Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa: Our Family-Tried And Tested Review

Sharing is caring!

Looking for that ultimate Disney stay experience where you’re practically living in the heart of the magic? Just imagine looking out from your room to see Cinderella’s Castle and feeling like part of a Disney movie yourself!

Well, at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, that dream is within reach (that is, if you’re up for splurging a bit). Tucked along the monorail route and just a leisurely walk from the Magic Kingdom, this place is where fairy tales truly come to life.

As you approach the resort’s elegant red-roofed buildings by the lake, you can feel the enchantment in the air. At Disney, it’s never just a stay—it’s a luxurious journey immersed in all things fantastical.

But enough talk, let’s uncover what truly makes Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa the perfect spot for your family’s Disney vacation!

How to Get the Best Value for Money at Disney’s Grand Floridian?

Alright, let’s break it down. Staying at the Grand Floridian might hit your wallet a bit, but don’t worry! There are savvy ways to make every penny count at this luxurious Walt Disney World getaway.

First off, the Deluxe hotel experience here comes with a heap of perks. Think early entry to the parks, extended hours in the evenings, and a head start on snagging those Multipass reservations.

You’ll also get to cruise around the resort in style with complimentary transportation.

Another smart move? Check out Disney Vacation Club point rentals, even if you’re not a DVC member.

You could land yourself a swanky suite for a fraction of the regular price—sometimes up to a whopping 65% off! Just hop online and Google it, and you’ll find loads of websites offering DVC points for rent.

Getting to Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort

Getting from Orlando International Airport (MCO) to Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort takes about 30-35 minutes, and you’ve got plenty of options for the journey.

Firstly, there’s the Shuttle Services. Mears Connect is a solid choice and easy on the wallet, just jump online and book in advance for a hassle-free ride.

And with Disney Resort Transportation in the mix, renting a car might not be an option that’s worth it unless you’ve got other plans beyond the resort.

If you prefer a direct route and don’t mind splurging a bit, Ride Share Services like Uber and Lyft, as well as regular taxis, are also available.

For a touch of luxury and a smoother ride, you can opt for Car Services like Quicksilver or Black Diamond Luxury Transportation. While they might cost a bit more than the shuttle, they could be a budget-friendly option for larger groups.

Plus, some even offer a complimentary stop at the grocery store, which is always a bonus for families with kids.

---

Location and Overview of Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa

Since its debut in 1988, Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa has been a standout, sitting pretty alongside the Polynesian Village Resort and the Contemporary on the Magic Kingdom Monorail loop. Featuring white walls, a bold red roof, and a dreamy spot by the Seven Seas Lagoon, it gives off major classic beachfront retreat vibes.

Fast forward to today, and the Grand Floridian is still turning heads. Recently, it’s been getting a major facelift, set to wrap up in 2024.

Split into the main building, outer buildings, and deluxe villas, each part adds to its Victorian-inspired charm.

Now, on to the lobby. This five-story masterpiece is all about elegance, with its light colors, marble touches, and grand entrance doors.

You can’t miss the iconic details like the white railings, fancy elevator, and the grand piano setting the mood. And for a fun twist, check out the Mary Poppins-themed lobbies in the outer buildings, adding a dash of whimsy to this already magical place.

Types of Rooms at Grand Floridian Hotel

At Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort, you’ll find a collection of charming buildings scattered across its expansive 40-acre grounds, offering up more than 800 rooms to relax in. Meet Sago Cay, Sugarloaf, Conch Key, Boca Chica, and Big Pine Key—each with its own unique appeal.

Tucked away on the serene side of the main Beach Pool, you’ll stumble upon a delightful spot: Disney Vacation Club villas.

Next, let’s talk rooms and suites. Whether you’re unwinding in a Standard Room or Studio, ideal for 4-5 adults, or luxuriating in the lavish 3-bedroom Grand Villa, perfect for a party of 12 adults, the Grand Floridian has options for every preference.

