disney yacht club vs grand floridian

Disney Resorts Planning Tips

Disney’s grand floridian resort vs disney’s yacht club resort – which disney deluxe resort is best.

With twenty-two Disney Resort hotels to choose from when visiting the Walt Disney World Resort, you have quite a decision regarding accommodation. Disney hotels place you right in the heart of the magic. When you stay in Lake Buena Vista, you are guaranteed the Disney experience in every aspect of your Disney vacation .

If you are considering staying in a Disney Deluxe Resort, you have the most hotels to choose from. Half of the Disney hotels fit the Deluxe Resort category, meaning you have eleven to choose from. Some Disney Resorts are Disney Vacation Club Resorts, while others have dedicated areas for Disney Vacation Club Members. The Disney Deluxe Resorts are:

• Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
• Contemporary Resort
• Polynesian Village Resort
• Beach Club Resort
• Yacht Club Resort
• BoardWalk Inn
• Riviera Resort
• Animal Kingdom Lodge
• Wilderness Lodge
• Saratoga Springs
• Old Key West

But what if you’ve narrowed your choice of Disney hotel to two; Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa and Disney’s Yacht Club? How do you possibly choose between the two? Let’s look at each Resort in more detail. We aim to identify the best of the two Walt Disney World hotels when considering different things.

The Walt Disney Company knows how to theme everything. Disney hotels are no exception. While all Walt Disney World hotels are themed with style, the Deluxe Resorts undoubtedly have the best theming. Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Disney’s Beach Club Resort have a theme that exudes class and elegance.

Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort is a lavish hotel that perfectly combines modern sophistication and Victorian elegance. The Resort’s grand lobby has a classic feel, while the outdoor areas are shaded with palm trees, offering a nod to Palm Beach’s golden era. Expect polished marble floors, plush carpets, classic seating areas, and elegant floral pieces inside the hotel. Externally, stroll along the red-bricked paths alongside perfectly manicured lawns amongst the white and pink-roofed buildings.

The formal grace of New England inspires Disney’s Yacht Club Resort. The lobby is inviting yet intimate, with plush carpets, significant seating areas, and stylish nautical elements. Externally, Disney’s Yacht Club can be identified by the lighthouse in front of the Disney Resort. The light grey finish suits the Disney hotel perfectly and offers a beautiful backdrop to Crescent Lake.

Of the two Disney Deluxe Resorts, Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa takes the crown for theming. While we adore the beauty of Disney’s Yacht Club Resort, Disney’s Grand Floridian keeps us returning every Disney vacation. While we may not be Guests of the Resort, we love to stop by and spend time in the beautiful part of the Walt Disney World Resort.

Both of the Disney Deluxe Resorts have Disney Parks as their neighbor. Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa is located next to Magic Kingdom Park, making it easy for Guests to enjoy Early Theme Park Entry or Extended Evening Hours at the Disney theme park. However, being located close to the most northern part of the Walt Disney World Resort means you must travel for a little longer to get to Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park and Disney Springs.

While Disney’s Yacht Club doesn’t have Magic Kingdom as its neighbor, the Disney Resort has easy access to two Disney Parks. Disney’s Yacht Club is located across Crescent Lake from EPCOT World Showcase. Guests of the Disney Resort hotel also have easy access to Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Disney’s Yacht Club Resort is also centrally located in Lake Buena Vista. As such, you can expect to arrive at Magic Kingdom Park, Disney’s Animal Kingdom, or Disney Springs in less than ten minutes.

Disney’s Yacht Club is our preferred Disney hotel compared to Disney’s Grand Floridian when it comes to location. We enjoy its central location in Walt Disney World and its easy access to two Disney Parks.

Transportation

All of the Disney Deluxe Resorts have access to at least two modes of Disney transport, except Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge. Access to more than one mode of transportation limits the time Guests need to wait at bus stations.

As a Disney’s Yacht Club Resort Guest, you must use the Disney buses to access Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Magic Kingdom Park, the Disney water parks, and Disney Springs. While EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios are accessible by walking, Guests can also use the FriendShip Boats across Crescent Lake. Additionally, the Disney Skyliner is just a short walk away, providing easy access to Disney Resorts on the Skyliner route.

Meanwhile, Guests of Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa have access to three Walt Disney World transportation modes. If you plan on staying at the Disney hotel, you can use the Disney buses to travel to and from Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Disney Springs, and the Disney water parks. The Disney Monorail is recommended to travel to and from EPCOT, although buses may be available throughout the day. To get to Magic Kingdom Park, you can travel one stop on the Disney Monorail, walk the path along the Seven Seas Lagoon, or catch a boat.

Using all of the modes of Disney transport is part of the Disney experience in Lake Buena Vista. Therefore, Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort is the winner regarding transportation. We love the variety available to you as a Guest of the Disney Deluxe Resort.

Guest Rooms

As a Disney Deluxe Resort, Guest rooms in Disney’s Grand Floridian and Disney’s Yacht Club Resorts are spacious, with luxury elements, including a balcony. 

The nautical theme of Disney’s Yacht Club carries through into each Guest room. Expect neutral and blue colors throughout the room, with artwork featuring boats and curtains featuring a constellation pattern. There are several views to choose from when staying in the Disney Resort, including a water view across Crescent Lake, a garden or woods view, and a standard view. Rooms with Club Level access are also available to book for your stay. You can enjoy access to the Regatta Club lounge, where beverages and snacks are available throughout the day. 

Choosing to stay at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort offers you a variety of Guest rooms. Some of the Guest rooms offer a traditional and calming theme. Others have recently been refurbished and offer modern, stylish decor that pays homage to  Mary Poppins  (1964) and  Mary Poppins Returns  (2018). If you’re looking for a standard Guest room, they are located in one of the outer buildings of the Resort. You can choose from a lagoon, garden, or theme park view.

Guest rooms and suites are also available, with access to Club Level. Staying in the main building of the Disney hotel is more expensive but provides access to the Royal Palm Club. Magic Kingdom Park and courtyard views are available from the main building. If you choose to stay in Club Level in one of the outer buildings of the Disney Resort, you will have access to Sugarloaf Club. 

The Villas at Disney’s Grand Floridian is part of the Disney Vacation Club. If you are looking for a little more space, with access to a kitchen, separate bedrooms, a living area, and more, you may consider staying at the Villas. The smaller rooms available are Studios, but there are also one- and two-bedroom villas and 3-bedroom grand villas available to stay in at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort. You can choose from standard, lagoon, lake, and theme park view rooms.

The variety of Guest rooms available at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa takes our preference over those at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort. We also adore the interior of the newly refurbished rooms at the Grand Floridian. 

Quick-Service Restaurants

The Market at Ale & Compass is the quick-service restaurant at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort. The Disney restaurant is open throughout the day, from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m., serving various meals, snacks, and beverages. The Walt Disney World Resort hotel Guests also have easy access to the Beach Club Marketplace, the quick-service restaurant at Disney’s Beach Club Resort. Additionally, during the day, a selection of appetizers, entrees, and salads are served at Hurricane Hanna’s Waterside Bar and Grill. The location of Disney’s Yacht Club provides easy access to the quick-service restaurants at Disney’s BoardWalk Inn and the Walt Disney World Swan & Dolphin Resorts, which are just a short walk away.

Guests of Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort can dine at Gasparilla Island Grill . Open from 6 a.m. through 12 a.m., breakfast, lunch, dinner, and late-night snacks are available. Additional quick-service locations are Beaches Pool Bar & Grill and Courtyard Pool Bar & Grill. Guests can order a selection of entrees, sides, and desserts from both locations throughout the day. In Disney’s Polynesian Village and Disney’s Contemporary Resorts , quick-service restaurants are also located nearby. You may enjoy a short walk to either Disney hotel. Alternatively, you can use the Disney Monorail to travel between the Resorts. 

The quick-service options at Disney’s Yacht Club are great, and the easy access to other Disney Resorts makes it a strong contender. However, Disney’s Grand Floridian is the winner. Gasparilla Island Grill has some exceptional entrees that can be enjoyed from the tranquil marina. Capt. Cook’s at Disney’s Polynesian Village is also nearby, offering fantastic menu items. 

Full-Service Restaurants

Both Disney Resort hotels have a selection of full-service restaurants to dine at. 

Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort has the following full-service restaurants:

• Citrico’s – a fine dining experience in a whimsical restaurant inspired by  Mary Poppins Returns .

• Narcoossee’s – a fine dining experience on the waterfront, serving fresh seafood.
• Victoria & Albert’s – the most exquisite restaurant on Disney property. If you want to celebrate a special event in style, this is the place to dine.
• Grand Floridian Cafe – enjoy Blunch or dinner in an elegant yet relaxed restaurant.
• Enchanted Rose – sip on cocktails while eating unique appetizers in a lounge area inspired by  Beauty and the Beast (2017)

Meanwhile, Disney’s Yacht Club Resort has the following full-service restaurants available:

• Ale & Compass – enjoy gastropub-inspired breakfast and dinner in a cozy setting. 

• Cape May Cafe – dine with Disney characters while enjoying a buffet breakfast. During the evening, the buffet serves up signature turf and seafood dishes.
• Beaches & Cream Soda Shop – enjoy a 50’s-themed diner that serves up old-fashioned ice cream sundaes and hot food items.

• Yachtsman Steakhouse – the New England-style steakhouse serves steak, seafood, and drinks in the signature restaurant.

Both Disney Resort hotels have easy access to other Resorts, providing access to additional Disney restaurants. 

For fine dining, Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort is the best of the two Disney Resorts. However, we prefer Disney’s Yacht Club Resort for more affordable full-service dining. 

You have two pool areas to enjoy when staying at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. The Courtyard Pool offers a calm and peaceful experience. Relax on a sun lounger, or dip in the zero-entry pool. Nearby there’s also a whirlpool spa to relax in. Alternatively, stop by the Beach Pool. Take a ride down the waterslide, chill out underneath the cascading waterfalls, and enjoy views of Seven Seas Lagoon. Your little ones can have fun in the nearby Mad Hatter aquatic play area.

If you plan on staying at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort , you can enjoy four pool areas. Three leisure pools are located around Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club Resorts. But the best pool area to enjoy is Stormalong Bay. Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club Resorts Guests have exclusive access to a three-acre water park. The sand-bottomed pool includes a lazy river, water slide, whirlpool spas, and more. You want to make sure to take advantage of this incredible pool area!

Stormalong Bay is enough for Disney’s Yacht Club to take the crown in terms of the pool area. When staying at the Disney Resort, make plans to spend time there. You won’t be disappointed!

Overall Verdict

So where should you stay when deciding between Disney’s Yacht Club and Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort? You are guaranteed a magical Disney vacation at whatever Resort hotel you choose. You may find that Disney’s Yacht Club may be slightly cheaper, depending on the time of year you will be visiting.

