The area known today as Disney Springs has come a long way since it first opened as the Lake Buena Vista Shopping Village in 1975! The concept of the shopping area was to cater to the planned residential areas of Lake Buena Vista, however, the eventual movement of hotels into the area quickly changed it’s purpose to a shopping area for guests.
In 1977 the area became known as Walt Disney World Village, in 1989 Disney Village Marketplace, in 1995 Downtown Disney and in 1997 Downtown Disney Marketplace. Beyond name changes, the outdoor shopping and entertainment property has seen a host of changes to it’s shops, attractions and restaurants over the years as well!