the Catal Restaurant is the only place you can find it. You also get great views of the rest of Downtown Disney from the dining room or stop by the iconic Uva Bar in the middle of the promenade.
- SPRINKLES - Find delectable cupcakes and cookies for dessert or a tasty treat and this great new bakery. Make sure you keep coming back for more because they're always introducing new and seasonal flavours.
Disney-Inspired Souvenirs
World of Disney is very well known for being the largest and most comprehensive Disney store in all of the Disneyland Resort, but if you are the type of person who is interested in Disney-inspired clothing, accessories, or art then there are other stores and galleries to look through.
- DISNEY DRESS SHOP - Find designer women's fashions and accessories based on and inspired by classic films and characters. Styles range from the ultra modern to chic retro.
- DISNEY HOME STORE - Deck out your home with Disney flare from the Disney Home Store! You can find decor for everything from the kitchen to the living room and even the bedroom. You can find some of these items in the parks, but this is a great all-in-one destination.
- WONDERGROUND GALLERY - WonderGround Gallery has been contracted by Disney for quite some time to create art pieces inspired by films, characters, and the parks. It's pricey, but it is fine art and a great way to add Disney decor to your home.
Unique Entertainment
Downtown Disney has quickly become an entertainment destination as well, and I'm not just talking about the AMC Theaters or the loads of live bands that play on the Downtown Disney stage. There are a couple of new experiences you have to check out that are particularly great for the older kids (or kids at heart)!
- SPLITSVILLE LUXURY LANES - It's not your average bowling alley. Splitsville is a trendy destination with tons of lanes to choose from and a chef-inspired menu to go with it. They'll also feature live entertainment from time to time so you don't have to stop by just to bowl.
- THE VOID: STAR WARS - SECRETS OF THE EMPIRE - The all-new enhanced virtual reality experience at The VOID will blow you away! Join the Rebellion on a secret mission to help take down the Empire in a new (and canon) adventure. Trust me - you'll feel like you're actually there! Advance reservations are recommended and can be made through The VOID's official website.
