California Grill Lounge & Trader Sam's best Time?

[melbatoast]

What is the best time of day to get a spot in the Lounge for a cocktail? I've heard it's hard to get into and people get turned away. Also, is Trader Sam's still super popular? What's the best time to get in and are there still lines? Thanks!

 

[cruisin5]

Trader's Same is still super popular. They'll add you to the waiting list then text you when there is space inside. Not sure about people lining up before opening time.

 

[melbatoast]

Does anyone know what time both of these lounges open??

 

[Moliphino]

Does anyone know what time both of these lounges open??

Trader Sam's is 4pm. I've had good luck getting there around 3:30 and being in the first group let in. People do line up.

 

[kniquy]

Also, is Trader Sam's still super popular? What's the best time to get in and are there still lines? Thanks!

I think it is still popular and because it is so small it fills quickly. You never really know what the wait time is going to be. we were staying at Poly and around 10:30p decided to go, kids were in bed (with grandparents in the adjoining room) so DH and I wandered down. We had to put in our name/cell #. After wandering the shops for a 1/2 hour and not getting a text yet we starting roaming outside with intentions of going back to the room. At about 11:15 we got our text, so we wandered back. I would plan for a wait, i think in the time frame between 4-8 when kids can go in it might be busier. Worst case, put your name in, check out the shops, grab a doll whip and sit out at the beach and wait for your text.

Does anyone know what time both of these lounges open??

Pretty sure trader sams is 4pm.

 

[melbatoast]

Wow I can't believe it is still that popular! We were planning on going right at 4 or around 8 before the fireworks.

 

[JPTexan82]

I gave my name and cell phone number, back in September at trader sams about 6:45 on a Sunday night. I am still waiting for the text message to come through, I was told about an 1 1/2 wait.

 

[gharter]

Trader Sams is really fun. You need to be there about 45 minutes before opening to get on the list. Then you can take off and explore. Just be back about 5 minutes before they open. They start calling names. If you aren't there, they send you a text, then go to the next name.
California Grill lounge is nice. Its a large area in teh center of the room with seats and low tables. Early on, seats are easy to find. After 6, its hit or miss. Many people who don't have ADRs, sit there and can still order off the full menu.