Downtown Disney

Borrowing a page from central Florida's successful Disney compound, the Downtown Disney District, situated between the theme parks and the parking structure, is a colorful (and very sanitized) "street scene" filled with restaurants, shops, and entertainment for all ages. Options abound: Window-shop with kids in tow, have a dinner for two, or rest your feet after long hours in the parks. The promenade begins at the amusement park gates and stretches toward the Disneyland Hotel; there are some two dozen shops and boutiques, and a dozen-plus restaurants, live music venues, and entertainment options.

Highlights include Splitsville Luxury Lanes, an upscale bowling alley and bar that has everything from strikes to sushi; Ballast Point Brewing Co. and Black Tap for that brewpub vibe; Salt & Straw for unique ice cream flavor concoctions; and World of Disney, one of the biggest Disney shopping locations anywhere, with a vast and diverse range of toys, souvenirs, and collectibles. There is also a LEGO shop, a VOID virtual reality ticketed experience, outdoor bars, two Starbucks, and more.