If you're visiting Anaheim, chances are Disneyland is somewhere on your list. But after living near the Anaheim Resort area and spending a great deal of time here, I've learned that there is much more to this part of Anaheim than the two famous theme parks.
One of my favorite places to recommend to visitors is Downtown Disney District.
I live nearby, and I also work at the JW Marriott Anaheim Resort at GardenWalk, so I have had the opportunity to see this area from a local's perspective, not just as a tourist passing through for a day. Over time, I've learned the practical details that visitors often don't know: where to park, which parking options can save money, how to get around without a car, which restaurants are worth considering, where to shop, and what Downtown Disney is really like after the sun goes down.
That's what I want this article to be: a practical guide from someone who knows the area well.
If you're visiting Anaheim for the first time, or even if you've been here before, I hope this helps you make the most of your visit.
What Exactly Is Downtown Disney?
Downtown Disney District is an outdoor shopping, dining, and entertainment area at the Disneyland Resort.
It sits directly next to Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure and is within walking distance of the Disneyland Resort hotels.
But here's something I think every first-time visitor should know:
You do NOT need a Disneyland ticket to visit Downtown Disney.
There is no admission fee to enter Downtown Disney.
You can come here simply to walk around, shop, have dinner, get dessert, listen to music, take pictures, or enjoy the Disney atmosphere.
For visitors who don't want to spend hundreds of dollars on a theme park day, or who simply have an extra evening in Anaheim, this makes Downtown Disney a very attractive option.
My Perspective as a Local
When you're visiting a place for the first time, you tend to see it differently than someone who lives and works nearby.
A tourist may ask:
"What stores are here?"
A local is more likely to ask:
"Where should I park?"
"How far do I have to walk?"
"Is there a cheaper way to get there?"
"Where should I eat?"
"Do I need a Disneyland ticket?"
"What can I actually do here for two or three hours?"
Those are the questions I want to answer.
Because I work at the JW Marriott Anaheim Resort at GardenWalk, I also have a particularly good perspective on the GardenWalk area and its relationship to Disneyland and Downtown Disney.
Where Is Downtown Disney?
Downtown Disney is located at the Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, California.
It is surrounded by some of the most recognizable destinations in the Anaheim Resort area:
Disneyland Park Disney California Adventure Disneyland Hotel Disney's Grand Californian Hotel and Spa Pixar Place Hotel Anaheim Convention Center Anaheim GardenWalk Numerous hotels along Harbor Boulevard, Katella Avenue, and nearby streets
The area is very walkable, which is one of the things I appreciate most about it.
If you're already at Disneyland, you can walk over to Downtown Disney.
If you're staying at one of the nearby hotels, you may also be able to walk rather than drive.
Is Downtown Disney Free?
Yes.
There is no admission fee to enter Downtown Disney District.
That makes it a particularly attractive option for visitors who want some Disney atmosphere without paying for a theme park ticket.
But remember:
Free admission does not mean free parking.
That's an important distinction.
If you're driving, you need to think about where you want to park and how long you plan to stay.
And this is where having a little local knowledge can make a difference.
Where Should You Park?
You have several choices depending on your plans and budget.
1. Simba Lot: The Official Downtown Disney Parking Lot
If your only goal is to visit Downtown Disney and you want the most direct option, the Simba Lot is the obvious choice.
Disney directs Downtown Disney visitors to the Simba Lot, located off Disneyland Drive between West Katella Avenue and Pixar Place Hotel.
The current parking rate starts at $10 for the first hour.
Disney offers additional parking time with qualifying Downtown Disney purchases and restaurant validation:
An additional 3 hours with a $20 minimum purchase and validation from a Downtown Disney location Up to 5 additional hours with validation from a Downtown Disney table service restaurant Additional time after applicable validation is currently $14 per hour Maximum daily parking or lost ticket fee is currently $66
Parking is subject to capacity and rates can change.
My advice
If convenience is your priority, use Simba Lot.
But if you're looking for alternatives, keep reading.
2. Toy Story Parking Area: Paid Parking With a Free Disney Shuttle
This is one of the options visitors frequently ask me about.
The Toy Story Parking Area is Disneyland Resort theme park parking. It is not free parking, and it is intended primarily for guests visiting Disneyland's theme parks.
