One of the things that I love about writing trivia questions is the fact that I learn so many new things about Walt Disney World.

It makes me chuckle, actually, as most people in my life (work, friends, family, etc.) usually refer to me as a “Disney expert”.  Hah!  When I write one of these questions, I realize just how much I don’t know!

Such as, I never realized that WDW’s version of Downtown Disney has lived its 38 years in a perpetual state of “identity crisis”.  Initially opened as …

… the Lake Buena Vista Shopping Village, it has also been called Walt Disney World Village and Disney Village Marketplace.

Although yesterday’s trivia challenge was met by a “split decision” of sorts, 30% of you did know the correct answer!  I commend you, because I certainly did not!  Oh, and for the record, the fourth choice that I gave you, Disney Village, actually opened on April 12, 1992 at Disneyland Resort Paris!

As for Downtown Disney, has it finally come to grips with its identity?  Of course not!  On March 14th, 2013, Disney unveiled plans for Disney Springs, the next transformation of Downtown Disney, due to be completed in 2016.

In text-book imagineering fashion, the next generation of WDW’s downtown marketplace will rest on Disney’s legendary imagineering talent of crafting a story.  In this case, Disney Springs will be presented as a “… timeless and vibrant place that celebrates the turn-of-the century lakeside towns that dotted the Florida landscape.”

“The story of Disney Springs begins at our new Town Center, which is oriented around a series of bubbling natural springs that first attracted settlers to the area.  From there, the town grew to encompass three additional neighborhoods:  The Landing, Marketplace, and West Side – each with its own distinct charm and atmosphere.”

For more, including detailed descriptions of each of these three districts, please check out this Disney Parks Blog announcement from earlier this year!  Get informed!  You never know when you’ll get hit with another trivia challenge!  Hah!

Have a great Friday, my friends!