Geo-82 at EPCOT: A Sophisticated Sip Above Spaceship Earth

Tucked just above Spaceship Earth, Geo-82 is one of EPCOT’s most intriguing new additions—a sleek, adults-only lounge offering elevated cocktails and calm in the middle of the park’s constant motion.

You’ll find it inside the same building you exit after riding Spaceship Earth, in the area filled with interactive exhibits and games. You can enter that space from outside too. If you’re facing World Showcase, the entrance is on the right side of the building; Geo-82 is just inside those doors.


Checking In and First Impressions

Reservations are required—and tough to snag. I tried right at the 60-day mark, then nearly every day after, finally landing a Monday afternoon slot about two weeks before my trip. Even same-day searches showed nothing. This is a small, intimate venue with limited seating, so patience pays off.

After checking in, guests head upstairs (there’s also an elevator). At the top, you’re greeted with a cool towel—heavenly on a hot Florida afternoon—and shown to a small waiting area before being escorted into the lounge itself.


The Space and Vibe

Geo-82 is a single, medium-sized room with windows stretching across the front, framing a view toward World Showcase Lagoon. The décor is understated and elegant—comfortable without being themed to death. Think contemporary lounge with warm lighting, sleek lines, and plenty of breathing room.

Geo-82 at EPCOT

There’s a long bar spanning the width of the space and small groupings of tables and chairs arranged throughout. I was seated at the bar for my 2:45 p.m. reservation and immediately noticed how calm it felt. Three bartenders worked behind the bar, and servers handled the tables, so the experience felt personal and unhurried.

Unlike places like Oga’s Cantina or BaseLine Tap House, everyone here has an assigned seat. No crowding, no standing—just a relaxed, civilized drink above the hustle of EPCOT.


The Drinks and Menu

Geo-82 is undeniably pricey. Specialty cocktails hover around $24 each, and the small-plates menu is limited but upscale. The charcuterie board came highly recommended by both guests and my bartender, but at $29, it seemed better suited for sharing.

I opted for the Funghi Flatbread instead—about $14.95—and it was delicious. (The name doesn’t sound good, I know, but mushrooms, gouda, garlic…so good!) Perfect as a shared snack or, in my case, an early dinner that hit the spot.

Geo-82 at EPCOT
Funghi Flatbread

Most of the specialty drinks lean heavily on whiskey and bourbon, which isn’t my thing, so I asked the bartender for suggestions. Geo-82 has a full bar, and the staff genuinely want to create something you’ll love. We settled on a spicy margarita, and it was perfect—fresh, balanced, and just the right kick.

Geo-82 at EPCOT

The couple seated next to me ordered the Disney Select Bourbon Flight ($55), which appears to be a house specialty. Watching its presentation was fascinating, and I immediately thought my stepdad—who’s serious about bourbon—would love this place.

Geo-82 at EPCOT

Geo-82: The Experience

This isn’t a rushed, “finish your drink in 45 minutes” kind of experience. There’s currently no set time limit, and when I asked, the hostess said they’ve discussed possibly adding a 75- or 90-minute window during peak seasons, but nothing official yet.

The bartenders were knowledgeable, patient, and genuinely fun to talk with. One joked that “it’s amazing what you can do when you don’t need to appeal to an eight-year-old palate,” and that summed up the vibe nicely.

Geo-82 at EPCOT

Geo-82 is adults-only, and honestly, I’m all for it. Walt Disney World is overwhelmingly kid-friendly—this is one of the few spaces designed purely for adults to unwind. Watching the crowd that afternoon, everyone seemed relaxed and happy. Every table was full, yet it still felt peaceful.

If you tend to get overstimulated by the full-throttle Disney energy, Geo-82 might be your ideal place to take a breather. Just know—you’ll pay for that serenity.

Geo-82 at EPCOT

Fireworks Viewing and Special Experience

During the day, the lounge’s front windows provide a clear line of sight toward World Showcase Lagoon. In theory, that should make it a solid fireworks viewing location, though you are quite far back. Geo-82 offers a Fireworks Experience package priced at $179 + tax and gratuity per person.

