5. Play at the Splash Pads 

Disney Springs has two splash pads that are popular for kids of nearly every age. Little fountains of water leap and skip around the outdoor pads, giving visitors a fun way to cool off from the Florida heat. The larger of the two splash pads is located between Once Upon a Toy and Earl of Sandwich. The smaller splash pad is just past Disney Design-a-Tee.

Come prepared with swim gear to get the most out of this spot. Children who are not potty trained will need a swim diaper. There are handy restrooms located to the right and behind Once Upon a Toy, and just right of the Design-a-Tee store if your kids need to change.

4. Play with Mr. Potato Head

Image: Disney

Inside Once Upon a Toy you’ll find some fun tables that are worth a few minutes of play. Check out dozens of Mr. Potato Head pieces in creative Disney themes. Let your kids stop and build in this cool, air conditioned spot.

3. Grab Some Great Photo Ops

Image: Disney

Disney Springs has dozens of photo ops. Some great picks are:

• Giant plastic tee shirts with holes you can pop your heads through outside the Disney Design-a-Tee store
• Oversized toy characters outside Once Upon a Toy
• Huge LEGO sculptures around the LEGO Imagination Center
• Dinosaurs around the T-REX restaurant

2. Browse the Art of Disney

Image: Disney

The Art of Disney is a must-see stop for any visitor. While you can find Disney tees, toys, and stuffed animals in nearly any gift shop on property, the artwork featured here is more of a rarity. The artists themselves are often on hand doing signings, so you may even have a chance to chat up one of the talented painters or sculptors whose pieces are on display. If the store’s display leaves you wanting more, check out the computers at the far end where you can browse even more pieces of Disney inspired art.

1. Watch the Rainforest Café Erupt

Image: Disney

The Rainforest Café is nestled inside a live volcano that erupts regularly. Keep an eye on this giant form as you’re making your way around Disney Springs. When you start to see smoke, head toward the water for a good view. The display of light and fire is worth watching at least once.

In between these fun free spots, you’re sure to find plenty of stores worth browsing. World of Disney is the largest gift shop at Disney Springs and has several rooms overflowing with authentic Disney merch. With so many free things on hand, however, you can enjoy the magic of Disney without ever opening your wallet.