Rose and Crown during Illuminations

[Figment's Friend]

Hello I was reading more about the great views the Rose and Crown patio has during Illuminations. I'm thinking about reserving this for around 8:30 pm for our December trip.

Anybody have any experiences with this? What are the odds of getting seated outside, or is there also a view from inside? It's our first time at Rose and Crown. Any tips or info would be greatly appreciated!

 

[vellamint]

Hi....there is no guarantee that you will get an outside seat. You are not even supposed to ask at the podium (like that stops people lol). When we asked they told us no and we had to take the table that came available which was inside, we were NOT allowed to wait for an outside table.........we did get to walk outside to a viewing area for Illuminiations.....

I actually cancelled my summer reservation there because of this....I know alot of people love the food but I didnt think it was that great and without being able to wait for a table outside its not worth it to me.

 

[jamstew]

Hello I was reading more about the great views the Rose and Crown patio has during Illuminations. I'm thinking about reserving this for around 8:30 pm for our December trip.

Anybody have any experiences with this? What are the odds of getting seated outside, or is there also a view from inside? It's our first time at Rose and Crown. Any tips or info would be greatly appreciated!

I was disappointed both in the food and the view. We did have an outside table, but our view was fairly blocked by awnings as I recall (this was in 2005). Earlier this month, I just got CS fish-n-chips and walked down to the water level behind the fish stand to watch Illuminations.

 

[Figment's Friend]

Thanks for your input! It seems like sitting outside over the water would be so perfect, especially at night, but I wasn't sure if you could guarantee it or not. I guess you just have to be lucky! Thanks again!

 

[monty]

We went in Dec 05 and maybe they weren't enforcing the "don't ask for an outside table rule" then because I can't recall seeing any signs saying not to and anyway we did and we said we were prepared to wait and we did for about 15mins., but pehaps we would have waited that long for any table anyhow
We had a perfect view! Loved it!

 

[bicker]

You have about a 30% chance of getting a table outside with a view of the show. It is worth the risk for some folks, not for others: YMMV.

 

[dlstc]

We tried this in 2004. We ended up with an inside table, but the server assured us we would be moved outside and see the fireworks. We had a lovely meal (although the food wasn't WOW, it was fine) and moved outside when it was time. Basically, you are standing around the outside tables in a fenced-in patio area. We had a decent view, under a tree.

You should know that there is little to know chance of getting an outside table with an 8:30 pm reservation (if the fireworks are at 9pm). Shoot for a 7 - 7:30 pm ADR. This makes for a long dinner, I know, especially if there are children in your group.

We were going to try again this year, but DH ended up taking our DDs to a P&PP party instead.

I'm going back in September and have an ADR at Le Cellier. We're just going to walk around and find a good spot. I rather spend 1 - 1 1/2 enjoying a really good meal than just killing time before the fireworks.

(Side note: I'm not a huge fan of Illuminations since they changed it. I really liked it when they used to project iconic images on the buildings. It was cool as an audience member to be "inside" the show.)

HTH,
Diana

 

[quixoticvalue]

FYI, the latest seating at Rose & Crown is 8 pm. You will not be able to reserve anything later than that, plus, count on at least 15 minutes waiting for your table and getting settled before the fireworks begin to start.

Even if you do not get a table on the terrace, you can still walk out there and watch, then go back to your table to finish your meal. And as an aside, we go for the sticky toffee pudding--best dessert we have ever had.

 

[Figment's Friend]

Thanks everybody for their input, it's very much appreciated!
And thanks quixoticvalue about the last reservation of the night! I should have figured that with Epcot usually closing before 9:30. I think with such a little chance, I might just end up booking this earlier than waiting for the show.

Thanks everyone!

 

[stacy6552]

I agree with the above poster who told you to get an earlier time. At 8:30 nobody is giving up their patio seat. I shoot for 7:15.

 

[Figment's Friend]

I agree with the above poster who told you to get an earlier time. At 8:30 nobody is giving up their patio seat. I shoot for 7:15.

Thanks! I think that's exactly what I'll do

 

[lucysdad]

We're hoping for a patio table as well, but I'm not willing to sit at the table for two hours. There are too many nice places to watch Illuminations. We'll stick with our 8 o'clock ADR and hope for the best!
Lucy's Mom