Let’s face it, a vacation at the Walt Disney Resort can be downright exhausting! From long hours exploring all that the Disney Parks have to offer, Guests can find themselves physically drained from all of the walking in the heat and in definite need of a mental recharge.
Thankfully, plenty of the Disney Resorts are home to some incredible lounges that offer up unique theming and atmospheres designed specifically to help Guests relax and unwind. Each lounge has a menu with specialty cocktails and other beverages and many of them offer food items as well, so Guests can take some time each day to simply sit down and enjoy themselves.
These particular lounges at Disney Resorts are the best of the best as they feature incredibly immersive theming, specialty menus, and overall relaxing environments that Guests will want to visit time and time again. Guests should try to take the time to check out at least a few of these Disney Resort lounges on any vacation at the Walt Disney Resort- cheers!
Tambu Lounge – Polynesian Village
The first stop on a tour of the best Disney Resort lounges is Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort where the serenity of the South Seas immediately helps Guests to relax the moment they step onto the grounds. On the upper level of the Great Ceremonial House is Tambu Lounge, an open air spot that welcomes Guests to relax and enjoy the ambiance while sipping and dining on some great options.
Tambu Lounge is situated right next to ‘Ohana and can typically be pretty busy, but it is well worth the wait as comfortable lounge seating as well as bar seating surround a thatched tiki bar with floor to ceiling windows that overlook the grounds of Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort with Seven Seas Lagoon and Cinderella Castle in the distance.
Tambu Lounge features a menu of specialty cocktails that includes many options offered at most locations throughout the Walt Disney World Resort like the Magical Beacon Cocktail, Magical Star Cocktail, Rum Swizzle, and Pina CoLAVA as well as a host of exclusive options. Some popular drink choices include the Hawaiian Mule, Watermelon Margarita, Dragon Iced Tea, Puka Punch, and Polynesian Mai-Tai. A list of beer, wine, hard cider, and non-alcoholic beverages are also available at Tambu Lounge.
Tambu Lounge is perhaps most well-known for two specific cocktails; the first being the iconic Lapu Lapu which fills up a fresh pineapple with Plantation Original Dark Rum and tropical fruit juices and tops them with Gosling’s 151 Rum. The Backscratcher is also a Guest favorite and combines Bacardi’s Superior Rum, Plantation Original Dark Rum, guava passion fruit juice, and Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Whiskey in a tall glass with a bamboo backscratcher sticking out.
After four each afternoon, Tambu Lounge also offers a limited menu of appetizers inspired by the flavors of the Polynesian. Big Kahuna’s Hot Wings are perfectly fried wings with buffalo sauce and a celery-ranch slaw, the Pot Stickers are filled with pork and vegetables and served with a chili-garlic sauce, and Kaikane’s Barbecue Pork Ribs are marinated in a Korean-style barbecue sauce and served with pickled peppers and a pineapple slaw. Guests looking for a lighter option can also enjoy a California Roll featuring jumbo crab, citrus mayonnaise, cucumber, avocado, and tobiko.
RELATED: A Taste of Polynesia: Dining at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto – Polynesian Village
Also found at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort on the lower level of the Great Ceremonial House is Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto, a very popular lounge that takes immersive experiences to the next level. The lounge is open each afternoon and evening, and Guests of all ages are welcomed at first, but the later hours are reserved for Guests who are twenty one and over.
The interior of Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto is themed to feel like a tiki bar in the heart of Polynesian, with thatched panels, carved tiki statues, vaulted ceilings, and props everywhere you look. There are also special windows that depict a volcano in the distance as well as other effects that are triggered and transform when certain drinks are ordered. The interior is very small, so the seating is cozy and comfortable, helping to make Guests feel right at home.
Each beverage at Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto features a quirky name and many trigger special reactions from both the Cast Members working as well as the setting itself. Guests can order up a Nautilus and suddenly find the entire bar underwater, a Zombie and find that the Cast Members are suddenly part of the undead or a HippopotoMai-Tai which triggers a hippo hunt.
Other specialty beverages offered include the Polynesian Pearl, Mosquito Mojito, Spiced Island, Spikey Pineapple, Uh-Oa, and Tiki Tiki Tiki Tiki Tiki Rum. Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto also offers beer, wine, cider, and several non-alcoholic options like the Skipper Sipper, Schweitzer Falls, and Polynesian Punch.