However, one major benefit is the complimentary Disney shuttle.
Disney provides complimentary bus transportation between the Toy Story Parking Area and the Main Entrance Esplanade, the area between Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure.
From the Esplanade, you can walk to Downtown Disney.
So if you're already parking at Toy Story for a Disneyland day, the shuttle is very convenient.
Can You Walk From Toy Story Parking to Downtown Disney?
Yes.
If you're comfortable walking, you can also walk from the Toy Story area toward the Disneyland Resort and continue toward Downtown Disney.
For visitors with young children, though, I generally recommend taking the complimentary shuttle rather than adding unnecessary walking.
One important clarification:
The Toy Story shuttle does not take you directly to Downtown Disney.
It takes you to the Main Entrance Esplanade. From there, you walk to Downtown Disney.
The walk from the Disneyland Resort entrance area to Downtown Disney is relatively easy, and for many visitors it takes around 10 minutes, depending on their pace and exactly where they start.
3. Anaheim GardenWalk: A Local Alternative
This is an option I especially want visitors to know about because I work at the JW Marriott Anaheim Resort at GardenWalk and know this area very well.
Anaheim GardenWalk is located at 321 West Katella Avenue, right in the heart of the Anaheim Resort area.
The GardenWalk parking garage currently offers:
First hour: FREE After the first hour: $4 per hour Daily maximum: $30 Overnight parking: $30
For visitors who are only spending a short time in the area, the first hour being free can be useful.
For a longer visit, the $4 per hour rate can also be an attractive alternative to Disneyland Resort parking, depending on your plans.
Walking From GardenWalk to Downtown Disney
One of the things I like about this location is that you can leave your car parked and walk.
From GardenWalk, Downtown Disney is roughly a 10-minute walk for many visitors, depending on exactly where you start and your walking pace.
So here's an option I often think is worth considering:
Park at GardenWalk, walk to Downtown Disney, shop and eat, then walk back to GardenWalk.
You don't have to move your car around the resort.
And because GardenWalk itself has restaurants, entertainment, shopping, and hotels, you can easily combine the two areas into one evening.
Which Parking Option Would I Choose?
It really depends on what you're doing.
If you want convenience
Simba Lot.
If you're already spending the day at Disneyland
Toy Story Parking plus the complimentary Disney shuttle.
If you're looking for an alternative and don't mind walking
Anaheim GardenWalk.
And here's my local tip:
Don't automatically assume the closest parking option is the best option.
Think about how long you're staying, whether you're eating at a restaurant, whether you have children with you, and whether you're willing to walk 10 minutes.
Sometimes a little extra walking can save money.
Walking Around Downtown Disney
Once you're there, the best thing you can do is simply walk.
Downtown Disney is designed as a pedestrian district, and I recommend giving yourself time to explore rather than rushing from one store to another.
You'll find Disney merchandise, specialty stores, restaurants, coffee shops, desserts, entertainment, and plenty of places to sit and watch the world go by.
And you don't have to buy anything.
Sometimes I enjoy Downtown Disney simply by walking around, looking at the stores, watching families and visitors, listening to the music, and enjoying the atmosphere.
Shopping: What Stores Should You Visit? World of Disney
If you're looking for Disney merchandise, start here.
World of Disney is the big one.
You'll find clothing, Disney ears, toys, souvenirs, collectibles, home goods, accessories, and gifts.
If someone in your family says, "I want a Disney souvenir," this is probably the easiest place to begin.
LEGO Store
The LEGO Store is another fun stop, particularly for families.
Even if you're not planning to purchase anything, the displays are worth seeing.
Children can spend quite a bit of time looking at the sets, while adults often find themselves just as interested.
Disney Home
This is a good choice if you want something different from a traditional Disney T-shirt or souvenir.
You'll find Disney-themed home décor, kitchen items, collectibles, and gifts.
Star Wars Trading Post
Star Wars fans should definitely make time for this store.
It's a great place to look for Star Wars merchandise and collectibles.
Disney's Pin Traders
For Disney pin collectors, this is an obvious stop.
Other Shopping
Downtown Disney also features stores such as Sephora, lululemon, PANDORA, Sunglass Hut, Pelé Soccer, Curl Surf, and other specialty retailers.
The selection can change, so visitors should check the current Disneyland directory before visiting if they are looking for a particular store.