You also get to choose from three captivating views. Take your pick from a Theme Park View for front-row seats to the fireworks, a Lagoon View for breathtaking Monorail and Seven Seas Lagoon scenes, or a Garden View for a serene outlook of the Pool, Marina, or Courtyard.

The New Mary Poppins Rooms at the Grand Floridian 

Guests used to grumble about the old-school, dim interiors of the rooms at Grand Floridian. But things have taken a magical turn with recent renovations, sprinkling a bit of Mary Poppins charm into the mix.

Think pale blue walls and sunshine streaming in through big windows, giving the space a cozy yet modern vibe with a Victorian twist.

Packed with nods to Mary Poppins, the hotel rooms here feature things like elegant murals showcasing the Banks family home, charming bird accents, and even Victorian-style family portraits! The bathrooms recently received a fancy upgrade too, featuring double sinks and plenty of counter space.

There’s also either a patio or balcony in every unit! With two comfy chairs, it’s the perfect spot for enjoying your morning coffee or winding down with a nightcap.

---

Amenities and Recreational Facilities for Families at Grand Floridian

The Grand Floridian Hotel unfolds a world of luxury and entertainment offering a myriad of amenities and recreational activities on site. 

The resort boasts three distinctive pool areas. The Courtyard Pool provides the perfect setting for unwinding, while the Beach Pool and Beach Pool Water Play Area, situated on the sandy shores of Seven Seas Lagoon.

Each offers more of a playful atmosphere. Both have their poolside bars. 

The resort’s Marina is your ticket to thrilling adventures. Suntracker Pontoon boats are available for rent for you to cruise the lagoon with the family.

Fancy a fishing escapade? Guided fishing tours are also available, offering a chance to reel in largemouth bass. Just dial (407) 939-FISH to secure your angler’s adventure.

And what’s a resort experience without a bit of retail therapy? Shopping, featuring Sandy Cove Gifts and Sundries for everyday needs and DVC merchandise.

M. Mouse Mercantile offers a diverse range, including apparel, Magic Bands, and toys. Curiouser Clothiers displays premium souvenirs while Basin White adds luxury with soaps and bath bombs. 

The resort also houses a state-of-the-art fitness center and a rejuvenating spa, ensuring a holistic experience for health and well-being. 

Family-Friendly Things to Do at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort 

Disney’s Grand Floridian is filled with activities to keep families smiling.:

Start with the Alice in Wonderland Water Play area, featuring a whimsical theme, a 181-foot waterslide, and a waterfall—perfect for imaginative play and splashes.

Then, head to the Grand Floridian Beach for a family-friendly campfire from 5:30 pm to 6:30 pm every night. Roast marshmallows and enjoy some family time.

Movie buffs will love Movies Under the Stars at the Summerhouse, showing Disney flicks on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and weekends at 7:30 pm.

Feeling competitive? Check out the arcade for classic and modern games.

Don’t miss the Electrical Water Pageant, a nighttime water parade with fireworks. Marvel at grand sea creatures cruising the lagoon, accompanied by iconic Disney tunes.

Find the perfect spot quickly at the resort’s magical viewing area for a front-row seat to this captivating nighttime water parade with fireworks. 

And for hoops enthusiasts, hit up the basketball courts for some family fun.

Dining Experiences at Grand Floridian Hotel

Here are your dining options at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort:

1. Citricos: Inspired by Mary Poppins Returns, Citricos offers Mediterranean-infused food in a charming setting, perfect for a fine dining experience.

2. Grand Floridian Cafe: For a relaxed and comfortable vibe, indulge in casual American cuisine at the Grand Floridian Cafe. From breakfast to dinner, you’re sure to find something to satisfy your cravings.

3. Victoria & Albert’s: Considered the crown jewel of Walt Disney World, Victoria & Albert’s is a restaurant that offers luxury dining with a prix fixe menu. Keep in mind the strict dress code and age restriction.