There are also several appetizer options that Guests can enjoy while at Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto including a Kahuna Tuna Sushi Roll, Veggie Rainbow Roll, Kalua Pork Tacos, Chicken or Tofu Lettuce Cups, Thai Chicken Flatbread, and Pan-fried Dumplings. Guests should also note that if there is a wait and they want to be seated immediately, they can often opt for the outdoor Trader Sam’s Tiki Terrace which offers up the same menu with beautiful views of the Lava Pool.
RELATED: The Ultimate Foodie’s Monorail Crawl
AbracadaBar – Boardwalk
Disney’s BoardWalk is home to another wonderful lounge that immerses Guests in a story while they relax. AbracadaBar is situated right on the boardwalk facing Crescent Lake and brings Guests into the hangout of famous magicians from back in the day. The location is packed with wonderful props and items that showcase its history and is also shrouded in mystery as one night the group of magicians suddenly disappeared, never to be seen again.
The menu at AbracadaBar features classic cocktails such as a Side Car, Negroni, Aperol Spritz, Vodka Martini, and Sazarac in addition to specialty beverages that feature some magical names. Guests will love indulging in specialty cocktail options including the Coney Negroni, Magic Mirror, Pepper’s Ghost, Black Manhattan, Hoodunit’s Punch, Seashore Sweet, and Parlor Trick.
AbracadaBar also features a limited menu of bar snacks that are served after five o’clock each evening. Guests can enjoy the Abra Fries which are topped with parmesan cheese, gremolata, and truffle cheese sauce, Salumi featuring assorted meats and cheeses, and a Margherita Pizza with tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil. These small bites are the perfect accompaniment to a specialty cocktail at AbracadaBar!
RELATED: Experience Review of AbracadaBar
Enchanted Rose – Grand Floridian
Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa is home to a popular lounge inspired by the Guest favorite “Beauty and the Beast.” Enchanted Rose is an elegant and upscale lounge with separate areas where Guests can feel as though they have stepped into a modern take of the film and indulge in specialty cocktails and delicious bites.
Depending on where Guests sit at Enchanted Rose, they can enjoy the library, garden room, or an outdoor patio with beautiful views of the grounds of Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. The fabled rose itself can also be spotted on a shelf behind the beautiful bar where Guests can also opt to sit on comfortable stool seating.
The menu at Enchanted Rose features two separate cocktail menus, each filled with indulgent and delicious sips. Featured Cocktails include the Lavender Fog with Nolet’s Silver Dry Gin, Rothman Crème de Violette, English Breakfast Tea, vanilla, and cream, Rye Not?, Garden Daisy, Island Rose, Flora Bitter Beauty, and more. The Grand Cocktails are more focused on traditional favorites including options such as a Negroni, Side Car, Old Fashioned, Manhattan, Kir Royale, and The French 75.
In addition to the cocktails, beer, wine, and non-alcoholic sips, Enchanted Rose also features a selection of martinis which Guests are sure to love sipping in the opulent setting. There is a Classic Martini as well as specialty options like the French Rose, Grand Cosmopolitan, Aura in Me, Espresso Martini, and Gibson.
After five each evening, Enchanted Rose also serves several small plates that are decadent and the perfect accompaniments to the cocktails. Guests can indulge in an Artisanal Cheese Selection, Truffle Fries, Mini Smoked Brisket Sliders, Crab Macaroni & Cheese, and a House-made Flatbread with charred broccolini, seasonal mushrooms, fennel, sausage, ricotta Salata, and tomato confit.
RELATED: Dining at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
Steakhouse 71 Lounge – Contemporary Resort
One of the newest lounge locations at a Disney Resort is the Steakhouse 71 Lounge at Disney’s Contemporary Resort. This lounge welcomes Guests to relax and settle in at a modern take on the style and history of 1971 when the Walt Disney World Resort and Disney’s Contemporary Resort first opened.
Retro flavors and bold colors can be enjoyed by Guests from comfortable seating around a brightly lit bar, and the main dining room of Steakhouse 71 can be seen just beyond the lounge. Guests who score a spot in the Steakhouse 71 Lounge can enjoy a menu of coffee selections, beer, wine, non-alcoholic options, and more in addition to specialty cocktails.
