Secret Lounges: Upstairs at the American Adventure Pavilion

The fabled Secret Lounges of Epcot have long held my interest. OK, maybe they're not so secret, but I like to think of them that way because it adds to their mystique. Anything out-of-the-ordinary and not open regularly to the general public is bound to pique my interest.  I wrote about the Secret World of Disney's Corporate Lounges last year, and ever since, I've been trying to figure out ways to get a glimpse inside each one.

I had my first opportunity during the 2013 Food & Wine festival, when the American Adventure played host to the Chase Lounge, a stop at the festival reserved for Chase cardholders. My Disney Visa was the ticket I needed to enter.

The lounge- consisting of two main rooms, joined by a long hallway- might best be described as...underwhelming. Located in the upstairs area of the American Adventure pavilion, the lounge is meant to provide an area for cardholders to take a break from the heat and crowds. Beverages, bathrooms, and a seating area were provided. I'm not sure when this area saw its heyday, but the space feels very dated. Old style furnishings, draped fabric, and things behind glass all lend a stale feel to the area. Like the other lounge areas in Epcot, the space is not open on a regular basis, but is used occasionally for private functions.

The big draw on the hot and crowded day of my visit was the fancy Coca Cola beverage machine that lets guests choose from a wide variety of options. Free soda, in full size servings and familiar flavors? This was not Club Cool, and the line was long!

The main lounge area contained tables and chairs, with an interesting but obstructed view looking out onto World Showcase.

Drapes and artwork behind sliding glass...

There were a few nice features added for the weary visitor. Two amenitities that stood out for me were charging stations with a variety of adapters, as well as board games for children and adults.

I'm glad I can check this off my Disney List, but I'm hoping for something a bit more interesting next time. Where will my lounge quest lead me next? I'm working on a plan to visit the lounge in The Seas pavilion. If it comes to fruition, you'll be the first to know...

Have you ever visited any of the VIP lounges of Epcot? Tell us about it in the comments...