Hey there Jacob and welcome to planDisney!
There's really nothing like spending a night out at the
Disney Resort Hotels, and I've definitely had more than one evening myself closing down a number of the bars and lounges alongside fellow Disney fans on vacation, Cast Members and Imagineers alike at some of these late-night hotspots across Walt Disney World Resort property. It sounds like you intend to see if you can push your evening all the way to midnight, but you won't necessarily need to fret like Cinderella! As a proud member of the Society of Explorers and Adventurers, I'm happy to lend you some knowledge on what it's like to end your night at
Trader Sam's Grog Grotto:
- The Guest Services Cast Members I spoke to at Disney's Polynesian Village Resort let me know that currently, guests can expect operating hours to remain from 3:00 P.M. to 12:00 A.M. and that Trader Sam's Grog Grotto will not be open to guests outside of those posted times.
- From my personal experience being among the last few guests remaining at closing time, I found that while they won't necessarily kick you out immediately once the clock strikes 12 - they will let each party know when it's time to make their last orders for the evening. On our most recent visits this has even been about half an hour prior to closing time, so you'll just want to check with the Cast Member serving you so you can make sure you get your orders in. While we've been able to stick around to finish our drinks, you'll definitely want to be respectful and mindful of the incredible Cast Members who need time to finish cleaning and closing up for the night!
- I personally love heading over to Trader Sam's Grog Grotto later in the evening, especially since after 8:00 P.M. only guests 21 years of age or older may visit; there just seems to be a different vibe in the air and the chants for Uh-Oa, the goddess of disaster just seem to be that much more fervent and unrestrained without little ones about. Bear in mind that you'll want to arrive prior to 10:00 P.M. if you want to be able to enjoy any of the appetizers or smaller bites from the menu, though we've also been able to head next door to Capt. Cook's for a snack before they close.
I hope this helps, Jacob; if you and your party are looking into some other late-night spots, I also recommend heading over to other venues like Atlantic Dance Hall and Jellyrolls that not only see later closing times, but provide you with a great waterfront place to stroll along Disney's BoardWalk after your night out!
Here's to all of the responsible fun you'll have around Walt Disney World Resort after dark!
Prince