Disneyland Resort to Revamp Downtown Disney District in 2018

Walt Disney himself said Disneyland would never be completed and that it would continue to evolve as long as there was imagination left in the world. It would seem that is also true of the theme park’s immediate surroundings because the Downtown Disney District is set to receive several changes this year as well.

“Our guests are constantly looking for unique experiences, which is why we’re refreshing familiar spaces and unveiling new locations around every corner of the Disneyland Resort,” said Michael Colglazier, president, Disneyland Resort, in a press release.

“Innovative venues such as Ballast Point, Splitsville and The VOID are just a few great examples of the transformation taking place in Downtown Disney this year.”

Already open is the Star Wars: Secrets of the Empire multi-sensory, hyper-reality attraction by ILMxLAB and The VOID. Immersing teams of four in virtual interactivity, guests go undercover as stormtroopers to capture imperial intelligence crucial to the fledgling rebellion’s survival. It’s the perfect experience leading up to the unveiling of Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge within Disneyland itself come 2019.

Under final construction to be introduced on January 29 is Splitsville Luxury Lanes in all its mid-century modern glory. The former House of Blues replacement will offer patrons food, drinks, entertainment and, of course, bowling with twenty lanes divided across two levels. There will also be a combination of four indoor and outdoor dining areas and over 25 flat-screen televisions.

Also taking up new flagship residence along the entertainment, restaurant and retail promenade is famed Ballast Point, making it the San Diego-based company’s first Orange County location. Featured will be Downtown Disney’s first-ever on-site brewery, plus a tasting room, kitchen and outdoor beer garden. The complex will be positioned on the second floor of the structure once occupied by Build-A-Bear, Ridemakerz and Chapel Hats.

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On tap will be award-winning beers like Sculpin IPA as well as exclusive limited-edition brews to wash down Southern California salads, small plates, flatbreads and entrees showcasing sustainable and seasonal ingredients. As a native San Diegan and fan of the original source, I can attest to the craft brewer’s delicious drinks and dishes. Beer aficionados and culinary epicureans will not be disappointed when Ballast Point opens later in 2018.

Downstairs in the same building will also soon be Black Tap Craft Burgers & Beer. The casual New York-style luncheonette will deliver the eatery’s award-winning burgers and trademark CrazyShake milkshakes at its first Californian location.

Meanwhile, the existing Naples Ristorante e Pizzeria will be renovated in order to expand its patio to include a new al fresco bar and extra seating for diners. Also inside, three wood-burning ovens will be placed to craft Napoletana-style pies. The restaurant will remain open during construction, which will extend to Napolini—Naples’ fast-casual concept—towards the end. Completion is scheduled for fall 2018.

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As for shopping, Disney Home will newly open its doors where D-Street once was in February 2018. Featured inside will be Disney-themed home goods with wares changing seasonally. Even grander, the current World of Disney store will undergo a reimagining into a “dynamic and distinctly Disney retail environment.” It will stay open selling the resort’s biggest selection during the bulk of the work which is expected to occur in phases through the year.

Downtown Disney will continue to operate while it is transformed in 2018 with convenient guest access to the additional likes of Starbucks, La Brea Bakery Café, The LEGO Store, Curl Surf, Ralph Brennan’s Jazz Kitchen, Catal Restaurant & Uva Bar, Sephora, Sprinkles, PANDORA Jewelry and The Dream Boutique.

The district itself is free, and nearby parking is complimentary for three hours with a $20 minimum purchase and validation. That time can be extended up to five hours as validated at a table-service restaurant or the AMC Downtown Disney 12 Theatres.