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Our Guide to Disney's Grand Floridian Resort and Spa: The Garden View Lounge Tea Experience is Now Open!

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Disney is famous for its beloved fairy tales, and at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, it feels like you’re stepping right into one. This Disney deluxe hotel welcomes guests with its elegant Victorian-era architecture and magnificent chandeliers hanging from the main building’s atrium. Who doesn’t feel like Cinderella walking down the hotel’s grand staircase? From the intricate details in the lobby to its beautiful views of Seven Seas Lagoon and Magic Kingdom, the Grand Floridian’s theming truly captures the magic of Walt Disney World. The resort offers luxurious accommodations, various transportation options, top-notch amenities and award-winning restaurants. Hop in for all of the details on the Grand Floridian!

FAQs

  • Where is Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa located? It is one of the closest Disney hotels to Magic Kingdom Park and is located along the monorail route.
  • Can you walk from the Grand Floridian to Magic Kingdom? There is a walking path to Magic Kingdom that is approximately 0.9 miles and takes an average of 20 minutes. The walking path also continues to Disney's Polynesian Village Resort next door.
  • Is there ongoing construction? Yes, the Grand Floridian has been undergoing renovations that will continue through early 2027.
  • How much is the Grand Floridian per night? Pricing varies by season. That said, as a Disney deluxe hotel, it is one of the more expensive options, with prices typically starting at $700. Book through Undercover Tourist to save on your next stay!
  • How much is the afternoon tea at the Grand Floridian? The Garden View Lounge — Tea Experience reopened on March 19, 2026. The experience is currently $79 for adults and $49 for children ages 3 to 9.

Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa

Overview of Disney's Grand Floridian Resort and Spa

As Walt Disney World’s flagship resort, the Grand Floridian combines Victorian elegance with modern flair. It is the most opulent and expensive of the Disney deluxe resorts. From across the Seven Seas Lagoon, you can easily spot its signature white walls and red gabled rooftops, inspired by the late 19th-century beach resorts. The gorgeous gardens, flowing fountains and white sandy beach only add to the property’s picturesque environment. Sitting on the edge of the water near the resort, Disney’s Wedding Pavilion fulfills its role as a perfect fairy tale wedding venue. (If you're caught up on Disney Fairytale Weddings on Disney+, you'll definitely recognize some areas from the show!)

Weekly News Roundup - Grand Floridian updated staircase

Step into the lobby of the main building and immediately take in the massive chandeliers and marble flooring designs featuring Disney characters. The majority of restaurants and gift shops are on the first and second floors, accessible via the grand staircase or the birdcage elevator. Periodically, a pianist serenades the lobby with elegant music, which really adds to the ambiance.

The lobby at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa was recently refurbished, featuring new carpet and furniture. The Perch, which was part of the refurb, is open as of Nov. 10, 2025, and the Garden View Lounge will reopen in early 2026.

As a popular destination for resort hoppers, we think it’s toadally worth a daytime visit for a stroll around the beautiful property if you have any extra time to explore. We especially recommend visiting around Easter for the decorated egg displays and during the holidays for the larger-than-life Christmas tree and gingerbread house, which is expected to return now that construction in the lobby is complete.

However, guests without a hotel or dining reservation may be denied entry. Be sure to book one of the resort's delicious dining options or use one of the many complimentary transportation options to see this wonderful resort.

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Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa Rooms

Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa — Updated "Mary Poppins"-themed Room

The majority of the Grand Floridian’s standard rooms measure 440 square feet, thus making them the largest standard rooms on Walt Disney World property! The Grand Floridian is divided into its main building and four outer buildings — Sago Cay, Sugarloaf, Conch Key and Boca Chica.

Conch Key is the closest to water taxi access, while the Courtyard Pool is surrounded by Sugarloaf and Boca Chica (the fifth building, Big Pine Key, has been converted into DVC Villas). Among the different room types, the outer buildings offer the following options: Standard Water View, Standard Resort View, Standard Theme Park View, and Deluxe Club Level. Psst ... we offer hoppin’ rates for all of the above!

Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa — room view

Each standard room can accommodate up to five adults, with either two queen beds and a daybed or a king bed and a daybed. The room comes additionally furnished with a large wooden dresser, a mini-refrigerator, and a flatscreen TV. The "Mary Poppins"-inspired theming remains consistent throughout the rooms, with beautiful paintings and stylish light fixtures.

Most rooms have a small patio or balcony that overlooks the lagoon or gardens. Extra amenities include a hair dryer, free Wi-Fi, a coffee maker, an iron and an ironing board and an in-room safe.

Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa — Room bathroom

Once you walk into the room, there is a spacious vanity on one side of the entry hallway and the bathroom on the other. The bathroom features a double sink, a marble top vanity and a separate area for the bathtub and toilet. There is plenty of space in the dressing area, complete with a door, which makes things easier when getting ready or when someone needs to brush their teeth while others are sleeping.

The bathroom leads out into the hallway and even with the door open, the dressing area is not visible from the rest of the room. The bathtub and toilet share the same space, so keep in mind that someone will need to wait to use the toilet while someone else is showering (or vice versa).

Transportation at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa

Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa — Walkway to Magic Kingdom

As one of the hotels closest to Magic Kingdom, Disney’s Grand Floridian has a variety of ways to get to the park. You can hop on the resort monorail line, which will take you directly to the main entrance (it’s the first stop!). When it’s time to head back to the hotel, keep in mind that there will be brief stops at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, the Transportation and Ticket Center and Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort.

You can also take a water taxi, which stops at Magic Kingdom and the next-door Poly. The resort’s boat launch is located right next to Conch Key and Narcoossee’s.

Guests are also now able to walk back and forth (to get those extra hops in!) between Magic Kingdom and the resort via a walkway! It's about 0.9 miles and takes an average of 20 minutes, depending on pace.

If you’re headed to EPCOT, take the resort monorail line and hop off at the Transportation and Ticket Center to transfer to the EPCOT monorail line. Bus transportation is available for Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Disney’s Animal Kingdom (including transfer service to the water parks) and Disney Springs.

Amenities, Recreation and Shopping at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa

Spending full days at the theme parks can be exhausting, and a spa day may be just the thing you need to balance out a fast-paced vacation. #TreatYourself, right? Check into The Grand Floridian Spa for massages, manicures, and a host of other services to help you relax and get ready to tackle the day!

Guests who want to keep up their workout routines can do so at the spa's 24-hour health and fitness center. Weights, cardio equipment and more is available for your enjoyment.

Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa — Pool

If you want a simpler way to unwind, relax under the sun at either the Courtyard Pool or the Beach Pool. The zero-entry Courtyard Pool, which sits directly behind the main building, offers a calm and peaceful swimming experience. Not too far away, the Beach Pool overlooks Seven Seas Lagoon, complete with its 181-foot-long waterslide and cascading waterfalls. A water playground perfect for younger tadpoles sits right next to the Beach Pool.

Other recreational activities around the resort include motorized boat rentals, fireworks cruises, Movies Under the Stars, an arcade room, basketball, jogging and campfire activities. We even caught “The Princess and the Frog” during the outdoor movie night (it's like they knew their audience! Ribbit!).

For other evening entertainment, the Electrical Water Pageant sails by the shoreline of the resort, giving guests spectacular views of the nighttime water parade. For a real treat, you can watch Magic Kingdom's nighttime spectacular from the resort! Disney even plays the soundtrack so you can sing along. Plus, it was a much easier walk to our beds after a long day at the parks.

Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa - EPCOT monorail passing by Spaceship Earth

Some of the perks of staying on-site include the ability to book advance dining reservations for your length of stay 60 days in advance of check-in, early booking of Lightning Lane selections and easy access to Disney World's complimentary transportation options.

