The $18 Upgrade I MUST Pay for Every Time I Stay at Disney's Contemporary Resort

I’ve stayed at Disney’s Contemporary Resort 6 times, and this is the one thing I will gladly pay an additional $18 for on my trip.

Disney’s Contemporary Resort

This Deluxe resort offers numerous perks. From being walking distance to Magic Kingdom to some of the most notable restaurants at Disney World, there is a lot to love while vacationing here. The price to stay here can be hefty, but for me, I always budget an extra $18 for this one extra that makes my stay even more magical.

Located on the 15th floor of the hotel is California Grill. It is a premier table service restaurant that serves California-style cuisine and sushi. Did we mention there are views of Magic Kingdom from many of the tables? If you dine here, you’re looking at $89 per adult, plus tax and gratuity for a prix-fixe menu. However, if you aren’t looking to pay that price tag, there is another option costing significantly less!

The bar at the California Grill

There is a bar located in the restaurant, and it is first-come, first-served. You do not have to do the prix-fixe when you are seated here. You can choose a drink from the drink menu, including a signature cocktail (my go-to is the Blueberry Lemon Drop Martini) that averages $18. If you want to put your name down for the bar, just head to the host station on the 2nd floor. You still get the views and the vibes, but for a much smaller cost.

The bar

When you dine at the restaurant or the bar, you can keep your receipt and return to the restaurant 15 minutes before Happily Ever After. The host will send you back up, and you can head out to the observation deck for a great view of the nightly fireworks.

Keep your receipt

You get a drink and a great fireworks view without waiting an hour on Main Street surrounded by hundreds of people? Sign me up every time. The bar also offers some food options that can be found on the dining menu. We’ve seen them offer some of the appetizers at the bar and sometimes desserts. Be sure to ask the bartender what the current options are.