We’re staying at the Grand Floridian Resort and I can’t contain my excitement. To be clear, we love all the Walt Disney Resorts, but there’s something about the Grand Floridian elevates our stays. Nestled on the shores of the Seven Seas Lagoon, surrounded by lush landscapes and breathtaking views of Cinderella Castle, the Grand Floridian Resort stands tall as a symbol of opulence and timeless elegance.
As one of Disney’s finest Deluxe Resorts, the Grand Floridian offers guests an enchanting escape into a world of Victorian charm and contemporary luxury. In this blog post, I will delve into the captivating theming of the resort, the exquisite rooms, the magnificent pool, and the seamless transportation to the Magic Kingdom, making it the perfect haven for an unforgettable Disney vacation.
For our family, we always just marvel at the theming of the resort and its gorgeous lobby. The Grand Floridian revolves around the classic Victorian era, drawing inspiration from the grand hotels of the late 19th century.
From the moment we step foot into the lavish lobby, it is like being transported back in time to a bygone era of grandeur and sophistication. The soaring ceilings adorned with ornate chandeliers, the intricate latticework, and the Victorian-style furnishings all contribute to the regal ambiance. The soft piano music playing at you walk towards the back of the resort. All of it hits perfectly. During the holiday season you get the smell of the gingerbread from the massive house, or the smell of chocolate during the Easter season. Disney spares no expense when it comes to creating an elegant ambiance for arriving guests.
The resort's color palette predominantly features soft pastels, gilded accents, and floral patterns, evoking a sense of grace and tranquility. The carefully curated art pieces and antiques that adorn the hallways add an extra touch of elegance, inviting guests to immerse themselves in the charm of the Victorian age.
Even the “standard rooms” exude sophistication, with plush bedding, rich wooden furnishings, and charming touches like crown molding and subtle Disney-themed artwork.
For those seeking an extra touch of luxury, the resort offers Club Level rooms with access to the exclusive Royal Palm Club Lounge, providing complimentary refreshments and concierge services. We haven’t had the opportunity to do Club Level at the Grand Floridian but it remains in on our bucket list for the future.
Maybe someday we can afford the ultimate indulgence and stay in the Royal Suite. The suite spans over 2,200 square feet and features breathtaking views of the Magic Kingdom fireworks, a baby grand piano, and an exquisite dining room fit for royalty. Until then, I’ll be perfectly content with my standard room. After all, every room at the Grand Floridian showcases Disney's renowned attention to detail, ensuring that guests feel like honored guests in a grand Victorian mansion.
The Grand Floridian's pool area is a paradise of relaxation and fun, aptly named the "Beach Pool." This zero-entry, 121,000-gallon pool, complete with a picturesque waterslide designed like a Victorian-style water tower, is perfect for families and couples alike. I have so many amazing memories in this pool, especially the trip I took with my daughter. It was our first “daddy and daughter” trip, and it was just as magical as the commercials make it out.
Going down that water slide, enjoying food service at our chairs, we completely forgot that there were parks awaiting us. Poolside cabanas are available for rental, providing an extra touch of luxury for those looking to bask in the Florida sun with privacy and comfort. If you are seeking a quieter and more secluded experience, the "Courtyard Pool" offers an even more tranquil setting surrounded by lush landscaping and a serene atmosphere.
Staying at the Grand Floridian Resort gives us close proximity to one of our favorite dining destinations and hidden gem, The Grand Floridian Cafe. If you're seeking a delightful dining experience with a touch of elegance and a warm, welcoming ambiance, the Grand Floridian Cafe at The Grand Floridian Resort in Walt Disney World is the perfect destination. During our past stays at this enchanting resort, we had the pleasure of indulging in delightful breakfasts at the Grand Floridian Cafe, and it left us with a lasting impression.
In typical Disney fashion, we were greeted with genuine smiles from the friendly staff who made us feel right at home. The service was attentive and courteous throughout our meal, with our server taking the time to explain the menu and offer recommendations. We appreciated the promptness of the service, allowing us to maximize our time at the parks without feeling rushed.
The breakfast menu at Grand Floridian Cafe featured a diverse selection of dishes that catered to all tastes. From traditional American breakfast classics to more innovative and creative options, there was something for everyone. Whether you prefer sweet or savory, the menu had you covered.
For those seeking a classic breakfast, the "Grand Breakfast" option was a fantastic choice. This hearty plate included two eggs, a choice of breakfast meat, breakfast potatoes, and a delectable assortment of pastries. My wife’s favorite is the Madagascar Vanilla Bean-scented Brioche French Toast served with Bacon or Sausage. Of course you can always get Mickey Waffles should you choose.
One of the most appealing aspects of the Grand Floridian Resort is its unparalleled proximity to the Magic Kingdom. Guests have several convenient transportation options at their disposal. The most enchanting means of getting to the park is undoubtedly the iconic "Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa" monorail station, located just a stone's throw away from the resort's lobby.
The monorail, with its sweeping views of the surrounding landscape, offers a seamless and magical journey to the Magic Kingdom. The resort's guests can board the monorail and embark on familiar adventure, where they can experience the wonder of Disney time and time again.
For a more leisurely trip, water taxis transport guests across the Seven Seas Lagoon, providing a scenic route to the Magic Kingdom's entrance. This option allows visitors to savor the picturesque views of Cinderella Castle and the picturesque Disney resorts dotting the shores. You can catch the dock to the Magic Kingdom back by Narcoossee’s.
Whether basking in the grandeur of the lobby, unwinding in the opulence of the rooms, or exploring the wonders of the Disney parks, every moment spent at the Grand Floridian is a memory to be treasured forever. This will be our first “family stay” at the Grand Floridian, so I am excited to have the whole family together enjoying this upcoming stay. If you're seeking a truly magical Disney vacation, look no further than the Grand Floridian Resort, where the beauty of the past intertwines with the magic of the present. We’ll see you poolside, the next round of drinks is on me.