The cocktails feature classic options from the 1970s with modern twists, and Guests are sure to love choices like the Citrus Grove Cocktail with Campari, Green Chartreuse, citrus juices, simple syrup, and orange bitters, Raspberry Gin Sour with Tanqueray No Ten Gin, lemon juice, and raspberry sage syrup, and Bourbon Cold Brew with Maker’s Mark, Joffrey’s Coffee Cold Brew, maple, and vanilla bean cream. Other options include a Fig Manhattan, Tequila Sunrise for Two, Amaro Highball, Cocoa Boulevardier, and Pear French 75.
Steakhouse 71 Lounge also serves up lounge bites throughout each day that are delicious options that can be found on the menu at Steakhouse 71 as well. Guests can enjoy choices including Shrimp Cocktail, Lump Crab Cakes, Loaded Macaroni & Cheese, Bacon & Eggs, and Steakhouse 71 Onion Rings. A unique option is the PB&J Chicken Wings with a sweet peanut glaze and jelly powder and the heartiest option is the Steakhouse 71 Stack Burger with beef, American cheese, lemon aioli, red onion, and pickles on a brioche bun.
RELATED: Dining at Disney’s Contemporary Resort
Geyser Point Bar & Grill – Wilderness Lodge
Guests who are looking to enjoy the outdoors while relaxing at a Disney Resort lounge can head over to Disney’s Wilderness Lodge on the shores of Bay Lake. Geyser Point Bar & Grill is technically a quick service location, but Guests can enjoy it as a lounge as it features an open-air bar and seating area with comfortable options overlooking Bay Lake and the nearby pool area.
Geyser Point Bar & Grill continues the theming of Disney’s Wilderness Lodge with rustic wooden beams, high vaulted ceilings, and the main focus on the beauty of nature with water views, and Guests will love relaxing there after a long day in the Disney Parks. The menu features beer, wine, non-alcoholic sips, and certain specialty cocktails found in many locations throughout the Walt Disney World Resort like the Captain’s Mai Tai, Pina CoLAVA, and Sunshine Margarita.
Guests who visit the quick-service location can also enjoy a menu of specialty cocktails crafted just for Geyser Point Bar & Grill. Some great options to choose from include the Rough Rider Sour with Rough Rider Whiskey and sweet-and-sour, Huckleberry Punch, Worth Melting For, Black Cherry Mule, and Northwest Iced Tea.
RELATED: The Best Burgers in Walt Disney World
Since Geyser Point Bar & Grill is technically a quick-service restaurant, there are full meal options on the menu such as a Bison Cheeseburger, Roasted Salmon, Grilled Portobello Salad, and Handcrafted Crab Cake. Guests can also enjoy a limited menu of small bites which have more of a lounge feel with items including Teriyaki Chicken Wings, Handcrafted Cheese and Charcuterie, Cheesy barbecue Brisket, and Shrimp on a Wire.
RELATED: Dining at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
Scat Cat’s Club – Port Orleans
Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter brings the spirit and charm of New Orleans to life through beautiful architectural details, upbeat jazz music, and a great lounge location. Scat Cat’s Club is located inside of the main lobby building and invites Guests to kick back and relax while enjoying delicious bites and beverages and listening to live jazz performances.
The interior of Scat Cat’s Club is designed to feel warm and inviting with comfortable lounge seating, lots of exposed brick, and a small central stage where an array of performers sing, play music, and interact with Guests to provide a unique experience. Guests can enjoy beer, wine, non-alcoholic beverages, and specialty cocktails that are popular throughout the Walt Disney World Resort each evening as well as some exclusive options.
The flavors and spirit of New Orleans can be tasted in specialty cocktails like the Jazz Apple with Maker’s Mark Bourbon, DeKuyper Pucker, sour apple schnapps, and pure cane sugar, The Big Easy with Courvoisier VS Cognac, Grand Marnier, lemon juice, grenadine, pure cane sugar, and angostura bitters, Whiskey Swagger Tea, Southern Hurricane, and Sazerac.
