5 Sensational Bars At Walt Disney World

I’m one of those people you’ve heard about; one of the many adults without children that return to Walt Disney World over and over again. After years of rolled eyes from friends and family and getting questions about how someone my age could possibly have fun in a “kid’s place”, I’ve stopped defending my happy place and instead ask, “How could you not have fun in a place where dreams come true?” We usually skip out on some of the attractions and shows that aim directly from the younger crowd and instead spend quality time by the pools, hit the thrill rides and enjoy walking around the parks. And, when many families are getting back to make sure the kids are in bed, we are getting our night started with a late night dinner followed by some of the most sensational bars at Walt Disney World for a cocktail or two. And, boy, are there some fabulous places to go after dark!

5. La Cava del Tequila – Mexico Pavilion, Epcot

Known as a hidden gem, this small, but awesome bar is in the bottom right hand corner inside of the pyramid.   So many people just walk by not knowing the wonders inside! Offering small bites like guacamole and queso, of course with chips, you’ll need a little something in your stomach because La Cava del Tequila offers over 200 tequilas! Yes, 200! I love trying a new margarita every time I go, including some interesting choices like a cucumber margarita, coffee margarita and the Horchata Margarita which comes with Fireball Whiskey in it! Hubby loves choosing between 5 different tequila flights offered! The atmosphere is fun and lively and the bartenders are always up for a good time!

4. The ESPN Club – Disney’s BoardWalk

If you love having a few drinks while watching the game, there really is no better place to go to on Walt Disney World property than the ESPN club. With over 100 televisions, including the ones in the restrooms, you’ll never be far away from the action! The ESPN Club also has the most extensive beer collection on property, including drafts, crafts, gluten free and bottles. Other specialty cocktails are offered and my favorite is the ESPY, Absolut Mandrin, Peach Schnapps, Orange and Pineapple Juices, and Sprite. And, they have spiked shakes! During the NFL football season, this place is jumping! With daily sportscasts, interactive games and prizes, you have to head over to the ESPN Club!

3. California Grill Lounge – Disney’s Contemporary Resort

This highly desired destination not only offers an incredible choice for food and the wine list is among the best on property. And, the view! If you have not seen Magic Kingdom from the bird’s eye view that the California Grill offers, make this a top priority for your next trip. It is breathtaking. If you could not get a reservation at the California Grill, the lounge area is a great place to be…especially when Happily Ever After is being presented at the park. The lights are dimmed; music pumped in through the speaker system and the view of the fireworks is something you will remember forever. And, the entire menu is offered at the bar…if you can grab a seat! Disney Vacation Club members can also have the same view from Bay Lake Tower’s DVC exclusive Top of the World Lounge. The food is not even in the same stratosphere as the California Grill, but the view is the same with much less of a crowd.

2. The River Roost Lounge – Disney’s Port Orleans Resort, Riverside

This is the one place I know I will be, for sure, on every vacation! The N’awlins inspired menu includes bites like Mardi Gras fritters, Crawfish sliders, Crescent City Gumbo and Bayou Buffalo Wings. The specialty drinks change from season to season, but a standard on the menu is the Southern Hurricane, Meyer’s Platinum and Original Dark Rums with Tropical Juices topped with a float of Southern Comfort. And, I definitely limit myself to one because it packs quite the punch! The real star of the River Roost Lounge is Yehaa Bob Jackson, who is the highly entertaining, piano playing, singing one man show! Not only does he entertain, but he asks for audience involvement which involves a good time for all!

1. Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto – Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort

The newest lounge at Walt Disney World was certainly worth the wait! Overwhelming demand makes it a tough spot to get into, but if you line up before the 4pm opening time, you should get a seat! The food is fantastic, with a definite Polynesian flare, including Kalua Pork Tacos, Pan Fried Dumplings, Headhunter Sushi Roll and Chicken Lettuce Cups. But, the real fun comes in collecting the glassware! Most drinks ordered come with the souvenir mugs! The biggest ooh’s and ahh’s go to the Nautalis, Barbancourt Pango Rhum, Appleton Estate Reserve Rum, Combier Crème de Pêche de Vigne Liqueur, Tropical Juices,and Falernum. But, my favorite is the Shrunken Zombie Head, Gosling’s 151 Black Seal Rum, Appleton Estate Reserve Rum, Bacardi 8 yr Rum, Tropical Juices, Falernum, and Cinnamon. Maybe you can start your very own collection!