When most people plan their Walt Disney World Resort vacation, they think about the incredible theme parks: Magic Kingdom Park, EPCOT, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom. But if you’re looking to unwind with shopping, dining, and family-friendly entertainment, Disney Springs deserves a spot on your itinerary. With an eclectic mix of offerings, Disney Springs has something for everyone, from romantic evenings to kid-friendly fun.
While Disney Springs is often touted as an adult’s playground with lounges like Enzo’s Hideaway and Dockside Margaritas, families shouldn’t overlook the fantastic experiences it offers. From bowling at Splitsville to soaring on Aerophile, there’s no shortage of activities to enjoy with the kids.
But there’s one experience at Disney Springs that many families miss, and it’s an absolute must for dino enthusiasts: the Build-A-Dino experience, tucked away inside the T-REX Restaurant’s gift shop.
More Than Just a Meal: Hidden Gems at T-REX Restaurant
The T-REX Restaurant is a favorite for families, offering prehistoric-themed dining in a setting complete with animatronic dinosaurs and meteor showers. But what many don’t realize is that there’s much more to this spot than meets the eye. Just outside the restaurant’s gift shop, kids can dig for fossils in a free fossil pit, offering a fun hands-on activity that doesn’t require dining reservations.
For those looking to extend the fun, you can purchase a dig kit to take the adventure home.
The real treasure, however, lies within the restaurant’s gift shop: Build-A-Dino, a dinosaur-themed spin on the beloved Build-A-Bear Workshop. This unique activity allows your little ones to create a cuddly dinosaur that becomes a treasured keepsake of your Disney Springs visit.
The Build-A-Dino Experience: Step by Step
Building a dinosaur at Disney Springs is a magical experience your family will remember for years to come. Here’s how it works:
1. Choose Your Dinosaur
The fun begins with picking out your dinosaur. The selection includes a variety of prehistoric pals, from fierce T-Rexes to adorable triceratops. This is where your child’s imagination truly starts to take flight.
2. Stuff and Customize
Next, a friendly cast member will help you bring the dinosaur to life. The stuffing process includes adding a sound and a heart. The sound can range from a classic dino roar to a personalized message from a loved one, making the experience even more meaningful. Families are invited to hold the heart, make a wish, and place it inside the dinosaur—a sweet and magical moment that adds an emotional touch.
3. Add a Scent
To make the dinosaur even more unique, you can choose from a selection of scents like bubble gum or peppermint. The scent is gently rubbed on the dinosaur, adding an extra sensory layer to the keepsake.
4. Dress Your Dino
Once the dinosaur is stuffed and scented, it’s time for the fun part: picking out an outfit! The options range from sporty to fancy, with accessories like sunglasses, shoes, wigs, and more. Let your little one’s creativity shine as they design their dinosaur’s look.
5. Name and Celebrate
Finally, your family gets to name the dinosaur and create a birth certificate to commemorate the occasion. This final step solidifies your dino’s place in your Disney memories.
The Cost of the Experience
Currently, the Build-A-Dino experience is offered as a $55 bundle. This price includes:
- A stuffed dinosaur
- Your choice of sound and scent
- An outfit and accessories
- A heart for wishing
- A birth certificate
Compared to other activities at Disney Springs, this is a reasonably priced way to create a unique keepsake while also providing entertainment.
Why You Shouldn’t Miss This Experience
Disney Springs offers a plethora of family-friendly attractions, but Build-A-Dino stands out for its hands-on creativity and customization. Unlike many experiences that revolve around shopping or dining, this activity lets kids engage their imaginations and walk away with a tangible reminder of their trip.
What’s more, you don’t need dining reservations at T-REX Restaurant to enjoy this experience. Simply walk into the gift shop and let the fun begin. And if your family loves dinosaurs, you can even make a day of it by pairing the Build-A-Dino experience with a meal at T-REX or a fossil dig at the pit just outside.
Other Family-Friendly Activities at Disney Springs
While you’re at Disney Springs, consider checking out these other family favorites:
- Aerophile: Take in stunning aerial views of Disney Springs aboard the world’s largest tethered helium balloon.
- Splitsville Luxury Lanes: Enjoy bowling with a side of gourmet food.
- Coca-Cola Store: Meet the Coca-Cola Polar Bear and enjoy refreshing beverages from around the world.
- AMC DINE-IN Disney Springs 24: Watch a movie while enjoying a delicious meal delivered right to your seat.
Tips for Your Visit
- Timing Is Key: If you plan to visit Disney Springs on a busy day, consider arriving early. The Build-A-Dino experience tends to be less crowded earlier in the day.
- Budget for Extras: While the $55 bundle includes everything you need, additional outfits or accessories can add to the fun. Keep this in mind when planning your budget.
- Explore the Pavilions: Disney Springs is a treasure trove of unique experiences. Take some time to explore the various shops and eateries while you’re there.
Final Thoughts
Disney Springs is more than just a shopping and dining destination—it’s a hub of creativity and family-friendly fun. The Build-A-Dino experience at T-REX Restaurant is one of its best-hidden gems, offering a memorable activity for kids and adults alike. Whether you’re a seasoned Disney visitor or planning your first trip, this is one experience your family won’t want to miss.
So next time you’re at Disney Springs, skip the usual shopping spree and take a detour to create your own prehistoric friend. It’s a magical way to add a little extra pixie dust to your Walt Disney World vacation.
Have you ever built a dino? Share your experience in the comments below!
