Downtown Disney at Disneyland
When it comes to the Disneyland Resorts, most Guests think about what goes on inside the parks or in the hotels. But as Downtown Disney at Disneyland continues to evolve and grow into its own unique destination, so have the crowds flocking to the district daily! And while there are plenty of reasons to visit Downtown Disney at Disneyland, one thing stands out above everything else: the people. Next article
The people come from far and wide to experience the magic of Downtown Disney at Disneyland. From families to couples looking for a romantic date night, visitors come from around the world just to enjoy the entertainment, dining and shopping Downtown Disney offers. So whether you’re planning a family vacation, taking a special trip with friends or attending Disneyland for the very first time, here are some tips to help make sure you have a great time in Downtown Disney at Disneyland.
What Is Downtown Disney?
The Walt Disney Company opened Downtown Disney in 2005 near Barnes Solar. It’s a hub of shops, restaurants, and attractions that are open to visitors without needing a park admission pass.
You can shop in stores like Gap, Victoria’s Secret, Fossil, Michael Kors, Nike, Coach, Sephora, Zara, Apple Store, and others. There are also food options such as Starbucks, Panera Bread, Chipotle Mexican Grill, Blaze Fast Fire’d Pizza, and many more.
There are live performances every night at the House Of Blues restaurant. You can also see movies at AMC Theater, check out some art at the Contemporary Art Museum, play games at ESPN Zone, or catch a show at the Pantages Theatre.
Car Parking
Downtown Disney District Parking can be located off of Disneyland Drive, near West Katella Avenue, between Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel and the Walt Disney World Resort. Here are some tips for getting around without spending too much money:
– If you’re staying at one of the hotels in the area, take advantage of free shuttles running throughout the day.
– For longer stays, consider renting a car. There are lots of options nearby.
– If you prefer public transportation, it’s easy to access from Anaheim Regional Transportation Intermodal Center (ARTIC). Just hop aboard the ARTIC Express bus, which runs every 10 minutes during regular operating hours.
– And if you’re looking for a place to eat while you’re here, there are plenty of options within walking distance of downtown.
Getting to Downtown Disney at the Disneyland Resort
There are a few ways to enter the Downtown Disney District depending upon where you are located at Disneyland Resort. If you are visiting the area for the day, you could utilize the resort’s Simbas parking lot that is located off W. Katella Ave.
Harbor Entrance
If you are staying at one of the nearby hotels, like the Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, there is another way to reach the area. You can walk along Harbor Boulevard from any of the adjoining hotels to reach the Downtown Disney District.
This entrance can be reached on Foot by walking from any of several nearby hotels that sit on Harbor Way across from the Resort. These include:
Grand Floridian Hotel & Suites
Disneyland Hotel
Polynesian Village Resort
Adventure Lodge
Port Orleans Riverside
The Grand Californian Hotel & Villas
Shopping at Downtown Disney at the Disneyland Resort
The Shopping at Downtown Disney in Anaheim offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a special gift for someone else, want to shop for yourself, or just want to enjoy a day out shopping, Downtown Disney at the Disneyland® Resort has got you covered. You’ll find hundreds of stores, restaurants, attractions, and entertainment options — all under one roof. Plus, unlike most malls, Downtown Disney at the Anaheim Resort is located inside the Disneyland® Park, making it easy to explore. And while Downtown Disney at the Disneyland ® Resort is open 365 days a year, we do close during holidays. Check our hours here.
Location and history
The name “Disneyland” refers to Walt Disney’s original vision for his park, where he wanted it to be located in Anaheim, California. After Walt died in 1966, the city of Anaheim refused to allow him to build what he envisioned; however, the state allowed him to build Disneyland Paris, which opened in 1992.
When the plans for the second park were announced in 1965, Walt had already purchased the land for $12 million; the location was chosen because it was near the Los Angeles International Airport, and close to the homes of Walt’s family members. When Disneyland opened in 1955, Walt took great pride in having built his dream park within walking distance of thousands of Southern Californians.
In November 1967, the City Council voted unanimously to change the name of the street bordering Disneyland to Disneyland Drive. This decision was based on the fact that the name “Disneyland” referred to the entire complex, rather than just one park.
Downtown Disney, originally known as the Marketplace Mall, opened in 1987 as a shopping mall anchored by Macy’s. The mall closed in 1996 and reopened in 1998 as a shopping district featuring shops, eateries, and entertainment venues. It expanded again in 2004, adding the Great Movie Ride and the House of Blues restaurant.
In 2005, the Disney Company announced plans to redevelop the area into a destination similar to the Magic Kingdom theme park in Florida, complete with themed dining areas, shops, and attractions. The project began construction in 2006 and was completed in 2009.