Space 220 Lounge at EPCOT: Is a Walk-Up Possible?
Dining reservations at Walt Disney World can feel like a competitive sport, and Space 220 at EPCOT is one of the most challenging to secure. Since opening in 2021, the restaurant has remained in high demand thanks to its immersive theming, unique setting, and limited capacity. Add in its fixed-price menus, and Space 220 can feel both elusive and intimidating for guests planning an EPCOT day.
But if you haven’t been able to secure a reservation, all hope is not lost. There’s an alternative that many guests overlook: Space 220 Lounge.
While it isn’t guaranteed, the lounge can offer a way to experience Space 220 with more flexibility and often at a lower cost.
Space 220 Pricing: What You’re Working Around
Before diving into the lounge option, it helps to understand why Space 220 reservations are so competitive.
The main dining room currently operates on fixed-price menus:
- Lunch: $55 per person, which includes a starter and an entrée
- Dinner: $79 per person, which includes a starter, an entrée, and a dessert
For families or larger travel parties, this pricing can add up quickly. Even guests who are interested in the theming may hesitate to commit to a full prix fixe meal. That’s where the lounge becomes especially appealing.
What Is Space 220 Lounge?
Space 220 Lounge is a smaller seating area within the restaurant that includes bar seating and a limited number of nearby tables. The lounge shares the same immersive environment as the main dining room, including the simulated space views and the Stellarvator experience.
The biggest difference is availability. While Space 220 Lounge does accept reservations, same day availability and walk up seating may still be possible. Guests can check in with a cast member to see if space is available.
There is no guarantee. Some days it works out, and some days it doesn’t. But if you are already spending time in EPCOT, it can be a worthwhile option to try.
How to Attempt a Lounge Walk-Up
If you want to check for lounge availability, head to the Space 220 entrance near Mission: SPACE. Once inside the Space 220 area, hang a right and check in with the cast member at the outdoor host stand.
You can ask if there is availability either immediately or later that same day. If space is available, you’ll be given a boarding pass and asked to wait in the lobby area.
When it’s time, you’ll be escorted into the Stellarvator, which simulates a launch 220 miles above Earth. The motion is gentle, more of a light rumble, and comparable to the old hydrolator experience at The Seas pavilion.
What the Lounge Seating Is Like
The lounge itself is relatively compact. Bar seating is the most obvious option, but there are also small white-topped tables nearby that are designated for lounge guests.
While it’s not expansive, the space still delivers on atmosphere. The location’s large screen “windows” display astronauts, satellites, and spacecraft drifting by throughout your meal. Even though the visuals are animated, the effect is charming and immersive, especially for guests who enjoy space-themed environments.
Why the Lounge Can Be a Smart EPCOT Backup Plan
One of the biggest advantages of Space 220 Lounge is menu flexibility.
Guests seated in the lounge are not required to order the fixed-price menu. Instead, you can:
- Order from the lounge-exclusive menu
- Order à la carte items from the lunch or dinner menu
- Mix and match food and drinks without committing to a full meal
This makes the lounge particularly appealing for guests who want to sample Space 220 rather than dedicate a full dining block and budget to it.
Food Options Worth Knowing About
Menu availability depends on whether you visit during lunch or dinner, but several items stand out.
At lunch, the Gemini Burger is a popular choice. It features a custom beef blend that includes short rib, resulting in a juicy, flavorful burger served with shoestring fries. It’s a substantial option without feeling excessive.
For those visiting during dinner hours, the short rib entrée is a standout. It’s fork-tender, rich, and well-suited for guests looking for something comforting and filling.
The Starry Calamari, available during both lunch and dinner, is another strong option. It’s served with Italian cherry peppers, spiced marinara, roasted peppers, and citrus aioli, offering a good balance of heat and brightness.
Guests with dietary preferences aren’t left out either. The Space Pad Thai can be ordered with crispy tofu, chicken, or shrimp. The tofu option is flavorful, well-seasoned, and satisfying, even for those who don’t typically order tofu dishes.
Drinks, Desserts, and Lounge Perks
Sitting in the lounge provides direct access to Space 220’s bartenders, which allows for more one-on-one interaction and customization.
Non-alcoholic options like the Moon Rocks are playful and interactive, while cocktails such as the Sunspot offer adjustable spice levels to suit individual preferences.
Desserts are also available in the lounge. The Lunar Carrot Cake, topped with cream cheese icing and candied pistachios, is a particularly popular choice and can be shared.
Is Space 220 Lounge Worth Trying?
The honest answer is this: it depends, and that’s okay.
Space 220 Lounge is never guaranteed, and availability can change quickly. But if Space 220 is on your wish list and you find yourself without a reservation, the lounge is absolutely worth asking about.
For park guests who value flexibility, atmosphere, and à la carte pricing, it can be a rewarding experience without the commitment of a fixed-price meal.
Final Takeaway
If you’re planning an EPCOT day and hoping to experience Space 220, the lounge offers a realistic backup option. It’s a bit of a gamble, but one that can pay off with immersive theming, excellent food, and a more relaxed pace.
As with many things at Walt Disney World, the best strategy is simple: ask.
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