Here's Your Top Tip For Ordering Starbucks At Disney: It's Probably Not Worth It
Vacationing at Walt Disney theme parks typically calls for a lot of energy. After running around the Magic Kingdom with several kids in tow trying to locate "It's a Small World," traveling to 11 countries in one day at Epcot, dancing with Timon & Pumbaa at Animal Kingdom, or braving The Tower of Terror at Hollywood Studios, you may be craving your daily caffeine fix. If you're a coffee lover, you may already be aware that Disney has four Starbucks destinations in each theme park and six Starbucks locations in total.
However, not every Starbucks destination treats loyalty program purchases the same. For instance, Starbucks locations inside of Target technically don't count as "real Starbucks." Instead, these Starbucks outposts are licensed stores that are run by Target, not the Starbucks Corporation. Similarly, the Starbucks locations that operate inside of the Disney theme parks aren't exactly "real Starbucks" either. Therefore, if you're looking to pack some caffeine into your Walt Disney World vacation, there are several reasons you may be better off seeking alternative options outside of the parks.
Why you may want to ditch Disney Starbucks
The multiple Starbucks inside the Disney theme parks may provide a much-needed break from all of that fun in the sun, but the stores don't provide the option to place an order in advance on your mobile device. Therefore, you may encounter a long line that takes away from the time you might want to spend getting on rides or seeing shows. If you're a Starbucks Rewards member, however, you are able to get Stars on what you buy at these destinations if you scan your app when you're ready to purchase everything.
However, you won't be able to recover any Stars for any complimentary upgrades, drinks, or desserts. The drinks at these Starbucks locations are also pricier than what you may be used to at other Starbucks. One Reddit user noted that because these Starbucks are run by Disney, the company would have to pay for those upgrades rather than Starbucks. The Redditor writes that it's "because the licensee doesn't want to give away free stuff lol." However, there is some payment flexibility in that you can use Disney gift cards, Disney Rewards cards, and Magic Bands to purchase your items.
But what if you really want coffee at Disney?
Another option that is located inside Disney theme parks is Joffrey's, which originally got its start in Tampa. If you don't just want to rely on Starbucks for your coffee, you might consider giving the local team a try. If you're really in the mood for an iced coffee or cold "Refresher," though, users on Reddit have written that regular Starbucks gift cards can be used at the Disney parks as well.
In addition, the Disney Springs complex, which offers shopping, restaurants, and shows outdoors has two Starbucks destinations that are actually owned by Starbucks. At these locations, you are able to use your Stars for freebies and to place orders on your cell phone if you want to skip a long wait time for your drink. As The Disney Food Blog suggests, you can also bring your own Starbucks coffee, since many of the hotels have coffee machines that you can use in the rooms. In addition, Disney lets guests enter the park with their own beverages and meals as long as they're not using glass containers. This way, you can save some money while remaining energized for a jam-packed day with friends or the kiddos.