Enjoy even more time in the parks with Early Theme Park Entry, allowing hotel guests an additional 30 minutes before the parks open to the public. Plus, Disney World hotel guests get free water park access on their arrival day through summer 2026! Exclusive to deluxe and deluxe villa guests, Disney World also offers Extended Evening Hours on select nights in select theme parks — a great way to enjoy lower crowds!

Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa also provides the following amenities:

  • Room service
  • ATM and banking service
  • Bell services
  • Business center
  • Laundry and dry cleaning services
  • Mail services
  • Complimentary self-parking (Valet parking: $42 per night)

Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa — M. Mouse Mercantile shop

If you’re looking for a last-minute souvenir, you have plenty of options at the Grand Floridian. Enter the house of the mouse at M. Mouse Mercantile for the best Mickey merchandise. Sandy Cove Gifts and Sundries is your one-stop shop for any gourmet gifts, snacks, fine chocolates, hotel merchandise and sundry items.

Curiouser Clothiers offers men’s and women’s designer clothing, along with specialty Disney items. Visit Basin White for any luxury bath and beauty products. Though not open at this time, the newest Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique location, which transforms young tadpoles into princesses and knights, is located on the second floor of the main building. However, a Disney PhotoPass Studio is available on the second floor, available at no extra cost!

Dining at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa

The resort offers a grand lineup of dining options, ranging from pool bars and lounges to prestigious fine-dining establishments. If you are not staying at the Grand Floridian but have a dining reservation and plan to park at the resort, security may direct you to a parking lot across the street for self-parking (or you can opt for valet parking).

Cast members are usually available with golf carts for transportation, but we recommend arriving 10-15 minutes early for your reservation to account for this extra time. Self-parking is limited to about three hours. Make sure your whole party arrives on time, as you will not be seated until everyone is there.

Victoria & Albert’s

Victoria & Albert’s is a unique fine-dining experience unlike any other. For starters, the restaurant has received the prestigious AAA Five Diamond Award every year since 2000, as well as the Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star Award and a Michelin Star. Guests are treated to a seven-to-10-course Chef’s Degustation Menu that changes seasonally and may even vary daily. Whether you eat in The Dining Room, The Chef’s Table or the private Queen Victoria’s Room, prepare for world-class service and an exquisite culinary adventure. Keep in mind that there is a formal dress code and a minimum age requirement of 10 years old.

Citricos 

Upon reopening in July 2021, Citricos debuted a new look inspired by "Mary Poppins." This Signature Dining experience features Mediterranean-style dishes and an award-winning, international wine list. Fresh, seasonal ingredients contribute to frequent menu changes, which include Togarashi-spiced Cobia and Roulade of Chicken. Citricos also has a lounge where you can order international wines, cocktails, artisanal beers and seasonal tapas.

1900 Park Fare

Join your favorite Disney characters for breakfast or dinner buffet at 1900 Park Fare. This character dining location offers the opportunity to dine with rare characters! At either mealtime, you'll meet with Tiana (in her Bayou Adventure pantsuit, of course!), Cinderella, Mirabel and Aladdin in his regal Prince Ali outfit. Together, you'll make wishes and be inspired to believe in the magic of making your dreams come true with a wish-making celebration, hosted by the characters and narrated by Jiminy Cricket.

The breakfast buffet includes Mickey-shaped waffles, a carving station, a variety of egg dishes, cheesy potatoes and more. We can’t get enough of the signature Floridian Strawberry Soup! For dinner, the menu switches up to include Tiana's famous gumbo, seafood, salad, beef and chicken, plus pizza and macaroni and cheese for the tadpoles.

Don't forget to look up! Twelve stunning art pieces featuring classic Disney characters making their wishes are showcased around the dining room, as well as Big Bertha; the turn-of-the-century organ from France. Both provide a beautiful backdrop to this dreamy character dining venue.

