Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa

BREAKING: New Security Measures at Walt Disney World Hotels, “Do Not Disturb” Room Signs Being Removed

WDWNT on May 28, 2017

Beginning with the three monorail resorts near the Magic Kingdom, Walt Disney World Resort Hotels will no longer provide guests with “Do Not Disturb” signs to put on their doors. The signs will be replaced with “Room Occupied” signs that will notify cast members that guests are in the rooms. However, these guests will be “disturbed” at some point, as it will now be required that a Disney employee enter their hotel room at least once a day to ensure guest safety.

If you choose to forgo housekeeping on a given day, the Disney terms of service state that “the hotel and its staff reserve the right to enter your room for any purposes including, but not limited to, performing maintenance and repairs or checking on the safety and security of guests and property.” Disney states that cast members will give reasonable notice prior to entering by knocking and announcing that they will enter.

The popular theory is that this is a response to the incident that happened in Vegas earlier this year. The monorail resorts are quite tall and offer similar vantage points of crowded guest areas, as well as Walt Disney World transportation such as monorails, buses, and watercraft. Disney is not publicly stating why they are making the change though.

Guests at the Grand Floridian, Polynesian, and Contemporary Resorts should find a paper in their rooms today noting the change. These changes are expected to roll out to other Walt Disney World Resort Hotels in the coming weeks.

RUMOR: Magic Kingdom Security to be Restructured, Screening for Most Moving to TTC and Resort Hotels

WDWNT on March 27, 2017

It seems as though Disney may be trying to create a better guest flow at the entrance of the Magic Kingdom by moving the security perimeter of the park further out.

If all goes according to rumored plans, guests parking at the Transportation and Ticket Center will go through security bag check and metal detectors after they exit the parking lot trams, but before the board any monorails or a ferryboat to the park. These guests will then be able to walk directly to the Magic Kingdom turnstiles (or touch points as the kids call them these days) once disembarking at the park’s monorail station or ferryboat dock.

Supposedly, this would lead to security screening areas being added at the various monorail platforms at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, and Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. Guests taking a bus or resort launch to the Magic Kingdom would still be screened just outside of the park at new checkpoints. Guests walking over from Disney’s Contemporary Resort on the small walkway between the hotel and the Magic Kingdom will also have their own checkpoint (which is already being done at select times of the day).

Disney has not yet made any comment about the changes, so they are simply in the realm of rumor for now. However, recent construction work being conducted at the Transportation and Ticket Center and at the Magic Kingdom park entrance are pointing towards the change. It is unknown when the changes would take place, if they ever do materialize.

What do you think? Would this be a positive change in your opinion?

RUMOR: Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort to Be Gutted to Become Modern Luxury Resort

WDWNT on February 6, 2017

This rumor is out there, but seems to be picking up some steam…

Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa has remained for the most part the same since 1988, with the exception of new lobby floor installed in the last decade.

It appears Chairman of Disney Parks and Resorts Bob Chapek is not a big fan of the current Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa, Walt Disney World’s flagship hotel and often most expensive per night. Similar to the recently initiated shakeup in housekeeping for Disney World, Chapek feels as if the Four Seasons Resort Orlando is putting them to shame when it comes to what a luxury resort on-property should be. So, what’s the solution? To completely gut the 28-year-old Magic Kingdom area resort, of course.

A room at the Four Seasons Resort Orlando, Walt Disney World

Obviously, many executives at Walt Disney World are trying to talk Chapek out of this massive remodeling as the Grand Floridian makes quite a bit of money and is often well-liked by those who stay there. One of the proposed alternate plans would involve constructing a new flagship hotel for Walt Disney World just north of the Transportation and Ticket Center. Reportedly, they have had no luck in changing his mind as of yet and Chapek is still moving full speed ahead with his plan.

Should it come to fruition, all of the rooms and the lobby of the resort will be completely gutted and rebuilt with a more modern-luxury theme, perhaps along the lines of the new hotel being constructed at the Disneyland Resort.

As it stands now, this project may not even be in the design phase as of yet, but it seems as if it will come to fruition should Chapek remain at helm of Parks and Resorts for the foreseeable future.

Disney Introducing Monorail Resort Restaurant-Hopping Experience, “Highway in the Sky Dine Around”

WDWNT on November 29, 2016

Walt Disney World has just announced a new dinner experience that will involve monorail hotel hopping and much more around the “Monorail Resorts” near the Magic Kingdom:

Join us for a progressive dinner unlike any other—with sumptuous offerings at 3 Disney Resort hotels.

Your Dine Around adventure begins at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, where you’ll check in at The Wave… of American Flavors restaurant. Relax and mingle with your fellow diners, enjoying a welcoming appetizer and specialty cocktail before setting off on your epicurean odyssey. Bon voyage and bon appétit!

First stop: Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort—where you’ll feel as if you’ve arrived in a far-flung tropical paradise. Celebrate the spirit of the South Pacific and luxuriate in the charm of this exotic retreat, with an enticing variety of island-inspired libations and appetizers.

