The Ultimate Guide to Drinking at Disney World

Disney World offers a wide array of alcoholic beverages, though their quality can vary significantly. For those simply looking to get a drink, a boozy slush might suffice. However, if you're after a superior drinking experience, continue reading.

In Summary

• Most vendors, from full-service restaurants to quick-service kiosks, cater to a sweet American taste and a preference for cold, frozen drinks. Expect to find a plethora of colorful, spiked slushies (including a patriotic red, white, and blue slush in Epcot's American Pavilion) rather than finely crafted cocktails.

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• Without a doubt, Trader Sam's Grog Grotto stands out as the best bar at Disney, a tiki haven tucked away at the Polynesian Resort, where you might face a long wait. (See the tribute below.)

• While wines are often generic and unremarkable, you'll find a variety of notable beers scattered throughout the resorts and parks. (Check out our wine and beer list analysis here.)

• Outside of sit-down dining venues, alcohol is strictly prohibited in the Magic Kingdom. Plan your flask strategy accordingly.

Top Places on the Property for a Strong Drink

Tune-In Lounge located at the front of the '50s Prime Time Cafe

• Magic Kingdom: Alcohol is only available at table-service restaurants, though a discreet flask might come in handy.

• Epcot: The Tutto Gusto Wine Cellar in the Italy Pavilion

• Hollywood Studios: Tune-In Lounge (the bar at the '50s Prime Time Cafe)

• Animal Kingdom: Dawa Bar

• Downtown Disney: Raglan Road

• Resorts: Todd English's Bluezoo

Top Frozen Drink

A frozen Coke with a splash of rum at Peevy's stand in Hollywood Studios

Must-Try Cult Favorites

The frozen avocado margarita at the Mexico Pavilion and the Grand Marnier slush at the France Pavilion are popular picks. Though we found them to be quite sweet, Disney enthusiasts rave about them online.

Also worth noting is the fruity rum concoction known as the Magical Star, available at nearly every bar in Walt Disney World (sometimes off the menu). It even comes with a glowing neon cube.

Essential Info on Trader Sam's

Trader Sam's, a quirky and dimly lit bar tucked away in the Polynesian Resort, stands out as the premier drinking spot across Walt Disney World’s 40 square miles. Its allure lies in the dark, cool ambiance, strong drinks (sometimes served in a pricey souvenir cup), and lively, slightly over-the-top servers. The walls are adorned with 1,200 trinkets that may light up, move, or animate in surprising ways.

Trader Sam's truly stands out as the only bar in Disney that doubles as a 'ride,' infusing the Disney magic of surprise and delight into the drinking experience. It rejuvenates the spirit of even the most jaded and weary guests and draws lapsed Disney fans back into the fold.

Noteworthy Picks

The Americano, found throughout the Italy Pavilion, and a tequila and sangrita shot at La Cava del Tequila in Mexico.

• La Cava de Tequila in the Mexico Pavilion provides a refreshing, dimly lit escape for tequila enthusiasts. Opt for a shot, a flight with sangrita, or a margarita (just ask the bartender for a less sweet version).

• The wine bar and restaurants in Italy serve fantastic, well-balanced cocktails.

• Exceptional cocktails and a stunning view of Magic Kingdom and the lake can be enjoyed at the California Grill lounge.

• Kimono's, located at the Swan Resort, transforms into a lively karaoke bar in the evenings.

• Dockside Margaritas in Disney Springs is a great spot for margaritas and tequila. Definitely worth a visit.

• For frozen cocktails, try the Orange Rum Slush at Harambe Market in Animal Kingdom, the Sultan's Colada in the Morocco Pavilion at Epcot (especially if you prefer it strong), and the Green Tea Plum Slush at Joy of Tea in the China Pavilion at Epcot.

• Frozen Kirin Ichiban is served at both Garden House and Kabuki Cafe in the Japan Pavilion at Epcot’s World Showcase, featuring a frosty head that keeps the beer cold longer.

• If you enjoy dive bars, check out the Gurgling Suitcase at the Old Key West Resort. It’s a no-frills spot with sports on TV in a laid-back atmosphere.