Disney Springs continues changing at a rapid pace, and another new addition is now officially on the way.
Guests visiting the shopping and dining district recently noticed brand-new signage confirming that Cole Haan will soon open a new location at Disney Springs. The store is moving into the former Johnston & Murphy space, which has remained vacant since the previous retailer permanently closed earlier this year.
For frequent Disney Springs visitors, the update is a pretty significant one.
That storefront sat in a very visible section of Disney Springs, and many fans had been wondering what Disney planned to do with the location. Now, Disney appears ready to replace one premium fashion retailer with another.
Cole Haan is best known for its footwear, leather bags, accessories, and upscale fashion products. The company already has a strong following outside Disney property, so the addition feels like another attempt to strengthen Disney Springs as a serious shopping destination instead of simply a side activity for park guests.
And honestly, that shift has been happening for years.
Disney Springs today looks dramatically different compared to the old Downtown Disney era. Back then, most visitors focused primarily on Disney-themed shopping and entertainment. Now, the district feels much more like a full lifestyle center with luxury brands, celebrity restaurants, live entertainment, and major retail chains all mixed together.
That wider appeal has helped Disney Springs become one of the busiest spots at Walt Disney World.
Some guests stop by after spending the day in the parks. Others build entire evenings around the area. Between the restaurants, dessert spots, waterfront atmosphere, and shopping options, Disney Springs has become far more than just a quick stop during a vacation.
The addition of Cole Haan continues that larger evolution.
What makes the change especially interesting is that Disney did not leave the storefront empty very long. Disney Springs rarely keeps large retail spaces vacant for extended periods, especially in high-traffic areas where thousands of guests walk past every single day.
That shows how valuable these storefronts really are.
Disney Springs continues attracting nationally recognized brands because of the enormous number of tourists visiting Walt Disney World every year. Opening a location there gives companies exposure to millions of potential customers from around the world.
For Disney, it also helps diversify the overall experience.
Not every guest visiting Disney Springs wants Disney merchandise exclusively. Some families simply enjoy browsing recognizable retail brands while taking a break from the parks. Disney has leaned heavily into that idea by adding more non-Disney stores throughout the district over the past several years.
And the strategy appears to be working.
Disney Springs regularly feels packed during evenings and weekends, especially during busy vacation seasons. New retail additions help keep the district feeling fresh, even for guests who visit multiple times each year.
Of course, shopping is only part of the equation. Disney Springs has also become known for its massive dining lineup, ranging from quick snacks to high-end table-service restaurants. That combination of shopping, food, and entertainment creates an atmosphere that keeps guests lingering for hours.
Now, another recognizable retailer is preparing to join the lineup.
Disney has not confirmed exactly when the new Cole Haan store will officially open. However, with signage already installed, it seems likely that construction and interior work are already moving forward behind the scenes.
For shoppers planning upcoming Walt Disney World vacations, it may not be long before another brand-new store officially arrives at Disney Springs.
