
The list can go on and on when describing Disney's Grand Floridian Resort. This is a place where Victorian charm is seamlessly blended with modern elegance, with a touch of magic. Often referred to as Disney's flagship resort, the Grand Floridian is the perfect choice for guests who want to experience the best Disney has to offer in resort amenities.
What Disney does best is tell stories, and with this resort, the imagineers did an amazing job of immersing guests in a world of charming details. Walking through the pathways, you'll feel lost in the turn-of-the-century hotel that celebrates the golden age of travel. The attention to detail is stunning. For example, as you're walking through the main lobby, look down; you might recognize a few friendly faces hidden throughout the marble floor!
ROOMS


When booking, you can choose a variety of views and locations. The majority of the rooms are located in outer buildings, giving you the choice of garden, lagoon, and theme park views.

The main building also boasts some deluxe rooms, king bed rooms, and suites.
Guest rooms at the Grand Floridian are currently undergoing refurbishment, scheduled to be completed by the end of summer. The majority of rooms have already been finished. The interior decor of all the rooms and lobbies were completely overhauled, and the overall effect was dramatic and beautiful. What once was a lovely resort is now stunning. Muted, fresh, and modern colors and patterns grace the walls and beds.
One great reason to stay here is its proximity to the parks. The Magic Kingdom is accessible by a quick monorail ride (it is the first stop from the resort), or by boat. Either way is fantastic and very convenient. To get to Epcot, you take the same monorail to the Ticket and Transportation Center, where you will transfer to the Epcot monorail. Disney's Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom, Water Parks, and Downtown Disney are all accessed by bus.
Being located directly next to the Magic Kingdom adds to the overall magic and ambiance of this resort. I love taking a stroll along the lagoon, listening to the train whistle from the park.
RECREATION and RELAXATION

A variety of watercraft are available to rent from the marina, allowing you explore the Seven Seas Lagoon and Bay Lake. Guided fishing excursions are available for the fish lover in your family. Also from the marina, kids age 4-12 can set sail on a Pirate Adventure cruise (reservations for this and the fishing excursions should be made in advance).
At night, guests can enjoy a complimentary movie under the stars. An outdoor movie screen is set up between the pool and the beach, making the perfect setting to enjoy a feature film in the night air. The schedule changes on a monthly basis, and the list of movies being shown can be found at the front desk.
Senses, the full service spa, is a great way to treat yourself on a special occasion, or simply take a relaxing break from the parks. Reservations should be made in advance.

This resort offers the largest dining selection of all resorts on Walt Disney World property.
Quick service:

The Beach Pool Bar and Courtyard Pool Bar also offer quick food options throughout the day, along with a large variety of cocktails, wine and beer.
Table Service:
The Grand Floridian Cafe offers casual dining with an a la carte menu, in a charming Victorian dining room with sweeping views of the resort grounds.
1900 Park Fare is a character buffet.
- In the morning, the Supercafragilistic Breakfast allows guests to dine with a variety of characters, including Mary Poppins, Alice, the Mad Hatter, Tigger, and Winnie the Pooh.
- In the evening, Cinderella's Happily Ever After Dinner treats guests to an enchanted evening, with special appearances by Cinderella, Prince Charming, Lady Tremaine, Anastasia, and Drizella.
- Each afternoon, this location is host to the Wonderland Tea Party, where children age 4-12 can have "tea" (juice) and cupcakes, hear stories, and play games. Alice and the Mad Hatter make an appearance as well. This experience is limited to 25 children, so early reservations are definitely recommended!
SIGNATURE DINING
Guests who would enjoy a fine dining experience have three great options at the Grand Floridian.
Citricos has a menu focusing on fresh American food with a Mediterranean flare. The decor is modern whimsical, and the open on-stage kitchen adds to the entertainment and ambiance. As a signature restaurant, a dress code is enforced. At the minimum, you may not wear tank tops, swimsuits, torn clothing, or cut offs; but you will find that most guests are dressed elegantly for a special or celebratory meal. (Review here)
Narcoossee's, the large round building located near the dock for the Magic Kingdom boat, is the other signature restaurant at the Grand Floridian where you can use 2 credits of your dining plan. The first draw of this restaurant are the large sweeping windows with panoramic views of the Magic Kingdom; the second is the food. This restaurant is a must-do for any seafood lover; although you can also enjoy steak and chicken here as well. (Review here)
Victoria and Albert's
For the ultimate in luxury and fine dining, Victoria and Albert's is the most elegant restaurant on property. This AAA Five Diamond award winning restaurant is the number one spot for a special evening. Guests enjoy a leisure meal with personalized menus, long stemmed roses, and a harpist playing in the background. The impeccable service will make you feel like a member of an exclusive club. The menu changes daily, focusing on fresh local and seasonal items. Reservations fill up extremely quickly, and should be made at the 180 day mark. This restaurant does not accept any Disney Dining plan
SHOPPING
Another must-do at this resort is to check out all the shopping options! From fine apparel and accessories, to pins and novelties, you'll find something that interests you. My favorite is Basin White, where you'll find luxurious bath and body care items that smell heavenly.

Whether you stay there for a week or an hour, be sure to make the most of your next visit to Disney's Grand Floridian!
Carissa
Click here to view more pictures of this resort.
Comments
Post a Comment