Character Warehouse First or Disney Springs First? Help Me Decide!

So here’s the thing—I’m planning our Disney Springs day, and now I’m stuck on one big decision:

Do we go to the Character Warehouse first and Disney Springs second… or the other way around?

If you’ve been to both, I need your help.

The Two Options I’m Debating:

Option 1: Disney Springs First

Start at Disney Springs at 10am

Shop, snack, do our must‑do’s like World of Disney and Gideon’s

Then drive over to the Character Warehouse at the outlets before dinner

Option 2: Character Warehouse First

Start at the Character Warehouse at 11am when they open

Shop the deals early before it gets picked over

Head to Disney Springs for lunch

Spend the rest of the day soaking it in and checking off our “musts”

Things I’m Considering

First of all, the free parking at Disney Springs is a major bonus. It makes the idea of starting there super appealing. But… then there’s the fact that if we hit up the Character Warehouse later in the day, I’ll be stuck lugging outlet bags around while trying to shop and enjoy myself at Disney Springs. On the flip side, if we go to the outlets first, there’s the risk that we’ll use up a lot of our toddler’s energy — and let’s be honest, nap-time crashes mid-afternoon are very real.

This is why I’m really trying to plan with intention. I don’t want the day to feel rushed, but I do want it to feel purposeful. That’s why I’ve been using my daily planner view in Notion. It helps me visualize what’s actually important, block out time for must-do moments, and see which order of the day makes the most sense based on vibes, energy levels, and logistics. And of course, I always leave a little room for magic — because that’s what Disney is all about.

So what are my non-negotiable priorities for the day? First, Gideon’s Bakehouse — yes, I am proudly joining the hype. Then, World of Disney, because I’m pretty sure it’s illegal to go to Disney Springs and not step inside. I also really want to stop at the carousel — it’s a sweet, simple moment that’s perfect for photos and mellow enough that it won’t freak out our toddler. And of course, the Character Warehouse is a must at some point — because I’m always down for a deal.

Everything else? Just a bonus.

Now Here’s Where You Come In…

I still haven’t figured out where we’re going for lunch or dinner, and honestly... I could use your help!

Head over to my TikTok and drop your favorite Disney Springs food recommendation in the comments. I’m especially looking for spots that are toddler-friendly, ideally with indoor seating, or something quick but still delicious. And if there’s a place that’s so good it’s worth sitting down for, I’m open to that too.

Let’s plan this together.