One of the many perks that draws guests to staying at a Disney World hotel is Early Theme Park Entry, because it allows access to Disney World before others.
Disney Springs
Early Theme Park Entry is one of the most popular perks for Disney World hotel guests. Being able to enter the theme parks 30 minutes before official opening can make a huge difference, especially on busy mornings. But what about Disney Springs? Does Early Entry apply there, too?
Early Theme Park Entry does not apply to Disney Springs. This perk is specifically for Walt Disney World theme parks (Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom) and is available only to guests staying at eligible Disney hotels. Disney Springs is a shopping, dining, and entertainment district, not a theme park, so Early Entry benefits do not extend here. But there are still reasons to head here in the morning.
Disney Springs
Officially, Disney Springs opens at 10 AM, which is when most stores and many restaurants begin operating. That said, Disney Springs has a bit more flexibility than the theme parks when it comes to mornings. According to planDisney, “So while there are no set times for the parking garages to open, you can generally expect them to be open by around 9 AM. This is usually the same for security, too.” This means guests can typically arrive, park, and walk around Disney Springs starting around 9:00 AM, even though most stores won’t open until 10 AM.
Disney Springs
What to Do Early at Disney Springs
Even if most stores don’t open until 10:00 AM, arriving early still has its perks. Starting around 9 AM, you can explore the walkways, take photos without heavy crowds, and enjoy the atmosphere before the midday rush. Disney Springs is much calmer in the morning, which makes it a great time for strolling and sightseeing. While you can’t shop before 10 AM, being there early means you’re among the first guests inside when stores open, and popular merchandise is often freshly restocked. If you’re hunting for limited items or popular souvenirs, morning shopping can be a smart strategy.
Disney Springs
Slow Mornings at Disney Springs
While Early Entry doesn’t apply, several dining locations open before 10 AM, making Disney Springs a great option for a laid-back breakfast or coffee run.
Quick Breakfast Options:
- Joffrey’s Coffee & Tea Company – Opens at 9 AM and is great for coffee, donuts, and pastries.
- Starbucks – Opens at 9 AM, giving you a familiar stop for coffee and breakfast sandwiches.
- Earl of Sandwich – Opens at 9 AM and is ideal for a grab-and-go breakfast sandwich if you want something more filling.
- Everglazed Donuts & Cold Brew – Opens at 9 AM. This is a favorite for gourmet donuts and cold brew, perfect for a relaxed start to the day.
- The Basket at Wine Bar George – Opens at 10:30 AM, so while it’s not early-early, it’s a great brunch option if you’re easing into a late morning.
These spots make Disney Springs a solid choice if you’re skipping rope drop or planning a non-park morning.
Everglaze
Perks of Going to Disney Springs Early
Even without Early Entry, there are still advantages to an early visit. There will be lower crowds compared to midday and evening are a great reason to head over there early. Easier parking and quicker security, as well as Relaxed breakfast options instead of rushing into a theme park. It’s an especially good option for arrival days, rest days, or mornings before an evening park visit.
Disney Springs!
If you’re looking for a low-stress morning filled with coffee, donuts, and window-shopping before the hustle begins, Disney Springs might be exactly what you need. For more tips for your Disney World trip, be sure to follow us at DFB! We are at Disney World every day, and we use our experiences to give you the best information for your trip.
The Best Restaurants at Disney World in 2026
Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe!
WE KNOW DISNEY.
YOU CAN, TOO.
Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation.
Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever!
Where is your favorite place to eat at Disney Springs? Tell us in the comments below!
Our handy (and portable!) ebook guides make sure you get the best deals and can plan a vacation of a lifetime.
TRENDING NOW
A beloved hotel restaurant is FINALLY reopening after being closed for several years!
Here are 7 Bath and Body Works candles you need if you miss Disney Parks.
Big changes are coming to Early Entry this year.
There’s a secret soda flavor at Disney World…and it’s not in the parks!
This NEW Disney World hotel is progressing nicely, but how sure can we be that...
If you're heading to EPCOT soon, you need to know about these four rules that...
This new popcorn bucket has up SCREAMING!
Let's look at the nitty, gritty details of the two expansions coming to Magic Kingdom.
We're sharing the things we wish we'd known before going to EPCOT's Flower & Garden...
We won’t lie…when it comes to food, Disneyland has some of our favorite snacks and...
We finally know when Frozen Ever After is reopening in EPCOT!
Something has CHANGED at this Disney World character meet and greet!
It's about to get really cold in Disney World.
You don't need to break the bank to get good wait times at Magic Kingdom...
Here's what you have to look forward to in Disney Springs this year!
Disney has just revealed some key information about its theme parks. Check it out here!
Napa Rose is finally reopening at Disneyland and we're bringing you a FULL review!
These beloved characters from Disney's Golden Era movies can be yours right now on Amazon.
Soarin' Over California is coming back to Disneyland and we've got all the details!
Trust us...you need these things for your Disney World hotel room.