Scat Cat’s Club also features a small menu of appetizers served after five each evening including options such as Bayou Wings, Loaded Potato Puffs, Mardi Gras Fritter, Boudin Balls, and Po’Boy Seafood Flatbread. The most popular option by far are the Baton Rouge Beignets which take two Mickey-shaped beignets and fill them with Bailey’s Irish Cream, Kahlua, or RumChata!
RELATED: The Charm of Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter
River Roost – Port Orleans
Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside compliments its other half and focuses on the charm and elegance of the South through large antebellum-style buildings and welcoming dining options including the River Roost lounge. Located in the main lobby building, River Roost is a rustic and charming location with simple wooden tables and chairs, a lengthy bar with lots of seating, and vintage lighting and props.
Many Guests love to stop by River Roost as it is the home of YeeHa Bob, a live performer who plays the piano and encourages audience participation who has gained a lot of fans over the years. YeeHa Bob performs on select nights and his audience is usually pretty packed!
The menu at River Roost is nearly identical to that of Scat Cat’s Club, with the same food options minus the Baton Rouge Beignets and many of the same specialty cocktails, beer, and wine. One unique option Guests can sip on while enjoying the live entertainment at River Roost is the Rum-a-Rita featuring Bayou Select Rum, Bayou Satsuma Orange Rum Liqueur, orange juice, lime juice, and sour mix.
RELATED: 7 Reasons You Will Love Staying at Port Orleans Riverside
Dahlia Lounge – Coronado Springs
A beautiful lounge that Guests are sure to enjoy brings Spanish surrealism and modern décor to life at the very top of Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort. Dahlia Lounge features opulent modern touches such as abstract lighting behind the bar and industrial lighting above and combines them with comfortable seating, warm colors, and beautiful views out of the large floor-to-ceiling windows.
Dahlia Lounge’s menu highlight is a limited wine menu that focuses on treasures from Spain and California and offers specially chosen bottles from those regions. Guests can also enjoy non-alcoholic beverages, coffee-based options, wine, beer, and specialty cocktails with inventive names and ingredients like the Tequila Daisy, El Pepino, Brandy Antigua, Gran Gin Tonic, Vino Daiquiri, and Jerez Martini.
Guests who do enjoy time at Dahlia Lounge absolutely have to try some of the Tapas served each day with delicious options like Artisanal Cheese, Spanish Charcuterie, Chicken Wings in a spiced sherry-honey glaze, and Smoked Paprika Chips with smoked tomato aioli. Other indulgent tapas choices include Ham and Cheese Bocadillo, Citrus-poached Shrimp Cocktail, Shrimp Pil Pil, Croquettes, and Crispy Artichokes.
RELATED: Top Reasons You’ll Love Dahlia Lounge at Walt Disney World
Barcelona Bar – Coronado Springs
Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort is also home to the Gran Destino Tower which features a stunning lounge on its lowest level. Barcelona Bar is technically a quick-service restaurant, but it functions as a wonderful lounge area for Guests to relax at the end of a long Disney day with views of Lago Dorado from massive windows and an outdoor patio as well as plush comfortable seating and a vibrant stain glass mosaic mural behind the bar.
Guests who enjoy time at Barcelona Bar can sip on an array of specialty coffee beverages as well as beer, wine, and specialty cocktails like the Cafesito Conquistador, Sangria Tinta, The Armada, Sangria-Tini, and Pomelo Daiquiri. Guests should note that several of the cocktails offered do overlap with the nearby Dahlia Lounge.
The highlight of the beverage choices at Barcelona Bar is a Build-Your-Own Gin Tonic menu which offers Guests the choice of Mediterranean, Aromatic, Bitter Lemon, or Elderflower Tonic and offers suggestions of what flavor profile and type of gin to pair each with. This is an absolute must-do for Guests who love a good gin and tonic!
Barcelona Bar also serves up several appetizers for Guests to enjoy including Spanish Artisanal Cheeses, Spanish Charcuterie, Hummus and Vegetables, and ‘Aceitunas’ Marinated Olives with citrus, garlic, and crushed red pepper. Guests are also sure to enjoy A Taste of Barcelona which features marinated manchego cheese, aceitunas, and Marcona almonds.
RELATED: What to Know About Disney’s Coronado Springs and Gran Destino Tower
