Aloha, Erinn!
Don’t you just love the vibes and libations at
Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto? This tropical hideaway at
Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort is one of my favorite lounges at the
Walt Disney World Resort. Pull up a tiki torch and let’s talk about the adventures in store for you here!
Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto follows the stories and lost tales of our old pal Sam from the world-famous Jungle Cruise, as well as many other adventurers of Disney lore, in a mysterious setting paying homage to the romance of the South Pacific. You just feel like you're a part of a cool explorers' club from the moment you enter! The experience in this lounge is like no other, with fun antics and interactions from the crew along with music and sporadic light effects. Part of the fun is the opportunity to purchase a souvenir mug –
each specialty drink is designed with a different one, and you can collect these during your travels.
Some of my favorites which are now a part of my home décor include the Uh-Oa and HippopotoMai-Tai glasses. I own a few of the HippopotoMai-Tai glasses because they do change over time and have an edition number stamped on the bottom – a true collector’s item! You can always decline the souvenir mug purchase if you’d just like the drink, but it will still be served in the fun drinkware. I don’t see any information about a limited supply or plans to alter the menu, but of course availability is always subject to change. I confirmed with a local Cast Member (also a member of the secret adventurer's club) that the souvenir mug experience will remain a tradition of this fun lounge, even if supply runs low on one visit or as new mugs come into rotation.
In addition to the regular offering of souvenir mugs on their menu, Trader Sam’s occasionally offers limited edition mugs which are by design restricted in supply and likely to sell out. This spooky season is especially popular for them to offer items like a hitchhiking ghost or a zombie tiki style mug for purchase. These are often organized as a special event at Disney's Polynesian Village Resort with a physical queue and numbered tickets to ensure all Guests who are present for that day receive a mug in the order they arrive. You'll find these events advertised on signage around the resort property when they are offered.
I hope this eases your mind that there will be more treasures to bring home from your adventures at Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto for years to come, Erinn! Please let us know what other questions you have as you plan and enjoy more trips to the Walt Disney World Resort.
Cheers!
Amy