Staying at a resort that is on the Monorail line is super fun, super convenient, and super magical. But you don’t have to be staying there to enjoy some of the fun. There are lots of fun stops for exploring the resort, dining, and especially drinks. On a few grown-ups only trips to The Most Magical Place on Earth, I had a blast on a Monorail Bar Crawl.
Important Tips for Drinking at Disney
Much like in the 5 Adult Drinks You’ll Love at EPCOT® and Drinking Around the World at EPCOT® posts, I’ll give you my advice (& disclaimer) to keep in mind if you plan to enjoy multiple beverages at Disney.
- Hydrate. Get a glass of water with each alcoholic beverage you enjoy.
- Eat. I recommend a snack to share in every or every other country. We all know the consequences of drinking on an empty stomach.
- Go in groups. Drinks are always more fun with a crew. More to share snacks and drinks with. It’s ok to share drinks! The bartenders at Disney don’t play around and some drinks are super strong – you don’t want to embarrass anyone by having too much.
- Take your time. While it isn’t an official runDisney event, it is a marathon and not a sprint. You can spread it over a couple of days if needed.
STOP 1: The Contemporary
- The Outer Rim. This bar is right next to Chef Mickey’s. Literally right next to it. Confession – I have walked right past this cute little spot an embarrassing number of times without stopping. So glad I added it to the rotation. It is quiet, has great Cast Member service, some super fun drinks, and a great view of the Contemporary Resort pool area – and the Lake!
- California Grill. This restaurant is amazing, and also a hard reservation to snag. Even without a reservation you can head up the special elevator and enjoy a drink at the bar.
- Top of the World. This location is only available to DVC (Disney Vacation Club) members, and recently got a BIG renovation. It’s now villain-themed and offers fireworks viewing parties.
STOP 2: The Polynesian
- Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto. I experienced this one for the first time on a birthday trip and I go back every chance I get. It’s more than a tiny little bar inside one of the best resorts – it’s an experience and a whole vibe. I love it! It’s a tiki bar with a fantastic list of drinks – that are strong, in my experience. Lots of fruity drinks on the menu and cleverly selected pun names. Almost every drink has a fun “experience” as well. I recommend the Uh-Oa – it says you’re supposed to share, but you do you.
- Trader Sam’s Tiki Terrace. An outdoor bar with some of the same drinks, but definitely not the same experience as the Grotto. While you can get food from Trader Sam’s, I’d recommend getting the pulled pork nachos from Captain Cooks and taking them out on the Terrace to enjoy your cocktail.
- Tambu Lounge. An open bar on the second floor of The Polynesian – near Kona Cafe and Ohana. They are famous for the Lapu Lapu served in a pineapple, but the Backscratcher is also a delicious cocktail.
STOP 3: The Grand Floridian
- Enchanted Rose. This place is beautiful. Recently rethemed with Beauty and the Beast decor, you’ll find lots of details and areas to sit from restaurant-like tables, to the large well lit bar, to the quiet sitting area with sofas and chairs, and a balcony. I was very happy with the Island Rose I ordered and also found the Lavender Fog to be different from most drinks – and tasty.