Based on our verdicts here, Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa is our choice of Disney Deluxe Resort. However, the cost or availability of rooms may encourage you to book Disney’s Yacht Club instead.

Which of the two Disney Resorts will you choose for your next Disney vacation?

Victoria Mills

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Theme parks, disney cruise line – what you need to know, cruise line ships, disney private islands, recent walt disney world, recent disneyland, disney world reviews, other park reviews, recent reviews, allears style, newsletter home, which resort has the best club level in disney world.

Are you considering staying in a Club Level room during your Disney World vacation? Or perhaps you’d just like to learn a little more about this concierge option available at select Disney World Resort hotels ?

Well, there may be more factors to consider than you realize to choose the Club Level that’s right for you. (And if you’re curious to learn whether Club Level itself is a good choice for your group to begin with, we dive into that topic here .) Today we’re chatting about which Resort has the BEST Club Level in Disney World. Are you ready?

We are, too! But first things first: let’s give a brief overview of Club Levels at Disney World hotels. Club Level (also called Concierge Club Level) is a room category that offers special perks and accommodations . For instance, Club Level guests have access to an exclusive lounge that offers light meals like continental breakfast, snacks throughout the day, and even evening desserts and cocktail hours. (Cheers!)

Additionally, Club Level guests receive special planning help prior to their visit through Disney Signature Services, as well as a separate dedicated Concierge Desk onsite to help during their stay. Concierge Cast Members are typically available from 7AM to 10PM each day (as well as the time leading up to your vacation). Cast Members can assist with park tickets, advance dining reservations, and many more recommendations that can help throughout your vacation.

So, those are the basics! Now let’s explore WHICH Resort Club Level option is the BEST… or simply the best for YOU! Let’s start by going down the list of options, and then we’ll cover a few factors to consider in your decision.

Disney World Resort Hotels with Club Levels

Atrium club level in disney’s contemporary resort (deluxe resort).

Disney’s Contemporary Resort is mere steps away from Magic Kingdom , and is one of three hotels on the Monorail Loop. The vibe is bright and modern, while guests will also enjoy classic Disney touches including a mural by legendary Disney artist Mary Blair, and recently refurbished guest rooms themed to The Incredibles .

The Contemporary offers Club Level Rooms on the 12th and 14th Floor of the Resort’s Tower, with the 14th floor housing Suites. The 12th floor Atrium Club Concierge and the 14th floor Tower Club Concierge offer the same guest services and food items.

Readers have provided reviews of the Contemporary Club Level which you can read here , but we’re shining a spotlight on a few quotes below:

“Because we were staying Club Level, we were able to walk down and watch the fireworks on the balcony at night and man were the views spectacular! Eating breakfast on the club level balcony while watching the ferry and monorail come and go, as well as admire Cinderella Castle can’t be beat. T he food provided was delicious and my family and I especially enjoyed the desserts provided during the fireworks.”

“The staff could not have been more wonderful and attentive… The snacks were not as nice as at some of the other club levels where we have stayed, but they were adequate.”

Kilimanjaro Club Level in Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge (Deluxe Resort)

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge is nearest to Disney’s Animal Kingdom park . The most unique thing about this remarkable Resort is that there are over 200 animals that LIVE on the Savannas of the Lodge!

The Kilimanjaro Club Level is on the 6th floor of the Resort’s Jambo House, and while it is spacious and lovely, the Lounge itself does not offer a view of the Savanna (where the animals can be seen).

If you have dined at Boma or Jiko — The Cooking Place , you may be thrilled to know that the Lounge offers many bites like those you’d enjoy at those restaurants! A selection of South African wines is also available to try.

You can find reviews from AllEars readers for the Kilimanjaro Club Level Lounge here , and we’ve provided a few quotes below:

“It takes a bit of a walk to get to the top floor for refreshments and free food, even if you are close to the elevators on the lower levels.”

“The food offerings, except breakfast, shouldn’t be viewed as meal replacements but for a very light eater you can eat enough to not want a lunch or heavy dinner. The offerings in the evening tie into the theme of the resort and are a great way to try something you might not otherwise eat.”

“There were hot options at breakfast and cocktail hour. The staff were very helpful with providing food for our daughter with a food allergy. Everyone was very helpful in the lounge. I do wish the club level rooms were closer to the club area.”

King Kamehameha Club Level in Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort (Deluxe Resort)

The “Spirit of ALOHA” awaits at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort ! This South Island-inspired Resort is on the Magic Kingdom Monorail Loop and sits on the shores of Seven Seas Lagoon.

The Club level rooms at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort are located in the Hawaii and Tonga buildings, and the private lounge is on the second floor of the Hawaii building.

A HUGE bonus to the lounge is that it offers fantastic views of Cinderella Castle and the Magic Kingdom fireworks (and the music for the fireworks is played on speakers inside the lounge during the show).

Here’s some of what AllEars readers had to share in their reviews of the Polynesian’s Club Level :

“Lots of different kinds of food at each meal time and the alcoholic beverages were plentiful! I recommend the punch!! We had breakfast each day and enjoyed at least one other treat time or drink time each day. We were able to take back to our room or eat in the very nice lounge.”

“Since they built the bungalows on the beach, the views from Hawaii bldg rooms have been severely impacted, such that now only the third floor rooms have a true theme park view…. during the Magic Kingdom fireworks, the CM’s make it extra magical for all in the lounge by turning down the lights in the room and piping in the music, so we can watch AND hear the show…and it’s wonderful.”

“The concierge was always helpful, whether I needed something picked up from a park or printing out my boarding passes. Food in the club was plentiful and always tasty.”

Old Faithful Club Level in Disney’s Wilderness Lodge (Deluxe Resort)

The beauty of the Pacific Northwest and the legacy of great National Parks is celebrated at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge ! Though Wilderness Lodge is not a stop along the Monorail Loop, this Resort offers easy (and fun!) access to the Magic Kingdom by boat.

The Concierge rooms (all located on the seventh floor, along with the Club Level Lounge) offer a privacy balcony and the view will be either woods or courtyard.

Here are a few quotes from AllEars reader reviews :

“ The cast members at the club level are all top notch. Super helpful with answering any questions. Breakfast every day was great. Each day was a little different but there were always staples. The croissants were particularly great!”

“The lounge was welcoming with a stunning view of the lobby. The staff were extremely helpful and every time you passed a CM in the hallway, they smiled and said hello. We felt completely at home and very welcome indeed… The food was lovely, always plenty available with a fridge full of chilled drinks available too… The WL CL really know how to treat their guests, and it shows.”

Royal Palm Club Level in Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort (Deluxe Resort)

Disney’s Grand Floridian is Disney World’s flagship Resort! Presenting a turn-of-the-century Victorian theme, the Grand Floridian is on the Monorail Loop… and the very next stop is the Magic Kingdom .

All of the Club Level room (and about half of the suites) are located on the third, fourth, and fifth floors of the main building. The Lounge is located on the fourth floor. Unless you are staying in one of the Club Level rooms, you cannot get to the third, fourth, or fifth floors of the main building. Access is by private elevator only. (The Sugar Loaf building also offers full club-level service.)

AllEars readers had the following to share in our collection of reviews for Club Level at the Grand Floridian :

“We loved the club level perk of the food and beverages. The staff was not as friendly as I was expecting, and the eating area was always crowded.”

“After many stays at The Boardwalk in Concierge level and the Wilderness Lodge Concierge level I expected a lot more from Grand Floridian.”

“The private lounge was beautiful and the food and drinks plentiful.”

Stone Harbor Club Level in Disney’s Beach Club Resort (Deluxe Resort)

Disney’s Beach Club is styled after the New England seaside at the turn of the century and the seashore theme is evident throughout this bright and airy Resort, which also boasts a pool complex that’s like its own mini water park! The Beach Club connects directly to its sister Resort, the Yacht Club. It’s also within walking distance to EPCOT !

Club Level room options are diverse, ranging from standard, garden, and water view rooms to the Newport Presidential Suite (and also including 1- and 2-bedroom suites.)

Allears readers have shared the following within this collection of Club Level reviews of Beach Club :

“It was awesome from beginning to end. The staff were outstanding and got to know us so much so when we came in from the parks, be it mid afternoon or evening, they brought us our favorite alcoholic beverages and kept bringing more. The evening offerings were enough to fill us up so we didn’t need to buy dinner.”

“the best part was the staff. Awesome helpful people. The food was always warm and restocked, staff members were constantly inquiring about how the food was and if you needed anything. They were also happy to chat and provide tips, or little known facts, or suggestions.”

Regatta Club Level in Disney’s Yacht Club Resort

Where the Beach Club celebrates life along the shore, its sister Resort, Disney’s Yacht Club , is a tribute to life ON the sea with its more nautical theming. As it connects directly to the Beach Club, the Yacht Club likewise boasts a walking path directly to EPCOT as well as easy access to the Disney Skyliner .

All Club Level rooms are located on the Yacht Club’s 5th floor.

Readers have several great things to say about the Regatta Club Level in our collection of reviews :

“We definitely took advantage of the breakfast more than any of the other options since we were at the parks most of the day. On one of the late afternoons we did stop back in and were able to try out the hors d’oeuvres consisting of crudites, various cheeses, sliced roast beef and turkey with dinner rolls, chicken fingers, mac and cheese, smoked salmon and a few others I don’t recall. You easily could have made a dinner out of what was there. Another night we came back in time to enjoy the desserts which included 2 to 3 assorted mini cupcakes, mini tarts, rice crispy treats, ice cream, fresh fruit, and cookies. Good thing we were doing a lot of walking on this trip! Overall, the lounge was busy but not overcrowded.”

“This stay really lead me and my husband to decided to continue staying club level going forward… Club Level was definitely worth it.”

Innkeeper’s Club Level in Disney’s Boardwalk Inn

We have one more option for you within walking distance to EPCOT : Disney’s BoardWalk Inn . The turn-of-the-century Coney Island-inspired BoardWalk offers Club Level guests access to the Innkeeper’s Club.

Club Level guests may choose from standard rooms or water or garden views, or opt for a 2-Bedroom Suite.

Take a peek at the following quotes from AllEars reader reviews of the Innkeeper’s Cub Level at the BoardWalk .

“As for the Innkeeper’s Lounge, the Continental Breakfast had a number of good offerings. The afternoon snacks were good. The dinner time appetizers and other offerings were a big disappointment… The seating in the Lounge was usually insufficient, which is another disappointment when spending so much money for club level.”

“It’s by no means cheap but replaces mini expensive restaurant meals. Fantastic [cast members]. Overall a terrific experience!”

