How could you build an annex to the "happiest place on Earth?" The thought is rather paradoxical. Apparently, the engineers at Disneyland have figured it out as they built a near half mile stretch of restaurants, kiosks, and novelty stores. And then, just to reassure the patrons they are experiencing part of the Disney phenomenon they named it, Downtown Disney. The essence of Downtown Disney is thus, take the happiest place on Earth and make it even happier with so much shopping, eating, and piped-in music you actually think you have been lifted up to a euphoric Disney themed heaven!
I spent a week in Downtown Disney, or DTD as we dubbed it, taking advantage of the food, random street performers, and shops. My impression of DTD is mixed; while I enjoyed the variety of food and stores, I was turned off by the prices and lack of customer service. Everything was expensive, in fact it was way outside of my price comfort level. I couldn’t imagine eating at many of the places with a family for under a $100. Sadly, not much of the food was worth the $20 price per plate. Only two restaurants outshined the others when it came to taste and value; the ESPN Zone and Ralph Brennan’s Jazz Kitchen. I’ve critiqued both places in the Downtown Disney Review blog.
Prices aside, DTD is a good place to walk around and spend a few hours. The kids will enjoy the Lego store where they can browse the new Lego lines and build their own creations on play tables. Another big hit with the little ones is the massive Disney Store. It does not have much that cannot be found at other Disney Stores around the U.S., but it is still fun to walk through and look at the myriad of Disney merchandise. There is a novelty cupcake store at one end of the strip, and small kiosks with amusement park style foods scattered about. As for the parents, the only stores that looked interesting were the Apricot Lane Boutique and Vault 28.
Make sure to read my reviews of the restaurants on the DTD review page!
Travel Well.