Let's Talk About Food
For me, food is a major part of the Downtown Disney experience.
There are many dining options, ranging from quick-service restaurants and dessert shops to full-service restaurants and entertainment venues.
Here are some of the restaurants I think visitors should know about.
Din Tai Fung: Famous for Soup Dumplings
If you've never tried xiao long bao, or soup dumplings, Din Tai Fung is a great place to start.
The restaurant is internationally recognized for its dumplings, particularly its carefully prepared soup dumplings. It also serves noodles, fried rice, vegetables, wontons, buns, and other Taiwanese dishes.
Why go: Soup dumplings and Taiwanese cuisine.
My tip: Reservations are highly recommended because it can be popular.
Naples Ristorante e Bar: Italian Food and Pizza
If you're in the mood for pizza or pasta, Naples is one of the most recognizable restaurants in Downtown Disney.
The menu focuses on Southern Italian flavors, including traditional Italian dishes, pasta, and wood-fired pizzas.
Why go: Pizza, pasta, Italian food, and a family-friendly atmosphere.
This is one of the restaurants I'd consider when traveling with a group because there is usually something for everyone.
Jazz Kitchen Coastal Grill and Patio: New Orleans Flavors and Live Jazz
Jazz Kitchen is one of the restaurants that gives Downtown Disney a different personality.
It brings Cajun and Creole flavors to Anaheim, with dishes inspired by New Orleans and the Gulf Coast.
You'll find items such as gumbo, shrimp and grits, po-boy sandwiches, seafood, beignets, and other Southern-inspired dishes.
And there's another reason to visit:
Live jazz music.
The restaurant offers live entertainment that adds to the New Orleans-inspired atmosphere.
Why go: Cajun and Creole food, seafood, beignets, and live jazz.
If you're looking for a restaurant that feels like an experience rather than simply a meal, this is one to consider.
Céntrico: Mexican Food in an Open-Air Setting
Céntrico is another restaurant worth knowing about.
It's an open-air Mexican restaurant and bar from Michelin-starred chef Carlos Gaytán.
The menu includes tacos, quesabirrias, ceviche, aguachile, guacamole, and other Mexican dishes.
Why go: Mexican food, quesabirrias, tacos, ceviche, cocktails, and an open-air atmosphere.
I particularly like the idea of this restaurant for people who want to sit outside and watch the activity around Downtown Disney.
Gordon Ramsay at The Carnaby: A New Upscale Option
One of the newer names visitors should know is Gordon Ramsay at The Carnaby.
The restaurant draws inspiration from 1960s London and features British-inspired dishes.
Why go: British cuisine, Beef Wellington, fish and chips, and the Gordon Ramsay experience.
I'd put this higher on the list for couples, special occasions, or visitors looking for something a little more upscale.
Splitsville: Dinner and Bowling
Splitsville is different because you don't just go there to eat.
You can bowl and have dinner at the same time.
This makes it a particularly good option for families, teenagers, groups, or anyone who wants an activity rather than simply sitting at a restaurant.
Why go: Bowling, food, and entertainment.
If you're traveling with children who are getting tired of shopping, this can be a good change of pace.
Earl of Sandwich: A Quick and Casual Meal
Sometimes you simply don't want a full-service restaurant.
Earl of Sandwich is a convenient option for sandwiches, soups, salads, wraps, and desserts.
Why go: Quick, casual sandwiches.
This can be a practical choice if you want to get something to eat without spending a lot of time at a table.
Black Tap Craft Burgers and Shakes
If you're looking for burgers and something fun for dessert, Black Tap is worth knowing about.
The restaurant is particularly famous for its CrazyShakes, large and highly decorated milkshakes that have become one of its signatures.
Why go: Burgers and over-the-top milkshakes.
For families with children, teenagers, or anyone who loves taking pictures of food, this is an easy recommendation.
Don't Leave Without Dessert
Even if you don't have dinner at Downtown Disney, you can always stop for a treat.
Some popular choices include:
Salt & Straw: Creative ice cream flavors. Beignets Expressed: Warm, New Orleans-style beignets. Disney Wonderful World of Sweets: Candy and Disney-themed treats. Wetzel's Pretzels: A quick and easy snack.