Chronos Club Level in Gran Destino Tower at Coronado Springs Resort (Moderate Resort)

Do you see how “One of these things is not like the other?” (Sing along if you remember that one 😉 ). Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort is the single Moderate Resort on the list of Resorts with a Club Level option.

Club Level options for Coronado Springs Resort arrived with the addition of Gran Destino Tower in 2019. In fact, Club Level access is exclusive to rooms in the Tower, which include Standard View rooms, Deluxe-, 1-Bedroom- and Presidential Suites.

You can take a photo tour of the stunning Gran Destino Tower here ; and it’s good to know that the nearest park to Coronado Springs is Animal Kingdom (and, therefore, a bit of a bus trek to the other parks).

Factors to Consider

Theme and style.

When it comes to choosing a Club Level, choosing your preferred theme or style is much like that of choosing your Resort! So, this one all boils down to preference.

Do you love the idea of the casual feel of the Beach Club? Does the idea of seeing animals on the daily at Animal Kingdom Lodge pique your interest?

Then simply follow where your instincts lead! If you are looking more into logistics, we have more factors to consider…

Proximity to Parks

If you know you’ll be spending a lot of your time in EPCOT, the Beach Club, Yacht Club, or BoardWalk Inn would be your best bets.

If you’re planning to tackle ALL. THE. RIDES. in Magic Kingdom, a Resort on the Monorail Loop might be best for you. We’ve mentioned closest park proximity in all of the individual Resort sections above to help you consider your options.

Ratings from Readers

You may feel a little more confident in your decision by checking out what others have to say about their experience.

With the exception of the newest Club Level option (at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort), you can click on any of the review links above to check out full reviews from fellow AllEars readers to find out their thoughts and experiences regarding the individual Resort Club Levels.

Be sure to consider if a specific view from your room is of importance to you.

Because Club Level Rooms are relegated to certain areas of the Resorts, you may want to factor that into your decision.

Ah, yes… ’tis a splurge to enjoy Club Level access. As we mentioned in a previous post , the price of staying Club Level ranges from an additional $100 a night to $275 a night depending on the resort. A good rule of thumb is that the more expensive the hotel and room category, the greater the added cost.

Specific pricing can be found on the Disney World website, in exactly the same way you would search for any room in a Disney World Resort hotel. (In fact, when perusing “Room Rates” on the Disney World website, Club Level rooms are clearly marked in the search, so you can conduct an easy cost comparison between both regular rooms and other Club Level options at various Resort hotels.

We hope this chat has helped in your Disney World vacation planning! And if you’ve ever experienced Club Level at Disney World, we’d love to hear about it with a comment!

Animal Kingdom Lodge Concierge Offerings

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The picture of the Animal Kingdom Lodge Concierge lounge is labelled incorrectly. That picture is of a lounge just off the lobby that anyone can access.

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Disney World Resort Comparison

There’s certainly no shortage of places to stay at Disney World. In total, there are thirty-four resort hotels on Walt Disney World property, ranging from inexpensive budget accommodations to luxurious, no-expense-spared resorts. You are sure to find a resort that fits your budget and vacation goals. But how do you narrow down the choices with so many options? Keep reading our Disney World Resort Comparison page to find the answer.

Explanation of the table:

Click the green button (+) to see each resort’s cost, location, transportation, dining, number of pools, maximum occupancy, and our rating. Click “next” to see more resorts.

Here we compare each of Disney World’s resorts to help you determine which hotel is best for your next vacation. We highlight key features of the resorts, such as the category, location, and some of the resort’s noteworthy advantages.

Keep in mind that all guests staying at a Walt Disney World on-site property can typically make their reservations – including Dining reservations and Lightning Lane passes – before non-Disney resort guests.

Watch The Vacationeer on YouTube for more Disney Resort information. We rank it #1 on our Best Disney World YouTube Channels list so we definitely recommend checking it out!

A Guide to Disney World Resorts

With so many choices, we thought it would be helpful to do a comparison of Disney World resorts. Hopefully, this Disney resort guide will help you choose the best in-park hotel for your family vacation.

To start with, Disney classifies its resorts into three basic categories—Value, Moderate, and Deluxe.

There are also a number of Disney Vacation Club Villas and even campsites.

Disney World’s resort hotels are found in five specific regions of the park – the Magic Kingdom Resort Area, the Epcot Resort Area, the Animal Kingdom Resort Area, the Wide World of Sports Resort Area, or the Disney Springs Resort area.

All of Disney’s Deluxe resorts have earned a AAA Four-Diamond rating, but the Grand Floridian Resort & Spa is considered by Disney as their highest-tier, luxury flagship resort.

As you may have guessed, Disney’s Value Resorts are geared towards families on a budget and offer fun and fully-adequate in-park accommodations.

Disney’s Moderate Resorts fall somewhere between Value and Deluxe in terms of cost, room size, transportation options, and other amenities.

With that background information out of the way, then let’s now review the hotel properties in greater detail with this Disney World Resort Comparison guide.

Disney Value Resorts

Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Resort Area

All-Star Movies pays homage to all of Disney’s film legends from Toy Story, 101 Dalmatians, and more.

• World Premiere Food Court
• Pool themed after Fantasia
• Movies Under the Stars
• Perks like Early Theme Park Entry, earlier reservations for dining and pay-per-ride Lightning Lane selections, convenient (and free) transportation around the park, etc.

Disney’s All-Star Music Resort

All-Star Music is a fun resort that pays tribute to the music industry.  The hotel offers 1,600 rooms w/ 214 large family suites.

• Intermission Food Court
• Pool shaped like a guitar
• Family Suites

Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort

All-Star Sports is a Disney resort that celebrates the world of competitive sports, including tennis, baseball, football, basketball, and surfing.

• End Zone Food Court
• Surfboard Motif Pool

Disney’s Art of Animation Resort

Wide World of Sports Resort Area

Art of Animation is an enchanting Walt Disney World resort themed after Pixar classics like The Little Mermaid , Cars , Finding Nemo , and The Lion King .

• Dog-Friendly Rooms
• Family Suites Available
• Disney Skyliner Transportation
• Disney World’s largest pool
• Landscape of Flavors

Disney’s Pop Century Resort

Pop Century Resort pays homage to the decades of fashions, fads, dances, and toys of American pop culture.

• Everything Pop Shopping and Dining
• Pool w. Water Jets

Disney Moderate Resorts

The Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort

Magic Kingdom Resort Area

The Cabins at Fort Wilderness have an American Frontier theme. They are secluded on 700-plus acres of Disney wilderness but have all the creature comforts you desire.

• A good way to “rough it” without sacrificing comfort
• Bus service throughout, plus golf carts for rent
• Dog-Friendly
• Kitchenettes to cook at home
• Pool w/ water slide
• Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue show

Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort

Epcot Resort Area

Caribbean Beach Resort is a tropical beachside oasis situated along the 45-acre Barefoot Bay.

• Old Port Royale

Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort

This American Southwest-themed hotel, set on a 22-acre lake, invokes the spirit and romance of Spanish-colonial Mexico.

• A “Reimagined” Resort
• Fitness Centers
• Club-Access Benefits
• Award-winning dining at Toledo (Tapas, Seafood & Steak)

Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter

Disney Springs Resort Area

Discover this New Orleans-inspired Resort, set along a winding river road and picturesque waterways.

• Nightlight at Scat Cat’s Club
• Horse-drawn carriage rides

Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside

Port Orleans Riverside is a delightful waterfront hotel that makes you feel as though you are on a Mississippi River cruise.

• Royal Guest Rooms
• Award-winning Boatwright’s Dining Hall
• Dog-Friendly accommodations

Our favorite Disney World YouTube channel, The Vacationeer , has a great overview video comparing the two sides of Port Orleans.

Disney Deluxe Resorts

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge

Guests of this African-lodge-style resort hotel can watch exotic animals roam free around the 43 acres of tropical grassland.

• Exotic animals
• Award-winning dining options

Disney’s Beach Club Resort

Beach Club is a fun and relaxing lakeside hotel that is themed after a beachside Eastern Seaboard of yesteryear. It shares its pool complex, Stormalong Bay, with Disney’s Yacht Club Resort and was voted #1 in our Best Pools at Disney World article.

• Massive outdoor water recreational area
• Cape May Café
• Ship Shape Health Club
• Minnie’s Mother’s Day Chocolate Party

Disney’s BoardWalk Inn

BoardWalk takes its inspiration from the beachfront grand resorts of 1940s Atlantic City. This elegant lakeside hotel is situated at the center of Disney’s BoardWalk, a shopping, dining, and entertainment district.

• Lively nightlife
• Signature Dining at Flying Fish

Disney’s Contemporary Resort

The monorail runs right through the lobby of this lakeside Resort. Contemporary Resort is located in close proximity and against the backdrop of Magic Kingdom.

• Resort monorail
• On the Seven Seas Lagoon
• Award-winning California Grill
• Disney Countdown to Midnight: A New Year’s Eve Celebration

Disney’s Dolphin Hotel

Disney’s Dolphin (and Swan) is an elegant water-themed hotel designed by noted architect Michael Graves.

• Shula’s Steak House
• Mandara Spa
• Supervised Children’s Activity Center

Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa

Grand Floridian Resort & Spa is a Victorian-style hotel celebrating the Sunshine State’s golden era. This hotel is considered Disney World’s flagship resort.

• World-class health club, spa, and salon
• Award-winning dining
• Next to Seven Seas Lagoon and Magic Kingdom
• A monorail stop
• Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique
• Pool W/ water slide

We rank the Grand Floridian #1 on our Best Hotels at Disney World list.

Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort

Polynesian Village is a relaxing resort that captures the culture and atmosphere of the South Pacific.

• On the Resort Monorail
• On the banks of the Seven Seas Lagoon
• Disney’s Spirit of Aloha Dinner Show

Disney’s Swan Hotel

Disney’s Swan (and Dolphin) is an elegant water-themed hotel designed by noted architect Michael Graves.

• Il Mulino New York Trattoria

Disney’s Wilderness Lodge

Wilderness Lodge is a lakeside log-cabin-style resort that takes its inspiration from the grandeur of National Park lodges.

• Exquisite pools
• Storybook Dining at Artist Point with Snow White

Disney’s Yacht Club Resort

Disney Yacht Club Resort is themed after a Martha’s Vineyard-style grand hotel. Located on Crescent Lake, Yacht Club is designed with authentic nautical details and upscale, classy charm. It shares its pool complex, Stormalong Bay, with Disney’s Beach Club Resort and was voted #1 in our Best Pools at Disney World article.

• Outdoor Water Recreation Area
• Dog-Friendly Accommodations
• Award-winning dining at Yachtsman Steakhouse

Here’s an in-depth look at the Deluxe Resorts on the monorail loop!

Disney Deluxe Villa Resorts

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Jambo House

Jambo House is an African lodge-style villa situated amidst a 38-acre wildlife preserve where 30 species of animals roam free.

