Top Resort Lounges at Walt Disney World Resort

According to history, it was Walt Disney’s trip to the 1964 World’s Fair that inspired him to create the concept of Club 33. He enjoyed the idea of having a special area, a VIP lounge, where dignitaries and celebrities could quietly enjoy their evening and visit to the Happiest Place on Earth.

 Unfortunately, Walt passed away shortly before it was completed and was never able to enjoy his cozy lounge. I haven’t either, but sipping a Scotch Mist in his honor, at such a prestigious location, is definitely on my Bucket List.

While the Walt Disney World Resort might not have such a coveted and consequential location, I like to think that Imagineers took a page from Walt’s book while creating and designing the various lounges around property. They may not be a spot reserved solely for the elite, but they definitely all have that VIP feel. Finding a quiet corner to relax and “slow down” in is definitely a special part of every trip. There are many great locations to enjoy an adult beverage as you unwind, but these lounges especially, offer the perfect atmosphere and transport you almost immediately to a nostalgic era — one I think Walt would definitely enjoy.

Belle Vue Lounge, Disney’s Boardwalk Inn

The adorable charm of this “turn of the century” resort is just wonderful and certainly sets the story for its “1930s-style sitting room” lounge. Here you can listen to the comforting sounds of the vintage radio as you sit inside or on the beautiful covered verandah. I love curling up in a big cushy arm chair to reflect on our day while sipping delicious libations like the Truffle Olive Martini or the Strawberry Julep.

Crew’s Cup Lounge, Disney’s Yacht Club Resort

The wooden interior of this lounge makes you feel like you’re still on the deck of a beautiful ship. I love the craftsmanship of the floor to ceiling paneling and wide wooden beams. With cozy booths or larger tables you can find just the perfect spot to enjoy a drink with your own crew. I tend to go for a large draft beer at this location, but the Jameson Irish Whiskey Sour is delicious, too!

Tambu Lounge, Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort

The ambiance and décor of the tranquil Tambu Lounge will definitely leave you feeling relaxed as you step into “island time.” Minutes seem to slow down while you sip on tropical favorites and enjoy South Sea’s cuisine. Try a Lapu Lapu with the Pulled Pork Nachos and let your worries drift away.

The Turf Club Lounge, Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort

Nestled in Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa, this hidden gem is an adorable remembrance of yesteryears gone by. The decadent green and gold color palette, wood paneling, and stained glass, really furnish a “club” feel to this gorgeous location. Enjoy your beverage as you look through the “vintage equestrian memorabilia” or gaze outside at the beautiful views of the Lake Buena Vista Golf Course or Disney Springs.

Mizner’s Lounge, Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa

 Although I happen to love Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa and just returned from a stay there not too long ago, I almost left this one off the list because occasionally people believe it to be too stuffy. I enjoy Mizner’s Lounge and find it to offer a much more sophisticated vibe than a stuffy one. Named after the famed architect of the 1920s, Addison Mizner, this lounge offers premium cocktails and snacks to enjoy while listening to jazz favorites from the Grand Floridian Society Orchestra. I think it’s a little fun to raise my pinky in the air and indulge with a Seasonal Berry Gratin and a Grand Cocktail.

Now, there are two more lounges which almost made the list, but to be honest, I have never been to either and didn’t feel it was fair to list them without a personal experience. The California Grill Lounge and the Top of the World Lounge have both eluded me to this day. I have heard remarkable things about both and viewing Wishes Nighttime Spectacular from either location has definitely been added to my Bucket List.

Writing this post has made me realize that A.) I need a Disney drink and B.) although no visit would be complete without the huge and exciting Disney moments, sometimes the small and intimate moments offer just as much Disney magic. Where are your favorite locations to spend a few quiet minutes or enjoy the evening away from the parks?

Thanks for reading and keep spreading the magic!

Cheers!
Lauren