I've done coolant changes on both a 99 and 02 Grand Am with the 3.4L GM V6 engine, I assume that you have the same engine. The radiator drain plug needs to be pulled out towards you as you turn it, it moves out about 1/4" towards you. It should turn about half of a turn total when its all of the way out. I've had to be careful with it though as I have pulled it completely out once and then you need to shove it back in place.
I know how much of a paint it is to disconnect the lower hose because I just did that on a 2002 Trailblazer as it doesn't have a radiator drain plug on it and it's difficult to get the hose and clamp back on there.