• Extra space
• Award-Winning restaurants
• Exotic Animals

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Kidani Village

Set near a vast animal reserve, this African lodge-style hotel offers kitchenettes/kitchens and multi-bedroom units.

• Home of Sanaa,  Indian-influenced African dishes with views of the wildlife

Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort

Bay Lake Tower is a modern and luxurious experience with dramatic views of the park.

• Award-winning dining at California Grill

Boulder Ridge Villas at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge

Boulder Ridge Villas harnesses the majesty of the Pacific Northwest and its outdoorsy elements.

• Storybook Dining at Artist Point w/ Snow White

Copper Creek Villas & Cabins at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge

Copper Creek Villas & Cabins is a lakeside log-cabin-style resort that takes its inspiration from the grandeur of National Park lodges.

• A Disney Vacation Club Resort
• Quietly situated among the pines yet close to the action of Magic Kingdom
• Access to 2 beautiful pools

Disney’s Beach Club Villas

Beach Club Villas is an elegant lakefront New England-inspired resort hotel.

• A large water recreation area

Disney’s BoardWalk Villas

BoardWalk Villas is inspired by a 1940s Atlantic City seaside resort.  Experience the charm and romance of this lakeside BoardWalk hotel.

• Disney Skyliner
• Signature dining at Flying Fish

Disney’s Old Key West Resort

Disney Spring Resort Area

With gingerbread accents and pastel colors, Old Key West Resort is a Victorian-themed resort that conveys a sense of relaxation.

• R.E.S.T Beach fitness center
• Olivia’s Café

Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows

• Disney’s Original Island Escape
• Savor the Succulent Tastes of the Islands

Disney’s Riviera Resort

Disney’s Riviera Resort celebrates the grandeur of Europe and offers a full range of accommodations – from cozy Tower Studios to spacious 1Br, 2Br, and 3Br Villas.

• Stylish and artistic touches
• Full range of accommodations
• Dining at Topolino’s Terrace – Flavors of the Riviera

Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa

This relaxing lakeside hotel brings the spirit of Saratoga, New York horse racing into the Disney Springs section of Walt Disney World Resort.

• Disney’s Lake Buena Vista Golf Course

The Villas at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa

Campgrounds at disney’s fort wilderness.

The Campsites at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort

The Campsites at Fort Wilderness offer plenty of activities on the 700+ acre, American Frontier-themed resort.

• Campsites are rustic but fully-equipped
• Bus transportation throughout w/ golf cart rentals available
• Pet-friendly accommodations
• A unique way to stay on Disney property

Enjoy your Disney World vacation!

We hope our Disney World Resorts Comparison page has helped you narrow down your hotel choices.

For more useful Disney World information, please review some additional pages on MagicGuides  like our How to Plan a Disney Vacation , Club Level at Disney World , Disney World History , Walt Disney Quotes , Disney World Strollers , and  RunDisney Marathon articles.

If you need help planning and booking your magical Walt Disney World vacation, then please contact the Disney travel agents at   The Vacationeer . Their services are always helpful and totally free of charge!   Click  HERE  for a free, no-obligation price quote .

Thanks for reading and we hope you have a magical Walt Disney World vacation!

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Disney Grand Floridian Vs Yacht Club (2022 UK GUESTS)

Planning a holiday to Florida to spend some time at Disney World ? If so, you of course, are going to have to find a place to stay. As soon as you take a look at the list of resorts available, you might suddenly feel overwhelmed, and that’s understandable since there are so many. In this post, we will take two off that list and compare the Grand Floridian vs Yacht Club.

Quick Overview Of The Grand Floridian

Words really can do no justice to just how elegant and luxurious the Grand Floridian is. Because seeing is believing. The designers did a great job in recreating the romance and elegance of a long gone era known as the Victorian age where elegance was everything. This resort does a great job of combining elegance and modern sophistication with a touch of Disney magic everywhere you look. From their romantic grounds to their spa where you can relax getting a luxurious massage to their 5 star dinning options, it’s all about elegance, luxury, relaxation, and Victorian romance.

Quick Overview Of The Yacht Club

The Yacht Club was inspired by the formal and elegant grace once found at grand New England yacht clubs often found during the turn of the 20 th century. Having it’s own lake where guests can relax and soak in the rays, or take a stroll along the beach or explore their whimsical Stormalong Bay water park or rent a boat from they Bayside Marina, they pretty much have everything one would want from a yacht club. The Yacht Club also has access to all the fun and amenities that is offer by it’s sister resort the Beach Club. The Yacht Club is conveniently located to where you can just walk to EPCOT or take a quick littler jaunt on a boat ride to Hollywood Studios theme park.

The Rooms At Grand Floridian

The rooms at the Grand Floridian come with a variety of views and room types guests can choose from that include: garden, pool, theme park, marina, courtyard, or lagoon. The different rooms include: standard, club level, deluxe studios, resort studios, 1 & 2 bedroom suites, and 1, 2, & 3 bedroom villas all of which have a variety of bed options that include:

1 king and 1 double sofa sleeper

2 queens 1 day bed, 1 king and 1 day bed, 2 queens and 1 queen sofa sleeper, 1 king, 2 queens, and 1 queen sofa sleeper, 2 queens and 1 double sofa sleeper, 1 king and 2 queens, 1 king and 1 queen sofa sleeper, 1 king and 2 twins, 1 king and 1 twin, 1 queen, 1 queen sofa sleeper and 1 single murphy bed, 1 king, 1 queen sofa sleeper, and 1 single murphy bed, 1 king, 1 queen, 2 queen sofa sleepers, and 1 single murphy bed, 1 king, 4 queens, and 1 queen sofa sleeper.

Rooms sleep 2 to 12 people.

All rooms come with a variety of amenities, the bigger the room the more amenities and those that are club level have all the amenities plus access to all Disney Signature services. Amenities include:

Kitchen appliances such as: toaster, microwave, dishwasher, washer & dryer, fridge, coffee maker, stove & oven, plates, dishes, glasses, pots and pans.

Patio or balcony, iron & ironing board, phone and voicemail, pool towels, rooms at the yacht club.

Like the Grand Floridian they offer different views and different room types that include roof top, parking areas, gardens, Stormalong Bay, Crescent Lake, or pool. Their room types include: standard, club level, and two bedroom suites. They also have a variety of bed choices that include:

2 queens and 1 twin sleeper chair

1 queen, 1 twin sleeper chair, and 1 day bed, 2 queens and 1 day bed, 2 kings and 1 queen sofa sleeper.

Their rooms sleep 2 to 6 people.

Amenities for these rooms include:

Coffee maker

Club level rooms have these amenities plus access to all Disney Signature services, access to health club, key access to club level lounge and personalized front desk services.

Dining & Recreation At The Grand Floridian

Dining some say at the Grand Floridian is an experience on it’s own with the many options of 5 star rated restaurants that include:

Serving Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner

Grand floridian cafe –.

Set in a Victorian manor serving American classics.

Gasparilla Island Grill –

Casual setting serving hot breakfast favorites and a variety of foods from pizza to sandwiches for lunch and dinner.

1900 Park Fare –

All three meals hosted by Disney Characters in a carousel themed setting.

Serving Dinner Only

Narcoossee’s –.

Waterfront setting serving fresh caught seafood, steaks and more.

Enjoy delicious food with a theme inspired by “Mary Poppins Returns”.

Victoria & Albert’s –

Award winning cuisine served with classic Victorian elegance complete with china, silver, and crystal stemware.

Victoria & Albert’s Chef’s Table Dinner –

Offers a 10 course tasting menu along with beverage pairings.

Victoria & Albert’s Queen Victoria Room Dinner –

Enjoy an intimate elegant dinner set in an “old world” dining room complete with Victorian accents and furniture.

Serving Lunch, Snacks & Bar Service

Enchanted rose –.

Setting was inspired by “Beauty and the Beast” offering full bar services and appetizers.

Beaches Pool Bar & Grill –

Poolside full bar also serving lunch along with classic American snacks and goodies.

Courtyard Pool Bar –

Full bar service as well as various wraps, salads, and more.

Citricos Lounge –

Full bar service plus dinner from its namesake eatery.

Garden View Tea Room –

The setting is that of a traditional English tea room serving teas and special treats.

They offer a variety of recreational activities that include:

Two pools, one featured pool and one leisure pool.

Campfire activities, movies under the stars, spa & health club, poolside cabana rental, motor boat rentals, bass fishing, specialty cruises, basketball courts, electrical water pageant, dining & recreation at the yacht club.

The Yacht Club itself has a pretty good list of dining options itself that include:

Serving Breakfast, Lunch or Dinner

Ale & compass restaurant –.

Offering “Yankee comfort foods” and seafood classics in a cozy pub setting.

The Market at Ale & Compass –

Offers hot and cold grab and go breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Cape May Cafe –

Offering hearty breakfast buffets, and dinner offering steaks, seafood, and more.

Beaches & Cream Soda Shop –

Charming old-fashioned soda shop serving lunch, dinner and ice cream favorites.

Beach Club Marketplace –

Hot made to order quick service for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

Dinner Only

Yachtsman steakhouse –.

This is a New England style steakhouse where you can enjoy dry-aged premium beef, fresh seafood, and a variety of other items including signature drinks, and desserts.

Lunch & Bar Service

Ale & compass lounge –.

Full bar service in a cozy lounge setting plus light snacks.

Martha’s Vineyard –

Full service bar that serves lunch and late night snacks in a New England beach house setting.

Hurricane Hanna’s Waterside Bar and Grill –

Full walk up bar service with great bay views serving snacks and appetizers as well.

Crew’s Cup Lounge –

Full bar service serving wine, beer, and cocktails.

Since the Yacht Club is a short walk to EPCOT guests can also enjoy the long list of places to eat within the EPCOT area as well.

Yacht Club too has it’s own list of recreational activities that include:

Pools – Their main feature pool is Stormalong Bay which is really a three acre water wonderland with water slides, waterfalls, three whirlpool spas, wading pool for kids with a sandy beach and Shipwreck pool and much more. They also have three leisure pools.

Volleyball courts, cabana rentals, fantasia gardens & fairways mini golf, motor boat rentals, bass fishing, tennis courts, jogging trail.

To help take the stress out of organising your break, The House of Travel offers some excellent Disney package holidays to Walt Disney World. This ensures that you can enjoy your time here, with all of the planning in hand. After all, there’s no better way to explore Disney than by letting the experts take charge! Either give us a quick call on 0203 950 7371 or simply fill this quick form here for a call back request today.