Geo-82 at EPCOT

That event begins one hour before Luminous: The Symphony of Us and includes champagne or event-exclusive cocktails, a tasting tower of savory bites, and sweets served during the show. It sounds elegant, but given the distance and price, I’m not sure it’s a must-do—at least for me right now.

Geo-82at EPCOT

There are currently no discounts for DVC, Annual Passholders, or Cast Members, and from what I was told, that’s unlikely to change anytime soon.


The Bottom Line

Geo-82 is a refined, adults-only haven in the middle of EPCOT’s chaos—a place to sip something sophisticated, enjoy good conversation, and take a deep breath.

It’s expensive, yes, but you’re paying for atmosphere, exclusivity, and quality service. If you’re a cocktail lover—or a bourbon fan—you’ll probably think it’s worth every penny.

Geo-82 at EPCOT

For me, Geo-82 felt like a little pocket of calm where Disney lets grown-ups have a moment to themselves. And honestly, I’m all for that.

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The Beak and Barrel: A Pirate’s Haven at Magic Kingdom

If you’ve ever walked off Pirates of the Caribbean and thought, “I could use a grog with those scallywags,” Disney has finally delivered. Starting August 29, 2025, guests can officially step into The Beak and Barrel, a brand-new pirate-themed tavern right inside the Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World.

This isn’t just a quick-service stop with a few barrels and nautical nets hung on the wall. It’s a fully immersive storytelling space where every detail has been imagined as if pirates truly took over a Spanish outpost and turned it into their home away from the high seas.

I am so excited about this! The early concept art was impressive, but the pictures that Disney shared this week have really blown me away! I’ve been trying to get a reservation my October trip — I’ll be at Disney for the Wine & Dine Half Marathon weekend — but so far, no luck. I will keep trying, though. I REALLY want to see this tavern for myself!


The Beak and Barrel
Photo: Disney Parks

The Mess

The first room you’ll enter is The Mess, once a mess hall for soldiers and now a lively pirate gathering place. Long tables make it easy for families (or crews) to sit together, swap stories, and soak up the atmosphere. Look up and you’ll spot a ship’s bell said to have belonged to Captain Redd’s first ship. The chandelier? An old anchor dripping with melted candles. Disney’s details here are top-notch.

Beak and Barrel
Photo: Disney Parks

My favorite touch? The Mermaid Windows. They’re salvaged from a wreck, complete with barnacles, and hint at mysterious tales just waiting to be told. And if you find yourself near The Brig corner—where prison bars still hang from its soldier days—you might want to behave. Rumor has it the walls remember every rascal they’ve held.


The Cursed Bar

Of course, no tavern is complete without a bar, and this one is spectacular. The entire thing is shaped like a skull, and behind it sits treasures, bottles, and spoils. At the center is the Enchanted Rum Bottle, enchanted so the tavern’s cheer never runs dry. (Cue Jack Sparrow: “Why is the rum gone?”)

Beak and Barrel
Photo: Disney Parks

Keep an eye out for Rummy, the tavern’s feathered host perched high above. He cracks jokes, sings songs, and tells tales while watching over the rowdy crowd.


The Captains’ Quarters

Step deeper inside and you’ll discover the Captains’ Quarters, once a Spanish commander’s elegant residence. Pirates have “personalized” it with sword marks, scorch scars, and rowdy décor. A fireplace warms the room, but the real fun is above it—miniature ships in glass bottles that sometimes spring to life in battle.

Beak and Barrel
Photo: Disney Parks

If you grab one of the four carved captain’s booths, look closely. Each tells the story of legendary pirates. And tucked in the back, there’s a private game room where pirates test their luck. Don’t be surprised if you spot evidence of past “disagreements.”


Beak and Barrel
Photo: Disney Parks

The Mapmaker’s Room

Finally, wander into the Mapmaker’s Room, a treasure trove of scrolls, parchment, and spilled ink from a cartographer rumored to be brilliant—or a little mad. A sprawling painted map covers the wall, full of hidden pirate secrets waiting for sharp-eyed explorers.