Narcoossee’s

Enjoy coastal cuisine at this waterfront Signature Dining restaurant, offering panoramic views of Seven Seas Lagoon. In 2023, Narcoossee’s received an enhanced interior and refreshed menu celebrating "land and sea." Enjoy a spectacular selection of fresh seafood, steak and other scrumptious entrees. Top off dinner with desserts such as Almond-crusted Cheesecake and Key Lime Pie. Keep in mind there is a suggested dress code and certain clothing items (tank tops, swimsuits, cut-offs, etc.) are not permitted in the dining room.

Grand Floridian Cafe

The Grand Floridian Cafe is a more casual table-service restaurant that’s open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Begin the day with a mix of breakfast and lunch offerings, which include the Miso-glazed Salmon, Traditional Eggs Benedict and Seasonal Buttermilk Pancakes.

Some menu items reappear on the dinner menu, along with Buttermilk-fried Chicken and Cajun Pasta with Shrimp. It’s typically easy to snag an advance dining reservation only a few days in advance.

Gasparilla Island Grill

Pick up a casual meal at the resort’s main quick-service restaurant any time of the day since Gasparilla Island Grill serves breakfast, lunch and dinner, as well as late dining. Start your day off with a breakfast platter or classic Mickey waffles, plus sides of eggs, grits and bacon.

Lunch and dinner share similar options, including a variety of pizzas, burgers, and sandwiches. We highly recommend the Caprese sandwich with a side of fries — yum! For anyone participating in a runDisney event, they even offer marathon exclusives, which include a bagel, banana, peanut butter, breakfast bar and bottled water.

We recommend mobile ordering while you’re still in your room. Then, hit the “Prepare My Order” button as you head to the restaurant if ordering at peak dining time.

Enchanted Rose

Enchanted Rose serves up sophisticated appetizers and cocktails. Themed after “Beauty and the Beast,” the golden chandelier hanging above the bar takes inspiration from Belle’s iconic ball gown. Enjoy your drink while sitting at a table or on a couch in the Library. If you look closely, you may spot Mrs. Potts, Lumiere and Cogsworth!

As soon as you walk into the Garden Room, you’ll see the rich emerald colors and the Enchanted Forest artwork on the wall. You can also catch some fresh air out on the outdoor patio.

The Perch 

Open as of Nov. 10, 2025, this brand-new lobby bar takes inspiration from the lobby's iconic birdcage and pays tribute to the hotel's Victorian roots with intricate woodwork, stained glass and herringbone tile. The light menu features champagne, wine, beer, two signature cocktails — the Coffee Rum Sazerac and the Floridian 75 — and a nonalcoholic Rosemary Cooler.

Garden View Lounge (Now open!)

You’re late, you’re late, for a very important date! The Garden View Lounge – Tea Experience at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa has reopened as of March 19, with whimsy nods to "Alice in Wonderland." This is a British-style afternoon tea with Disney theming and treats throughout. You’ll enjoy a selection of teas along with a tiered tray filled with savory bites and sweet treats. There are additional add-ons such as a cheese plate (we highly recommend!), caviar service and champagne. There’s also a children’s tea for ages 3 to 9.

Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa — Garden View Lounge Tea Experience

Advance reservations are required, and this experience is only offered on select days, which makes it even more in demand. You can always check for walk-up availability in case of cancellations, but it’s not something to rely on, especially while it’s so popular. Reservations can be made on the Walt Disney World website or in the My Disney Experience app. The price is per person and is currently $79 for adults and $49 for children. Full payment (including tax and gratuity) is due when you book.

Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa — Tea experience treat tower

There is a strict 24-hour cancellation policy. If you cancel less than a day before or don't make your reservation, you’ll be charged the full amount. Keep in mind that you can’t make changes after booking, so double-check your plans. There is a dress code, so wear something a little nicer to match the atmosphere (no swimwear). And, if you have food allergies or dietary needs, note those on the reservation when booking. Pinky fingers up!

Beaches Pool Bar & Grill

Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa — Beaches Pool Bar and Grill

Need a bite to eat or a cocktail to sip by the pool? Beaches Pool Bar & Grill has a wide selection of food and drinks. If you’re hungry, dive deep into shrimp sliders, chicken strips, an artisanal burger and an island chicken Caesar salad.

