Not all the magic happens inside the theme parks at Walt Disney World. Sometimes, you need a little break from the hustle and bustle of the parks or maybe just want to explore the resorts outside the gates. If you’re looking for a relaxing, fun way to experience Disney without park tickets, I have a great suggestion: a Monorail Crawl.
This past December, we decided to give it a try, and it was the perfect addition to our Magic Kingdom day. Whether you’re a Disney enthusiast or just looking for a unique way to unwind, a Monorail Crawl might just be what you need! That’s exactly what we did—hopping from resort to resort on the iconic monorail line, enjoying drinks, snacks, desserts, and the overall atmosphere of each hotel. Whether you prefer a mocktail, a snack, or a cocktail, the monorail crawl is a great way to explore Disney resorts and experience their charm without needing a park ticket.
We built the crawl into our Magic Kingdom day, which turned out to be one of the best park days we’ve had in a while. The crowds were light, the weather was perfect, and the rides were practically walk-ons. After a great morning at the park, we hopped on the monorail for a fun, laid-back afternoon.
Stop 1: The Contemporary Resort
Our first stop was the Contemporary Resort, which opened in 1971 along with the Polynesian Resort as one of Walt Disney World’s original hotels. Known for its futuristic design, the Contemporary is famous for the monorail running right through its lobby. It’s one of the most iconic hotels at Disney World and offers a glimpse into Walt’s vision for the future.
We started our crawl at Steakhouse 71 Lounge, which pays tribute to Walt Disney and offers a selection of delicious food and drinks. I had the crab cake, which was delicious, and my husband enjoyed the Peanut Butter and Jelly Wings. Steakhouse 71 Lounge has quickly become one of our favorite spots, thanks to the excellent service and the fun atmosphere.
If you’re looking for other options at the Contemporary, check out Contempo Cafe, The Sand Bar by the Pool, Outer Rim, or Top of the World Lounge. Each offers something different, making it easy to customize your crawl.
Stop 2: Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
Next up was the Polynesian Village Resort, which opened alongside the Contemporary in 1971 and was inspired by Walt’s love of South Pacific culture. The resort features beautiful architecture with vibrant colors, thatched roofs, and intricate wood carvings that transport you straight to the tropics.
One of the highlights here is Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto, an immersive tiki bar that’s a must-visit for fans of exotic drinks and fun, interactive theming. While the bar can be tough to get into due to its popularity, we opted to enjoy drinks at Trader Sam’s Tiki Terrace instead. The outdoor vibe was laid-back, the service was fantastic, and the drinks and sushi were a perfect fit for our crawl.
For other options, you can try Kona Cafe, Tambu Lounge, Kona Island, or Barfoot Pool Bar. However, if you’re a fan of strong drinks and fun storytelling, make sure to visit Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto on a future trip—it’s definitely worth the wait.
Stop 3: Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
Our final stop on the crawl took us to the Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, often considered the most elegant of all the Disney resorts. Opened in 1988, the Grand Floridian is inspired by the Victorian architecture of Palm Beach’s Golden Era. The lobby is grand and open, and it’s easy to feel like you’re stepping into a high-society getaway.
During our visit, we got to see the famous Gingerbread House displayed in the lobby for the holidays. It’s an incredible piece of artistry, and it smells just as amazing as it looks.
We then headed to Citrico’s Lounge, a charming space with light Mary Poppins Returns theming. We enjoyed a selection of desserts, including a profiterole trio (vanilla, dulce de leche, and pumpkin cream), a praline coconut tart, and an orange soda float. While the desserts weren’t my absolute favorite in Disney, they made for a lovely stop to end our crawl.
Other spots to check out at the Grand Floridian include Enchanted Rose, Courtyard Pool Bar, and Beaches Pool & Bar Grill.
Tips for Your Monorail Crawl
- Crowds: The resorts can get busy, especially when the monorail unloads guests. Be prepared for crowds in the hotel lobbies but remember, it’s all part of the Disney magic.
- What to Try: It doesn’t have to be all about alcohol. Feel free to try snacks, Mickey-shaped treats, or mocktails. Customize your crawl based on your preferences.
- Family-Friendly: Families are everywhere, so be mindful of your surroundings and the kids around you.
- Other Crawls: The monorail isn’t the only option. You can try the Skyliner or the Boardwalk area for similar experiences. A Skyliner crawl is already on my list for next time!
A monorail crawl was such a fun and unique way to experience Disney World without stepping into a park. It gave us the chance to relax, explore the resorts, and enjoy some delicious food and drinks while getting away from the crowds. I highly recommend adding it to your Disney trip itinerary, especially if you’re looking for something different. And if you’re already staying at a monorail resort, it’s a no-brainer!
Have you ever done a monorail crawl? What are your favorite spots on the monorail line? Let me know, and I might feature your tips in a future post!
