The Surprisingly Complicated Origins of Disney Springs (Ep. 89)

Jim Hill and Lauren Hersey explore the latest Disney Springs news, from towering CrazyShakes and a savory new concept from Gideon’s Bakehouse to a possible interactive gaming venue taking over the old NBA Experience building. They also spotlight a subtle new Disney-inspired apparel brand before diving into the surprisingly complicated early history of Disney Springs. In part one of this deep dive, Jim traces the story all the way back to Walt Disney’s original EPCOT city plans and the unlikely beginnings of what eventually became Walt Disney World’s shopping and dining district.

NEWS

• Black Tap CrazyShake pop-up arrives at Disney Springs with over-the-top milkshakes, including a Disney-exclusive Mickey-themed shake available for a limited 90-day run
• Six Ravens announced as a new savory concept from Gideon’s Bakehouse founder Steve Lewis, featuring “coffins” (old-school hand pies), smashed potatoes, and local beer
• Level 99 interactive challenge venue rumored for the former NBA Experience building, bringing 60 physical and mental challenge rooms plus food and drinks
• The Aerophile balloon ride at Disney Springs returns with a brand-new balloon, once again offering aerial views of Walt Disney World

FEATURE

• Why Disney Springs exists at all - and how its origins trace back to Walt Disney’s original EPCOT city concept in the 1960s
• The opening of the Lake Buena Vista Shopping Village in 1975 and why Disney initially designed it for residents, not tourists
• How the Empress Lily riverboat restaurant helped introduce Disney’s first-ever character dining experience in 1978
• Early resort expansion plans around the shopping village, including a proposed New Orleans Square-themed hotel district that never happened

HOSTS

• Jim Hill - IG: @JimHillMedia | X: @JimHillMedia | Website: JimHillMedia.com
• Lauren Hersey - IG: @lauren_hersey_ | X: @laurenhersey2

FOLLOW

• Facebook: JimHillMediaNews
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• TikTok: JimHillMedia

SUPPORT

Support the show and access bonus episodes and additional content at Patreon.com/JimHillMedia.

PRODUCTION CREDITS

Edited by Dave Grey
Produced by Eric Hersey - Strong Minded Agency

SPONSOR

This episode is brought to you by Unlocked Magic, the go-to place for some of the best deals on Disney and Universal theme park tickets. If a 2026 park trip is on your radar, Unlocked Magic helps you lock in great prices and plan ahead with confidence.
Visit: unlockedmagic.com

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