26 Best Bars & Lounges at Disney World in 2026

This list of the best bars & lounges at Walt Disney World ranks the top spots in the parks & hotels where you can go to relax the good ole fashioned way: with alcohol, the cause of…and solution to…all of life’s problems! It focuses on our favorites for theme & ambiance, as well as cuisine and drink quality.
One thing to emphasize is that design and details are heavily weighted because that’s what Walt Disney World does best. This leads to the top picks being controversial with a lot of WDW diehards who consider some of them ‘one and done.’ We don’t disagree with the diehards, as we ourselves seldom stop at these spots.
However, they’re must-dos for first-timers looking for a distinctly Disney bar experience. The same could be said for 6 of the top 7 entries, which emphasize theme and unique environments. Walt Disney World regulars might want to look past the numerical rankings and focus on the descriptions if looking for a place to lounge, drink, eat, and escape the crowds.
For us, the best bars are much more about a relaxed ambiance and decompressing after a day racing around the parks than it is about imbibing. This is especially true now that we’re no longer a couple of childless Disney Adults, but instead are a family of three with a toddler. We still spend a lot of time at family-friendly lounges, but it’s now mostly for easier eats and laid back settings.
To that end, I suppose we’ve become “part of the problem” and the reason why WDW’s bars and lounges have a surgary mess of vibrant concoctions on the Generic DisneyParks® Drink Menu®. If you are looking for a stiff drink, we’ve always found the best options to be least interesting ones.
Bars that exist just to be bars, often the ones located just outside the lobbies of Deluxe Resorts or those otherwise existing without much fanfare. This list is less focused on those. From our perspective, you can get drinks anywhere–and your safest bet is simply beer, regardless.
To that point, we have a few other “rules” and caveats for this list of the best bars & lounges at Walt Disney World…

First, only stand-alone bars and lounges are eligible. Many table service restaurants offer bar or lounge seating, but that doesn’t make them bars. This disqualifies a lot of interesting locations, including my beloved Steakhouse 71 Lounge, plus fan favorites like Tune-In Lounge at 50’s Prime Time Café and the newer Space 220 Lounge in EPCOT, among many others.
There are others that simply can’t make the cut due to a lack of space. This includes a ton of pool bars that have cult followings like Oasis, Hurricane Hanna’s, Petals, and many more. Finally, there are a lot of excellent bars that are glossed over at Disney Springs–enough to fill up another list all on their own.
With that said, we have expanded this list to 26 entries with our 2026 update because we were snubbing way too many good bars. (And because 26 for ’26 just sounds cool.) Walt Disney World can be rightfully criticized for a lot in the last few years, but holy cow have they improved the bar game.
The proliferation of bars itself might prompt criticism from some Walt Disney World fans who think the company is emphasizing alcohol too much. But we’d note that many of the newer additions are family-friendly, and most of the ones that aren’t are located either at Disney Springs or in the convention resort.
Enough with the rambling, let’s cut to the chase and take a look at the best Walt Disney World bars & lounges…

26. Dockside Bar – If you know, you know. Dockside Bar at the Boathouse is an underrated one, and arguably deserving of a top 5 spot on this list. For one thing, the Boathouse is one of the best restaurants in all of Disney Springs (and arguably all of Walt Disney World, for that matter), with a powerhouse menu from top to bottom.
For another thing, the over-the-water dining experience at Dockside Bar is pitch-perfect. It’s on a pier surrounded by boats and nautical decor, with views of the amphicars and watercraft doing their routes between Disney Springs and the nearby resorts. Regardless of your budget or tastes, the Boathouse is great. Suffice to say, we highly recommend doing dinner at the Boathouse after the parks close!
25. AbracadaBar – Located on Walt Disney World’s Boardwalk next door to Flying Fish, this is a relatively recent addition to Walt Disney World. Usually that would mean off-the-chart hype, before guests eventually moved on to the next new thing. Yet, Abracadabar has had a total lack of hype.
That probably has to do with expectations. After Trader Sam’s and Jock Lindsay’s, the bar was raised for this concept, and between that and an interesting premise, the end result here might be a bit underwhelming. Personally, I like it quite a bit, and although it’s more restrained, there are a lot of subtle details and hints about the illusionists who vanished from this sophisticated social club for magicians decades ago.
24. Territory Lounge — This lounge in Wilderness Lodge is probably one of the unheralded gems of Walt Disney World. In functions as a de facto waiting area for Artist Point, and you’ll even find the same Pacific Northwest-inspired theming. This lounge is a bit more rustic and relaxed, making it the perfect place for a more laid back evening.
What elevates Territory Lounge is that it has more detail, including shadow boxes with sportsman memorabilia and other items of Americana. Carved bears gracing the bar and a beautiful ceiling mural are among the highlights, and the decadent pub grub is the icing on the cake.

