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Even if you're not inclined to buy, the shops on Disney property are well worth a look. Across the board, they’re open, inviting, cleverly themed, and often carry items exclusive to Disney. Of course, you could easily pick up $100 worth of goods before you've ventured even 10 feet into a store, but you're better off practicing some restraint. If you see something you like, think about it while you enjoy the rest of your day (you might see something even better in the next store). But if you find you're still thinking of that beautiful stuffed Cheshire Cat or Cinderella snow globe at the end of the day, you can always go back to get it. And if you stay on property at a Disney hotel, note this perk: You won't have to lug around shopping bags all day. Disney stores will deliver your merchandise to your room for free.
A few tips: Don't let the price tags scare you off. Small souvenirs (key chains, pens, small toys, etc.) can be found at nearly every store for just a few dollars—a great option when considering gifts for friends back home. Just be careful with souvenir-hungry kids since many attractions exit directly into gift shops. You can try to be the voice of reason and ask them to wait—or try a different approach: Give them a lump sum to spend during the day and let them choose (and live with) their purchases. To find the most current list of retail outlets searchable by name, by theme park, and by resort, visit www.disneyworld.disney.go.com/shops. If you return home and realize you've forgotten a critical souvenir, call WDW's Merchandise Mail Order service at 877/560–6477.
Many cast members and guests share (and wear) a common interest: pins that reflect favorite characters, special events, and all things Disney. Often affixed to lanyards, these pins are a curiously treasured part of Disney's subculture, with owners buying and swapping pins the way kids used to trade baseball cards. This Marketplace shop is one of the premier pin-trading destinations—and where you can also buy Mickey ears and MagicBands.
It's easy to lose track of time in this little oasis of fine art, handcrafted jewelry, and Zen paraphernalia. Big sellers include solid bronze frogs by Frogman; signed, digitized paintings by Alan Foxx; Josh Simpson glass-planet art pieces; and handsome menorahs and mezuzahs.
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