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• KansasCityCravings
• May 31, 2023

Disney World Resort Showdown: Yacht Club vs. Grand Floridian

The very first time we decided to take the plunge and stay on property at Disney World, I really did not do a lot of research. It was sort of a last minute addition to a trip we already had planned so there weren't too many options available. We landed on the Yacht Club and I was officially hooked! We had such a great experience that we decided to come back to Disney for a longer trip a few months later. We had heard great things about the Grand Floridian which also did not disappoint! Want to know which resort reigns supreme? Read more below!

Yacht Club Resort

Price: Yacht Club is a Deluxe Resort so it is NOT CHEAP. Honestly I have paid less for a 5 star hotel in a large metropolitan city! But it's Disney and I knew going into it that the resort prices would be extreme.

Proximity to parks: This resort is like a 5 minute walk to Epcot and you get to enter between the UK and France which means less crowds and easy access to Ratatouille at rope drop! Supposedly you can walk to Hollywood studios...It looks very far and not worth it. There is Gondola access that you could take to Hollywood studios but again, it looks like it could take awhile. The Yacht Club does have the popular bus system to the other parks which is convenient.

Pool: I mean, this hotel possibly has the best pool I've ever seen at ANY hotel. It is HUGE! There are a couple hot tubs, a lazy river, a slide, and a sand bottom kid's pool. This resort is worth it for the pool set up alone. They also have poolside food and drink which really makes this a great experience. I highly recommend working a pool day into your itinerary if you stay here. One thing to note, you cannot use this pool unless you are staying at either the Beach or Yacht club. I'm pretty sure this is the case for all Disney pools, but they are extra strict here! They scan your reservation to make sure you are actually staying here.

Food options: There are plenty of options here from sit down, to bars, to grab n go. Because this resort is connected to the Beach Club, it really feels like there are more food options than normal which is very nice. Nothing stands out as over the top amazing except for Beaches & Cream. They have have the famous "Kitchen Sink" that we just had to get one year for my son's birthday. Totally worth it!

Extras: The decor here is my favorite! I feel like pictures do not do this resort justice. I personally find the yacht aesthetic to be very cozy and relaxing. And while the rooms are not over the top Disney, I do think they are the most tastefully done rooms of any Disney Hotel. Another nice perk of the Yacht Club is the proximity to the Boardwalk. It's a nice area to walk around at night with even more food options!

The Kitchen Sink from Beaches & Cream tasted as good as it looked!

The Grand Floridian Resort

Price : Grand Floridian is also a Deluxe Resort so pricing will be similar, if not more expensive than the Yacht Club depending on room size, availability and time of year.

Proximity to parks: This resort has monorail access so it is very convenient for both Epcot and Magic Kingdom. There is a walking path to Magic Kingdom which is nice as well! Like the other resorts, the Grand Floridian also has bus transportation

Pool: There are two pools here - a more quiet courtyard pool and a more kid centered area. I love the kid's water play structure. It is a nicely contained area with a life guard and poolside service so you can really kick back and relax!

Food options: I did feel like there were not a lot of food options at the Grand Floridian. If you didn't have a reservation, you were out of luck come dinner time. I did not plan very well for dinners while we stayed there so we ended up eating most meals from the grab and go "Gasparilla Island Grill" - which don't get me wrong, we loved! But I personally think the Grand Floridian needs a few more moderate, casual food options because it felt like they only had "nice" reservation options that were booked out or you were stuck with the Gasparilla Island Grill.

Extras: I have to say, I don't know what mattresses they have at the Grand Floridian but I think about the night of sleep I got there often. I have never slept so well in a hotel before. Between the mattress and the sheets and the incredible AC, I had the elusive perfect night of sleep while staying at the GF. Another nice feature is the Electrical Water Pageant. I loved watching it as a kid and it is still magical as an adult to sit on the lawn at the GF and watch the water show!

Is there anything better than a poolside Margarita???

So which resort reigns supreme?

Price : This category is a toss up since they are both equally expensive.

Proximity to parks: Although I personally prefer being walking distance to Epcot, I have to go with the Grand Floridian on this one. Nothing beats monorail access!

Pool: Hands down, Yacht Club on this one. Even the best poolside margarita at the Grand Floridian can't beat the incredible pool complex of the Yacht Club!

Food options: I'm going with Yacht Club on this one as well. Way more options so you aren't out of luck if you didn't make reservations.

Extras: Grand Floridian takes this one. The nostalgia of the Electrical Water Pageant and the elusive perfect night of sleep make it a no brainer!

Honestly, you can't go wrong with either in my opinion! If you want to be close to Epcot and have a few extra days for a pool day, Yacht Club is probably your best bet.

If you want to hit up Magic Kingdom a couple days in a row and experience one of the best night's of sleep of your life, the Grand Floridian can't be beat!

Let me know your favorite Disney world resorts!

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Is Disney World's Grand Floridian the 'grandest' option for you? Here are 8 things to know

When you think of the most opulent and iconic of Walt Disney World resorts , there's a good chance that images of Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa dance through your head. This resort exudes a Disneyized version of turn-of-the-century Victorian charm that leans into the use of light colors, high ceilings, stained glass, chandeliers and marble. There's even a cage elevator and occasional live piano music to help further set the scene.

Yet despite the fancy setting, the vibe is neither stuffy nor intimidating. You'll see bathing suit-clad kids squealing through the sweeping lobby more frequently than you'll see suits and jackets walk by — though you'll likely catch a glimpse of those, too, especially in the evenings as some lucky diners head to the award-winning Victoria & Albert's restaurant that calls this resort home.

There could be some healthy debate about whether the Grand Floridian is truly the grandest of Disney resort hotels, but one thing is indisputable: It unquestionably played a major role in transitioning Disney into an era of rapid resort expansion when it opened in 1988. Prior to its opening, a new resort hadn't been added to Walt Disney World since 1971.

Now that it's getting its turn at some renovations , it's safe to say that the property — which seems to represent the straightlaced and upbeat theme of the Magic Kingdom's Main Street U.S.A., similar to how Disney's Contemporary Resort draws inspiration from Tomorrowland and Disney's Polynesian Village Resort enjoys influences from Adventureland — is becoming an even stronger contender for that top resort slot.

Almost 35 years after the resort first opened, the bones of the Grand Floridian have held up exceptionally well. The white paint and red roof exterior look just as timeless as the Hotel del Coronado in San Diego and other beachside resorts that likely helped inspire the property.

There's also no denying that its spot on the Seven Seas Lagoon, just a stroll or short monorail ride away from the Magic Kingdom, is some of the best real estate in all of Walt Disney World.

But before you drop $700 or more per night to book a room at this deluxe Disney resort, there are a few things you need to know. Here are eight key details to be aware of so you can decide if the Grand Floridian is the right Disney resort for you.

Related: Everything you need to know about visiting Walt Disney World Resort

It's one of the closest resorts to the Magic Kingdom

While the Grand Floridian isn't technically the closest resort to the gates of the Magic Kingdom, it's pretty close. Only the Contemporary Resort and Bay Lake Tower at Disney's Contemporary Resort , which are about a half-mile away from the park, are closer, as the Grand Floridian is roughly 0.7 miles away via the newly completed walkway.

Depending on your strolling speed, expect this walk to take 10 to 15 minutes. You won't have the benefit of a ton of shade and coverings when it's hot, humid and/or rainy, but you will get an up-close view of the monorail zooming by overhead as you make your way between the resort and the park.

If you'd rather stay cool and dry, you're in luck, as you can also opt to take the monorail to the Magic Kingdom. Simply clear security and board it from the lobby of the Grand Floridian to reach the Magic Kingdom. Since the park is the next stop on the monorail loop after the Grand Floridian departure point, you'll be in the park in no time.

FOR NO-COST ASSISTANCE WITH PLANNING AND BOOKING YOUR NEXT DISNEY VACATION, CHECK OUT TPG'S DISNEY BOOKING PARTNER, MOUSE COUNSELORS .

The resort is large and spread out

Although the Grand Floridian isn't the biggest resort at Disney World, as some properties occupy more than 200 acres and have 2,000-plus rooms, it's still quite large by most standards.

On the Grand Floridian's 40 acres, you'll find more than 800 rooms spread throughout the five-story lobby, plus the Sago Cay, Sugarloaf, Conch Key, Boca Chica and Big Pine Key buildings. Additionally, there are several Disney Vacation Club villas housed within a separate building on the opposite side of the main Beach Pool.

Needless to say, if you are staying here with a group, you could end up being quite spread apart if you aren't careful with room requests, types and selections. I recommend opting for rooms in the Sago Cay and Sugarloaf buildings since they're relatively close to the main lobby, restaurants and dock. These accommodations are also on the end closest to the Magic Kingdom, so you'll have a shorter walk to the park.

Related: How to save a lot of money by renting Disney Vacation Club points

There are 2 pools and a water play area

The Grand Floridian has two impressive pools.

At the main Beach Pool, which holds more than 100,000 gallons of water, there are a 181-foot waterslide, waterfalls and a zero-entry area. Plus, you can grab food and drinks from the poolside Beaches Pool Bar & Grill to enjoy from a chaise lounge or a rented cabana. Poolside activities like games and arts and crafts are available, too, should your family prefer some variety when having a pool day.

Additionally, there's the Courtyard Pool, a large option behind the main building. It doesn't have a waterslide or activities going on, creating a quieter atmosphere than what you'll find at the Beach Pool.

Little kids can also check out the Mad Hatter-themed play area, which has a small waterslide, water sprays and a big water dump bucket that looks like a hat, by the main pool.

Related: Cool pools and sangria school: 12 things non-Disney people can do at Disney World

Rooms are big ... and expensive

Measuring around 440 square feet, standard rooms at the Grand Floridian are the largest standard hotel rooms available at Walt Disney World. However, this extra space comes at a cost, as the rooms are consistently among the most expensive options found at Disney.

Outside of a sale (or booking via rented DVC points), it's quite common to find standard outer building rooms at the Grand Floridian hovering between $600 and $700 per night. For an upgraded theme park view, expect to pay anywhere from $800 to $1,000 per night. If you'd rather have club access, prepare for sticker shock, as club-level rooms in the main building are often more than $1,000 per night.

Related: What it's really like doing Disney World 3 different ways: Budget, moderate and blow-out luxury

You'll find several high-end restaurants and amenities

Those who pay the big wallet rates to stay at the Grand Floridian have easy access to some of the most upscale restaurants and amenities at Disney World.

Here, you can dine at one of Disney's most exclusive dining venues: Victoria & Albert's. The AAA Five Diamond Award-winning restaurant serves gourmet fare via multiple courses dished out for hours in an elegant space that perfectly matches the Victorian-era design of the property.

Eating at Victoria & Albert's is an experience well worth having — if your budget permits it and you're able to snag a coveted reservation. Just be sure to dress appropriately (dinner jackets are required) and leave the little ones behind, as kids 9 and younger are not permitted.