23. Enchanted Rose Lounge – Otherwise known as the Beauty and the Beast Bar inside Grand Floridian Resort, this is an expansion and reimagining of Mizner’s Lounge, which used to be the best place at Walt Disney World for “serious” drinking. Enchanted Rose is pretty much the exact opposite–a spot specializing in photogenic drinks and Instagrammable backgrounds.
Enchanted Rose Lounge does not make this list due to it appealing to us. Quite the contrary–we aren’t fans of it at all. However, it’s undeniably popular and appealing to many guests. Some of the details and design work are well done, and the upscale atmosphere is generally good. From our perspective, it’s not a ‘destination’ bar and doesn’t deliver very well on the Beauty and the Beast decor, but it’s still good enough to make this list.
If Enchanted Rose is too busy or you’d prefer the lobby atmosphere, consider visiting the Perch–also known as the Birdcage Bar. We tend to enjoy the lobby on its own, away from the action, as the area around the bar is typically more crowded and chaotic.

22. Crew’s Cup Lounge – Let me start by saying that we love Crew’s Cup Lounge and regret that it was snubbed from past entries of this list, pre-expansion to over 20 locations. My only/best defense is that Crew’s Cup isn’t what it once was when it had its own menu, and didn’t simply serve up a few options from Yachtsman Steakhouse or Ale & Compass. I’m still bitter about not being able to order the once-glorious burger with a side of truffle fries.
Nevertheless, Crew’s Cup Lounge is a nice spot. It has an abundance of masculine woods, and reminds me of a quiet place Teddy Roosevelt would come for some whisky after some strenuous sculling. Even if you don’t get down with rowing, it’s the kind of place I’d recommend anyone go for a breather from World Showcase or Disney’s Hollywood Studios on a hot, humid day.
Crew’s Cup only ranking #21 is less an indictment of its quality and more a testament to the strength of the lounges at Walt Disney World! Especially on weekends during the NFL season, Crew’s Cup ranks much higher for me, personally.

21. Victoria Falls Lounge – This lounge is located between the lobby and lower level of Animal Kingdom Lodge, adjacent to high-traffic stairs and overlooking the Boma buffet. Because of this, Victoria Falls is not particularly quiet. But somehow, it’s also not especially loud. The loudness is consistent and it’s sufficiently removed, making it almost like white noise (if that makes sense).
As for Victoria Falls Lounge itself, it’s rather nice. Moody lighting, a formidable South African wine list, and a menu of light bites (last time we were there, the flatbread and burger were both fantastic) makes Victoria Falls a winner.

20. Bar Riva – Located along the promenade at Disney’s Riviera Resort, this is an excellent option if you want to escape the crowds and chaos of Disney’s Hollywood Studios or EPCOT, as it’s only a short Skyliner flight away from both.
Don’t let “bar” in the name fool you, either. Bar Riva is yet another family-friendly lounge at Walt Disney World, similar in style to several of the bar & grill entries below. While we wouldn’t recommend sitting with children at the actual bar, there are plenty of tables both under cover and completely outside.
This would be a top 10 entry for us, personally, even if it ranks lower for first-timers or infrequent visitors who prioritize uniquely Disney characteristics. We’re huge fans of Bar Riva–it’s a great place for a refreshing and healthy-ish meal!

19. Banana Cabana – A short walk (~5 minutes) from Disney’s Riviera Resort is Banana Cabana at Caribbean Beach Resort. The setup here is almost identical–a covered open air pool bar that’s actually family friendly.
The super power of Banana Cabana is being able to order most of the best menu dishes served at Sebastian’s Bistro, which is one our favorite places to eat in all of Walt Disney World. There are also a few new dishes–like the Banana Cabana Burger–that are excellent and exclusive to this “bar.”

18. Scat Cat’s Club – Lounge – This New Orleans-style lounge at Port Orleans French Quarter pays tribute to jazz music true and features the great sounds of the French Quarter on weekends with live musicians! This is the biggest strength of Scat Cat’s Club, and on Friday through Sunday nights, it’s a true delight.
All other nights, Scat Cat’s Club offers is its pricing and relative low-key atmosphere. If you visit while there’s no live entertainment, there’s a chance you’ll find Scat Cat’s Club empty, even on days when the nearby food court is packed. If you’re staying at Port Orleans French Quarter, there’s also the unfortunate reality that it has no table service restaurant, so Scat Cat’s Club is the closest you’ll get to that here.
Bonfamille’s Cafe’s used to be French Quarter’s table service restaurant, but due to the consolidation of the two Port Orleans Resorts and operational changes post-9/11, it’s closed for a number of years before being converted to Scat Cat’s Club – Lounge. (Confusingly, there’s also Scat Cat’s Club – Cafe, which used to be the lounge!)

