Recent Rose & Crown / Illuminations experiences

[kimkim]

Hello,
A little backgound...I'm taking my two kids (7 and 9) for our first WDW trip right after Labor Day in September. I am trying to make the most of our meals and several will be at Epcot since we're staying at the Beach Club.

I have a 7:45 ADR at Rose & Crown. I booked it mainly for the Illuminations show. I'm just wondering what the latest experience has been for those with ADRs planned around Illuminations. At 7:45 I'm thinking all the patio seats will be taken (however it is a 'slower' season in September). I can't get any earlier ADR and even if I could, I would hate to have my kids sit for 1 1/2 + dinner just to have a good seat for the show. There are also the rumors/reports that you have to take what is available. At 7:45 is there a decent chance that outside would be available?

If there is no patio table and we eat inside, would we still be able to go watch with the outside diners?

I am tempted to cancel the ADR all together if there's a good chance we won't have good viewing for Illuminations. I think the food sounds OK and I know my kids would be OK with it. This is our first trip, so we've not seen Illuminations before, nor have we eaten anywhere else in Epcot. So I'm wondering if it's a good pick even with the possibility of no good viewing.

Any advice / comments??

Thanks!!!
Kim

 

[beroh2253]

We usually try to book around the time you have your ARD booked. All you can do is ask about the outdoor seating, we are only 1 for 3 in getting it, but around dessert time when we book for 7:45 they will take anyone seated inside out to a patio for viewing. This is the best place to view Illuminations in my opinion.

 

[Hopefully]

I don't think it is a rumor, you will have to take the table that is available when you check in.It may or may not be inside. Based on our experience, at 7:45 PM I think your chances of a patio table are about 30%.
That said, there is a private outdoor patio where you will be escorted to to see Illuminations. It is a good spot to view the show. They are very good about knowing everyone wants to see Illuminations and they try to pace your meal accordingly. We love Rose & Crown and will be going on our next trip.
That said, if the restaurant itself does not really appeal to you, there are many, many excellent viewing spots for Illuminations around the lagoon. It is not necessary to get a table at Rose & Crown to enjoy Illuminations. Maybe you would enjoy one of the other restaurants in WS better, and then find a spot for Illuminations after dinner.
Good Luck in your decision.

 

[crisi]

I'd eat earlier and at a different restaurant. I don't like R&Cs food and I think to spend an hour and a half on dinner to see fireworks on a first trip to Disney is too big an investment.

Eat somewhere else early. Do rides. Twenty minutes before Illuminations, find a spot.