Beak and Barrel
Photo: Disney Parks

My Takeaway

It really looks like Disney has knocked it out of the park with this one, based on the pictures and early reviews I’ve seen. The Beak and Barrel feels like a true extension of Pirates of the Caribbean, with layers of story that invite you to linger, explore, and discover something new each time you visit. I really love when Disney allows the Imagineers to cook–and this feels like a really strong example of Imagineers doing what they do best! I just can’t wait to see it for myself! (And of course, to report back to you!)

Oga's Cantina, Disney's Hollywood Studios
Oga’s Cantina, Standing table, Photo: Brooke Hudson

These early pictures don’t show a LOT of seating, so I’m wondering what The Beak and Barrel’s capacity is. I like that it sounds like there are several areas for seating–but I’m not seeing a LOT of seats.

Oga’s Cantina in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disney’s Hollywood Studios suffers a lot, in my opinion, from being too small. While reservations are easier to get these days than it was the first couple of years, you still can’t always get on one the day or at the time you’d prefer. And while, to a certain extent, I understand that the Cantina is designed to feel pretty crowded as part of the theming, I also think the guest experience is important. When it feels too crowded, the experience is not that enjoyable.

I’m really hoping The Beak and Barrel will not suffer from this challenge. I’m hoping that it will be large enough to allow a lot of guests to move through, without requiring a lot of “standing at high top tables” like we do at Oga’s Cantina and without feeling super overcrowded. I guess time will tell….

Beak and Barrel
Photo: Disney Parks

I love that it looks like Disney has planned some terrific pirate-themed specialty drinks and snacks. However, I have to admit: the special drink pictured above is NOT on my bucket list! How about yours? Scary!


Want to Visit Beak and Barrel?

Reservations are recommended, although really tough to get right now. Honestly, reservations for the Beak and Barrel will likely be hard to get for at least a year, maybe longer. There hasn’t been a new table service restaurant in the Magic Kingdom in YEARS and there has never been a tavern in the Magic Kingdom before! Granted this is not a restaurant, but it’s a new experience and MANY Disney fans will want to check it out.

So — your best bet at getting a reservation for the Beak and Barrel will be to stay on Disney property and take advantage of being able to book 60 days out for the length of your trip. The longer your trip, the stronger the likelihood you’ll score a reservation for Beak and Barrel–especially later in the trip. My October trip is really short, just 4 days–so I unfortunately was not successful (YET! I’m going to keep trying….) despite being up at 6 am 60 days out from my trip.

The Beak and Barrel. Pirates themed bar at Magic Kingdom.
Concept Art: Disney Parks

The Bottom LIne

Whether you’re a pirate at heart or just a Disney fan who loves immersive storytelling, I suspect The Beak and Barrel is going to be one of those places you talk about long after your vacation ends. Are you as excited to check out the Beak and Barrel as I am? Please comment below!

 

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The Beak & Barrel: Adventureland’s New Pirate Tavern Sets Sail at Magic Kingdom!

Ahoy, Disney adventurers! Big news from the Seven Seas…

There’s a new gathering place coming to Magic Kingdom’s Adventureland, and it’s sure to be the spot for swashbucklers, scallywags, and pirate fans of all ages. The Beak & Barrel, a richly themed pirate tavern, will soon drop anchor and open its doors later this year—and Disney just shared a treasure trove of new details!

If you’ve ever dreamed of living the pirate’s life (without the seasickness), this might just become your new favorite Magic Kingdom hangout.

Meet Captain Merry and Rummy the First Mate

Disney has shared that The Beak & Barrel has quite the backstory. It was founded by the infamous pirate rumrunner, Captain Meridian “Merry” Goldwyn, and her feathered first mate, Rummy.

Beak and Barrel. Pirate Tavern in Magic Kingdom
Concept Art: Disney Parks

Rummy will be keeping a close watch over the tavern from his perch above the bar. Disney history buffs might recognize him—Rummy is a clear nod to the beloved Barker Bird who once welcomed guests to Pirates of the Caribbean. Though he “flew the coop” years ago, it seems he’s returned to Adventureland in this exciting new role!