17. Tambu Lounge – Located on the second floor of the Great Ceremonial House at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, this either a tropical oasis hiding in plain sight or a chaotic and crowded nightmare. Tambu Lounge is directly next door to ‘Ohana, with both sharing a single space and waiting area.
For those who have never been to the second floor of the Great Ceremonial House, ‘Ohana can draw a big crowd that spills out into the common area during peak hours. This, in turn, spills over to Tambu Lounge and makes it anything but a serene spot.
Fortunately, ‘Ohana isn’t as overcrowded as it once was, and Tambu Lounge was back to normal during our most recent stay at the Poly. It’s an especially great option in the evenings, when you can enjoy the Electrical Water Pageant and late night tranquility in the GCH. I still would avoid Tambu Lounge from around 6 to 8 p.m. most nights.

16. River Roost Lounge – Head over to the sister resort of French Quarter, Port Orleans Riverside, to find this cozy club. At River Roost Lounge, you can enjoy boogie-woogie musical stylings and comedy from a local legend, playing Disney standards, songbook classics and kid-friendly ditties.
Yehaa Bob Jackson has a huge fan-following among the Walt Disney World faithful, and he rocks the River Roost with his wacky piano playing and singing on select nights of the week. Although the Port Orleans Resorts normally are not “destination” dining or nightlife, we highly recommend taking the boat over from Disney Springs to one of the resorts, and then a serene stroll (it’s a delightful 10-15 minute walk) to catch both bars and entertainment acts on the same night.

15. Dahlia Lounge – This bar in Gran Destino Tower at Coronado Springs Resort is inspired by Spanish surrealism and is probably one of the more “adult” lounges in all of Walt Disney World. It’s not that kids aren’t welcome, but between the convention crowd and adjacent Toledo restaurant, they’re just much less common.
Dahlia Lounge’s rooftop location is a huge selling point, and the nice moody atmosphere and lighting give it a great vibe. If you’ve ever done Disney Cruise Line, you’ll probably find the atmosphere here similar to that of the adult areas of the DCL ships.

14. Geyser Point Bar & Grill – Thematically speaking, all Geyser Point really offers is an open air picnic shelter. Unless you count the brick and wood of the construction, there are really no details to speak of. However, I think that we could similarly diminish other places at Walt Disney World by parsing their merits; such reductio ad absurdum arguments are fallacious and, ultimately, self-defeating.
The very reason Geyser Point is so brilliant is because it gets out of its own way. There aren’t a ton of Imagineered details or over-the-top gags because they aren’t necessary. Geyser Point shines because of its beautiful setting on Bay Lake, and Disney made the right decision here in letting that be the star of Geyser Point.
We think this was a wise move, and absolutely love the experience of sitting here and soaking up the serene natural beauty of the lake front setting. At sunset or during the Electrical Water Pageant, it’s pure bliss. Along with the next entry on this list, Geyser Point is a personal favorite that ranks much closer to the top of this list for us.

13. Three Bridges Bar & Grill – Located at Coronado Springs Resort, this one is very similar to Geyser Point above in that both are hidden gems and neither accept Advance Dining Reservations.
Since it opened, we’ve probably dined at Three Bridges more than almost any other restaurant at Walt Disney World. If these rankings were based solely on our personal preferences, Three Bridges would be top 5, easily.
Atmosphere is the biggest upside here, as Three Bridges lives up to its name in being at the intersection of three different bridges in the middle of Lago Dorado. Waterfront seating offers big views of the outlying buildings at Coronado Springs, Gran Destino Tower, and even fireworks at EPCOT or Disney’s Hollywood Studios if you time your visit right. The menu is also fantastic, with one of the Best Burgers at Walt Disney World and, and the Warm Churros are a must-order for dessert. You really can’t go wrong here.

12. BaseLine Tap House – Added to Disney’s Hollywood Studios as part of the Grand Avenue expansion, which is basically overflow for Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, this whole area is nothing special. It’s supposed to be themed to the area of present-day Los Angeles with the same name, but it fails to leave a lasting impression.
BaseLine Tap House is the one exception. With an excellent selection of beer, underrated food, incredibly laid-back outdoor seating area, and great people-watching, BaseLine Tap House delivers. Truth be told, I can’t fully explain why BaseLine Tap House is so good. On paper and even in photos, it’s nothing special. In person, it exceeds expectations and is an unheralded gem. It’s one of those “if you know, you know” type of things.

