
When you think of a Walt Disney World vacation, images of thrilling attractions, enchanting character interactions, and captivating shows likely come to mind. But for many adults, another essential element fuels their Disney experience: coffee. The long days of park-hopping and late-night fireworks often require a reliable caffeine boost, and for countless guests, Starbucks is the go-to choice.
At Walt Disney World, Starbucks locations blend seamlessly into the parks’ immersive theming, offering not only the brand’s signature beverages but also an opportunity to recharge during a busy day. Joffrey’s Coffee may be Disney’s official coffee partner, with kiosks and cafes scattered across the property, but Starbucks has carved out a loyal following with its familiar flavors and inviting atmosphere.
Each theme park at Disney has its own Starbucks location, carefully integrated into its unique aesthetic. In Magic Kingdom, Starbucks operates out of the Main Street, U.S.A. Bakery, a nostalgic nod to early 20th-century America. Over in EPCOT, the Connections Café provides a modern, open space that matches the park’s forward-thinking vision. At Disney’s Hollywood Studios, the Trolley Car Café channels the glamor of old Hollywood, while Creature Comforts in Disney’s Animal Kingdom offers a more rustic feel, complete with subtle nods to conservation efforts.
Disney Springs, the sprawling shopping, dining, and entertainment district, features two Starbucks locations. The Marketplace spot caters to those looking for a quick coffee fix on the go, while the West Side Starbucks stands as a striking, standalone building. This West Side location, with its ample seating and modern design, is a popular haven for guests seeking a quieter moment or locals stopping by for a meeting or remote work session.
However, changes to Starbucks’ policies could alter the dynamic of how guests interact with these spaces, especially at Disney Springs.
Starbucks recently announced a reversal of its open-door policy, a rule implemented in 2018 to make its stores more inclusive. The policy allowed anyone to use Starbucks spaces, including restrooms, regardless of whether they made a purchase. This decision came in the wake of a high-profile incident in Philadelphia, where two Black men were arrested for sitting in a Starbucks without buying anything. The company faced significant backlash, and then-chairman Howard Schultz vowed to make Starbucks more welcoming.
But in practice, the policy has led to numerous challenges for both customers and employees. Unruly behavior, drug use, and other safety concerns became increasingly common, to the point that Starbucks closed 16 stores in 2022, citing safety risks for staff and guests. The company’s new code of conduct, announced this week, is an attempt to address these issues.
The updated policy, which will be posted in all company-owned North American stores, requires customers to make a purchase to use the restrooms or linger in the seating areas. Additionally, it explicitly bans disruptive behaviors such as harassment, smoking, vaping, and panhandling. Starbucks spokesperson Jaci Anderson emphasized that these changes aim to enhance the experience for paying customers while still fostering an environment of inclusivity and comfort.
“We want everyone to feel welcome and comfortable in our stores,” Anderson said in a statement. “By setting clear expectations for behavior and use of our spaces, we can create a better environment for everyone.”
While the new rules will likely have minimal impact on the Starbucks locations inside Disney’s theme parks—where guests typically stop in for drinks and snacks as part of their day—the West Side Starbucks at Disney Springs presents a different case. As a standalone building, it has become a popular spot not only for Disney visitors but also for locals. Its inviting atmosphere and plentiful seating have made it a favored hangout for those seeking a quiet moment or a workspace outside of home.
The policy change may deter non-paying guests from lingering, potentially shifting the dynamic of the space. For Disney Springs visitors looking to unwind without necessarily making a purchase, this could mean fewer options for taking a break.
Starbucks’ decision to revise its policy reflects a broader challenge in maintaining a welcoming community atmosphere while addressing safety and operational concerns. For Disney guests, the availability of a Starbucks location provides a familiar touchpoint in a world of enchantment. Whether sipping a cold brew while strolling through EPCOT’s World Showcase or enjoying a caramel macchiato en route to a Cirque du Soleil performance, Starbucks has become an integral part of the Disney experience.
As the coffee giant moves forward with its new code of conduct, Disney visitors will likely continue to enjoy their caffeine fix without much disruption. But for those who frequent the West Side Starbucks at Disney Springs, the shift might be a reminder that even in the most magical places, practicality and policy still play a role in shaping our experiences.