Hi - Coming in early Sept for my first solo trip. At Toledo's can I order food in the lounge without a reservation? Any other good bars/lounges to eat by yourself? Staying at Coronado Springs. Thanks!”

Hi Apryl!  

It’s so lovely to see a familiar pal at planDisney; thank you for trusting our advice and continuing to bring great questions as you plan your Walt Disney World Resort vacations! Oh boy, a solo trip this fall sounds delightful – I've wandered the theme parks and resorts by myself many times and am excited to share some fun finds. One thing is for sure: you may be alone, but you will never be lonely on this trip.

Toledo is a beautiful steakhouse atop Gran Destino Tower at Disney’s Coronado Resort. While this restaurant does not have its own lounge, you should make a dining reservation for one if you wish to try their menu. Next door is Dhalia Lounge, a stylish rooftop lounge with an outdoor patio and sprawling views; you don’t need a reservation to enjoy these delightful cocktails and snacks. A stay at this resort isn’t complete without trying Three Bridges Bar and Grill at Villa del Lago – find it outside the main resort over the water where (you guessed it) the three bridges meet.

On a solo trip you’re at the whim of only your senses and mood in the moment! I often search dining reservations for one on the My Disney Experience app as mealtime approaches – letting the fates lead you like Merida to whatever comes next can be a fun way to try something new.  

Here are some of my favorite bar and lounge experiences when traveling alone – each offers a themed setting, excellent people watching, and delicious food and drinks (no reservations required). Find their menus by searching the Walt Disney World Resort website or My Disney Experience app:

• Tambu Lounge, Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort: This bar serves individual servings of some of my favorite dishes from ‘Ohana! A bowl of noodles, potstickers, and wings makes for a perfect meal paired with a tropical cocktail.

• Nomad Lounge, Disney’s Animal Kingdom: Be sure to get on the list by walking up to this global lounge outside of Tiffins. They have indoor and outdoor seating with unique ways to honor the tradition of travel and will certainly inspire you!

• Victoria Falls Lounge, Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge: I adore this secret location overlooking Boma inside Jambo House. The spiced goat cheese dip is worth the travel time to explore this unique setting – perhaps check out the animals on the savanna while you’re at the lodge.

• California Grill Lounge, Disney’s Contemporary Resort: The bar area and lounge at this signature restaurant doesn’t take reservations but there is usually availability for one. You get a premier view (fireworks included if you dine there anytime that day, just show your receipt to return to the terrace) and feel like a star.

• Geyser Point Bar and Grill, Disney’s Wilderness Lodge Resort: This covered outdoor lounge is a cozy waterfront, wooded location with hearty snacks and drinks.

• Trader Sam’s, Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort: This hideaway offers antics inside or a private lush patio outside, often with music. I love the snacks and tropical drinks here for a taste of the islands anytime.

As you see, you could fill a whole solo itinerary just sippin’, snackin’, and loungin’! I hope this inspires you to try something new, whether it’s a new location or new tastes. I can’t wait for you to experience the Walt Disney World Resort in a whole new way - be sure to take in all the details without other distractions.

Cheers,
Amy