11. Rose & Crown — I’m guessing Rose & Crown in Epcot’s World Showcase is the liveliest and maybe most popular bar at Walt Disney World. (I’d also say that the restroom across from it is the busiest at Walt Disney World.) Go to Rose & Crown pretty much any evening, and raucous crowds are spilling out into Epcot’s walkways.
Rose & Crown’s popularity is for good reason…beyond the fact that it’s located in a busy thoroughfare at Walt Disney World’s second most popular park. The kitchen serves up authentic pub foods and the bartenders can mix up some delicious blended draughts, among other drinks. It is at once familiar and transportive, taking guests from Walt Disney World to an intimate pub located in the United Kingdom. On top of that, its outdoor seating offers great views of Epcot’s fireworks.
10. Raglan Road Pub — Raglan Road makes the cut here because it’s a bona-fide pub, and not just a regular restaurant. The bar here is literally made of wood imported from Ireland, but the real selling point here is the entertainment and pub ambiance, making it one of the best options for adult nightlife at Walt Disney World.
The ambience at Raglan Road is exactly what you’d expect from an Irish pub, albeit it a family-friendly flair, since this is Walt Disney World. Actually, it’s not just family-friendly…there’s a bit of a familial sense to the bar, as if you’re part of an intimate community, even if 90% of the other guests here are also tourists.
9. La Cava del Tequila — La Cava has taken the Walt Disney World fan community by storm with its unique margaritas, but I like it for a different reason: what better place to drink than in a cave? After a humid day working up a sweat racing around Epcot, a cold “tequila cave” with low lighting sounds like the greatest thing ever.
I’d say the margaritas at La Cava are interesting and generally satisfying, but no longer live up to the colossal amounts of hype heaped upon them. However, the environment and service more than compensate for that, making La Cava del Tequila a winner.
One thing to note is that La Cava does get busy, and if you’re looking for similar ambiance without nearly the crowds, check out Tutto Gusto Wine Cellar (they serve much more than just wine) at the Italy pavilion. Tutto Gusto is arguably just as deserving of a spot on this list as La Cava.
8. Nomad Lounge – Attached to Tiffins restaurant (which we praise as the best in-park dining at Walt Disney World), Nomad Lounge is an extension of the theme of that restaurant, paying tribute to the explorations of Imagineers. This is reflected in the decor, which pays tribute the real-world places that inspired Disney’s Animal Kingdom.
Rather than being transportive or replicating any place, Nomad Lounge’s ambiance is so successful because of the way that it celebrates travel. It has a worldly atmosphere to it, and a palpable energy that makes you excited to see the world. Now that Pandora – World of Avatar is open, Nomad Lounge also feels like a prelude to adventure.
As strange as it might sound, it has the same energy of an airport lounge, welcoming guests before they depart for an exotic (or, in this case, off-planet) locale. That might not sound like the highest of praise, but it’s meant to be. We love Nomad Lounge and dine here regularly–it’s a better fit for us than Tiffins now that we have a toddler!
7. Jock Lindsay’s Hangar Bar – Don’t feel bad if you don’t recognize the name “Jock Lindsay” as being a pilot from Raiders of the Lost Ark. I’ve visited and written about this bar several times, and still have to Google which Indiana Jones film he’s from. No one has ever accused Imagineering of failing to dig deep with in-jokes and obscure references, so I guess Jock Lindsay fits the bill.
In general, Jock Lindsey’s is incredibly praiseworthy for its Indiana Jones references, atmosphere, and deep thematic detail. In more than a few ways, it’s like Trader Sam’s: Disney Springs Outpost. There are layers of detail, gags, and references. Like Trader Sam’s, there are also a Easter eggs that extend beyond the Indiana Jones ‘universe,’ which makes for an interesting place to explore. I don’t think it ever devolves into needless fan service, and the ambiance at Jock Lindsay’s is really pleasant, all of which makes it a winner. We’ve found the service and drinks to be hit or miss, but it’s still a Walt Disney World bar you should check out.

6. The Edison – Between the moody environment that evoked the sense of being in a converted power plant and a steady lineup of unique entertainment acts, the Edison is a big winner. We’ve also been pleasantly surprised with the food, which surpassed other high-ranking bars on this list, many of which excel primarily on theme.
Unfortunately (and unsurprisingly), the Edison has gone downhill a bit since opening. There’s less variety to those entertainment acts, which is understandable since they’re expensive to hire, and we’ve never seen the venue exactly hoppin’. Nevertheless, it’s a great setting with a strong vibe, and unique entertainment is icing on the cake.

5. GEO-82 Lounge – This adults-only bar is ‘hidden’ inside the iconic geodesic sphere at EPCOT that’s also home to Spaceship Earth. Here, you can experience global flavors blended with culinary artistry in classic cocktails and small plates.
Enjoy cool cocktails, like the Brown Butter Old Fashioned—made with brown butter-infused bourbon—and the Clarified New York Sour. Although the alcohol is expensive (most mixed drinks start at $25), the beverage program is ambitious and classy. Likewise, the small plates are inventive and nuanced, and although the menu is limited, it’s home to standout options.
GEO-82 Lounge is nevertheless a tricky one to review. It prohibits children, which makes it a nonstarter for many Walt Disney World guests–including my family. But I was nevertheless really impressed by the sophisticated setting, views overlooking EPCOT, and elegant ambiance. I expected GEO-82 to be nice, but it exceeded my expectations–it’s a great option for its target audience.
And I say all of this without even experiencing it after sunset! Advance Dining Reservations are incredibly competitive, filling up immediately at the 60+10 mark. I’ll keep trying for evenings and will have a full review based on the late night experience.

