Scott and Candice kick off the After Dark two-parter with the “land” half of their trip: decompressing at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, an “epic (™)” Magic Kingdom day without rope drop, and a relaxed Epcot morning that turns into a revelation at GEO-82—the retro-futurist, 21+ lounge tucked behind Spaceship Earth.
Highlights & takeaways:
Poly perks: unbeatable location, laid-back vibe, and why celebration buttons quietly pay dividends.
Day 1 bites & sips: Waialua Grill apps, Trader Sam’s patio, Homecomin’ (moonshine surprise), and why the Stack Burger at Steakhouse 71 still reigns.
MK without the grind: Pirates, Country Bears (revamped & genuinely funny), double-loop on PeopleMover, Carousel of Progress comfort, Haunted Mansion nightcap, and why umbrellas > ponchos.
Snacks with opinions: Cheeseburger spring rolls = must; crème brûlée croissant redeems Gaston’s Tavern.
Epcot flow: Ale & Compass breakfast strategy, Living with the Land, Journey of Water’s improved audio, a quick hello to Walt, and the star of the show—GEO-82 (elevated cocktails, thoughtful tasting experiences, and a charcuterie board that lives rent-free in our heads).
Service stories: a shipping fiasco that turned into a master-class in recovery at Creations Shop, plus a quick PSA on lost-child protocol (find a Cast Member—fast).
Pro tips: pace your day, rotate transportation (resort launch can beat the monorail crush), wear your buttons, bring reusable straws, and don’t be afraid to leave and come back.