Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa is the crown jewel of on-site hotels at Walt Disney World, offering an unparalleled level of luxury, elegance, and convenience. Known for its Victorian-style architecture and meticulous attention to detail, the Grand Floridian is the pinnacle of Disney Deluxe Resorts, providing guests with premium amenities, exceptional dining, and prime access to Magic Kingdom. However, with this level of luxury comes a high price tag, so is the Grand Floridian worth the splurge? Here’s a detailed look at what makes this resort so special.
The Benefits of Staying at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
1. Elegant Victorian Theming and Atmosphere
From the moment you enter the lobby of the Grand Floridian, you are immersed in opulence and beauty. The soaring ceilings, grand chandeliers, and intricate Victorian details create an atmosphere of refined luxury. It’s no surprise that this resort is considered the crown jewel of Disney World hotels.
- Attention to Detail: Everything in the resort, from the floral arrangements to the ornate decor, is carefully curated to reflect the elegance of the Victorian era. The live piano music in the lobby adds a layer of sophistication that’s unmatched in any other Disney resort.
- Recent Room Refurbishments: Many rooms at the Grand Floridian have been refurbished with a Mary Poppins theme, blending whimsical elements from the beloved Disney film with the overall luxurious feel of the hotel. The rooms feature subtle nods to Mary Poppins, such as artwork and decorative details, while maintaining the classic Victorian aesthetic.
Key Tip: If you’re looking for a mix of classic elegance with a touch of Disney magic, ask for one of the newly refurbished Mary Poppins-themed rooms for an enchanting stay.
2. Proximity to Magic Kingdom and Monorail Access
The Grand Floridian’s location is unbeatable when it comes to proximity to Magic Kingdom. Not only is the resort just one monorail stop away from the park, but it’s also within walking distance thanks to a newly constructed walking path that connects the resort directly to the park entrance.
- Monorail Access: The Grand Floridian is part of the Monorail loop, making it incredibly easy to access not only Magic Kingdom but also EPCOT (with a quick transfer at the Transportation and Ticket Center). The convenience of the monorail is especially valuable for families with young children or guests who want a stress-free commute to and from the parks.
- Walking Path: If you prefer to walk, the new path from the Grand Floridian to Magic Kingdom takes about 10-15 minutes and is a great option for guests who want to avoid monorail crowds after the fireworks show.
Key Tip: For guests who want flexibility in transportation, the walking path and monorail access make the Grand Floridian one of the most convenient resorts for getting to Magic Kingdom.
3. Victoria & Albert’s – The Crown Jewel of Disney Dining
The Grand Floridian is home to Victoria & Albert’s, Disney World’s flagship fine dining restaurant and one of the most acclaimed dining establishments in all of Florida. This AAA Five Diamond Award-winning restaurant offers a luxury dining experience with multi-course meals, an extensive wine list, and world-class service.
- Exclusive Dining: Victoria & Albert’s is known for its elegant setting, personalised menus, and upscale ambiance. Dining here is a once-in-a-lifetime experience and a must-do for foodies or those celebrating a special occasion.
Key Tip: Reservations for Victoria & Albert’s are extremely hard to come by, so be sure to book as far in advance as possible. The dress code is strictly enforced, so plan accordingly if you want to enjoy this exquisite dining experience.
4. Character Dining at 1900 Park Fare
For families looking for a more casual (but still magical) dining experience, the Grand Floridian also offers character dining at 1900 Park Fare. Here, you can enjoy a buffet meal while meeting popular Disney characters like Cinderella, Prince Charming, Mary Poppins, and even Alice in Wonderland.
- Convenience: Having character dining right at your hotel is incredibly convenient for families who want to meet characters without spending time in the parks or waiting in long queues.
Key Tip: Like all Disney character meals, it’s important to book your reservation early as this is a popular experience. The buffet offers a wide variety of dishes, making it a great option for picky eaters.
5. Pools and Recreation
The Grand Floridian offers two large pool areas: the Courtyard Pool (a quiet pool) and the Beach Pool with a zero-entry feature and water slide. While both pools are luxurious, the splash pad area near the Beach Pool is a hit with young children.
- Splash Pad: The themed Alice in Wonderland splash pad offers interactive water features perfect for little ones. This makes the Grand Floridian a fantastic choice for families looking for a mix of luxury and kid-friendly fun.
Key Tip: The poolside cabanas are available for rental, offering a more private and relaxing experience with amenities such as shade, comfortable seating, and poolside food service.
6. Beautiful Grounds and Views of Magic Kingdom
The Grand Floridian’s grounds are beautifully manicured, with lush gardens, fountains, and sweeping views of Seven Seas Lagoon. Whether you’re relaxing by the pool or strolling along the pathways, the views are breathtaking.
- Fireworks Views: One of the best perks of staying at the Grand Floridian is the ability to watch Magic Kingdom’s nightly fireworks show from the resort’s grounds. Guests can enjoy a prime view of the fireworks right from the resort’s beach or even from some rooms with Theme Park Views.
Key Tip: For the best view of Happily Ever After fireworks, head to the resort’s marina or beach area for a relaxing and crowd-free viewing experience.
The Downsides of Staying at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
1. High Price
As the most luxurious and high-end Disney resort, the Grand Floridian comes with a steep price tag. Rates at the Grand Floridian are often among the highest of all Disney resorts, with rooms starting around €700 per night and going up to €1,500 or more for suites or rooms with views of Magic Kingdom.
- Key Tip: If the price is a concern, consider splitting your stay between the Grand Floridian and a more budget-friendly resort, such as Disney’s Pop Century or Caribbean Beach Resort, to experience the luxury for part of your trip while saving money overall.
2. Dated Areas in Some Buildings
Although the Grand Floridian has been gradually undergoing room refurbishments, some areas of the resort, particularly the older longhouses, can feel a bit dated compared to the newer rooms or more modern Disney resorts like Disney’s Riviera Resort. The resort’s decor is intentionally classic, but some guests might prefer more contemporary or refreshed surroundings.
Key Tip: If you’re booking a stay, inquire about getting one of the refurbished rooms for a more modern, updated experience.
Final Thoughts: Is Disney’s Grand Floridian Worth It?
Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa is undeniably the crown jewel of Disney resorts, offering a blend of luxury, convenience, and classic Victorian charm. With its walking distance to Magic Kingdom, monorail access, stunning views of fireworks, and top-tier dining options like Victoria & Albert’s, the Grand Floridian is perfect for those looking to indulge in the finest Disney has to offer.
While the price and dated areas may be a drawback for some, the overall experience of staying at the Grand Floridian—complete with exceptional service, lush surroundings, and premium amenities—makes it a must-do for Disney guests looking for an upscale, magical stay.
For those who can splurge, the Grand Floridian provides an unforgettable Disney experience, combining elegance and Disney magic in one of the most beautiful settings on property.
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