Other must-dos for those visiting with some extra cash include enjoying a treatment at The Grand Floridian Spa and sipping a cocktail or two at Enchanted Rose, a "Beauty and the Beast"-inspired evening lounge located in the main building.

Related: The best restaurants at Disney World

Renovations are underway

The old-world look of the Grand Floridian was an intentional design choice for the Victorian-era-inspired property, but after years of welcoming guests, it was starting to show some wear and tear. As a result, the resort is now undergoing a bit of a renovation.

While the rooms were last refreshed in 2015, which doesn't sound all that long ago, they lack the more contemporary look of other on-property resorts. So, the resort is working on updating its interior to make the accommodations more eye-catching and equip them with modern-day conveniences.

Of the property's structures, the Big Pine Key building was the first to be completely renovated. It reopened in the summer of 2022 as a Disney Vacation Club outpost with studio rooms that are absolutely beautiful.

Each of these rooms sleeps up to five guests and is as modern and functional as it is lovely. Decor details include the use of jewel tones and garden-inspired patterns, with faint "Mary Poppins" influences sprinkled throughout.

The larger DVC rooms at the Grand Floridian also benefited from a refresh recently, though those upgrades are not as dramatic as the 200 new DVC studios.

It is possible to save money ... if you book the right way

Since there are Disney Vacation Club rooms at the Grand Floridian, you can potentially pay less than the retail price. This can be done by renting points from an owner — either on a 1:1 basis via an individual or through a larger company like David's Vacation Club Rentals .

Studio rooms at the Grand Floridian start at 16 points per night, and it's common for DVC points to rent for around $21 per point these days. At those rates, the new studios would start at $336 all-in, which is a bargain compared to the cash rates. Know, though, that you'll likely need to book many months in advance for good availability.

If you don't own or want to rent DVC points, don't fret: You can also stay in the new Grand Floridian resort studios by booking directly. The trick here is to make sure you are booking this exact resort studio room type and to reserve as far in advance as possible to secure lower rates. Prices generally start around $700 per night, which is usually about the same as the standard hotel rooms at this resort.

Since there are many details involved with booking a Disney vacation, consider making your reservation via a free Disney vacation planner, such as TPG's partner Mouse Counselors , if you plan on paying with cash. They will not only make sure you book the correct accommodation but can also help you save money by passing along discounts and modifying reservations should prices drop.

Related: 6 ways using an authorized Disney vacation planner will improve your trip

The property is extra magical (and popular) around the holidays

For me, the best time to stay at the Grand Floridian is, without question, in late November and December. This time of year is when the resort shines the brightest thanks to its massive tree, life-size gingerbread house, poinsettias, garland and other festive decorations.

Not only can you admire the holiday view, but you can also purchase a gingerbread shingle from the life-size house to enjoy as a snack.

As an added bonus, the property's proximity to the Magic Kingdom means it's one of the easiest to stay at when going to Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party .

Related: Holiday magic without spending lots of cash: 7 free (or very cheap) Disney World Christmas activities

Bottom line

The Grand Floridian is where Disney World still feels quite magical, especially in the renovated sections.

While some areas are a bit more dated than others, the amenities, service and offerings are still worth experiencing in person. After all, the resort offers many moments where you can feel like a Disney prince or princess, whether you're walking up its main staircase, getting pampered in the spa or just sitting on the sofa and listening as live piano music fills the lobby.

Being just a short walk or monorail ride from the Magic Kingdom adds to the resort's appeal. No other property at Disney World offers quite as relaxing of a setting so close to the parks as the Grand Floridian, cementing its recognition as a top-notch Disney resort.

However, all of this comes at a steep cost, so make sure you do your homework before you book to ensure you're getting the most bang for your buck by opting to stay here. If you can't quite swing a stay, you can always pop by for a few hours to walk around or grab a bite to eat at the property.

Polynesian vs. Grand Floridian

When choosing a luxury hotel near Magic Kingdom on the monorail loop at Walt Disney World, vacation planners debate between two Deluxe Resorts: Grand Floridian and Polynesian. This head-to-head comparison weighs the pros & cons of each, picking a “winner” in theme, dining, transportation, pools, and other categories. ( Updated April 14, 2024. )

This continues our Walt Disney World Hotel Comparison Series , which includes several other difficult dilemmas you might face when trying to pick a hotel. Other versus posts include Animal Kingdom Lodge vs. Wilderness Lodge, BoardWalk vs. Beach Club, Port Orleans Riverside vs. French Quarter, and even Caribbean Beach vs. the Poly.

This Grand Floridian vs. Polynesian comparison pits Walt Disney World’s flagship hotel against a fun fan-favorite that some might argue should be WDW’s “crown jewel” hotel. While both are similar in terms of location (literally a short walk from one another) and pricing, there are many differences in terms of theme, atmosphere, restaurants, and amenities.

While we will draw our own conclusions as to which is better, along the way we will explain our reasoning, so you can form your own conclusions. Since so much of this is a matter of subjective, personal preference, we feel that’s the best way to approach these comparisons. Plus, it would be a pretty short blog post if we didn’t offer explanatory text along with the winner of each element.

Before we get going, one thing to note is that both resorts are still in the midst of massive reimagining and/or expansion projects. In the case of the Poly, a gigantic tower is being built on the periphery of the resort. In the case of the Grand Floridian, the main building and lobby are still in the midst of a reimagining. The good news is that the room reimaginings at both are now finished. At least right now, neither of these projects have much impact on the guest experience, aside from minor (mostly exterior) visual blight. We expect both construction projects to wrap up by late 2024.

Okay, with that, it’s time to see whether the Grand Floridian delivers a sick People’s Elbow to the Poly, or if the Poly can pull off a surprise Stone Cold Stunner… (Sorry, I’ll stop with the wrestlin’ talk–those are the only terms I know, anyways.)

Theme: It Depends – Theme is such a tricky subject since so much of it is predicated in personal preference. Rather than making a value judgment about which theme is inherently “better,” we approach this from their respective execution of theme.

Grand Floridian is no doubt the most elegant and refined hotel at Walt Disney World, befitting of its high-brow Victorian theme. The lobby oozes sophistication and class, and makes a strong first impression. From that alone, it’s easy to see why Grand Floridian is Walt Disney World’s most luxurious and flagship resort. It is, as the name suggests, grand.

If there’s a good “opposite” of opulence, Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort is it. The Poly captures the essence of vacationing at a tropical resort. From the lush grounds to the South Seas vibe throughout the resort, it’s the confluence of 20th century tiki culture and authentic island paradise. It’s a great place to decompress and has an undeniable “vacation mode” vibe.

Both stumble on executing their themes in some regards. There are areas where the Grand Floridian feels dated, like a 1990s interpretation of the elevated Victorian theme. Some say it reminds them of “grandma’s house.” Then there are spots where modernization feels a bit bland and off-theme, the the Beauty and the Beast bar. The lobbies of the outer buildings all have received the same Mary Poppins-inspired overhaul as the guest room, and that has been tastefully done, balancing modern luxury the the theme of the resort, for the most part.

It’s a similar story with the Polynesian. Its theme has been chipped away at in recent years with the removal of its lobby waterfall and other tropical elements, but other enhancements make it feel like a good blend of mid-century and modern. To the extent that they’ve occurred, the Moana additions have been tasteful and relatively restrained in common areas.

If this were simply our personal preferences, we’d give the win to the Poly. However, that’s also because the interior of the main building at the Grand Floridian hasn’t yet been redone. If they manage to handle that as delicately as the outer buildings, threading the needle on themed design and modern luxury, it could come out on top. Objectively, the two resorts are difficult to compare since they’re trying different things. Both succeed and stumble in the same ways, so we’re calling this a push.

Rooms: It Depends – This updated comparison catches both resorts as they’ve recently debuted new rooms inspired to varying degrees by different characters. In both cases, these are really more movie motifs than they are fully-fledged character themes. In our view, this is a good thing.

The Poly’s new Moana rooms are bold, with distinctly “Disney” style and use of characters. They have a lot going on in terms of colors, patterns, and textures that won’t appeal to everyone. We think they strike the right balance, but some will undoubtedly disagree, finding them too “loud.” Regardless of that, the quality of finishings, features, and functionality is all high. (See our Review, Photos & Video: New Moana Rooms at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort .)

For the longest time, Grand Floridian ranked last on our lists like this due to a combination of that price point and the reality that its rooms we’re on par with a mid-tier Marriott. Although prices haven’t budged, Grand Floridian is taking massive leaps forward with new rooms that transform them into something both distinctly Disney and luxurious.

The reimagined rooms at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa are easily the biggest before/after improvement of any hotel room at Walt Disney World in the last decade. This reimagining brought with it greater usability, attention to details, luxurious finishings, thematic flourishes inspired by Mary Poppins, and a range of other details. Whether you’re assessing from a function or form perspective, these are a marked improvement. We also love these new rooms–see Grand New Rooms at Walt Disney World’s Flagship Resort  for a look inside.

Which resort’s new character-inspired rooms are better will almost entirely come down to personal preference–both of the resorts as a whole and whether you or your family prefers Moana or Mary Poppins. Both are tastefully done and befitting of their respective resorts. We’d give a slight edge to Grand Floridian for a truly flawless execution, whereas Moana does have some imperfections–but others might argue the opposite.

It’s really going to come down to whether you want elegant and sophisticated with a dash of Mary Poppins whimsy or top-notch tropical fun with Moana. One thing is for sure–the new rooms at both the Polynesian and the Grand Floridian are better than the Incredibles accommodations at the Contemporary!

Dining: Grand Floridian – The culinary scene at the Grand Floridian is befitting of its flagship status. Narcoossee’s and Citricos are two of the most highly regarded restaurants at Walt Disney World, and the latter just received a Mary Poppins-inspired overhaul that took it to the next level . Then there’s Victoria & Albert’s, which is in a league of its own.

When it comes to character dining, Grand Floridian once again offers 1900 Park Fare for breakfast and dinner. This returns after a multi-year hiatus with a new “theme” (air quotes) of wishes. It also features a grabbag of characters that don’t really make much sense together. The whole thing is thematic nonsense, but it’s fun!

At the less expensive end of the spectrum, Grand Floridian Cafe is an underrated gem and has become one of our favorite spots for a casual meal or last minute Advance Dining Reservation around Magic Kingdom. Gasparilla Island Grill is likewise a strong counter service restaurant. There’s also the recently-reimagined Enchanted Rose Beauty and the Beast Bar , we aren’t fans, but others seem to like it.

The casual end of the spectrum is where Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort excels. Captain Cook’s is one of Walt Disney World’s best counter service restaurants . Of course, ‘Ohana is a fan favorite…although we think it’s overrated and has gone downhill in the last several years, it’s still a fan-favorite and deserves to be on your shortlist for novelty and (potential future) nostalgia factor.

