With the Bay Lake Tower at Disney's Contemporary Resort two weeks away from opening, the resort's Top of the World Lounge has become a frequent topic of discussion. The lounge will provide guests an amazing opportunity to view the Magic Kingdom fireworks from the 16th floor of the new Disney Vacation Club resort. But what sort of usage guidelines will apply to DVC members and guests? DVCNews contacted a Disney Vacation Club rep for details.
NOTE: This article has been updated to clarify the process by which guests will gain access to the lounge and deck.
- Top of the World Lounge is a 77-seat full-service bar offering beverages and light appetizers, and is located on the 16th floor of Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort. Next to the lounge is an observation deck offering unparalleled views of Magic Kingdom® Park.
- The regular operating hours for the lounge and deck are from 5:00 p.m.-midnight daily.
- In order to utilize the loung or deck, members must go to the desk in the Bay Lake Tower Lobby and check with the host/hostess for availability that day. The lobby information desk--similar to that used by the Contemporary Tower's California Grill--will be staffed during the operating hours of the lounge and deck. The host/hostess will control access to the lounge and deck, and be charged with enforcing occupancy limits. Members will not have direct access to the16th floor.
- Availability of the lounge and deck will be established on a day-to-day basis. The lobby reception desk will not be able to provide information on availability beyond the current operating day.
- There are no reservations.
- The maximum posted occupancy is 77 for the lounge and 499 for the deck. However, admission to the deck may be limited as Disney evaluates how many guests can comfortably enjoy the experience.
- Due to anticipated high demand for this location, access to the lounge and deck is available only to Disney Vacation Club Members who are staying at Bay Lake Tower using their Membership, guests staying in the room with that Member, and guests who are staying in a room reserved by a DVC Member with Vacation Points. Availability is strictly first-come, first-served.
- Operating hours, access guidelines, and menu are subject to change without notice.
The Top of the World Lounge represents new territory for Disney operations staff. They have made every attempt to anticipate challenges involved in operating what is destined to be a highly sought-after evening destination. Nevertheless minor policy adjustments are likely to be made over time.
We will continue to monitor usage guidelines surrounding this resort amenity and help inform members of any changes as they occur.