Kids meals, sides and desserts are available too! Tadpoles can enjoy nonalcoholic drinks such as hot cocoa, lemonade and smoothies, while the adult frogs may choose from a variety of specialty cocktails, beer, wine and sangria. Note that food is available until 6 p.m.

Courtyard Pool Bar

The Courtyard Pool Bar has a drink menu similar to the Beaches Pool Bar. At this poolside bar, you can get sandwiches or a hot dog, along with salads and pretzels with hummus as sides.

The Villas at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort

The Villas at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa is a standalone Disney Vacation Club Resort that shares the Grand Floridian's theme. It’s located right next to the Senses Spa and Disney’s Wedding Pavilion, with its own lobby and parking area. (Check out the "Mary Poppins"-themed penguin fountain!) Because of its close proximity, guests can still take full advantage of everything that the Grand Floridian has to offer. The Big Pine Key building has also been converted into DVC Villas.

This DVC Resort offers multi-bedroom villas that feature fully equipped kitchens, living and dining areas, private bedrooms and more, which are great options for larger families or extended stays. For smaller parties and shorter vacations, the Deluxe Studio comes with a kitchenette and sleeps up to five people with a queen-size bed, a queen-size sleeper sofa and a single pull-down bed.

What to Consider Before Staying at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort

The resort's prime location, luxurious amenities and overall atmosphere make Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa an excellent choice. You're right next door to Magic Kingdom, which is only a hop, skip and jump away. The monorail also allows you to get to the other nearby resorts and EPCOT just as easily.

The Grand Floridian offers a plethora of dining options that you won't even have to leave the resort for (and some are the most elegant and prestigious on Walt Disney World property). While it's one of the nicest and most upscale Disney hotels, it still remains family-friendly with several character dining opportunities, a kiddie pool and an arcade room.

On the flip side, it is a deluxe resort and typically the most expensive on property. You'll want to consider whether it fits your family's needs and budget. Either way, be sure to take the time to visit this elegant resort!

Have you stayed at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa? Did we miss any highlights? Be sure to drop us a note in the comments below!

Related: How to Pick the Best Disney Deluxe Resort for Your Family

All of the Benefits of Staying at a Walt Disney World Resort Hotel

Romantic Things to Do at Disney World All Year Long

Hoppy planning!

Written and reviewed by the Undercover Tourist Content Team
View Comments

Comments

Mar 12, 2025 at 3:25 p.m.
Jane Dew Says...

Staying for 5 nights in August for the first time. Dined there many times whilst at other Disney resorts but my wish is finally coming true.

Reply
Mar 12, 2025 at 3:29 p.m.
FrogBlog Says...

So frogciting, Jane! Have a magical time :)

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Reply
Aug 27, 2024 at 8:38 a.m.
Monica Nelson Says...

Do you know if you can hear water lapping from the lagoon when you stay in a Grand Floridian villas ground floor room(like 9119)?

Reply
Aug 30, 2024 at 11:29 a.m.
FrogBlog Says...

Hi Monica!

We don't have personal experience staying at a room close enough to the water (we've had views of the quiet pool area and a top floor room previously), but we'll open this up to our froggy friends out there, so feel free to chime in if you have any experience!

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Reply
Apr 2, 2024 at 7:29 p.m.
Sara Says...

My husband and I are staying one day/night this coming weekend, and I'm so excited! I'm probably going to burst into tears as soon as we arrive. :')

Reply
Apr 2, 2024 at 5:40 p.m.
FrogBlog Says...

Awww, we're SO frogcited for you! Have a magical time, Sara :)

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Reply
Nov 16, 2021 at 1:48 p.m.
Camille Tate Says...

Do you know when the Tea room is opening

Reply
Nov 16, 2021 at 8:42 a.m.
FrogBlog Says...

Hi Camille!

We have not heard anything just yet, but we'll update this guide as soon as we do!

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Reply

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