Two other options pick up the slack. Kona Cafe is another underrated gem , a stand-out for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. With Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto , the Poly has one of the best lounges at Walt Disney World.

We ultimately give the edge to Grand Floridian due to the Poly’s lack of fine dining options–a big misstep for a Deluxe Resort–but this is another category that comes down to personal preference. It should also be kept in mind that resort-hopping for meals is incredibly easy among the monorail loop resorts.

Transportation: Push – This should come as no surprise given that the Polynesian and Grand Floridian are right next to one another. Both are on the Magic Kingdom Monorail loop. Both offer boat transportation. Both have comparable (shared) bus service to other parks.

Both are now walkable to Magic Kingdom, or will be once the Poly tower is finished and that pathway reopens. We’ve already breathlessly covered this in Photos & Video: Meandering the Magnificent Magic Kingdom to Grand Floridian Walkway . In case you missed that, it’s possible to walk all the way from the Transportation and Ticket Center to Magic Kingdom (when there’s no construction).

Grand Floridian is closer to Magic Kingdom, giving it the edge there. However, the Poly is closer to the Ticket & Transportation Center, which means it’s more convenient for walking to the monorail to Epcot. All of that makes this a tie.

This is another topic that’ll need to be revisited once the new Polynesian tower opens, as it’ll add a massive number of rooms to the resort and could cause the transportation infrastructure to buckle. Unfortunately, if that does happen, it’ll probably impact  both  resorts–not just the Poly.

Pools: Polynesian – Our favorite pools at these resorts at Beach Pool at the Grand Floridian, which we ranked #4 on our list of the Top 10 Pools at Walt Disney World , and Lava Pool at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort (#2). We give the edge to the Lava Pool because it’s more imaginative, immersive, and ultimately, more fun for kids.

Both of these resorts have a couple solid pools beyond their main feature pools, but none of the quiet or secondary pools at Grand Floridian move the needle back towards it. If anything, the retro style (and shade structures!) at Polynesian’s Oasis Pool provide an adult foil to the more family-friendly main pool. By contrast, both of the “main” pools at the Grand Floridian skew towards adults.

Cost: Polynesian – While these are the two most expensive resorts in all of Walt Disney World when comparing standard rooms, the Grand Floridian is significantly more expensive. While rates vary by season and room category, you can expect to pay about 20% more for a comparable room at the Grand Floridian.

However, the practical reality is that many guests aren’t paying rack rate at the Grand Floridian whereas many are at the Poly. Due to differences in popularity, the Grand Floridian routinely offers exceptional savings–of 25% to 35% off. By contrast, the Polynesian’s discounts are usually lower–from 10% to 25% off. Worse yet, the Poly is occasionally excluded entirely and often has no availability even when it’s not excluded.

The end result is that even while sticker prices at the Poly are lower, guests can end up paying more on average due to disparities in discounting and availability. That makes this comparison really tricky.

Verdict: Polynesian – This used to be an incredibly easy one for us, but Grand Floridian has really narrowed the gap with its new Mary Poppins-inspired rooms. However, there is still a gap. Even in the categories that the flagship won, I have a difficult time seeing the Grand Floridian with an advantage that matters to me as a guest staying at the hotel. In fact, everything we love most about the Grand Floridian–dining and lobby atmosphere–can just as easily be enjoyed while staying at the Poly and doing a “date night” at the Grand.

The Grand Floridian has grown on us and improved in the last few years, but the Polynesian is a masterpiece of Imagineering that’s transportive in theme and feels like the quintessential Walt Disney World resort. It’s where we actually want to stay while on vacation, with atmosphere, amenities, rooms, and other features we’d use regularly over the course of a trip.

When comparing any two resorts, other factors will obviously come into play. Important amenities, location, recreation, and other variables are going to matter and weigh differently for different parties. If you want to compare for yourself or see how other resorts stack up, check out our Rankings of ALL Resort Hotels at Walt Disney World from Worst to Best .

Our goal is for this post was to offer a head-to-head comparison of the most crucial elements of each Walt Disney World resort experience, but we suggest supplementing this with our full review of Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa and our Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort Review for further explanation of pros & cons, room photos & video, and much more.

Planning a Walt Disney World trip? Learn about hotels on our Walt Disney World Hotels Reviews page. For where to eat, read our Walt Disney World Restaurant Reviews . To save money on tickets or determine which type to buy, read our Tips for Saving Money on Walt Disney World Tickets post. Our What to Pack for Disney Trips post takes a unique look at clever items to take. For what to do and when to do it, our Walt Disney World Ride Guides will help. For comprehensive advice, the best place to start is our Walt Disney World Trip Planning Guide for everything you need to know!

YOUR THOUGHTS

Which of these two Deluxe Resorts is the better one, in your opinion? Is money the deciding factor for you or is something else? Is there anything you can think of to make Grand Floridian the better pick? Do you prefer the Moana rooms at the Poly or Grand Floridian’s more sophisticated style laced with Mary Poppins? Are we missing a key variable that could, potentially tilt the scales in the Grand’s favor? Do you agree or disagree with our picks? Any questions we can help you answer? Hearing your feedback–even when you disagree with us–is both interesting to us and helpful to other readers, so please share your thoughts below in the comments!

Written by Tom Bricker

The Grand Floridian is always the best, of course. Unfortunately, the Sugarloaf club level is no more and that’s where we always used to stay. But the rooms are renovated and they are so incredibly beautiful when we stayed a few months ago, the bathroom mirror just blew me away! The Polynesian is also amazing, but it’s too expensive right now because after the recent Moana refurbishment, it is rarely discounted and therefore costs as much or more than the Grand. I don’t believe the Poly can supersede the Grand, so I don’t stay there anymore, but I still eat there on occasion, though not often because of the walking path being under construction now, so I can’t get there from the Grand easily.

GF is the winner for us. Every time I pull up to that gate I am overwhelmed by a sense of calm and relaxation. We are DVC and usually choose to stay in that building which offers its own sense of privacy and escape from the often overcrowded main lobby. Poly would probably rank 4th for me after BC and RR. The Poly rooms do not seem to be as well insulated for noise, we have often had issues with hearing everything in our neighbor’s rooms. I love the torches lighting the walkways at night and the proximity to the monorail , but am not a fan of how crowded the main pool gets. The chairs are set up right on top of each other making it very difficult to move around .

We have stayed at the Grand Flo for years, with no regrets. The warm, gracious service and spacious, relaxing atmosphere make for a wonderful retreat during a Disney stay. The grounds of the property are just beautiful, and we particularly enjoy the beach pool. The dining choices are superb, and newly-themed Mary Poppins guest rooms stunningly updated, with many thoughtful touches and storage areas added. I stayed at the Poly the first year WDW opened, and marveled at it then, as a teen :). Today, no comparison to the GF. I will say that it looks as though the new guest rooms at the Poly are rather fun!

These are my favorite two resorts on property, with a slight edge to the Poly just because the tropical theme “screams” vacation to me and for practicality’s sake not having to transfer monorails at the TTC for Epcot is a huge deal, much more of a time savings than a shorter walk from the GF to MK. But I adore the GF and the absolute best part of staying at either of these resorts is the other is just a short walk away (in non construction times!), or boat/monorail. So you are really not missing out on either if you stay at the other. Pre and post cruise we are actually staying at both this fall!

I wouldn’t even consider staying at the GF even if I won Powerball. it looks terrible, is like someone turned a doilie into a hotel, has zero charm or vibe to it. looks like Luigi’s mansion before the haunting. boring and basic. poly has a cool vibe and nice pools, but honestly it’s just Caribbean beach+. I rather have access to the skyliner and still get the beach vibe and great pool experience, and save that extra money for the dining plan and eat like a king

Haters gonna hate…

I found this review very amusing. We stayed at the Grand Floridian villas in February and when we walked over to the Polynesian it was a total mess of a construction. We couldn’t believe that this was a Disney property. We went back again to see the completed resort in September and it reminds me of my childhood when I went to Wildwood New Jersey and stayed at any of the tacky themed Hawaiian hotels from the seventies. There are plenty of cheap looking Hawaiian hotels off of I-4 you can stay at it, if thats the theme you are looking for. The only asset to the Polynesian is the Monorail and it that instance the Contemporary hotel is the beats the Polynesian by a mile and is the true essence of a Disney hotel.

lol I know those Wildwood hotels! poly at least has real palm trees GF tho, nah, looks like a slave plantation. no chill vibe.

The Waikiki in Wildwood Crest lol

Tom you are correct to say that theming is a matter of personal preference. We have owned DVC properties at both the Poly and currently at the Grand. For us, there is no comparison. We have found the staff friendlier and the grounds immaculate and well maintained at the Grand Floridian. That has not always been our experience at the Poly. The light, bright interior decor at the Grand Floridian lifts my spirits, whereas the overwhelming predominantly darker wood and decor of the Poly we personally found kind of depressing. The two bedroom villas at the Grand are luxurious. Where else do you find embossed Kleenex?!? We love feeling pampered on vacation and for us, the Grand Floridian is the resort that beats all others hands down. But to each his own.

We LOVED the Polynesian before it’s last major overhaul. It was our favorite destination anywhere!!! We scrimped and saved just so we could stay there because it truly transported us to Bali Hai. First was walking into this incredible lobby dominated by a 3 story waterfall with over 70+ different species of plants (and at one time parrots). It didn’t feel like a lobby; it felt like stepping through a magical door into another world. Our magical world experience continued as we strolled down sidewalks which snaked around ginormous tropical plants so high you could often not see over them. Then you’d turn a corner and be surprised by a tiki god! Finally, our favorite building had a private beach outside of it which was perfect to watch the fireworks with a sprinkling of other families. We would slide into a hammock and watch the show. I’ll also say that without Trader Sams and the other bar, there were only a few folks outside the resort who would come for dinner reservations. They didn’t overwhelm public areas or the main beach. But once the lobby was made into a normal lobby and the tropical plants were removed and the sidewalk widened — the Polynesian seemed like a nice hotel, but a hotel. My sister’s comment was “well I’m glad I stayed in it before it became a hotel.” So the Polynesian is very nice, yes, but not a unique and magical immersive experience for us anymore. I prefer to stay elsewhere and visit the bars. .

