California Grill
  • On May 19, 2023
    Ali from TN Asked Please note that experiences, policies, pricing and other offerings are subject to change and may have changed since the date of this answer.

    Hi panel! My husband surprised me with a trip for our anniversary and we’ll be staying at the Contemporary for the first time! What kinds of unique, resort-specific things should we make sure & take advantage of during our stay? Thanks for all you do!

    Hey there, hi there, Ali! Welcome back to planDisney, my friend! I'm so excited to get to chat with you again about my absolute favorite topic: Disney Resort hotels!

    Ali, I seriously squealed with excitement when I read your question. In just days, you and your husband will be embarking on your magical anniversary adventure at The Most Magical Place on Earth. And at Disney's Contemporary Resort?! I could not be more excited for you. The Contemporary is my absolute favorite Disney Resort hotel. With its location within walking distance of Magic Kingdom Park, spacious and modern rooms, fabulous dining and awesome recreational activities, it's the perfect, pixie-dusted, romantic home away from home for you two. Your getaway is just around the riverbend, so let's get to it!

    I must start with my favorite Disney Resort activity to date: Once Upon a Painting. This activity for Guests of the Contemporary takes place every Monday and Friday at the Outer Rim lounge and was a wonderful experience for my family and me. When we were there, we painted a ceramic castle lamp, and while the activity was fun and relaxing, it was the setting that just made it so special for me. We sat near the window, so we had views of the iconic Mickey sculpture on the shore of beautiful Bay Lake while we watched the monorail soar in and out of the Contemporary. It was the best Disney day! Just look for signs about the activity and how to sign up posted at the front desk and around the Resort.

    When you're staying at the Contemporary, you must take advantage of the incredible views of the nighttime spectaculars! Be sure to catch the Electrical Water Pageant pass right by along the shore of Bay Lake. I suggest checking with a Cast Member to find out the schedule, but typically, it passes the Contemporary after the fireworks, around 10:00 p.m. Speaking of fireworks, do not miss Happily Ever After, my favorite nighttime spectacular, from Magic Kingdom Park. A couple of my favorite spots to catch the fireworks are the outdoor viewing area on the fourth floor of the Contemporary or California Grill.

    Speaking of California Grill, no stay at the Contemporary is complete without a fabulous dining experience at California Grill or Steakhouse 71. No reservation? No problem! Just swing by the Steakhouse 71 Lounge for fabulous food and drinks ... My favorite way to celebrate!

    I could go on and on (and on and on) about everything I love about the Contemporary and the amazing activities, such as renting a poolside cabana, taking a romantic specialty cruise, grabbing a dessert from Contempo Cafe, or simply strolling the beach along Bay Lake. But I will just suggest snapping a photo of the Resort Activities board in the lobby of the Resort so you will always have a schedule of the activities with you. You and your husband will be able to relax as much or as little as you wish!

    I hope this helps, Ali, and I hope you and your husband have the most magical time celebrating your happily ever after! Stop by any time with any questions you may have, friend!

    See ya real soon,

    Mandy



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Meet the Panelist: Mandy, Louisiana

I'm Mandy - Louisiana girl, wife, Mommy and lover of all things Disney. Walt Disney World Resort is my family's happy place, and our vacations are equal parts rope-drop thrilling and poolside chilling. For us, the best things in life aren't things at all, and we believe in investing in experiences and making magical memories together. Our Disney Vacation Club Membership has been our investment into a lifetime of unforgettable family fun. It's our key to the magic, and I can't wait to help you unlock yours! Learn More About Mandy

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