Hi there, Jana!
Whispering Canyon Cafe is actually located in
Disney's Wilderness Lodge, a beautiful Resort modeled after the famous Old Faithful Inn in Yellowstone National Park.
The Resort does boast a beautiful nature/jogging trail, perfect for a pre-dinner walk to get the appetite going. There's also fishing and biking, both of which are available at a nominal cost.
There's a playground for the children and loads of paths around the grounds to explore. Lots of children enjoy the "footprint" game: When you arrive, head to the check-in desk and request a footprint guide. You can wander the grounds matching up the footprints in the guide to the ones on the ground.
In the grand lobby, you'll find totems to look at while you relax in one of the many rocking chairs in front of the fireplace (which, depending on the weather, may be lit!).
So there is certainly a variety to see and to do. While the planned activities (I'm thinking of the organized fun fr the children) are typically exclusive to the Guests of that particular Resort, you could always explain the situation and indicate that you are staying at the Polynesian. Cast Members can be pretty accommodating.
Have a great meal -- and try one of the milkshakes!
See you later, celebrator,
-Deborah B.