Sometimes my favorite Downtown Disney plan is simply:
Walk, shop, dinner, dessert, then walk some more.
What Can You Do at Downtown Disney Without Spending Money?
This is something I think visitors sometimes forget.
You don't have to spend money at every stop.
You can:
Walk around Listen to live music Look at the stores Take photographs People-watch Enjoy the Disney atmosphere Watch entertainment Explore the architecture and decorations Sit and relax Enjoy the seasonal atmosphere
Of course, parking may cost money if you drive, but once you're inside, there is no admission charge.
Downtown Disney After Dark
If you ask me when Downtown Disney becomes especially enjoyable, I'd say after sunset.
The atmosphere changes.
The lights come on. Restaurants become busier. Music fills the area. Families walk around with shopping bags. People stop for dessert. Visitors coming out of Disneyland mix with people who came specifically for dinner.
It becomes less about shopping and more about enjoying the evening.
And this is one of the reasons I think Downtown Disney works so well for visitors who aren't necessarily interested in spending another full day inside a theme park.
You can have dinner, listen to music, shop a little, get dessert, and enjoy the evening without buying a Disneyland ticket.
How Long Should You Spend at Downtown Disney?
There is no right answer.
One to two hours
Good for walking, shopping, photos, and a snack.
Two to three hours
Enough for shopping, dinner, and dessert.
Three to five hours
Better if you want to eat, shop, listen to music, and do an activity such as bowling.
And if you're staying nearby, you don't have to do everything in one visit.
My Ideal Downtown Disney Evening
If I were helping a visitor plan a relaxed evening in this area, I'd suggest something like this:
Park at Anaheim GardenWalk.
Take advantage of the current first-hour-free parking and the $4-per-hour rate afterward.
Walk toward Downtown Disney.
For many visitors, it's about a 10-minute walk.
Explore World of Disney.
Even if you don't buy anything, it's worth seeing.
Walk through the district.
Take your time. Don't rush.
Choose dinner based on what you're craving.
Dumplings? Din Tai Fung.
Pizza or pasta? Naples.
Cajun and Creole food and jazz? Jazz Kitchen.
Mexican food? Céntrico.
British-inspired food? Gordon Ramsay at The Carnaby.
Bowling and dinner? Splitsville.
Finish with dessert.
Try Salt & Straw, Beignets Expressed, or Disney Wonderful World of Sweets.
Then walk back to GardenWalk.
It's a simple evening, but it gives you a great taste of the Anaheim Resort area.
A Few Things I Want Visitors to Know
Because I live and work in this area, here are some of my practical suggestions.
Don't underestimate the walking.
The Anaheim Resort area is much more walkable than many first-time visitors realize, but comfortable shoes make a big difference.
Don't automatically drive everywhere.
If you're already staying near Katella Avenue, Harbor Boulevard, or the Disneyland Resort, walking can sometimes be easier than moving your car.
Check parking before you arrive.
Rates and policies change, and a little planning can save you money.
Make restaurant reservations when possible.
Popular restaurants can get busy, especially on weekends and during holidays.
Give yourself more time than you think you need.
It's easy to say, "We'll just walk around for an hour," and then realize you've spent two hours shopping, eating, taking pictures, and watching entertainment.
And don't feel like you have to go to Disneyland to enjoy Anaheim.
There is plenty to experience around the resort.
Final Thoughts From a Local
Living and working near the Disneyland Resort has given me a different appreciation for this part of Anaheim.
For visitors, Disneyland is naturally the star attraction. But Downtown Disney is one of those places that can easily become part of the experience even when you're not going into the parks.
You can come here for an hour or stay for an entire evening.
You can spend a lot of money, or simply walk around and enjoy the atmosphere.
You can come with children, friends, a partner, or by yourself.
You can shop for Disney merchandise, eat Taiwanese dumplings, enjoy Mexican food, listen to live jazz, bowl with your family, eat a burger and a giant milkshake, or simply sit down with a cup of coffee and watch people go by.
And perhaps that's what I like most about Downtown Disney.
You don't have to have a plan.
Sometimes you can just show up, walk around, see what catches your eye, and enjoy being in one of the most energetic areas of Anaheim.
If you're visiting Anaheim, I definitely recommend putting Downtown Disney on your list, even if Disneyland isn't part of your plans.
