The Disney Resorts Collection Hotels located on the monorail loop are arguably some of the most iconic destinations on property. Whether you’re staying at one of these resorts, taking a midday break from Magic Kingdom, or just want to do some monorail resort hopping, I want to share with you my top Disney Adult “must-do” at each resort.
Disney’s Contemporary Resort
We’re starting this adventure at Disney’s Contemporary Resort. The Contemporary is one of my absolute favorite places in Disney World! Where else can you see the monorail gliding straight through the lobby? In addition to its unmistakable architecture and perfect location (within walking distance to Magic Kingdom’s gates), the Contemporary has one of the best gift shops in Disney World.
One thing Disney Adults can’t miss at Disney’s Contemporary Resort is BVG, the resort’s main gift shop. In my opinion, BVG ranks even higher than theme park gift shops like The Emporium or Creations Shop. It has an excellent overall selection of merchandise including the latest collections and seasonal items.
General merchandise and seasonal items aren’t all, however. Monorail enthusiasts will be thrilled with the wide variety of resort-specific merchandise featuring this iconic form of Disney transportation. Finally, if you’re hungry for a sweet treat, you can even get a caramel apple, cookie, or crispy rice treat from the dessert counter near the registers. All of these factors contribute to the massive appeal of this gift shop. It’s not ordinary…it’s incredible.
Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
Hop on the monorail for a quick ride to our next stop, Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort. As one of Disney World’s opening day resorts, this resort has classic appeal and tons of nostalgia. The relaxed island vibes of this resort make it perfect for Disney Adults who want to unwind. This lends itself perfectly to the one thing I think Disney Adults should do at the Polynesian. Hint: it involves sand…
One thing Disney Adults should definitely do at this resort is lounge in a chair on the resort’s beach. You’ll enjoy tropical music and amazing views of Cinderella Castle in the distance. What could make this scenario even more perfect, you may ask? Lounging with a tropical drink in hand, of course! Therefore, I also recommend Disney Adults hit up the Trader Sam’s Tiki Terrace to-go window.
Trader Sam’s Tiki Terrace is an outdoor bar offering the same drinks and menu items as the extremely popular Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto. In contrast to the high energy, immersive environment of Grog Grotto, Tiki Terrace is more laid back. I encourage you to check out our review of Tiki Terrace for an idea of what to expect. In case you were wondering, my top drink recommendations are the Polynesian Pearl or HippopotoMai-Tai. For his part, Marcus recommends the non-alcoholic Schweitzer Falls or the zero-proof Polynesian Punch as well.
Unfortunately, Tiki Terrace is currently closed due to ongoing construction at the Polynesian. Therefore, I’m making a slight adjustment to my “must-do” at the Poly. Don’t worry, it still involves embracing the spirit of the islands and a refreshment on the beach! As an alternative to a tropical beverage, grab a DOLE Whip® cup or float from Pineapple Lanai. If you’re over 21, there are also options with rum. Yum!
Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
Now, on to the final stop on our monorail resort crawl. Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa is the fanciest of the Disney Resorts Collection Hotels, but that doesn’t mean it has to feel intimidating. In fact, they’ve cultivated an atmosphere that is both opulent and approachable at the same time. You’ll feel at home whether you’re coming from the theme parks wearing shorts and a t-shirt or dressed up for date night at Citricos.
My top pick for the Grand Floridian is to explore the lobby and enjoy a performance by the Grand Floridian Lobby Pianist. Performances happen throughout the afternoon and evening. You can find an up-to-date schedule on the Disney World app. Live music makes the Grand Floridian’s ornate lobby feel even more enchanting!
These amazing musicians perform a wide variety of recognizable songs including Disney classics and beyond. Shoutout to Wes, who took the time to talk with me about some of the pieces he performed during one of my recent visits. Cast Members really do make the most magical memories for guests!
Bonus Tip for the Holiday Season
Since we’re approaching the holidays, I wanted to suggest one more thing Disney Adults must do at the monorail resorts (this one goes for all of them). You must take the time to appreciate the holiday decorations. If you’ve never been to Disney World during the holiday season, it’s the usual magic dialed up to 100.
At the Contemporary, don’t miss the gingerbread display on the 4th floor. In 2025, it was a stunning gingerbread rendition of Cinderella Castle. I can’t wait to see what the chefs will cook up for 2026! I also look forward to grabbing a tasty holiday treat from the nearby pop-up stand.
The Polynesian celebrates with an islands-themed twist to the holidays. Great Ceremonial House is traditionally decked out with ocean-inspired decor and the Poly’s own Christmas tree. Say “aloha” to the magic of the season!
Finally, many Disney Adults are disappointed that the large, traditional gingerbread house of the past will not be returning to the Grand Floridian’s lobby in 2026. Unfortunately, there just doesn’t seem to be room for it due to renovations and the addition of The Perch Lounge. The good news is, there will still be other holiday decorations to admire. Gingerbread fans, take heart. Disney says we can look forward to new miniature displays around the resort as well.
Let’s Go Resort Hopping
Disney Adults who have more time to spend at these resorts can obviously find numerous things to do. However, if you’re short on time, these are my favorite activities for a day of monorail resort hopping. If you need some assistance planning a magical vacation, Marcus with Purely Luxe Vacations is ready to help. He’ll give you his expert advice and help you plan the vacation of your dreams.
Resort hopping is, in my opinion, one of the most entertaining things to do in Disney World. It allows you to experience what different resorts have to offer. Resort hopping is perfect for check-in day, a non-park day, or a midday break from the theme parks. Now that you know my “must do” agenda on the monorail loop, I can’t wait to see you in the gift shop, on the beach, and in the lobby! Stay tuned to MouseHouseNews.net for more news, honest reviews, and tips you can use on your next visit. We’ll see you real soon!
