WDW Magazine December 2016 - 2017 Crowds at WDW | Page 44

The magic begins in the lobby at Bay Lake Tower, where members check in at the Disney
Vacation Club desk. Checking in involves a quick stop at the podium to confirm active
Disney Vacation Club membership, and verification of staying on property. After checking
in, a Cast Member escorts you to a special elevator that goes straight up to the top floor.
The fireworks literally start then, as a glance up when exiting the elevator reveals a
chandelier that reminds me very much of fireworks. The short hallway exits into the
open-air rooftop viewing area.
Most nights, the viewing area is fairly empty. This is a great way to watch Wishes with
plenty of elbowroom. The soundtrack plays on speakers, and the view from the 16th floor,
while biased towards Tomorrowland, provides a whole new way to enjoy a favorite show.
Myself, I like to watch from inside the lounge even more than out on the viewing area.
Top of the World Lounge follows the futuristic and minimalist theming of Bay Lake Tower.
The floor to ceiling windows show off the Magic Kingdom view that lures members into the
lounge. Cozy seating areas, completed with sofas and lounge chairs, provide quiet
conversational areas. There is even a semi-private room off to the side that can hold about
a dozen people comfortably.