4. Gasparilla Island Grill: Quick and convenient, Gasparilla Island Grill offers a diverse menu suitable for all ages. Enjoy mobile ordering for tasty bites like Mickey waffles.

5. Enchanted Rose: Step into the elegant ambiance of the Enchanted Rose, a cocktail lounge inspired by Beauty and the Beast. Couples will love sipping on cocktails and enjoying snacks in this sophisticated setting.

6. Poolside Bars: Relax at the Courtyard Pool Bar or Beaches Pool Bar & Grill, where you can enjoy refreshing drinks and snacks while soaking up the sun. Perfect for a laid-back day by the pool.

Transportation Between Theme Parks and Grand Floridian

Traveling to the theme parks from Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort is simple with multiple transportation options available.

For a quick journey to Magic Kingdom, guests can walk, take a scenic boat ride, or hop on the monorail. The monorail departs from the main lobby’s second floor and provides a speedy trip to Magic Kingdom.

For a more picturesque route, guests can board a small boat located near Gasparilla Island Grill.

Getting to Epcot requires a bit more effort, as guests must take the monorail to the Transportation and Ticket Center (TTC) and transfer to the Epcot monorail line.

Buses are available for destinations like Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom, Disney Springs, and the water parks. Keep in mind that bus service is shared with the Polynesian Resort, which may result in longer wait times.

If you’re pressed for time, consider requesting a cab from the concierge desk or booking an Uber or Lyft.

Pros and Cons of Staying at Grand Floridian

Pros:

1. Proximity to Magic Kingdom: Situated on the Monorail loop, the resort is just a short ride away from the Magic Kingdom. Plus, there’s a convenient walkway for easy access.

2. Diverse Dining Options: With six unique restaurants on-site, guests have a variety of culinary experiences to choose from, catering to different tastes and preferences.

3. Family-Friendly Amenities: The resort offers plenty of recreational activities, including two pools and an Alice in Wonderland-themed splash pad, ensuring fun for the whole family.

4. Extended Evening Hours: Guests can enjoy extended evening hours at Magic Kingdom and EPCOT, allowing for more time to explore and enjoy the parks.

Cons:

1. High Cost: Known for its luxury, the Grand Floridian often comes with a hefty price tag, even for standard rooms. It’s not uncommon to find rates on the higher side, especially during peak seasons when celebrities may also be in attendance.

2. Crowded During Peak Times: Like many popular resorts, the Grand Floridian can get crowded during peak periods, particularly in the lobby and around the grounds. This congestion can be especially noticeable during holidays and other busy times.

3. Bus Service: The resort shares buses with other nearby resorts, which can lead to crowded buses and standing-room-only situations, especially during peak times. Some guests may prefer to use personal transportation options to avoid potential delays.

Our Overall Experience with Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa

Our stay at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa was a whirlwind of enchantment with a few hiccups along the way. Being practically next door to Magic Kingdom was a game-changer—easy park access was a win!

The Mary Poppins-themed rooms were a hit, especially for my two little ones who were thrilled.

Room size and bathroom amenities were great for our family of four, and the resort’s cleanliness was top-notch. And watching the fireworks over the lake? Pure magic.

Now, onto the not-so-magical parts. Staying at the Grand Floridian comes with a hefty price tag, and while it’s usually worth it, some things left us a bit disappointed.

Finding quick eating spots was a challenge—we could have used more of those and less fancy sit-down restaurants. The room cleaning started off well but declined as the week went on, which was a letdown.

The pool situation was a bit chaotic. Towels seemed to disappear despite the “please don’t” signs, and the pool areas were uncomfortably rough on our feet, even causing the girls’ feet to bleed. Not cool!

Overall, the Grand Floridian has its charms with its proximity to Disney magic, cute decor, and spacious rooms. But improvements in dining options, room upkeep, and poolside comfort would make for an even more enchanted stay.