First night suggestions needed - no parks

[grumpyandbashful]

Wasn't sure where to post this, but I know all the wise WDW vets hang out here on the Resorts board!
My big sister and I will be at AKL the first week of Feb. I have an AP, but I have bought her a 4 day PHP, and we don't want to use up a day the first day. I am used to hitting the parks on day one, so I need some advice.
Other than exploring AKL, I am trying to think of a fun first evening activity. We will have a rental car. I am thinking of making a PS at one of the MK resorts, then riding the monorail (this is her FIRST EVER trip to WDW!!).
What would be a fun restaurant that won't break the bank (please don't suggest Chef Mickey's - I had a poor experience there ). How is Kona Cafe? Narcoosee's?
Also, if you have a car, are you allowed to park in the MK resorts lots if you just want to explore/look around, or do you have to have a PS??
Thanks in advance for your advice .

Counting down to Feb. 1 - hope it warms up in FL !!

 

[cindy_k]

A vote for Downtown Disney. There's shopping, Movie Theater, Lego Store, Disney Toy Store, and DisneyQuest.

Also you can go play Minature Golf by Swan & Dolphin or by Blizzard Beach.

Go over to the Boardwalk and walk around the lake.

Have fun on your trip.

Cindy in NY

 

[hpygrll]

A vote for O'hanas at the Polynesian! Great food and so much fun, plus you can still explore the resorts on the monorail and then go to DTD after! Have fun!!

1977 - offsite
1995 - CBR
1997 - Boardwalk
1998 - Contemporary
1999 - Port Orleans
2000 - OKW
2001 - VWL and BCV

 

[cindyfan]

This is what we did last trip........
We made PS at Ohana's at the Polynesian for 7:00 and the fireworks were scheduled at 8!! You can see the fireworks from just about anywhere you sit.
It was awesome to watch the fireworks while eating dinner! The meal was great too!
Then after that we walked down to the beach to watch the Water Pageant at 9:00.

I just checked the hours for Feb 1st and the MK is open til 8 with the fireworks at 8. So that might work for you!!!
Have fun!!!

 

[goofyboi]

Pleasure Island all the way? How old are you guys? I would totally hit P.I. everynight you're there, you'll have a great time!