Downtown Disney: West Side

West Side overview

Downtown Disney West Side is home to two of Downtown Disney's most popular attractions: Disney Quest, and Cirque du Soleil. There are several other pretty cool places to go at Downtown Disney West Side too.

Check out a movie at the AMC 24, take in some music at House of Blues, or enjoy a nice dinner at the Wolfgang Puck Cafe. Here's a look at our top picks for Downtown Disney West Side.

Disney Quest

Many people think of Disney Quest as 'just an arcade', but it's really much more than that. Not only is it five stories tall (when was the last time you were in a five story arcade?) but it's filled with some pretty cool interactive experiences that you certainly wouldn't find in any ordinary arcade.

There's a cool interactive dinosaur adventure in which you pilot a raft down a river in prehistoric times. You sit in the raft with real oars and paddle and steer it down a simulated river. Very fun- you even get wet! You can also design (AND RIDE!) your own roller coaster. First you design it using video screens and custom software, and then you go into a simulator to ride. Make a loop in your coaster, you'll loop in the simulator!

There's also a cool Buzz Lightyear game similar to bumper cars. Only in this game you get to fire a cannon from inside your vehicle and try to hit your opponents to score points AND send them spinning around uncontrollably . There's also a retro arcade section (asteroids anyone?) and too many other things to mention. You can buy a day pass to Disney Quest, or use it as one of your 'water parks & more' ticket package if you've selected that add-on to your Walt Disney World base ticket.

Cirque du Soleil

Cirque du Soleil is unlike any circus you've ever seen. The unique blend of circus acrobatics, theater, art, and music makes Cirque du Soleil a favorite spot for many visitors to the West Side of Downtown Disney.

The exterior of the Cirque du Soleil theater is recognizable from a distance with its 'new age' circus tent look and glowing dome. While certainly not cheap, (expect to pay around $225-$400 for a family of four depending on the ticket level) the 90-minute show will create a memorable experience to add to your Disney vacation full of exciting memories.

House of Blues

For great Southern-style cuisine in a unique atmosphere, check out House of Blues on Downtown Disney's West Side. You can hear some great live music featuring local and national blues acts while you dine, and there's even a Gospel Brunch to inspire you and fill your tummy!

Read more about Downtown Disney's Marketplace and Pleasure Island!