4. Wailulu Bar & Grill – When it comes to lounges that we’ll revisit again and again, Wailulu Bar & Grill in the Island Tower is our new #1 personal favorite lounge at Walt Disney World. Wailulu Bar & Grill gets its name from the Hawaiian words wai (meaning “water”) and lulu (meaning “calm”).
Fittingly, this charming spot boasts breathtaking views of the Seven Seas Lagoon and Magic Kingdom off in the distance, meaning you can see Cinderella Castle and boat traffic along the water, and even hear the train whistle off in the distance. If you dine here at the right time, the lounge offers prime views of the Happily Ever After fireworks and Electrical Water Pageant. Wailulu also benefits from a cool breeze coming off the water, and the height of the hideous Island Tower blocks out the late afternoon sun.
Above all else, the food at Wailulu Bar & Grill is really good and offers great value for money, for the most part. Along with other personal favorites like Three Bridges, Bar Riva, and Geyser Point, Wailulu Bar & Grill isn’t an exemplar of themed design on its own. All of these spots get out of their own way, smartly letting their settings do the talking. That’s why we love them so much and stop at both more than either of the top two options. First-timers will likely have different criteria, which is why Wailulu is “only” #3 on the overall list.

3. Oga’s Cantina – In a perfect world, the watering hole for scoundrels and other notorious patrons in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge should be the runaway #1 bar at Walt Disney World. Stepping foot in Mos Eisley Cantina and mingling with the motley crew of intergalactic lifeforms ranks highly among the “dream come true” moments from the Star Wars universe that fans want to experience themselves.
Oga’s Cantina doesn’t quite deliver on that. It doesn’t have the same energy or eclecticness, with the only ‘chaos’ coming from the way it’s organized to cycle through tourists. As a result, it can be uncomfortable and feel rushed, with many Walt Disney World fans have little interest in repeating the experience. Despite all of this, we highly recommend Oga’s Cantina for first-timers. Its themed design, details, and immersion are all off the charts. It feels like a dive bar for scoundrels and other notorious patrons straight from the Star Wars universe.
Likewise, DJ R-3X is awesome. The old Starspeeder 3000 pilot from Star Tours has been repurposed to provide travelers at the edge of the galaxy with interesting music, and REX fulfills that role admirably, while energizing the atmosphere of the outpost. Oga’s Cantina definitely is no Mos Eisley, but it’s still very good and a must-do for first-timers and hardcore Star Wars fans, even if it is a one-and-done experience.

2. Beak & Barrel – Located near the attraction’s exit, the Beak and Barrel bar extends the story of Pirates of the Caribbean in Magic Kingdom. Established by the legendary pirate rumrunner, Captain Meridian “Merry” Goldwyn, and her talkative first mate, Rummy, this lively pirate pub welcomes bandits and buccaneers of all ages from every corner of the seven seas. The Beak and Barrel is a haven for all pirate-kind—from seasoned scoundrels to small swashbucklers.
While you sip and snack, you’ll be immersed in the Tortuga world through sing-alongs, storytelling and surprises. First Mate Rummy serves as the tavern’s quartermaster keeping an eye on the place from his roost high atop the bar. Eagle-eyed Disney fans may notice that Rummy bears a striking resemblance to the original Barker Bird, an Audio Animatronics figure that previously sat at the entrance to Pirates of the Caribbean.
The Beak and Barrel bar is brimming with details, and is a veritable treasure trove of Easter eggs, nods to the attraction and the pirate life. The underlying design, craftsmanship, lighting and audio design is all fantastic. Imagineering nailed the core thematic work, clearly learning lessons from Oga’s Cantina and iterating on those for this Pirates of the Caribbean-themed tavern. You could literally spend 45 minutes just wandering around drinking in the details and looking for Easter eggs, and still not spot them all.
As with Oga’s Cantina, the food is an afterthought and the drinks are only okay, but we believe Beak and Barrel has more repeatability. There’s a lot to see, the atmosphere is more inviting and there isn’t the same pressure. It also helps that there’s more seating. It’s definitely not a one-and-done, but it’s also not a place we eat as frequently as the lounges with full food menus.
1. Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto — The second outpost of Trader Sam’s follows the success of the original Enchanted Tiki Bar at Disneyland Hotel, and fully delivers. Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort is the unequivocal fan favorite for bars at Walt Disney World.
What makes Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto so special is the intimate environments, embrace of tiki culture, self-referential and strong details, and interactive fun. Trader Sam’s is packed with detail and always has a convivial, laid-back atmosphere. It’s really just unabashed, kitschy fun.
Beyond the cool environment, the Imagineered effects and Disney backstories are nice touches, and although they can repeat slightly too often if you linger here, the effects are still cool to experience. You don’t need to be a drinker to enjoy Trader Sam’s, as it’s a Disney experience through and through. It’s also more laid back than the other highly-themed bars at the top of this list, which is what separates it for the #1 spot.
Finally, Trader Sam’s scores bonus points for versatility. It has both the eclectic and kitschy interior that’s over-Imagineered, along with the Tiki Terrace outside that takes a ‘less is more’ approach and is almost the polar opposite in terms of ambiance. If Grog Grotto proves to be ‘too much’ for you, head outside to enjoy the decompressing open-air atmosphere of Tiki Terrace, which is actually where we find ourselves more frequently.
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Your Thoughts
Do you agree or disagree with our rankings of the bars & lounges at Walt Disney World? What are your favorites and least favorites? Any questions we can help you answer? Hearing feedback about your experiences is both interesting to us and helpful to other readers, so please share your thoughts below in the comments!








