Where to watch the 2015 Super Bowl at Walt Disney World

If your weekend involves the Super Bowl and Walt Disney World, that alone should make you feel like an MVP. To make sure you aren’t left fumbling around for a place to watch Sunday’s game or Monday’s celebratory parade, we’ve got all the details and plenty of suggestions.

Those who don’t care to watch Seattle battle New England — or the commercial debuts or half-time show by Katy Perry — can take advantage of the almost-deserted theme parks. Super Bowl Sunday is actually one of the least-crowded days at Walt Disney World, so make the most of it! The weather is expected to be nice, with only a small chance of rain.

Should you be in the other camp and among the millions of fans looking forward to the big game — or just vacationing with someone who is a football fanatic — there are plenty of places to catch the game on television screens at Walt Disney World. Probably the first one that comes to mind for many folks is the ESPN Club on the Boardwalk because of its sports theme, 100 television screens, and traditional “game day” food. Consequently, the ESPN Club fills up early — folks have been known to arrive hours early to secure a spot. ESPN Club opens at 11:30 a.m. on Sunday. The restaurant does take reservations for its VIP packages, but those already are booked. However, you can call 407-WDW-DINE to check if there are any cancellations if you want a guaranteed table.

The ESPN Club is not the only place to watch the Super Bowl on Disney property, though. At Downtown Disney, Splitsville will have the game on its flat-panel screens, and the first floor will be open to walk-in visitors. Guests can order off the regular menu and bowl at normal prices. Planet Hollywood also will be showing the Super Bowl, while serving its usual menu.

In past years, the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex has had two viewing locations open to the public — ESPN Grill and the Jumbotron at the Welcome Center. The Grill is open again this year from 10:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. and will be showing the big game. The complex has not announced whether the Super Bowl will be shown on the Jumbotron because there are other sporting events scheduled in the complex.

And then there are plenty of viewing locations at the Walt Disney World hotels, starting with the comfort of your own room. NBC will be carrying the 49th Super Bowl in the Orlando market. Want to join your fellow fans? Most of the pool bars and hotel lounges also will have the game on, though they may not have multiple screens.

The Four Seasons Orlando is having a Super Bowl celebration this Sunday, February 1st at PB&G beginning at 4 p.m. PB&G is the southern-style lakeside casual restaurant. There will be a special game day menu, bar games, TVs for each pavilion, beers from each team’s city and special cocktails to represent each team. No reservations needed. Valet parking will be validated ($5 per car)

Finally, if you’re going to be at the Magic Kingdom on Monday, be sure to check the Times Guide because you might be able to see your favorite player in person. The Super Bowl MVP traditionally comes to Disney World and will be feted in a celebratory parade down Main Street, U.S.A. Arrive early, though, because it gets crowded.

Some guests can continue their Super Bowl celebration all year with an offer from the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin. Residents of both Washington and New England (valid New England states include Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Vermont, Rhode Island, and Connecticut) will receive a free night at the Walt Disney World hotel when booking two nights at the standard price before March 1 for stays through Feb. 3, 2016. Some restrictions apply. They also will receive a complimentary automatic room upgrade. To make reservations, they can call 1-800-227-1500 and mention their home state.

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