Then it’s time for a change of scene and cuisine—as the monorail transports you a world away: to the opulent Victorian-style Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. Step inside and step back into a bygone era of elegance and gracious hospitality. You’ll be escorted to the award-winning Cítricos restaurant where we invite you to settle in amid the refined ambience as you’re treated to a special Chef’s main course selection. Afterward, gather in the splendidly appointed lobby to sip champagne and savor a selection of artisanal cheeses.

Board the monorail once more to return to Disney’s Contemporary Resort for the culmination of your evening. Here, you and your Dine Around companions will retire to a private patio to enjoy an indulgent assortment of desserts, cordials and coffee. From this exclusive location, watch in wonder as the Wishes nighttime spectacular fireworks light up the night over Cinderella Castle—a musical, magical grand finale to your one-of-a-kind dining adventure.

-Price: $150 per person plus tax; gratuity included.
-The Highway in the Sky Dine Around is offered select Tuesday, Friday and Saturday evenings.
-Reservations must be canceled at least 24 hours in advance to avoid forfeiting the full price of the experience.
-Check-in takes place at The Wave… of American Flavors at Disney’s Contemporary Resort at the time of your reservation. Please arrive 15 minutes ahead of check-in time.
-Guests must be 21 years of age or older to consume alcoholic beverages. A valid form of government identification will be required to verify your age.
-Please alert the host at check-in regarding food allergies. Wherever possible, alternative dining selections will be offered.
-Disney dining plan entitlements may not be redeemed for this event.
-Discounts and promotions are not valid for this event.

Dining experience is subject to change; fireworks experience is subject to change or cancellation without notice.

The event is bering offered starting December 2nd, 2016 and is being offered on Fridays, Saturdays, and Tuesdays starting at 6:45pm through March. It can be booked online here. The event will close the 4th floor patio at the Contemporary to other guests on those evenings.

Special New Year’s 2017 Events Around Walt Disney World Now Available for Booking

WDWNT on November 8, 2016

From a gala dine-around at California Grill high atop Disney’s Contemporary Resort to celebrations around World Showcase at Epcot and waterfront at Narcoossee’s at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, there are lots of ways for you to ring in the New Year at Walt Disney World Resort.

New Year’s Eve at Walt Disney World

California Grill New Year’s Eve Dinner – With spectacular views of the Magic Kingdom Park, this dine-around style gala features cooking stations throughout the restaurant. Plus, a host of favorite Disney Characters will make appearances.

The event takes place from 7:30 p.m.-midnight. The price is $650 per person.

Victoria & Albert’s New Year’s Eve Dinner – A luxurious evening in this AAA Five Diamond restaurant features gracious “butler-style” service, live harp music and personalized menus to remember the special evening. Seatings are available between 6-7:45 p.m. The price is $600 per person.

New Year’s Eve at Epcot World ShowPlace –This all-you-care-to-eat extravaganza is a real family affair featuring photo ops with fun vignettes for posing (but no Disney Characters) and Disney tunes. Seatings are available from 3-9 p.m. The cost is $72.90 for adults and $44.38 for children (ages 3-11). And, later in the evening, you can head out to the promenade for fireworks over World Showcase Lagoon to welcome 2017.

Monsieur Paul New Year’s Eve Dinner – In the elegant upstairs dining room at the France pavilion at Epcot, you can feast on a four-course, prix fixe menu of classical French cuisine. Six seatings are available on New Year’s Eve: 11:45 a.m., Noon, 2:15 p.m., 2:45 p.m., 5:45 p.m. and 6:15 p.m. The price is $110.81. Plus, a special late-night dinner with two seatings are available at 8:45p.m. and 9:45p.m. The price is $305.03.

Narcoossee’s New Year’s Eve Dinner – Located at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, this generous four-course menu is offered with seatings between 5 and 5:45 p.m. A five-course menu is offered with seating from 8:30-9:25 p.m. for a late-night celebration with live music. The first seating $150 for adults and $70 for children ages 3-9. The second seating is $255 for adults and $95 for children ages 3-9.

Book your Clients today via Disneyworld.com/Dine or by calling 407-WDW-DINE.

Paid Private Water Taxi Service Now Available at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort

WDWNT on November 8, 2016

Starting today, guests can book a private water taxi service from Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa.

Private watercraft service now be offered to and from Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa

The Walt Disney World Resort has always offered complimentary watercraft service to and from the resort, but will now offer an additional paid program. The service departs from the Grand Floridian and can be used by guests traveling to any destinations around the Seven Seas Lagoon. It is however warned that private return service from the Magic Kingdom may not be available due to the regular boat traffic in that area.

The service can accommodate up to 10 passengers per boat and costs $20 each way per family. The private experience is available throughout the day, based on availability. Reservations can be made by calling the recreation team at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort between 8AM and 6PM at 321-318-8212.

Gasparilla Island Grill at Grand Floridian To Undergo Lengthy Refurbishment Once Again

WDWNT on October 24, 2016

The Gasparilla Island Grill, despite having just been completely remodeled in late 2012, will be undergoing another multi-month closure soon.

Gasparilla Island Grill at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa

Gasparilla Island Grill will be closed October 17th through mid-December 2016.

