Your Guide to a Brand New Summer at Disney Springs
Disney Springs has always been the kind of place that rewards guests who keep a close eye on the calendar. While the theme parks often steal the spotlight with new rides and festivals, this sprawling district at Walt Disney World operates on its own rhythm of openings and seasonal events. This summer, that rhythm is picking up speed. If you have a trip planned between May and September 2026, the Disney Springs you visit will look and feel significantly different from last year.
From savory pies to high-tech challenge rooms, the updates hitting the district are designed to move beyond traditional shopping. Whether you are looking for a late-night adventure or a new favorite snack, here are the five major changes you need to know about before you head to the Springs this summer.
1. Savory Delights at Six Ravens
The most buzzed-about food news is undoubtedly the arrival of Six Ravens. This new shop comes from the creative minds behind Gideon’s Bakehouse, which has long been a staple for those willing to wait in massive lines for half-pound cookies. However, Six Ravens is taking a sharp turn away from the sugar. This location will focus on savory hand pies known as Coffyns. These are crafted with homemade yeast rolls and fillings developed in collaboration with local Central Florida chefs. While an exact opening date hasn’t been pinned down yet, the shop will be located just doors away from Gideon’s, making that corner of the Landing a must-visit for foodies.
2. LEVEL99: A New Social Entertainment Concept
If you are traveling with a group of adults or teens who want more than just dinner, LEVEL99 is going to be your new go-to. This is a massive, real-world social entertainment experience featuring more than 60 challenge rooms. Think of it as a mix between an escape room and a high-tech obstacle course that tests both physical and mental skills. It is a futuristic concept that doesn’t really have a comparison anywhere else on Disney property. It is confirmed to open this summer, though the specific launch date remains under wraps.
3. The Cool Kids Summer Dance Party
For families visiting the Marketplace side of the district, the Cool Kids Summer event is bringing a fresh energy to the evenings. Running from approximately May 26 through September 8, a new Dance Party will take place on select nights. This isn’t just any playlist; the event specifically celebrates upcoming Disney+ releases. You can expect to hear tracks from Descendants: Wicked Wonderland and Camp Rock 3. It is a perfect way for kids to burn off some energy while parents browse the nearby shops.
4. A Fresh Look for Retail: Vans
Retail fans have something to look forward to with the addition of a brand-new Vans store. Signage for the popular footwear brand appeared earlier this spring, and the store is expected to open its doors sometime during the peak summer months. While retail openings can sometimes shift, keep an eye out for this location if you are in the market for some classic skate shoes or park-ready sneakers.
5. A Shift in Entertainment Atmosphere
The final big change is the overall shift in how Disney Springs is being programmed. With the combination of the new challenge rooms at LEVEL99 and the movie-themed dance parties, the district is leaning heavily into interactive social experiences. This summer marks a transition where Disney Springs becomes as much about “doing” as it is about “buying.”
Planning Pro-Tips for Your Visit
- Check for Virtual Queues: Given the popularity of the Gideon’s team, expect Six Ravens to be a high-demand spot. Keep an eye on your mobile device for any virtual queue announcements once they open.
- Time Your Marketplace Visit: If you want to catch the Dance Party, aim to be in the Marketplace area after dinner on select nights between late May and early September.
- Adult Socializing: If you plan on trying LEVEL99, consider booking it for a night when you aren’t rushing to a dining reservation, as the 60+ challenge rooms can easily fill an entire evening.
Disney Springs continues to grow into a destination that deserves its own dedicated day on your itinerary. With these new additions, the summer of 2026 is shaping up to be one of the most interactive seasons yet.
Disclaimer: This information is gathered from various online sources and news outlets. While we strive for accuracy, Disney plans and policies can change rapidly. We recommend double-checking official Disney sources for the most up-to-date information before making final travel plans.