5 Things to Do at Downtown Disney at Walt Disney World

Walt Disney World's Downtown Disney is Disney's shopping and entertainment district. It's a great place to spend an evening after a day in one Walt Disney World's theme parks or an afternoon exploring all that Downtown Disney has to offer.

Downtown Disney is made up of three areas; Disney Disney Marketplace (originally called Walt Disney World Village when it opened in in 1975), Pleasure Island, and Downtown Disney Westside. All three areas are connected to each other and offer free admission and parking.

If you're planning a visit to Walt Disney World, here are five things that you can do at Downtown Disney.

Buy Mickey Mouse ears at the World's Largest Disney Store (Downtown Disney Marketplace)

Walt Disney World is over 47 square miles in size, so of course it's only natural that you'd find the world's largest Disney Store here. At the massive World of Disney store is a dream come true for any Disney fan. From Mickey Mouse ears to high-end Disney jewelery (think Tinkerbell necklaces with diamonds), the World of Disney store has everything "Disney" you could every want!

Catch a performance of Cirque Du Soleil's La Nuba (Downtown Disney Westside)

Under the modern, white, "bigtop" at the end Downtown Disney Westside you'll fine La Nuba, Cirque Du Soleil's permanent show at Walt Disney World. If you've seen any of Cirque's other productions, then you know what you're in for; a 90 minutes of beautiful, artistic performance that will take your breath away. The show is performed twice nightly and tickets start at $69.

Let your imagination run wild at the LEGO Imagination Center (Downtown Disney Marketplace)

You'll know you've found the LEGO Imagination Center when you see the 12-foot T-Rex made out of LEGO. At this unique store you can build your own LEGO creations in addition to buying the latest LEGO products. While where, be sure to get a picture of the dragon in the lake outside of the store.

Try Ropa Vieja at Gloria Estefan's Bongo's Restaurant (Downtown Disney Westside)

Under the giant pineapple you'll find Bongos, Gloria Estafan's Cuban restaurant. The lively atmosphere and excellent authentic Cuban food has made this restaurant a must-see at at Downtown Disney. And you never know who might drop in for an in impromptu performance. (ropa vieja, by the way, is Spanish for "old clothes." But don't worry, is a shredded meat dish sever with rice).

Get a makeover at the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique (Downtown Disney Marketplace)

At the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique, your little princess can get the Disney makeover in this charming salon owned by Cinderella's Fairy Godmother. From a princess hairstyle to a complete Disney princess makeover including a princess costume and pictures, every princess in training will love this unique Disney experience.