To accommodate guests, Grab ‘N’ Go meals will be available at Mizner’s starting at 7am. Mizner’s will return to its regular menu from 6pm till midnight.

The Beaches Pool Bar and Grill will offer service from 6AM until 9PM during this period. The Grand Floridian Cafe will also offer a “To Go” menu during the refurbishment.

Garden View Champagne and Wine Lounge Coming to Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort

WDWNT on October 14, 2016

At Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa for a limited time, guests can enjoy the Garden View Lounge while enjoying from a selection of champagne and wine. A limited small plate menu includes items such as caviar, charcuterie, and seafood. This new dining experience will soft open on October 13, 2016. The Garden View Lounge will be available to Guests from 7-10 p.m.

Garden View Champagne and Wine Lounge at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort

The Garden View Champagne & Wine Lounge officially opens Friday, October 14 and will operate nightly from 7-10 p.m. through December 2016. Reservations are not available as of yet, so seating is available only on a first come first serve basis.

Disney Continues Installation of Monorail Automation Systems, Service Changes in February/March 2015

WDWNT on January 29, 2015

Monorail maintenance has been a fairly frequent thing the last few years as Walt Disney World has been testing and installing a possible automated system of running the Monorails. More infrastructure for the system will be installed over the next few months, leading to following Monorail service changes:

From 11 AM to 7 PM on 2/3-5, 2/9-12, 2/23-26, and March 2-5, the resort Monorail beam will take guests between Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa, and the Magic Kingdom. The express beam will offer a third stop on these days, stopping at Disney’s Contemporary Resort between the Transportation and Ticket Center. Busses to Epcot will be offered at all of the Monorail Resorts during this time.

Breakfast & Brunch with the Disney Princesses To Be Offered at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa

WDWNT on November 25, 2014

Beginning January 8, 2015, the Disney princesses will welcome guests to Cítricos at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa while Disney spruces up Cinderella’s Royal Table in Magic Kingdom Park. Reservations are available for Walt Disney World Passholders and Disney Vacation Club Members beginning December 3.

Reservations open to all guests on December 4.

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Cinderella will be there to greet guests as they arrive, and the Disney princesses will visit each table for photos and autographs during the dining experience. Diners also can participate in an interactive “Magical Wishing Ceremony” with Cinderella and the Disney Princesses, with “wishing wands” and “wishing swords” for little ones.

Breakfast and brunch hours are 8 a.m.-2:20 p.m., and cost is $49.99; $31.99 ages 3-9. The experience is on the Disney Dining Plan (2 entitlements). For reservations call 407-WDW-DINE407-WDW-DINE.

Online reservations and information will be available at a later date.

Here is the menu:

Cinderella’s Dining at Cítricos
Breakfast and Brunch with the Disney Princesses

Adult Menu

APPETIZERS OF THE COURT

Bakery Basket

Choice of One:

Garden Salad–Artisanal Greens, Endive, Roasted Carrots, Sugar Snap Peas, and
Marcona Almonds with Riesling Vinaigrette

Assorted Fresh Fruits

ENTRÉES ROYALE

Choice of One:

Traditional Breakfast–Scrambled Eggs, Sausage, Bacon, and Twice-cooked Breakfast Potatoes

Scrambled Egg Whites, Hot Ten-Grain Cereal, Greek Yogurt topped with Granola,
Whole-Grain Bread, and Fresh Fruit

Steak and Slow-Poached Eggs with Twice-cooked Breakfast Potatoes and Wilted Spinach

Grilled Ham and Biscuit, Slow Poached Eggs topped with Sausage Gravy

Market-inspired Fish with Angel Hair Pasta, and Aromatic Tomato Sauce

Florida Shrimp with Creamy Cheddar Cheese and Smoked Bacon Grits

DESSERT TRIO

Beverages included:

Unlimited Coffee (regular/decaf), Iced Tea (regular/decaf),
Fountain Beverages, and Juices (Apple/Orange/Tomato)
One Specialty Beverage

Children’s Menu

APPETIZERS
Choice of One

Bite-size Cheddar Cheese and Grapes

Garden Salad
Fat-free Ranch Dressing

ENTRÉES
Choice of One

Turkey Pot Pie
Turkey Pot Pie topped with a Cheese Biscuit

Roasted Chicken Leg
Roasted Chicken Leg with Brown Rice Pilaf and Broccolini

Children’s Scrambled Eggs

Mickey-shaped Waffles

Steak
served with Mashed Potatoes and Sweet Corn

DESSERT TRIO

Beverages included:

Milk and Skim Milk
Fountain Beverages
Juices: Orange/Apple/Tomato
One Specialty Beverage

Specialty Beverage Selections

Adult Specialty Beverage Selection

Choice of One

Mimosa
Champagne
Seasoned & Spiced Tomato Juice with Vodka
Cappuccino
Latte
Espresso
Glass of Wine

Children’s Specialty Beverage Selection

Choice of One served in a Specialty Cup

Tink Drink
Lemonade, Orange Juice and Sprite

Strawberry Smoothie

(Menu subject to change without notice)

Cinderella’s Royal Table is expected to reopen in March.

Tag: Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa