Hello from Litchfield County, Jeanne, and welcome to planDisney!
Alice’s Whimsical World of Wonderland Party at the
California Grill sounds like a memorable event to bring in the New Year! You will have spectacular views of the Fantasy In The Sky Fireworks from the top of Disney's Contemporary Resort. You must be so excited for this event!
I agree it can be a zoo at times at Walt Disney World but one thing I have learned is Cast Members are experts at moving the crowds along. I just returned from a Walt Disney World vacation where I was able to attend Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party. I typically wait in the park until the crowds disperse but in the name of research, I decided to leave with the masses after the party. Yes, the lines were long but I was at my resort in under 45 minutes which was amazing. The buses were lined up one after another and the process was flawless.
As far as your options go, if you plan on using Disney Transportation, you could take the monorail to Magic Kingdom Park and hop on a bus headed to your resort hotel. However, I believe the monorail platform will be the most congested part of the trip with Guests also leaving Magic Kingdom Park. You also have the option to walk to the bus depot by using the designated walking path from Disney's Contemporary Resort to Magic Kingdom Park which will take about 10 minutes depending on your walking speed.
I think your best bet is to reserve a ride with a rideshare service such as Lyft or Uber. You can meet your ride at Bell Services at Disney's Contemporary Resort and you will be brought directly to your resort hotel. You are in the window to reserve a ride with either app and the cost is currently just under $30 (subject to change).
The
Minnie Van Service, available through Lyft, might be another option but you are not able to reserve this far out. If that is something you would like to consider, you can check the Lyft app as the party date approaches. The Minnie Van Service typically ends at 12:30 a.m. but hours are subject to change and they may be working a little later on New Year's Eve.
Jeanne, I hope you have the most magical vacation as you bring in the new year!
Diane