Dining at Rainforest Cafe with Kids

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Our family has been quarantined since the beginning of March. This weekend we did the unthinkable- we visited Disney Springs during COVID-19. Let me begin by saying we haven’t been out to eat at any restaurants, the kids haven’t been in any stores, and Ashley and I only run out to grab the essentials. We’ve been very careful about social distancing and are taking all of the precautions necessary to keep our kids safe. The fact that we ate at the Rainforest Cafe during our visit is a pretty big deal.

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What is Disney Springs?

Disney Springs is essentially an outdoor mall and entertainment complex following many of the Town Center models found in most cities. It features countless Disney themed stores, as well as other shops and restaurants centered around Lake Buena Vista. It is a great place to get the “Disney Experience” without stepping foot in the theme park.

You could seriously spend a couple of days hanging out here and never get bored! There is a ton of things to do ranging from a bowling alley to a movie theatre, shops, and even boat rentals!

What is Rainforest Cafe?

The Rainforest Cafe is a kid-friendly restaurant chain that is sensory overload! From the minute you walk up to the volcano-shaped structure, you’re transformed into the rainforest. From the sounds of wild animals echoing through the building, to the rainstorms and orante decor- this place has it all.

Where is Disney Springs and Rainforest Cafe located?

Physical address: 1800 Buena Vista Dr, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830

Park in the Lime or Grapefruit parking garage for the closest access. Head right (towards the Marketplace) and you will quickly notice the giant volcano near the lake. That volcano is Rainforest Cafe!

Our Thoughts on Rainforest Cafe

The Rainforest Cafe has a super fun kid-friendly vibe. When we walk into traditional restaurants, the kids aren’t really all that excited. But one look inside of this place had them grinning ear to ear! They loved being able to watch the fish swim by in the massive and gorgeous tanks. They loved the fact that there were robotic animals screeching or roaring all around us. There were periodic “thunderstorms” while we were in the restaurant that scared our boys (aged 2). The animals all around us got loud and there was “thunder” and “lightning”. Our son, 82, is terrified by storms so he cried each time one started. Fortunately for him, the “storms” lasted for only about a minute.

The waitstaff was extremely friendly and accommodating. Our food came out pretty quickly. Our kids (6, 2, and 2) were so captivated by their surroundings that they didn’t mind the short wait. The menu is perfectly tailored to a child’s taste and isn’t ridiculously pricey like you might expect. We spent $100 on a turkey wrap, shrimp tacos, 2 kids meals, and 2 alcoholic beverages, which honestly isn’t bad- especially in a touristy area.

This is a perfect place to grab dinner as a family, especially if you’re in town to visit the theme parks. Be sure to spend some time exploring Disney Springs while you’re here, it has a ton of great things to do with the kids.

The wait here can get pretty long, I strongly suggest making reservations in advance.