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When planning your trip to Disney World, it may be tempting to think ‘let’s skimp on the hotel since we’re going to so many Parks’. I’m here to suggest that you’d be missing out on an unbelievable and extremely memorable experience if you don’t at least consider Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. Living up to its name, the hotel is grand in the sense that it is designed in Victorian-style architecture of the late 19th century with equally gorgeous interiors.
Quite a sight to behold! This hotel raises the bar for the definition of a resort with its abundance of restaurants catering to all sorts of appetites, spa services including facials and massages, and my favorite, a private beach with no outside access. Orlando may be in the middle of the state of Florida, but you’ll feel as if they brought the sands and sea to the tips of your toes! There’s even a waterslide for the little Mickeys and Minnies on the children’s pool.
Leanr more about some amazing rides:
SEVEN DWARFS MINE TRAIN: UNCOVERING THE SECRET HIDDEN GEMS
AVATAR FLIGHT OF PASSAGE RIDE: THE WORLD OF PANDORA
You and your family can create memories while dining with your favorite Disney Characters without even leaving the hotel. Can I entice you further by telling you that you can grab a water taxi to head over to Magic Kingdom which is a hop, skip and jump away?! Quite frankly, the Grand Floridian is an experience in and of itself and one that you will not want to miss.
Where Is It Located/Transportation?
The Grand Floridian is located within walking distance of The Magic Kingdom. There’s a scenic walking path that’s just under a mile in length connecting the two locations. And while bus service is certainly available, why not enjoy some of the more memorable modes of transportation that are associated with the Grand Floridian?
First, watch the kids be struck with amazement as you ride the monorail and appear to magically be transported to The Magic Kingdom as it is only a quick stop away. Please note, there are a total of 3 monorail systems throughout Disney World; the other 2 link with the Magic Kingdom Resort Area and EPCOT. Unfortunately, the lines are not connected, so when traveling to other Parks within Disney, a bus would be your best bet to avoid the hassle of parking.
Second, The Grand Floridian is only a boat ride away from Magic Kingdom when you take a water taxi across the Seven Seas Lagoon. Might I suggest a ride back to the hotel from the Park right at dusk? The sun setting and picturesque scenery, all in the shadow of Cinderella’s Castle, is nothing short of perfect.
Top Dining Experiences In the Resort
The Grand Floridian offers a host of different settings ranging from fine dining to casual fare. What’s even better is that even most of the fancier restaurants are there with the dining plan, so the whole family can enjoy everything from steak to lobster at Victoria & Albert’s and still be all together in this beautiful setting. Of course, it never gets old to share in the wonder of a Character Breakfast; a Disney specialty. Usually, this takes place at 1900 Park Fare. However, please check current availability when booking since they are not open for table service due to hotel renovations at the moment.
Another spot is Beaches Pool Bar & Grill, which offers signature cocktails as you sunbathe on the hotel’s private beach; how’s that for relaxing? It is very important to note though, as with most things at Disney, please make reservations as early as possible as times book up quickly! Please take a look at some prominent, mouth-watering choices:
— Grand Floridian Cafe: Described as ‘elegant yet unpretentious’, this restaurant is sure to please any palate. Open for breakfast (starting at 7:30 am), lunch, and dinner (closing at 9:00 pm), be sure to try the buttermilk-fried chicken — delicious!
— Try Cítricos for a London-inspired, Mary Poppins-themed experience that will assuredly give you and the whole family a super califragilistic expialidocious time!
Note-Worthy Amenities
Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa offers a wide range of amenities to make you feel pampered and comfortable during your stay. The resort boasts a full-service spa, the Senses Spa, which offers a variety of services including massages, facials, and body treatments. The spa also features a salon offering hair, nail, and makeup services. If that’s not enough, you also have several pools at your disposal, including a zero-entry beach pool, a children’s pool with a waterslide for the munchkins, and an adult-only pool for some quiet time for mom and dad.
The pools have an assortment of lounge chairs, cabanas, and umbrellas for you to relax and enjoy the sun. If you’re feeling inspired to burn a few calories, there’s a fitness center to work out in. There are also a variety of recreational activities such as tennis, basketball, and volleyball courts. If that’s not enough, the little ones can also enjoy the kids’ club, the Wonderland Tea Party, and outdoor movie nights.
Conclusion
From the minute you walk into the grand foyer and take in the grandeur, you’ll know you made the right choice to do it just a bit more upscale than you usually do for this Disney trip. At the end of the day, the amount of cash you are putting out there in the first place is not too far off of what you are going to spend at a resort like this! Whether you’re having afternoon tea like a queen, swimming in one of this luxurious hotel’s many pools, or enjoying a blueberry muffin with Donald and Daisy Duck at a Character Breakfast, this resort is the top of the line.
Even the modes of transportation to and from the hotel are part of the experience as they offer beautiful views and unique encounters. Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa offers an experience that is worth every penny of the indulgence!