Disney has told us that we expect Rummy to share some salty tales of piracy and maybe even lead a toast or two.

Step Inside “The Mess”

The heart of The Beak & Barrel is called The Mess—once the mess hall for Spanish soldiers, now transformed into a lively gathering place for pirates and adventurers.

Beak and Barrel, Pirate Tavern in Magic Kingdom
Concept Art: Disney Parks

Long communal tables encourage guests to swap stories over grog and grub, while a massive anchor draped in candles and wax drips overhead, setting the perfect piratey mood.

The bar itself looks like it will be a work of art, cobbled together from pieces of a cursed shipwreck. Look closely and you might spot the Enchanted Rum Bottle, a magical relic gifted by none other than Tia Dalma herself! Rumor has it this mystical bottle powers the tavern’s specialty brews.

Keep an eye out for Rummy—he may be spotted hopping along the bar, keeping everything ship-shape in Captain Merry’s absence.

The Captains’ Quarters: For Pirates with Refined Taste

For those who prefer a touch of luxury with their adventure, the Captains’ Quarters offers a more upscale (but still delightfully weathered) retreat.

Beak and Barrel, Pirate Tavern in Magic Kingdome
Concept Art: Disney Parks

Once the private quarters of the Spanish comandante, this room now showcases artwork, drapery, and—of course—signs of pirate mischief like slashed curtains and scorch marks.

Above the fireplace, five miniature ships in glass bottles tell their own mysterious tale. Legend says they represent pirate crews from around the world who united to fight oppression. And if the legends are true… these tiny vessels might just come to life when you least expect it. I’m excited to see what Disney has in store for us with these.

What’s on the Menu? Stay Tuned!

While Disney hasn’t yet revealed the food and drink lineup, we do know The Beak & Barrel will serve a sea-worthy selection of drinks and bites fit for pirates of all ages. I’ll be keeping a weathered eye out for more details as soon as they’re announced. I’m betting that Disney will offer some sort of limited edition souvenir mug or glass themed to The Beak and Barrel a la Trader Sam’s.

Final Thoughts: A Must-Visit for Pirate Fans

Whether you’re a Pirates of the Caribbean superfan or just love a fully themed Disney experience, The Beak & Barrel sounds like it’s shaping up to be a standout addition to Magic Kingdom.

Between the rich backstory, immersive decor, and nods to Disney history, this tavern promises to be more than just a spot to grab a drink—it will be an experience.

So, polish up your cutlasses and practice your best “Arrr!” We’ll all be gathering at The Beak & Barrel soon. Stay tuned for updates—and maybe I’ll see you there, mateys!

Coming soon: As soon as Disney releases the official menu and opening date, I’ll share all the details here. Be sure to subscribe to my newsletter so you don’t miss out!

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GEO-82 Lounge Opening at EPCOT This June!

Big news, Disney foodies and cocktail connoisseurs! A brand-new adult-exclusive lounge is coming to EPCOT — and it’s tucked inside Spaceship Earth itself!

Geo-82 Lounge
Photo: Disney Parks

Opening June 4, the GEO-82 Lounge promises a sophisticated escape filled with incredible drinks, stunning small plates, and gorgeous views of the World Celebration Gardens. I’m already picturing myself relaxing here after a day of wandering around World Showcase — and if you’re a fan of creative cocktails and beautiful bites, you’ll definitely want to add this new spot to your must-visit list!

GEO-82, a new adults-only lounge at EPCOT, Spaceship Earth Adults-only lounge
Concept Art: Disney Parks

Even better? Reservations for GEO-82 open on May 6, so get ready to snag your spot!

Let’s dive into everything we know so far about this exciting addition to EPCOT…

A Luxe Lounge Inside Spaceship Earth

First of all, can we take a moment to appreciate how cool it is that GEO-82 is located inside Spaceship Earth? The design of the lounge is inspired by the iconic architecture of the geosphere, blending EPCOT’s classic futuristic vibes with a warm, inviting atmosphere perfect for an afternoon break or a relaxing end to your park day.