A few thoughts from a travel party that is usually multi-generational (30s, 40s, and 70s), with a mix of light drinkers and non-drinkers. We like the lounges and frequent them because they’re often more convenient than table-service spots and more chill than counter-service spots.
Looking forward to Beak and Barrel—it’s one of the few on this list we haven’t tried.
I will always love Trader Sam’s and go whenever I can. The space never feels too crowded, and the interactions with the cast members are fantastic. I also think they make good drinks (they are tiki drinks, so they won’t be to everyone’s taste) and have a fun non-alcoholic selection. Even my septuagenarian father, who almost exclusively drinks Coca-Cola, loved his mocktail and the atmosphere.
Geo-82 was great for a relaxed, “grown-up” night out. Cocktails felt elevated. Fine, but not a “must-do” for me.
I’ve been to Oga’s Cantina twice—once with a group, where it was “meh,” and once solo, which was more fun and interesting. I had a great time chatting with the bartender and watching the family next to me with two kids be amazed at their fizzing drinks. Also, the “Bloody Rancor” isn’t a bad drink if you don’t mind spicy and aren’t keen on sweet drinks.
Nomad Lounge, Bar Riva, Banana Cabana, Three Bridges Bar & Grill, and Baseline are all safe bets if you’re in the area. I’ve found the Edison, Dahlia Lounge, and AbracadaBar underwhelming in the last few years.
Great updated list for 2026. I love that WDW has created a diverse thematic and population landscape to meet the needs of guests. I was surprised to see Geyser Point lower on the list, but that also speaks to the facts that you described with the positives mostly due to setting. It also is a reflection of how many cool bars and lounges are around for competition! Wailulu was a game changer for us, as it is perfect in the day or night ours to bring a relaxing vibe and kid-friendly. I appreciate that there are family-friendly lounges as well as adults-only bars, as I remember the days before children and enjoying that experience. Looking forward to our first visit at Beak and Barrel in June and just to say it….we love Trader Sam’s but are biased to the OG at DLH…from the exterior to the interior, it is superior and appreciate that their seating situation does not shoehorn you with other parties at the same table like the Poly does.
Agree about preferring the Disneyland Trader Sam’s.
I believe I’ve mentioned this elsewhere, but we’re planning a new list of bars & lounges where we eat most. There are pretty big differences between where we dine most frequently and these rankings.
Tom,
Planning a trip to celebrate my daughter’s 21st birthday. Which one would you pick for a Disney lovers 21st birthday?
Trader Sams as the most acclaimed? Beak and Barrell because it bridges childhood and adulthood? La Cava because its margaritas?
Drinking Around World Showcase is the classic, but cliche 21st birthday pick–and you can incorporate La Cava into that.
Personally, as a fellow father (albeit of a toddler), I’d recommend either Beak & Barrel or a monorail crawl (with Trader Sam’s). That’s classier and prevents things from, ahem, getting out of hand.
Great list. The only thing I would change is switching the first 13 with the last 13. The bottom half would make a great non-park trip to WDW.
I know these rankings are more personal than objective. But Beak & Barrel and Oga’s are both terrible mistakes by Disney. Yes, theming is great. But they prioritized maximization of revenue over the guest experience, particularly guests with children. Both experiences are extremely uninviting unless you are looking for an elbow-to-elbow frat house type experience. They are not family friendly, contrary to the vast majority of lounges at WDW like a Victoria Falls, Territory Lounge, or Nomad (which I would rank 1, 2, and 3). Families don’t want to be sat with singles and couples looking to party. And I am sure they don’t want to be sat with families either. I predict that ADRs for Beak and Barrel will fall off immensely after a year or so, just like they did with Oga’s. Disney should have sacrificed some of the theming and revenue-throughput to make the spaces more comfortable and inviting.
we went to GEO 182 we enjoyed our food had the charcutire (sp) and the Tuna the Char was fantastic and tuna VG.
however we were seated near the bar door – quite noisy along with the clanking of glassware from the bar did not scream upscale. They need to be a bit more quiet
Whenever we go to Disney World, we have to attend Hoop Dee Doo Review. We always arrive 60-90 minutes before the show, grab a beer at Crockett’s Tavern, sit in a rocking chair on the porch and watch the boats come and go on Bay Lake. Even with the construction on the new resort at the old River Country site going on, it’s a sufficient way to relax.
Thumbs up!
I’ll second the notion of re-making this list as “Tom and Sarah’s Top 25” instead of trying to frame it “objectively.” Like many others, I wouldn’t recommend Oga’s Cantina to anyone unless they were absolutely going to go no matter what I said. It IS a “one and done” for me, but that’s only because I can’t undo going once. Nothing about the experience was pleasant, and even though I’m a huge Star Wars fan, nothing about being herded in, sat in an uncomfortable place, and served terrible drinks even remotely satisfied any kind of wish fulfilment.
