David and I have a lot of date nights at Disney World, but one stands above all the rest as our favorite. We consider The Polynesian Village Resort to be a mecca of date night possibilities, full of restaurants, bars, atmosphere and romance. The best part about holding date night at the Polynesian, or the Poly, as it’s affectionately called in Disney circles, is that it doesn’t require that you have a Disney Park ticket to get in. So if you only have a certain number of days in the parks, this date night formula could be a great option for your arrival day, or for a night that one of the parks closed early, if you don’t have pass hopper tickets. David and I love to go on Disney dates together, and have found that some of our most memorable times as a couple have happened at the Disney Parks – our perfect Walt Disney World night is at The Polynesian Village Resort, and we’re going to share it with you.
1. Drinks at Trader Sams
You’re evening begins with the coolest bar at Walt Disney World, Trader Sams. Themed after the Jungle Cruise Ride, and infinitely more interactive than any neighborhood watering hole you’ve frequented lately, this is a not to be missed place on property. For starters, I doubt that there is a more detailed, immersive, or atmospheric public place on property. I understand that this is a bold statement, but I think it’s true. Secondly, these mixed drinks are second to none at Disney World. We recommend getting there right when they open, as you can’t make reservations, and lines get long quickly. UH-OA, UH-OA!
2. Dinner at The Kona Cafe
The fact that The Kona Cafe is still considered a hidden gem baffles me. Bloggers sing its praises for it’s delicious breakfast and dinner alike. This restaurant has a fantastic menu, with reasonable prices, which is not an easy find at WDW. We love to come here at all times of day, but dinner is special. They have a delicious, affordable sushi menu, and some of the best steaks and other entrees on site. We also love their non-traditional bread service – they serve a sweet Hawaiian style soft loaf, with honey macadamia nut butter (lets be honest, I could make a meal of it). The only thing we recommend skipping here is dessert.
3. Dole Whip at Pineapple Lanai
ATTENTION: YOU CAN GET DOLE WHIP HERE WITHOUT A PARK TICKET. This is big guys. If you have never tried Dole Whip, I’m sorry. This light, fluffy, pineapple soft serve miracle of a dessert has a cult following that rivals that of the fans of One Direction. We love it, and think you should to.
4. Watch Wishes at The Polynesian Beach
This is one of our favorite places to watch Wishes if we don’t have a theme park ticket. They pipe in the music, and you have a great view over the water. Pull up a chair, and enjoy the show!
We love The Polynesian Village Resort, and our date nights there. What are your favorite Disney dates, and Disney resorts on property?