And speaking of endings — if you’re looking for a truly memorable night, GEO-82 will offer a Fireworks Viewing Experience as part of Disney’s Enchanting Extras Collection! More on that in just a bit…

Innovative Cocktails (and Mocktails!) to Savor

The GEO-82 beverage program is truly something special. Here are just a few highlights:

Geo-82 Lounge
Photo: Disney Parks
  • Brown Butter Old Fashioned: Bourbon lovers, prepare yourselves — this twist on a classic features brown butter-infused bourbon and Mexican chocolate bitters. Rich, smooth, and decadent.
  • Clarified New York Sour: A visually stunning cocktail that’s equal parts beautiful and delicious, made with bourbon, sherry, and a red wine float.
  • Strawberry-Black Pepper Sour: A flavor explosion with strawberry, lemon, and a spicy black pepper twist.
  • Caramelized Leek Martini: I’m intrigued (and a little obsessed already) by this inventive mix of gin, vermouth, caramelized leek, and pickled onion.
Geo-82 Lounge
Photo: Disney Parks

And for my fellow non-drinkers (or those looking for a refreshing break between sips), GEO-82 offers two gorgeous zero-proof cocktails:

Geo-82 Lounge
Photo: Disney Parks
  • A Walk Through the Garden: Basil, fennel, lemon, and bright botanicals.
  • Manhattan in the Morning: Cold brew coffee meets maple, cherry, and walnut bitters.

Of course, you’ll also find an impressive selection of wines (including Champagne and Rosé) and a curated list of beers, including non-alcoholic IPA options!

Geo-82 Lounge
Photo: Disney Parks

Small Bites Worth the Hype

The GEO-82 culinary team clearly understood the assignment — the food menu reads like a dream for anyone who loves gourmet, global flavors:

Geo-82 Lounge
Photo: Disney Parks
  • Jumbo Lump Crab Gâteau: Elevated with smoked cheddar, pickled mustard seed-lemon vinaigrette, and topped with Siberian Supreme Caviar.
  • Truffled Ahi Tuna: Featuring whisky barrel-aged soy-truffle ponzu, citrus, scallions, and black sesame.
  • Cannellini Hummus (Plant-Based!): Served with heirloom radish, pumpkin seed pistou, and crispy pappadam.
  • Funghi Flatbread: Roasted mushrooms, miso-mascarpone, mozzarella, fontina, pickled onions, and a drizzle of black garlic molasses.
Geo-82 Lounge
Photo: Disney Parks

There’s also a Chef’s selection of artisanal cheeses and cured meats — perfect for nibbling while you sip!

Fireworks + Champagne = A Night to Remember

Now for one of the most exciting parts: The GEO-82 Fireworks Experience!

If you’re looking for a truly special way to end your EPCOT day, you can book this exclusive experience and enjoy:

  • Reserved seating with incredible views of Luminous: The Symphony of Us
  • A tasting tower filled with savory and sweet bites
  • Champagne poured tableside
  • Event-exclusive cocktails

This could be such a fun date night, anniversary celebration, or just a perfect self-care treat. We do not have any pricing for this experience yet, but I’m expecting this will be priced similar to the Seats & Sweets Dessert Parties at the Magic Kingdom [Currently, $119-$129 for Adults, $75 for Kids]. I’m basing this on the fact that Seats & Sweets includes reserves seating, beverages (both alcoholic and non-alcoholic) and dessert stations.

The current description of this experience at GEO-82 Lounge currently sounds a little more “limited” and includes champagne–but it sounds like the treats will not necessarily be “all you care to enjoy” like they are at Seats & Sweets–so it will definitely be a different experience. I could justify a lower price or a higher price–especially once we get a look at the seating for this, and the actual view of the fireworks. And of course, get an idea of what exactly will be included in the “tower” of savory and sweet bites. I will say that Seats & Sweets is one of my favorite “extras” at the Magic Kingdom–I love being able to actually sit down to watch the fireworks, and the views of the Magic Kingdom fireworks from Seats & Sweets are outstanding. If you’d like to read more about THAT experience, please click here.

