Downtown Disney Preparing for 2018 Overhaul

Image: PHOTO: The rides of Pixar Pier at Disney California Adventure in Anaheim. (photo via Kirkikis/iStock Editorial/Getty Images Plus) (Kirkikis / iStock Editorial / Getty Images Plus)

by Donald Wood
Last updated: 5:59 PM ET, Mon March 19, 2018

The refurbishments and upgrades to the Downtown Disney District at the Disneyland Resort continue.

Downtown Disney will add multiple new venues and institute changes to dining and retail locations with the hope of refreshing the guest experience and offering family-friendly dining, shopping and entertainment options.

As the changes are implemented and unveiled, Downtown Disney will remain open to visitors.

Disney officials also announced popular craft brewer Ballast Point will open its first Orange County location in Downtown Disney later this year. The brewing company will offer its normal beers, plus limited-edition beers exclusive to the theme park area.

Ballast Point will become Downtown Disney's first-ever on-site brewery, as well as a tasting room, kitchen and outdoor beer garden.

Another marquee addition coming to Downtown Disney is Star Wars: Secrets of the Empire by ILMxLAB and The VOID. The hyper-reality experience allows guests to walk freely throughout the space in groups of four as they go undercover as stormtroopers to capture Imperial intelligence.

In terms of stores and attractions already open, visitors can enjoy a day of shopping at Disney Home, which is a new retail store offers fans a variety of themed home goods. The Splitsville Luxury Lanes bowling alley additionally offers guests a unique combination of dining, drinks, and entertainment.

As for what is yet to open in 2018, theme park enthusiasts will experience a major overhaul at the World of Disney store, renovations at the Naples Ristorante e Pizzeria and the opening of California's first Black Tap Craft Burgers & Beer location.

For tourists considering a visit to the Downtown Disney District, they will be happy to learn that no admission fee is required and the area is located in close proximity to Disneyland, Disney California Adventure Park and the three on-property hotels of the resort.

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