Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort officially reopened in Disney World today!
Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
Disney Vacation Club rooms have been open, but now it’s ALL open again. We got a look at the new Moana-themed rooms, a brand new Dole Whip creation, and some free POG juice, baby! Safe to say the first day of the Poly being fully open has been exciting, and it’s about to get even BETTER because Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto and Tiki Bar is OPEN again!!!
That’s right folks, the famous interactive tiki bar is BACK! And you know we scurried on over to be one of the first people to get in!
Let us in!!
When we arrived, we discovered that Trader Sam’s is operating on a virtual line system. This was the line to get placed in the virtual line to get into the grotto (kind of confusing, right?).
Line to get into the virtual line
We gave our name to Cast Member Rosie to be placed into the virtual line.
Thanks, Rosie!
Then we got a text confirming our spot and reminding us that Trader Sam’s seating is first-come-first-serve or standing room. We were also told, that we would be guaranteed a spot at the bar but not a table!
Hopefully, we get to go in soon!
Rosie told us that the virtual line system is sticking around, it’s not just for opening day crowds! Trader Sam’s officially opens at 3PM and will be open until 12AM.
UPDATE: When we visited the Polynesian the day after Trader Sam’s opened we spoke to a Cast Member who said that guests had been lining up for Trader Sam’s around 12:30-1PM to then be placed in the virtual queue. But, we were informed that the Cast Member won’t actually come out and put people into the virtual queue until 2:30PM (about 30 minutes before Trader Sam’s actually opens).
Hippopotomai-Tai Souvenir Mug
When we checked around 4:30PM, the wait was about 2 hours long. Just keep in mind that you can still go outside to get a drink at Trader Sam’s Tiki Terrace! The Cast Member we spoke to said they felt these long lines were primarily attributable to the fact that Trader Sam’s just reopened. This is a popular spot though, so you will want to set aside some time for waiting when you can.
Click here to see our review from our experience at Trader Sam’s on its opening day! And stay tuned for more updates.
Click here to see more about the reopening of Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto!
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What’s your favorite drink at Trader Sam’s? Let us know in the comments!
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What time were you able to get I to the virtual queue?
Please let us know what time they begin taking virtual line reservations. Looks like you got there as early as 1:30?
They have been doing this for years. They text you when your table is ready. This is not new.
What time do you recommend getting in line to be added to the virtual queue?
This was the procedure when were went to Trader Sam’s in February 2020.
Do you know how early in the day they will start letting people put their names on the virtual queue? We would like to go there before an ‘Ohana meal.
Hi, all who are wondering about the virtual queue. Yesterday Cast Members came out early because a long line had built up. We will check into what time the queue will normally start.
Beth, we’re hoping to clarify the timing.
Hello, thank you so much for all your updates!!!! What do you feel is the best option for getting into the bar in the evening time? I am planning on going at night, like after the park’s close, I won’t really be able to get there early to put my name down obviously (I will be in the park), most likely I will arrive only an hour – hour and a half prior to closing to get a couple quick drinks in. Perhaps it isn’t really that busy later in the evening??? (fingers crossed)
Rob, one of our reporters suggests that it will be difficult to get in, even that late in the evening. She says a weekday night may be better than a weekend, but because it’s so small and popular with long waits even for those in line at 4:30, it’s going to be tough. You can get the same drinks outside, so perhaps if you can’t get inside and would still like to try the libations, you should be able to do that.
Are they still using the virtual queue now that it’s late 2022? Thanks!