I’m very excited to see inside the lounge and check out the fireworks viewing potential. As soon as Disney shares pricing for this experience, I will share it with you.

Souvenir Alert!

If you fall in love with the vibe at GEO-82 (and I think a lot of us will), you’ll even have the chance to purchase beautiful souvenir glasses inspired by the lounge itself. These collectible glasses will be available for guests with reservations, and you can mobile order them during your visit!

Geo-82 Lounge
Photo: Disney Parks

I really like the look of these, especially if the GEO-82 logo is etched and not a sticker or layered on. We do not have prices on these yet, but I suspect there will be “limited-edition” specialty drink specials at outrageous prices that will include a souvenir glass with purchase. And of course, it sounds like Disney will also make the glasses available for purchase without a drink. I’m very curious to see what these prices will be.

Geo-82 Lounge
Photo: Disney Parks

Final Thoughts

I’m really looking forward to the opening of GEO-82 Lounge. I am a BIG fan of places to sit and relax in the middle of a busy theme park–especially if they are air conditioned or have fans for those crazy hot Disney days!

I love that EPCOT continues to evolve, offering new spaces that blend innovation, relaxation, and unforgettable flavors. Whether you’re popping in for a quick mid-day pick-me-up or ending your night with bubbles and fireworks, GEO-82 sounds like a must-visit for adults who love a little magic mixed with their martinis.

I am a little disappointed that Mom and I will not get to check it out when we are at EPCOT for the International Flower & Garden Festival next week. I was hoping GEO-82 Lounge MIGHT open in May…but the excuses for a quick mid-Summer trip are just adding up!

Don’t forget — reservations open May 6! Let me know if you plan to check it out — maybe I’ll see you there, sipping on a Brown Butter Old Fashioned! 😉

EPCOT, Les Chefs de Paris, Cocktails in France
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New Adults-Only Lounge Coming to EPCOT: GEO-82

Big news for EPCOT fans! Disney just announced GEO-82, an all-new, adults-only lounge coming to EPCOT’s Spaceship Earth later this year. Yes, you read that right—this elegant new lounge will be inside EPCOT’s iconic geodesic sphere, offering modern cocktails, globally inspired small plates, and stunning views of World Celebration gardens and World Showcase Lagoon.

Let’s take a closer look at what makes GEO-82 a must-visit addition to Walt Disney World!

GEO-82: The Ultimate EPCOT Lounge Experience

GEO-82 will be reservation-only and exclusively for guests 21 and older. This sleek, stylish space will be the perfect spot to unwind after a long day of exploring EPCOT. Imagine sipping on an innovative cocktail, sampling global flavors, and soaking in breathtaking park views—all from within one of Disney’s most famous icons.

GEO-82, a new adults-only lounge at EPCOT, Spaceship Earth Adults-only lounge
Image: Disney Parks

A Lounge Inspired by Spaceship Earth

The design of this adults-only lounge, GEO-82, is a love letter to EPCOT’s legendary architecture. Inside, guests will be surrounded by futuristic geometric shapes, intricate patterns, and warm metallic tones—all echoing the look and feel of Spaceship Earth itself. Disney promises an elegant and intimate atmosphere, making this the ultimate hidden gem for adults visiting EPCOT.

Cocktails & Small Plates With a Global Twist

While Disney hasn’t released the full menu yet, they tell us that GEO-82 will feature globally inspired small plates and creative cocktails. Given EPCOT’s reputation for world-class dining, expectations are high—and I can’t wait to see what delicious drinks and bites make the final cut. (And if you can read the menu, thank the Phoenicians! 😉)

GEO-82, a new adults-only lounge at EPCOT, Spaceship Earth Adults-only lounge
Concept Art: Disney Parks

More Lounges Coming to Walt Disney World!

GEO-82 isn’t the only new lounge opening this year. Disney has also teased a Pirates of the Caribbean-inspired tavern coming to Magic Kingdom Park later in 2025. While GEO-82 will be an adults-only retreat, this upcoming pirate-themed spot promises fun beverages for the whole family—so keep an eye  out for more details soon!

