The best and worst lounges at Disney World
By Roy Hatfield
When you go to Disney World, you can count on a few certainties. There will be a lot of time spent waiting in line, everything is about three times the cost of similar products in the outside world, and you will want an alcoholic beverage.
Depending on the particular park you are visiting, you have options. Bring your coins, as adult beverages are pricey in Disney World. A beer is typically $9.50-$12.50, depending on flavor. A mixed drink is typically $15-$19. Most places offer you to make your drink a double for a small upcharge. With these types of prices, choosing your destination becomes very important. I have visited every lounge in the four theme parks and will share my opinions below.
Best Overall Lounge: Tune-In Lounge (Hollywood Studios)
Located in Disney's Hollywood Studios, the Tune-In Lounge is my choice for the best overall lounge in Disney World. It is the lounge area that is connected to the 50’s Prime Time Cafe.
What sets this lounge apart from the others is twofold. The retro vibe with the black and white televisions, and the 50s-style living room areas are great. The bartenders are all excellent and have been there seemingly forever.
It’s a great spot to people-watch as they do a brisk to-go drink service. They do not serve any food at this lounge, but again you are right next door to a restaurant. This lounge is also great for larger groups as there is plenty of room to spread out and still have a seat.
Runner-up: Nomad Lounge (Animal Kingdom)
Worst Overall Lounge: Oga's Cantina
I know Star Wars fans will consider this a hot take, but hear me out. On paper, this sounded like an automatic home run. It’s theming is incredible and I’ve always had outstanding service there. That’s where the compliments stop.
When you first arrive they make sure to let you know you have a time limit inside. It was 30 minutes on my last visit, but that may have changed. Then you get seated, and it’s downhill from there.
The place is always packed and I never had gotten a good seat there. One time we sat on stools at a table for eight with 6 random people. The worst was when my wife and I were sat in a booth with 2 other random couples. Hope you like making friends!
The drinks themselves were meh, and I’ve tried them all. The worst part of all is the blaring “space techno” that will eventually drive you insane.
I can’t imagine working there. With the hurried feel, and the never-ending musical assault on your ears, it does nothing a lounge is supposed to do: make you feel relaxed.
Runner-up: Restaurantosaurus Lounge (Animal Kingdom)