While I agree with much of your commentary some of your rankings are rather suspect…. Wailulu Bar & Grill has a great location, but we’ve yet to have an experience that even remotely measures up. Unless rated solely on its Star Wars appeal, Oga’s Cantina as a top lounge is quite simply laughable. While not yet ranked, Beak and Barrel was a major disappointment. Pre-made drinks, already broken animatronics, etc. combine for a completely lackluster experience.
You didn’t mention a location you approved of, if there is one.
I agree your top 10 are all excellent, however my order with be different. I love Nomad Lounge and it is the only bar I’ll go to every time I’m in that park.
Great list Tom! If you were to create a list of the “Worst Bars and Lounges” , I strongly suggest Martha’s Vineyard Lounge at Beach Club as the top of that list! Theming and decor are both horrendous.
But it’s perfect for watching golf on tv.
I was surprised to see Ogas in the top spot but I do think it is a must-do for first-timers who have any Star Wars love. I still fondly recall my first experience, and my (non-fan) parents really enjoyed it when I took them, too.
There are a few tricks I’d recommend to avoid utter chaos…which is going early or going late. The bar is open an hour past park close, which makes it perfect to extend the evening after catching a last Rise of the Resistance ride…and ALSO means you’re likely to get a quieter – but no less fun – experience. The other simple trick is to play with your server! They all have in-world backstories and reasons why they got stuck working for Oga, and I’ve honestly seen many of them light up and really deliver a stellar experience if you engage them on it. Plus, now that Stormtroopers come in from time to time, interacting with them while trying to conceal ‘contraband’ can be a lot of fun.
Thinking whether I would recommend Oga’s Cantina – we only went one time where we were seated at the bar. We had 2 cocktails each and some food. The bartender was attentive and we never felt like we were being pushed out the door. So far, so good. It was just so loud and and packed that I didn’t notice any of the theme, no matter how much I craned my neck… It could have been any metropolitan bar at Happy Hour. All I remember was overly sugary drinks that weren’t very good (don’t even remember the food). Based on my experience, I would likely not recommend this to a first-timer. Leaving aside what someone normally expects from a bar, it’s tough to get the theme / experience as long as the place is crammed to the brim. And as long as it fills up, there is no incentive to change any of the experience. It’s certainly one business strategy, except or guest satisfaction. But obviously repeat business is not needed so far.
Scotch eggs at Rode and Crown.are a must!
Scat Cats Club is a hidden gem! The music is actually Thursday through Sunday, the show is fantastic! The food is amazing as are the cocktails. On the nights there isn’t music, it’s a bit slower, but a great place to kick back away from the kids if need be (all though all ages are welcome) for some more “adult fare,” or night cap after a day at the parks. It deserves to be waaayyyyy higher on the list! Plus Beignets? Need I say more?
Oga’s Cantina belongs on the bottom of the list. Of course it could have been great but it feels like they phoned it in knowing it would be an easy sell even if it was bad.
Put aside that the food is bad. Put aside that it’s overcrowded and you’re rushed out.
If I felt like I was in a true Star Wars universe cantina, it could still be great. There should be alien species and droids. Bartenders and waitstaff should be in character. Maybe a few video screens with news clips.
Instead, there is a single animatronic droid DJ. (How much fun would a full cantina band be).
Instead of feeling like I’m in the Star Wars universe, it feels like I’m in a bad tourist trap with a Star Wars background.
One note on the rest of the list — Despite having ‘bar’ in the name, some of your selections are really just restaurants. To me, a bar/ lounge is bar first, with a limited menu of smallish bites. Nomad Lounge fits this well. But for example, Wailulu Bar and Grill is a restaurant, not a bar/lounge. They have 11 full sized entrees on the menu. That’s more than most WDW restaurants, more than Steakhouse 71, for example. Wailulu seems no more bar/lounge than Kona Cafe.
This list shows how fantastic the Disney World bars and lounges are.
Quite an amazing lineup!
But Oga’s #1??????
Did this list morph into most disappointing bars at the end?????
While reading this, I thought the first 12 bars were among the very best. You could have completely reversed the order of your rankings and had a better list of Disney’s greatest lounges, in my opinion.
For everyone who dislikes Oga’s Cantina, would you actively recommend that first-timers avoid it, or is it just a one-and-done that you have little desire to repeat?
Because I totally agree with the latter (we haven’t even gone there in a couple years–since whenever they last changed the menu), but I still think it’s such a novel experience with great themed design & details that I highly recommend it to first-timers (hence the rating).
Wondering whether I’m in the minority on that. Maybe it’s time to bump it from the top spot and just have this be a list of my personal favorites, as opposed to aiming for first-timers with more highly-themed spots.
