How to Shop at Disney World's Marketplace
The Downtown Disney Marketplace near Orlando is a Disney shopper's dream. Here you can snag one-of-a-kind memorabilia, clothing, housewares and more. If you plan to visit and you're on a tight vacation schedule, a little pre-planning will help you make the most of your time.
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Timing
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Marketplace is open every day. The best times to shop are weekday mornings and afternoons. Bigger crowds often head to Marketplace after Disney World's four theme parks close each day; crowds are also generally bigger on weekends.
Where to Start
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Of the 17 stores at Marketplace, a good one to start with is the 50-thousand square foot World of Disney. You can find just about everything on your souvenir list here. Disney Annual Passholders and Disney Visa members can snag extra discounts here, too.
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Specifics
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If you have specific items in mind, you may want to meander through Marketplace's smaller stores first. These shops offer merchandise you won't find anywhere else. Find Christmas ornaments, Mickey-themed dinnerware and more.
Hands-Free Shopping
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Don't get overloaded with bags and packages. Disney provides delivery to on-site resorts, and all shoppers have the option of shipping their purchases home for a fee.
Plan a Break
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You don't want to literally shop 'til you drop. Visit one of Marketplace's fun eateries, like Earl of Sandwich, Rainforest Café or the dinosaur-themed T-REX. Celebrity chef Wolfgang Puck has a fast food joint here, too.
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