We ate there in September specifically for Illuminations at 7:20pm. We were not allowed to wait for a patio table-it was all first come first served. So, we got a very nice table inside.
Our server asked us if we wanted to stay and see the show. We told her yes and she told us she would walk us to the reserved patio area for us to view Illuminations after our meal.
So, after our meal was done, prob around 8:40 or so, our server walked us outside to the special Illuminations area! It was a great location and it was roped-off. It was right next to the outside Patio, right on the water.
We had a perfect viewing location, however, the Illuminations music couldn't be heard!!! I'm not sure if it was just happened on our night or if this is how it is all the time. Maybe someone else can comment on this!
We were disappointed because we love the music that goes along with Illuminations! But the viewing area was great!