Honestly I would tell ppl not to do it. We saw no details from our booth where 6 of us were shoved with another group of 5 random ppl. It was unbearably hot in there after waiting in the blazing sun to get in and we couldn’t see or observe a thing. To top it off most of the drinks were not good. Maybe if we had been allowed to stand or wander around I would recommend it but that wasn’t an option. We were there in 2022-do they allow ppl to get up and see things now?
We went to Oga’s for the first time last year and really enjoyed it. Both the flatbread and cheese roll were quite tasty and the two teens we had with us enjoyed the fancy non-alcoholic drinks. Our server/bartender was great and the atmosphere a lot of fun. It’s a ~$4 premium over a flatbread at Pinocchio Village Haus, but I’d say worth it to have storm troopers walk by the table plus the other theming. I’d happily go back.
I would not recommend it for those looking for a nice place to relax and have a refreshment. There are better places around HS for that (just not enough). However, if they are looking to check a box, deep dive into Star Wars, or just do something different then absolutely do it. I have been a few times. When I do go, it is Solo. I am at the bar which makes things easier. I wish they had some more traditional drinks. I find what they have a bit too sweet and pricey. Maybe, rotate the cocktails a bit. I am not sure the bar is set up for that.
Execution and theming gives it a strong push for one. However, repeatability and limited menu/drinks push it down the list in my few. Then again that would apply to the Grotto as well.
Honestly, I personally would never recommend it. It was a one and done for me, wished I would’ve used that time on a different place for sure!
One thing to remember is that everyone has an opinion. You are normally going to get the squeakiest wheel, which gets the most attention. The bar is jam packed for a reason.
True, the specialty drinks are definitely sweet and most (if not all) are premade. But this isn’t EPCOT. There are kids in there and it’s a family environment. You would admittedly have to drink a bunch to get a real buzz unless you are just a lightweight, but given the atmosphere, I don’t think that’s the real reason anyone should be in there anyway. It’s really just a fun addition to the area, and it delivers. The drinks are all “fun” in that they incorporate interesting ways to make you feel like you are getting something really exotic. Some stuff has fizz. Some stuff has glitter. Some stuff is poured over dry ice. They are all cool colors and you can even get a souvenir cup if you want it.
The food is evolving. We went when it first opened and there wasn’t much to eat. The options have expanded but you don’t have access to a full meal some of the other bars in WDW. Yes, it is loud. But it’s supposed to be. I’m not sure who the people are that say they didn’t notice the theming, but if their neighborhood dive looks just like this, I’ll come visit any day of the week! This place makes you feel like you are in an off-world bar. Just looking at how the bar itself is set up reminds you of the movies. The bartenders and waiters do tend to be in character and add a lot of fun to your visit.
They don’t have people dressed up as aliens in there, but the servers and bartenders are dressed as they would be in the movies, and you do have your droid-DJ who keeps the party jumping. You could potentially get paired at a standing room table with people you don’t know. But so what? It’s fun, and everyone is having a good time. That’s no different than sitting on a ride with people you don’t know or standing in line with people you don’t know. It’s not that big of a deal.
They do generally limit your time to 45 minutes, but that is not nearly as heavily enforced as it used to be. The place was so popular they couldn’t have people settling in for a 3 hour stay, and they don’t want you drinking that much there anyway. I’ve never felt rushed and when it was my time to go, my exit was generally self-inflicted; no one ever had to tell us our time was up.
I’m in my mid 40s and my wife is turning 50, and this is her favorite bar. Granted, we aren’t heavy bar hoppers, but we enjoy an occasional cocktail and this place is just plane fun. However, it’s not like other bars where you get a serious drink and cap off your night. This is something you do while you are in the park, but you are still coherent enough to go do other stuff. That’s where this bar differs; it’s more of a novelty than a bar, but I recommend it for first timers just because it completes the Star Wars experience. If you are into Star Wars, it’s a must do! We have been several times—each year I go actually—and it’s always a place we have to make sure we stop in when we are in Hollywood Studios.
Yeah….gonna have to agree with the others. Ogas is very intentional in not offering seating. They want you in and out as quickly as possible and have done a great job at making you feel so uncomfortable that you oblige. Definitely could not recommend after our last visit.
We did NOT like Oga’s at all.
However, we LOVE Jock Lindseys, Wailulu, Crews Cup, Victoria Falls, Phins, Baseline Taphouse, Geyser Point, Three Bridges, Polite Pig, Tambu Lounge, Gurgling Suitcase, Rose and Crown, 8and Enzo’s Hideaway.
Trader Sams was fun…but
..not likely to go more than once every 5 years.
VERY much lookkng forward to trying Geo 82, Bar Riva, and Beak n Barrel!!