Visitors and locals that take over the Orlando area need to take note: Disney Springs is not what you might expect. So, we are here to tell you why.

While expectations are high when one hears the name Disney Springs, there are so many surprises in store once you visit.

So, we recommend a road trip with friends or even a quick Brightline trip so you can enjoy everything that the entertainment center has to offer!

A lot more to enjoy year-round than you might know about, making this the perfect spot to come to for dining and entertainment.

With that said, here are three reasons why Disney Springs is perfect for those who want to take a break from the theme parks, and for locals to find upscale shops and restaurants that are as original as they are filled with delectable food and impeccable service.

Here are a couple of important reasons as to why you must never turn down a visit to this shopping, dining and entertainment mecca, and make it a part of your visit to Orlando.

A Chance to Find a Little Something Special

When it comes to shopping, Disney Springs offers something for everyone.

For those that love classic dressy styles and accessories, the center offers stores such as vineyard vines, Lululemon and Vera Bradley.

Not only do these stores offer their classic items such as handbags dresses, accessories and leggings, but you might even stumble upon special Disney-themed collections for each store that are hard to ignore.

Another standout store is the whimsical Disney Ever After. There, you will find all sorts of gorgeous character plushies, and you can create unique headbands with your selected favorites!

Then, there’s the expansive World of Disney where you can find the perfect Disney merchandise, including seasonal items and those coveted Mickey ear headbands representing every character from the Disney universe that you could ever imagine being possible.

You’ll love wearing them! They’re festive and fun, so don’t just keep that energy saved for a park visit. Disney merchandise is in a league of its own!

Dreamy Dining Opportunities and Exciting Entertainment

During my recent visit, I had a chance to experience some amazing restaurants that have become new favorites.

First there was Morimoto Asia, which offers fresh sushi and delicious and inventive Asian cuisine helmed and with a menu created by the popular celebrity chef, Masaharu Morimoto.

Think of it as a place where Asian cuisine takes the lead, and it also offers Chinese, Japanese and Korean dishes with a twist, in an expansive place with gorgeous décor, perfect for a celebratory or classy meal.

If you love Southern cooking, you’re in luck with Chef Art Smith's Homecomin.' The celebrity chef, and past Disney College Program graduate, brings his expertise and background to the restaurant, a homey and unique spot that’s perfect for a family celebration and experience.

Let’s just say his Southern Fried Chicken is a showstopper, and one coveted by Oprah. Yes, Oprah. And the energetic Southern Shine Bar is one that prides itself on serving top-notch cocktails and a selection of moonshine options.

Speaking of amazing libations, let’s take a moment to mention Jock Lindsey's Hangar Bar and the impressive Wine Bar George – A Restaurant & Bar. They’re not just impressive, they’re also places that simply feel like a perfect escape.

Both establishments offer delicious food and something a little extra to accompany their meal offerings.

At mention Jock Lindsey's Hangar Bar, you can indulge on anything from a cold beer flight or glass of wine. But it’s their fun spirits mixed into drinks that lead you into a cocktail adventure. It’ll be hard to select just one drink from their unique menu. We recommend trying out Try the Fountain of Youth or The Scottish Professor. The latter will have you enjoying a perfect blend of Scotch whiskey and gin.

At Wine Bar George – A Restaurant & Bar, expect to enjoy a timeless environment. With a selection of worldly wines, charcuterie boards and delicious main entrées, you’ll be transported into a place where elegance and an extensive knowledge of wines and cocktails live in perfect harmony.

Two casual and great spots as well are the Splitsville Dining Room and eet by Maneet Chauhan. They’re worth a visit.

The Splitsville Dining Room is an amazing part of the bowling alley. It shows that it’s not only the games played, but also the food that satisfies. Think of fresh sushi, delicious burgers and sandwiches and pizza that’s perfect for everyone to enjoy. Have picky eaters? Come here, since its menu if not afraid to offer pretty much a bit of everything!

The recently opened eet by Maneet Chauhan is a wonderful option for those that want something quick and delicious, as well as inventive. Helmed as well by a celebrity chef, get ready to enjoy authentic Indian cuisine created by celebrity Chef Maneet Chauhan. She and her husband Vivek Deora are an award-winning hospitality duo, and this was their way of celebrating their family’s culture and traditions and to share them with others in Orlando, a place that they hold dear to their hearts.

Then there’s The BOATHOUSE®. This is THE place for fun cocktails, a gorgeous view, fresh seafood and delicious chops. Come for the food, the elegance and the fun environment, and stay for their impressive desserts to share. You will not regret it!

After all this shopping and dining, you’ll be ready for some entertainment, right? Thought so!

From an exclusive air balloon experience to seasonal events such as their Christmas Tree Walk, as well as Cirque du Soleil Drawn to Life show, you’ll have many options to enjoy during your visit.

Disney Springs also has a unique and colorful Art Walk opportunity, where you can enjoy amazing and rotating colorful murals, perfect to snap pictures in front of or of the murals. You’ll be able to enjoy diverse types of art, all by artists from all over the world.

The location also offers a selection of rotating live bands that perform at the Disney Springs entertainment stage by World of Disney and the impressive Lego Store and its magical Lego sculptures, perfect for pictures. You’ll have a chance to dance to different types of music nightly!

Every night, Disney Springs offers an unforgettable drone show where visitors can watch Disney characters and stories come to life, in a lit-up display of drones flying under the sparkling night sky, ending the night in a magical way that only Disney could create.

For more information on Disney Springs, visit disneysprings.com.