On January 16, 1999, my family visited the Walt Disney World Resort for our annual Winter Vacation. We went to Downtown Disney's West Side for the first time that evening. It lives up to all of the hype and delivers a variety of entertainment, games, shows, and more. To the north to northwest of West Side is an open field. Disney plans to expand West Side sometime within the next year or two. Why? Well, Universal Studios Escape has just opened the critically acclaimed City Walk. Competition is tough these days in Orlando when there are now four major entertainment complexes: Downtown Disney, Universal Studios City Walk, Pointe Orlando, and Church Street Station. I will have more reviews regarding these other entertainment complexes in the near future.
AMC 24 Theaters Complex
---It is tagged as the largest theater complex in the Southeastern United States. Stadium seating and a state-of-the-art sound system has just been added probably because of the competion at Universal Studios City Walk down the road. The second floor of this mammoth building is an outdoor observation area which overlooks West Side.
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Bongos Cuban Cafe
---Gloria and Emilio Estefan own this colorfully decorated, two-story Cuban restuarant. It offers the best in Cuban cuisine while at the same time, Latin dance rhythms enhance the atmosphere.
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Cirque Du Soleil
---This world-reknown theater act is a permenant attraction at West Side. Housed in a gigantic and visually stunning circus tent, Cirque Du Soleil presents La Nouba, a new show created just for Downtown Disney. Ticket prices begin at $55.00.
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Disney Quest
---It is tagged as the ultimate interactive adventure! Friends have told me that Disney Quest is ten years ahead of Dreamworks/SEGA's Gameworks. There are five extraordinary levels of fun, thrills, and adventure. You can ride a raft ride, design your own roller coaster, or fly a magic carpet with Aladdin. There is now a set ticket price before you can enter the building. For more information and ticket prices, click on one of these two links...
---There is nothing special about the outside of this rustic-sytle building, but the inside is what counts. Every night, guests can relax and listen to nightly performers that play gospel, pop/rock, and soul music while eating authentic cajun and fried food. For more information, you can call 934-BLUE.
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Planet Hollywood
---The world-famous, but financially struggling Planet Hollywood has been prospering in Orlando for the past five years. The movie memorabilia atmosphere is fabulous and the food is surprisingly delicious. You can't miss this glowing blue ball that sits on a small lake on the east side of West Side. Waits in line have gone considerably down due to other restuarants opening lately in the area. If you come to the Walt Disney World Resort, this is a must... the merchandise collection is impressive!
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Wolfgang Puck Cafe
---The world famous chef has now opened a fancy double-decker eatery overlooking the water. This place serves out-of-this-world pizzas and other items on a cool Californian cuisine.
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Hours: 10:30 am - 11:00 pm
All Star Gear
---Tons of merchandise relating to Walt Disney World's very own All Star Cafe which is located at the Wide World of Sports complex.
Celebrity Eyeworks Studio
---Designed like a Hollywood movie set, this happenin' place sells stylish sunglasses and eyewear accessories.
Guitar Gallery by George's Music
---This is the first thing you'll see when entering Downtown Disney's West Side if coming from the parking lot. Guitar Gallery sells everything from rare/collectable guitars to original clothing.
---Nothing special about this overpriced store which sells art and ceramics.
Magnetron
---The name says it all. This places sells all kinds of rare and collectable magnots.
Sosa Family Cigars
---Hand-rolled cigars and smoking accessories are sold in this "stuffy" atmosphere.
Starbilias
---This brightly-decorated store sells a variety of movie/television memorabilia. Beware. Don't bring your camera into the store or else the security will literally kick you out. I know from a personal experience.
Virgin Megastore
---What can I say? This could possibly be the greatest store ever built. Housed in a mammoth, two-story supestructure, Virgin Megastore has a huge music and movie collection. They also sell books, magazines, interactive media, clothing, and collectables. I could spend hours in this shopper's paradise.
Wildhorse Store
---This is the place for you if you're into Western clothing and accessories.
Disney's Candy Cauldron
---If you have a sweet tooth, be sure not to miss this rich delight!
Forty Thirst Street
---Quench your thirst with a cold, refreshing soda or try some of the cappuccino and desserts.
Ice Skating
---This is only for a limited time. The cost for adults is $10.00 and $8.00 for children ages 3-9.