Greetings Brenda! It's great to see you again at the Disney Parks Moms Panel. Thanks for stopping by with another great vacation planning question.
It sounds like you will be dining at my very favorite restaurant in all of Walt Disney World: the
California Grill at
Disney's Contemporary Resort. The panoramic views! The incredible food! The impeccable service! Everything about the dining experience here is magical, and it is the ideal place to celebrate a special occasion. During a recent meal, our server shared with us that he witnesses at least one marriage proposal here each night!
When I have an opportunity to spend an evening in Walt Disney World with my Prince Charming, we love to enjoy a meal at the California Grill while watching the
Magic Kingdom Park's nighttime spectacular. Since your dinner will take place well in advance of the fireworks, you are correct that you should keep your receipt and it will grant you admission to the restaurant's outdoor viewing deck. While the area is standing room only, you can certainly stop by the California Grill lounge for a cocktail on your way out to enjoy
Happily Ever After. I recommend arriving in plenty of time to take in the sweeping, breathtaking vistas of the Most Magical Place on Earth before the show.
Brenda, I am so excited for your evening at the California Grill. To make the end of your night as relaxing as possible, I recommend using
Disney Minnie Van™ Service Connected by Lyft to whisk you back to your resort after the fireworks. While I enjoy the
Walt Disney World Transportation System, when traveling between Disney Resort Hotels, a Minnie Van is my preferred method to get around. It will conclude your evening in the most magical way possible, and unlike Cinderella's coach, it won't turn into a pumpkin at midnight; this service is available until 12:30 AM.
Thanks again for stopping by with your question. If there is anything else we can help you with before your fall vacation, come back and see us again. We love to help, and we're all ears!
Betsy