CR 15th Floor Deck Closed to Non-CG Guests

[Terk-1]

Just got this from Deb Wills regarding the closure of the 15th floor observation deck to non-California Grill guests.

"As of Friday, October 4, the Contemporary Resort's 15th floor
Observation Deck is open for viewing fireworks ONLY to guests
dining at the California Grill, not the general public.

Official word is that this policy change has been implemented
because of capacity limits, and as a result of the many private
parties held at the California Grill.

An alternative fireworks viewing location has been set up on the
Contemporary's 4th floor, Grand Canyon Concourse. The spot is
located at the north end of the floor, past the Concourse
Sundries & Spirits shop. Exterior doors there lead to an area
with views of Cinderella Castle and the Magic Kingdom. Fantasy In
the Sky music synchronized with the fireworks show is piped in at
this location, which is partially sheltered in case of inclement
weather. The 4th floor location is open to all guests visiting
the Contemporary Resort."

 

[Misti]

Interesting news! Thanks for the update.

 

[DancingBear]

I'll miss the view from up high, but it will be an improvement to have the music with the view.

Since we're scheduled for CR in December, I wish they had made the restrictions for CA Grill or CR guests, but not a big deal.

 

[Terk-1]

Just thought people could have a head's up, in case they were heading over that way. I booked a dinner one night at the CG to view the fireworks from the observation deck, but will take a look over at the 4th floor too. Wonder if it's going to be crowded.

 

[ukcatfan]

Does anyone know if it will be closed to the public during other times of the day not around the fireworks?

 

[KFISCHER]

How are they going to enforce this?

How will they know if someone's a CG guest or not?
If i get up from dinner to go out and watch the fireworks, is someone going to stop me, etc???

 

[ukcatfan]

The check in stand is right by the elevators. They will probably be there and ask you to leave if you are not part of a party or have a reservation to eat. The only other reason that I can think of to be up there is if you want to go to the bar.

 

[DancingBear]

They may not even try to enforce it; however, that doesn't mean we should all ignore the new policy. The capacity issue sounds like a reasonable reason for the change (as more and more people learned about the observation deck), and they're providing a reasonable alternative.

 

[rhodgkie]

Thanks for the info! Will be useful for my upcoming trip.

 

[mom_rules]

I read this a non-dining guests at California
Grill. Am I wrong - will you still be
able to view fireworks if you are having
dinner there?