Surface Parking at Disney Springs offers many options to visitors who usually drive to this area.
Disney Springs is a renowned entertainment and shopping center in Orlando, Florida, located at Walt Disney World Resort.
Disney Springs, one of the world’s most visited attractions, has countless options for exploration, dining, and entertainment.
However, as the number of visitors increases, so does the difficulty of locating convenient and accessible parking.
This post will explicitly address surface parking at Disney Springs – what it is, where it is located, and how to use it.
Understanding the ins and outs of surface parking can make for a more delightful and stress-free experience at Disney Springs, whether you’re a first-time visitor or a regular visitor.
So, What is Surface Parking at Disney Springs?
Surface parking refers to parking which is not enclosed or created by a structure and is allocated an area ‘at grade’ on ground level.
It is an outdoor parking lot that is uncovered and has no garage or overhead cover.
It is just a normal striped parking lot outside on a surface (concrete, gravel, or asphalt).
Many individuals generally prefer surface parking because it offers a simpler and less expensive way to build and maintain than parking garages or buildings.
Drivers can easily park their vehicle in open parking places in a defined area, and entrance to their vehicle is usually simple and quick.
Surface parking is one of the alternatives for visitors to park their vehicles at Disney Springs. There are three surface parking lots namely Mango, Watermelon and Strawberry.
On the other hand, Disney Springs has three massive parking garages: The Lime Parking Garage, The Orange Parking Garage, and The Grapefruit Parking Garage.
Where is Surface Parking Located in Disney Springs?
Surface parking is available at Disney Springs on the west side of the commercial zone.
The Orange, Grapefruit and Lime lots are the principal surface parking facilities.
Following the signs for surface parking, these parking sites are easily accessible from the main entry to Disney Springs.
Visitors can park their vehicles in these lots in designated open spaces, and there are bus stations nearby for those who need transportation to other sections of Walt Disney World Resort.
It is a short walk from the parking lots to Disney Springs, with many stores, restaurants, and entertainment options along the way.
Advantages of Surface Parking at Disney Springs
Cost-effective: Surface parking offers free parking compared to Valet Parking, providing a convenient and cost-effective option for the visitors.
Easy Access: Surface parking provides easy access to vehicles, allowing visitors to quickly get to their cars without needing to navigate a complex parking structure.
Simplicity: With no multi-level structures or elevators to navigate, surface parking is simple and straightforward, making it a more convenient option for those who prefer not to deal with the complexity of parking garages.
Convenience: Surface parking spaces at Disney Springs have an ideal location in the commercial core, making them an excellent choice for visitors who wish to quickly access the various entertainment options, shopping, and restaurants.
Availability: As surface parking offers more open spaces, it can accommodate more vehicles compared to parking garages or structures, making it easier for visitors to find available parking.
Disadvantages of Surface Parking
Although surface parking at Disney Springs has various advantages, there are also potential drawbacks to consider, including:
Exposure to Elements: Surface parking, unlike parking garages or structures, provides no shelter from the elements such as rain, wind, or sun, which can be especially difficult during hot and humid Florida weather.
Limited Shade: Surface parking spots may have limited shade, which may be troublesome for guests searching for a cooler and more comfortable parking experience.
Higher Risk of Damage: Because surface parking is open, there is a greater danger of damage to automobiles from weather elements or other vehicles that park too close.
Bus Transport: Surface parking at Disney Springs is located further away from the commercial sector, thus guests may need to take bus transit to specific destinations or regions of the park.
Overall, while surface parking at Disney Springs may be more affordable and accessible than other parking options, it may also present certain challenges such as exposure to the elements and increased risk of damage to vehicles.
Tips for Navigating Surface Parking at Disney Springs
Navigating surface parking at Disney Springs can feel overwhelming if you’re not prepared, but with these tips, you can make the experience smoother and more efficient:
Arrive Early: To ensure you’ll get a good parking spot and avoid crowds, try to arrive early before peak times.
Follow the Signs: Look out for the signs that direct you to surface parking. They’re visible from the main road and throughout the parking lot.
Be Patient: During peak times, surface parking tends to fill up quickly. Be patient and wait for a space to open up.
Plan your Walk: Disney Springs is a massive area, so plan your route accordingly when walking from the parking area to your destination. Consider taking a photo of where you parked or using a smartwatch or fitness tracker to track your steps.
Keep Valuables Out of Sight: Always lock your car and keep valuable items out of sight to deter theft.
Wear Comfortable Shoes: Expect to do a bit of walking when navigating surface parking areas. Wear comfortable shoes to avoid blisters and discomfort.
By following these tips, navigating surface parking at Disney Springs can be an enjoyable experience that sets the tone for a fun-filled day at the park.
How Does Surface Parking Work?
Surface parking is rather simple.
There will be signage on all of the roadways directing you to Surface Parking or Parking Garages.
You should follow the signage and stay in the appropriate lanes until you see the outdoor parking areas.
The Watermelon and Mango parking lots are just outside Cirque du Soleil, while the Strawberry lot is on the side of House of Blues.
Simply follow the Surface Parking signs to an outdoor lot, and then park in any available space.
Surface parking is also available, and it is accessible directly outside of Cirque du Soleil.
When Do You Choose Surface Parking?
If you’re going to House of Blues or anything else on Disney Springs’ Westside, then you should consider surface parking.
If you don’t want to go through multiple floors of parking garages to find parking or if you don’t mind getting rained on, then surface parking is the best option for you.
Although I prefer the Lime Garage at Disney Springs, Surface Parking is a welcome change of scenery due to its outside aspect and ease.
Surface parking fills very quickly, so if you’re visiting later in the day, you’ll want to consider parking in one of the garages.
When Do You Prefer Other Parking Options Apart From Surface Parking?
If there is a likelihood of rain that day and you do not want to get wet while walking to your car, then surface parking is not the best option for you.
If you are in a hurry and don’t want to waste time driving around searching for parking spots in the old-fashioned manner , then surface parking may not be the best option for you.
Parking garages include a light system in each row that displays the color green when a parking spot is available and red when it is taken.
This makes finding parking spaces quite simple.
Final Thoughts of Surface Parking at Disney Springs
Surface parking at Disney Springs is a convenient and cost-effective choice for tourists looking for easy parking.
It offers many benefits because of its ease of access, simplicity, and cost.
However, depending on their budget, convenience, and taste, tourists can also explore additional parking options such as valet parking, parking garages, and preferred parking.
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience, guests should arrive early and plan their itinerary, regardless of the parking option chosen.
Navigating the parking options at Disney Springs can be an efficient and stress-free experience with proper thinking and planning, allowing guests to appreciate everything this exciting area has to offer.