In addition, there’s a brand new DVC (Disney Vacation Club) Members Lounge opening at Magic Kingdom this week. McKim’s Mile House is located in Frontierland, and offers DVC members and their guests a quiet place to relax and recharge.

McKim's DVC Lounge at Magic Kingom
Photo: Disney Parks

Adults-only Lounge Coming to EPCOT

Let’s talk about the somewhat controversial elephant in the room. I bet there are at least some of you that saw that the new lounge will be “adults-only” and were unhappy about that. After all, Disney is a family destination. I think many people would tell you that Disney is “for the kids”. And to a certain extent, yes, Disney’s primary target audience is children (and their parents and grandparents with the money to FUND their children’s Disney love). However, as a “Disney Adult”, I have to express firmly that Disney is NOT just for children. Disney has spent billions over the years to successfully appeal not just to children, but to teens, adults and seniors as well. There is entertainment, attractions and food and beverages that appeal to all ages–not just children.

EPCOT, Les Chefs de Paris, Cocktails in France
A toast at dinner in France.                           Photo: Linda Harkness

EPCOT is more “grown-up” friendly than the other parks

The truth is, EPCOT is the one park that IS a little more adult friendly.  The Food & Wine Festival is NOT targeting children, I promise you.  EPCOT was the first Disney theme park to serve alcohol. In fact, EPCOT has long been criticized for not being focused enough on children. With only three “attractions” in World Showcase, many feel that EPCOT can be boring for young children. While this hasn’t been my family’s experience, I can certainly understand why some might feel that way. Regardless, children are currently welcomed everywhere in the theme parks at Walt Disney World.

I really like the idea of one place where adults can go to have some cocktails and maybe some snacks at Disney without children. Just for an hour or two. As much as I love Disney and get a genuine charge out of watching children all over the parks having fun–sometimes, it’s really nice just to sit and have a drink and relax–without children around.  And of the four theme parks at Walt Disney World, I think it makes sense to put the first adults-only lounge at EPCOT.

Grand Marnier Orange Slushy EPCOT France
My FAVORITE Alcoholic Beverage in ALL of WDW…The Grand Marnier Orange Slushy in France. Photo: Brooke Hudson

But it’s NEW!

I understand that this is a new thing, and that you might think, “everyone should get to enjoy it”. But I don’t really think that’s a big deal, personally. There is plenty of stuff all over Disney that everyone gets to enjoy. Will the kids really care that they’re not invited into this new lounge? No. The kids would be BORED in the new lounge. It won’t have fun, colorful things to climb on. It won’t be kid friendly, and it won’t be themed to entertaining children. They’d MUCH rather go to the Space 220 Lounge and watch astronauts walking in space than sit in a relatively quiet, elegant (and hopefully) classy lounge.

Epcot Space themed restaurant Space 220
Space 220. (Photo Disney Parks)

Most likely the people that will be frustrated that GEO-82 is an adults-only lounge are the people traveling with their children that want to go to the lounge.  Unfortunately, sometimes we don’t get everything we want. But those people can still visit the new lounge–as long as they have someone to watch their children while they do.

But what if Disney builds MORE Adults-only Lounges?

What if they do? Would that really be so terrible? I’ve definitely heard some parents voice concerns about people drinking too much around World Showcase, and not wanting to expose their children to drunk adults behaving badly. (I don’t want to be exposed to them either, so I’m with you on that). But would it be so bad if there were a few adults-only spots on property that separated the drinking adults from the families with young children? I’m not sure I see an issue, honestly. I mean, sure, I’d rather have some new attractions or shows. But I wouldn’t mind an adults-only lounge in each theme park if they were to happen.

 When Can You Visit GEO-82?

Disney has yet to announce an official opening date or when reservations will become available, but stay tuned! I’ll share updates as soon as Disney releases more details.

What do you think about this elegant new EPCOT lounge? Are you excited to sip cocktails inside Spaceship Earth? Are you disappointed that the new lounge will be adults-only? Let me know in the comments!

 

 

 

 

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Are you ready to plan your next Magical vacation? I’d love to help! email Brooke@disneycastledreaming.com for a free, no obligation quote today!