Get to know…Lake Buena Vista (Disney)

Major EmployerWalt Disney Company
Known ForWalt Disney World Resort
EntertainmentDowntown Disney
Private Schools2

Lake Buena Vista is one of the greater Orlando area's most well developed neighborhoods, and boasts tons of shopping, dining, and entertainment options.

This area is close to Interstate 4 (I-4) and Disney property, so it's usually packed with tourists 24/7. There are a few neighborhoods in Lake Buena Vista just north of the Interstate and the Walt Disney World Resort that are outside of the area's main tourism centers that are actually some of the quietest places to live in the Orlando metro area.

Whether you're a working professional looking for a place to live close to the city while sticking close to Lake Buena Vista's attractions or a family looking for a quiet place to call home close to Central Florida's most renowned entertainment, the Lake Buena Vista area can be very accommodating. In recent years, the market has experienced heavy construction of new apartments close to the theme parks, so you're likely to find a place with new, luxury features like granite countertops and energy efficient appliances.

There are many back roads and alternative routes that will allow you to avoid heavy tourist traffic during the day. Two of the area's main roads are SR 535 and SR 435, both of which run north-south through Lake Buena Vista. I-4 borders the southeast edge of the neighborhood, and provides quick access north into Orlando. Be warned, traffic on I-4 backs up in the mornings and afternoons, and is generally busy all hours of the day due to tourists traveling to and from Disney property as well as other attractions located off the Interstate.  That said, you'll have quick access to the Central Florida GreeneWay (SR 417), so trips to the Orlando International Airport or further east to Lake Nona will be relatively traffic-free.

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Attractions near Lake Buena Vista

If you're looking to live in Lake Buena Vista, you're in luck! Walt Disney World and its resorts call Lake Buena Vista home, and the area is synonymous with the mouse. Disney Springs is much less expensive than a day at any of Disney's parks and offers a plethora for activities for people of all ages. The House of Blues in Orlando is located in the Downtown Disney district and plays host to a number of rock, electronic, and pop concerts. La Nouba by Cirque du Soleil is a one-of-a-kind acrobatic performance with stunning choreography and unforgettable characters that's fun for all ages.

Shopping in Lake Buena Vista

The Orlando Vineland Premium Outlets is Lake Buena Vista's premier shopping center, conveniently located off of Interstate 4 on Vineland Avenue. Here you'll find over 100 stores ranging from high-end designer fashion like Armani, Prada, and Coach to more affordable brands like Forever 21, Papaya, LOFT, and Talbots. The Orlando Vineland Premium Outlets also house specialty shops and boutiques where you can sample chocolate confections and baked goods, browse the latest beauty and skincare trends, or pick up a new fragrance at any of the three perfumeries.

If that's not enough, Lake Buena Vista is extremely close to both Kissimmee and Orlando, giving you easy access to shopping in both areas. 

The Crossroads of Lake Buena Vista is the area's more traditional shopping plaza. The center features a blend of 25 shops and restaurants right outside the entrance to the Walt Disney World Resort. A few of its resident shops include Sunglass Hut, Foot Locker, Chico's, and Gooding's supermarket.  

If you're looking to mix up your shopping experience, Disney Springs' stores include clothing shops, candy stores, toy stores, and so much more! 

Lake Buena Vista Dining

Almost all of Lake Buena Vista's restaurants are spread out near Interstate 4 and along U.S. 192. These are the area's two major thoroughfares, and many tourists and residents alike pass through Lake Buena Vista via these routes. As a result, the majority of the dining options you'll find are fast food joints and franchise restaurants that cater to a variety of appetites and budgets. Along U.S. 192, which is close to Disney property, you'll find a combination of seated restaurants and drive –through eateries like Denny's, Texas Roadhouse, Red Lobster, Bonefish Grill, Taco Bell, and Panera Bread.

In addition to the traditional choices, Downtown Disney district's selection of restaurants and bars is always growing. If you're hoping to bring character into your dining experience, Downtown Disney has an array of themed restaurants, bars, and cafes for a unique dining experience. 

Sports

Because Lake Buena Vista is so close to Kissimmee, you're a quick drive from the area's sports arenas. The Houston Astros have spring training in Kissimmee, and the NCCAA men's soccer National Champion Tournament is hosted annually in Kissimmee.

You can also head north into Downtown Orlando to catch the Orlando City Soccer Club play, or visit ESPN's Wide World of Sports in Bay Lake, near the Walt Disney World Resort.

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