Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort + Spa Review
Staying at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa is like stepping into a timeless realm of elegance, sprinkled with that unique Disney magic. My childhood memories of the Grand Floridian are filled with awe, yet I recall yearning for the adventure and vibrancy of the Caribbean Beach Resort after a visit with a friend. This dichotomy underscores that while the Grand Floridian is Disney’s flagship resort, it might not be the perfect fit for every family.
For insights into choosing the right Disney resort for your family’s needs, dive into this helpful guide.
About the Resort
Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, often heralded as the crown jewel of Walt Disney World resorts, epitomizes turn-of-the-century elegance with a dash of Disney enchantment. This iconic resort, known for its Victorian architecture and impeccable service, promises a luxurious escape in the heart of the magic.
Category
The Grand Floridian falls into the deluxe category, Disney’s highest tier of resort accommodations. This classification is fitting, given the resort’s extensive amenities, dining options, and unparalleled proximity to the Magic Kingdom. It’s designed for those seeking a premium Disney experience, with price points reflecting its exclusive offerings.
Dive into our guide on Understanding Disney World Resort Categories to learn more.
Theming
With its grand Victorian theme, the Grand Floridian transports guests to a bygone era of sophistication and style. The resort’s lavish decor, from the opulent lobby to the meticulously landscaped grounds, exudes a timeless charm. The subtle Disney touches, integrated seamlessly into the classic design, ensure the magic is always within reach.
Room
Our recent stay was in a one-bedroom villa, which had undergone a tasteful renovation. The decor, characterized by clean whites and soft pastels, offered a serene retreat after days filled with park adventures. Positioned conveniently to the right of the main building, our villa provided easy access to the resort’s myriad amenities while affording us the privacy and tranquility we sought.
Food
The Grand Floridian’s dining options are as diverse as they are plentiful, though they vary in appeal. Gasparilla Island Grill, the resort’s quick-service option, left something to be desired with its limited menu and standard fare. It served its purpose for quick bites but didn’t quite match the grandeur of the surroundings.
Citricos, with its Mary Poppins retheming, was a delightful surprise, capturing the whimsy and nostalgia of my favorite childhood movies. However, the dining experience was inconsistent; one meal was memorable, while another fell short of expectations.
The Enchanted Rose lounge, inspired by “Beauty and the Beast,” was a highlight, offering exquisite cocktails in an atmosphere that echoed the elegance and romance of my favorite film and my own wedding. Narcoossee’s stood out as the culinary crown jewel, challenging my New Englander’s skepticism with arguably the best poached lobster I’ve ever enjoyed, served against the backdrop of a breathtaking sunset and fireworks display.
Amenities
Though the chilly weather precluded a visit to the pool, the Alice in Wonderland-themed splash pad promised ample fun in sunnier conditions. The resort’s shopping options were unparalleled, offering a curated selection of high-end Disney merchandise and unique finds. The Grand Floridian’s amenities, from the spa to the fitness center, cater to guests looking for relaxation and rejuvenation amidst their Disney adventures.
Transportation
The resort’s proximity to the Magic Kingdom is a key benefit, with multiple transportation options including the monorail, boat, and walking path, ensuring the park’s magic is just moments away. This ease of access underscores the Grand Floridian’s appeal as a prime location for those who prioritize convenience and time efficiency in their vacation planning.
Conclusion
While the Grand Floridian offers a luxurious Disney vacation experience, complete with fine dining and exclusive amenities, its value proposition may not align with every family’s budget or vacation desires. The resort is ideally suited for those with a penchant for luxury, princess enthusiasts, and honeymooners seeking a fairytale backdrop.
If you are planning a wedding or honeymoon check out our Fairytale Wedding Expert, Rachael.
For families looking for a luxury experience, the Grand Floridian provides an enchanting setting, though its offerings may exceed the needs of those seeking a more casual Disney experience.
Who is Christina?
Meet Christina Vieira, a Traveler, a Planner, and a Mom. She is also the owner of Showcase the World Travel, a modern travel agency that helps busy Moms take the vacation they deserve without adding “planning it all” to their to-do lists. After all, Mom should get to enjoy their vacation too.
She specializes in Disney, Caribbean, Europe and has helped dozens of families have magical vacations that they will always remember. She loves traveling with her four-year-old daughter, Annabelle. Her favorite destinations include Walt Disney World, Wyoming, and Prague.