GF is wonderful and is my favorite monorail resort at this point. We find it laid back and quiet; so more immersive in that sense; hthe lobby and outside areas seem to absorb visitors better than the Poly. The cabanas are THE most decadent experience (a fan, a tv, chairs, table, a couch, 2 lounge chairs, a refirgerator with unlimited drinks, a fruit bakset, a snack basket, a CM whose job is to take care of you and 2-3 other cabanas…did I mention the amazing lobster sliders at the pool bar/rquick service?) . Then there is the spa with the oh so comfortable ergonomic chairs in the quiet room… OThe rooms are quiet but not bland (to me) and seem to go with the relax vibe of the resort. We also enjoyed the Princess Promenade when Cinderella came downstairs with the Prince in the lobby. We did mother/daughter high tea, enjoyed the shops, and oh Narcoosees was great! I adore the Beauty and the Beach lounge which was a much-needed addition to the lobby (which seemed kind of large and empty except at Christmas); it is beautiful and very themed in a classy way. I dream of staying club level here someday!

I should weigh in, we have stayed at the Polynesian years ago and thought it was the best, when Grand Floridian open, we walked through the hotel, I go to Disney for vacation, not for a stuffy hotel of snobby people. Currently my wife and I stay at the back entrance of Epcot, mostly Yacht club since it was the only thing open. Again when the Swan and Dolphin originally opened it was too business for me, suits and not short pants. Oct I’m looking forward to the Beach Club. Hopefully 2022, we will stay at the Polynesian again.

I’ll always take the Grand Floridian over all others.

Bummer I have been waiting to hear somethi7about Victoria and Albert. Was really hoping it would be o0en by the holidays but you’re saying 2022

To your knowledge are hotels booking at capacity right now for November December dates or do we expect new rooms to become available as more workforce and maybe covid declines happen? Still waiting for discounts to drop. I would expect before the end of the month

An important factor for me in comparing these two is that “day visitors” overwhelm both of these resorts. In my experience, the Grand Floridian’s layout manages to disperse visitors and keep paths clear for resort guests better than the Poly’s does. As a guest in Fiji, our room was noisy all day, into the night, with luau guests coming and going, and Trader Sam’s guests milling about, waiting for tables. The crowds waiting for ‘Ohana leave a train of strollers winding through the second floor of the Poly lobby, and the beach can look like a mosh pit, come fireworks time. GF brings similar crowds, but the alcoves for restaurant waiting areas and outbuilding rooms keep the resort vibe a little quieter. Overall, I felt neither of these resorts came close to living up to their price tags, but I understand why people love them.

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Countdown to Magic

Disney’s Riviera Resort vs Grand Floridian

When it comes to resorts, Walt Disney World is in a class of its own. The magic of Walt Disney World can be felt in every resort, at every turn. With more than 25 resorts to choose from, the decision on where to stay during your time at Disney World may seem a bit daunting.

There is so much to consider when it comes to a hotel. From the dining to the amenities, Disney World Resorts have many options to cater to your perfect vacation experience. To narrow down the search, let’s compare two of the most popular resorts at Disney World: Disney’s Riviera Resort vs Grand Floridian. 

Disney’s Riviera Resort: A European Ambiance 

The minute you step into Disney’s Riviera Resort, you can feel the magic. You are greeted by a palm tree-lined boulevard and step inside to an elegant lobby, complete with chandeliers and rich, modern and classic furnishings. This hotel is the newest erected at Disney World, which is apparent everywhere you look. 

Everything from the landscape to the hotel rooms is gorgeous, modern, and fully updated. You will feel like you have been transported to an elegant European country, while still feeling the magic of Disney. 

The artwork featured at this resort is nothing short of breathtaking. You will discover a vast and unique art collection celebrating Disney Characters and icons by artists who were influenced by the European Riviera. The resort features two beautiful murals, one displaying a scene from Peter Pan and another from Tangled. Over one million hand cut tiles were laid by hand to create these spectacular murals.

In one of them, you see Peter Pan flying through the sky. In the other, you will see hundreds of glowing, floating lanterns flying from Rapunzel’s tower. Both murals are connected to flight, and you will feel like you are flying when you gaze upon them. 

The sophisticated atmosphere extends beyond the inside of Disney’s Riviera Resort. The beautiful landscape, lush gardens, and sparkling fountains provide a picturesque backdrop to any one of the fantastic rooms or villas in which a family could stay. Taking a walk through this beautiful scenery is the perfect way to unwind after a long day at Disney World. 

Best described as European with a touch of Disney, you will feel the enchantment throughout the entirety of Disney’s Riviera Resort. 

Rooms and Rates at Disney’s Riviera

The chic, Parisian flair that encompasses the resort extends into the Riviera’s rooms and villas. Most rooms average over $500 a night, with the most extravagant option being the three-bedroom Grand Villa at around $3600 a night. The studios and the one- and two-bedroom villas prices range from around $550-$1700 a night. Both the studios and the villas have fully equipped kitchens, spacious living areas, large closets, and gorgeous bathrooms with marble tile and gold accents.

The Tower Studio or the Deluxe Studio are great options for couples or small groups. Both Deluxe Studio options include one queen bed, one queen-size pull-down bed, and one single pull-down bed. For an additional cost, you can stay in a Deluxe Studio with a preferred view, featuring views of the courtyard, lake, gorgeous landscapes, pool, or the Disney Skyliner.

The villas are the best option for large families. The one-bedroom villas sleep up to five people, and the two-bedroom villas sleep up to nine people. Just like the studios, for an additional cost you can upgrade to a preferred view in the villas. 

The amenities in the villas are top notch. Both the one- and two-bedroom villas are equipped with an oven, private porch or balcony, at least two flat screen TVs, a stacked washer and dryer, a bathroom with a bubble-jettub and walk in shower, and more.

If you are really wanting to splurge, your family could stay in the three-bedroom grand villa. This lavish villa sleeps up to 12 people and features views of the lake, three full bathrooms, and plenty of space for everyone!

No matter what your needs are, Disney’s Riviera Resort will have the perfect room for you. 

Disney’s Riviera Resort Dining

The restaurants at the Riviera Resort cannot be beat. Whether you’re looking for a quick cocktail by the pool or a delicious rooftop dinner, Disney’s Riviera Resort has you covered. 

For breakfast, head to Le Petit Cafe. It is an authentic Parisian cafe, perfect for grabbing a coffee and pastry before a full day at Disney World or even a late-night drink and small plate. 

Getting thirsty while swimming at the Riviera Pool? 

Enjoy a frozen cocktail poolside at Bar Riva! Bar Riva also offers sandwiches and fresh salads if you’re feeling a bit hungry. If you’re looking for a grab-and-go option before hitting the parks, Primo Piatto offers quick service meals of sandwiches, salads, beer, wine, and more. Primo Piatto also takes mobile orders if you’re really in a rush. 

Finally, Topolino’s Terrace at the Riviera is a must-book for many during their trips to Disney World. The restaurant serves breakfast and dinner featuring French and Italian cuisine, along with stunning rooftop views.

Favorites on the menu include the ricotta and the rigatoni; for dessert, you can’t go wrong with the chocolate cake. The beautiful views add the cherry on top to a stellar dining experience at Topolino’s Terrace. 

Transportation Options at the Riviera

Getting to and from the parks is very easy when you’re staying at Disney’s Riviera. The most convenient mode of transportation is the Disney Skyliner , a new gondola system that connects guests to Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios with ease. Because Disney’s Riviera is so close to Hollywood Studios and Epcot, the Skyliner is a great choice for transportation. The Skyliner allows you to head to the park and take you right back to the entrance of the Riviera Resort. (Please note that the Skyliner will be closed from January 23-28, 2022). 

Disney Bus transportation is also an option when you’re staying at Disney’s Riviera Resort. Guests can use this complimentary bus service to get to and from all four theme parks. If you’re planning to spend a lot of time at Animal Kingdom or Magic Kingdom, it may be helpful to keep in mind that the bus ride to either one of these parks is slightly lengthy. Disney’s Minnie Van by Lyft is also offered as transportation, but this service is temporarily unavailable. 

Disney’s Magical Express offers complimentary transportation to and from Orlando International Airport. Unfortunately, the Magical Express will no longer be in service after January 1, 2022. It is important to note that it will still honor operations for new and existing reservations made in 2021.

To make planning your transportation for the day a breeze, download the My Disney Experience Mobile App . It is the perfect way to plan your day at the park and view routes for various modes of transportation, including monorails, water taxis, and buses. 

No matter where you’re headed for the day at Disney World, the Riviera Resort has all the options you could need for easy transportation. 

Recreation and Amenities at Disney’s Riviera Resort

There are two pools at the resort: the Riviera Pool and Beau Soleil Pool. A family-friendly amenity, the Riviera Pool is the perfect place to swim and enjoy absolute vacation bliss. Kids will love the huge pool slide that winds around a Rapunzel-like tower and adults will love the poolside bar! The resort also offers S’il Vous Play, a water play area for younger children. They’ll love the Fantasia characters seen at this interactive splash area! S’il Vous Play is the perfect place for kids to have fun.

If you are looking for a quiet afternoon to relax, the Beau Soleil Pool is the place to go. Relax in the comfortable chaise lounge chairs and enjoy the shimmering waters in this luxurious pool. Disney’s Riviera also has a private beach area where you can enjoy an even more peaceful atmosphere. 

In addition to its beautiful pools, the resort also has a fitness center for all your exercise needs! 

Amenities at Disney’s Riviera Resort are pretty standard for a hotel. They include parking, Wi-Fi access, and a housekeeping service. When it comes to parking, it is important to note that standard overnight self-parking is available to guests for a fee. Parking for Disney Deluxe Villa Resorts is $25 a night, while valet parking is available for $33 a night. 

Disney’s Riviera Resort Overview

There are pros and cons to this resort. If you’re looking for an elegant, modern, fully updated resort to stay during your next trip to Disney World, Disney’s Riviera Resort is the place. Most rooms do average over $500 a night, and while that doesn’t make it the most expensive property in which to stay, it is also not the most affordable. If you are planning on spending a lot of time at Hollywood Studios or Epcot, using the Skyliner at the Riviera as transportation is very easy.

Those who are planning on spending most of their time at Magic Kingdom or Animal Kingdom may find that this property is a bit far. The food at Disney’s Riviera is to die for; it has some of the best restaurants on property! All in all, with its lush landscape, beautiful views, and delicious dining experiences, this deluxe resort will exceed your expectations. 

Grand Floridian Resort: Ultimate Deluxe Experience

Let’s think of Disney’s Riviera Resort vs Grand Floridian. If I could use one word to describe Disney’s Grand Floridian , “grand” would certainly be that word. The resort features Victorian architecture, with its steep, gabled roofs, towers, decorative woodwork, and bright, bold colors. The palm trees, the bright green lawn, and the sheer size of the resort will take your breath away when you first set eyes on it. This lavish resort transports guests to a sophisticated, timeless atmosphere. 

When you step foot into the lobby, you are greeted by giant, glittering chandeliers and a grand staircase that would make anyone feel like royalty. There is a grand piano on which live musicians play Disney music, which adds an extra magical flair guests will love. The entire resort has an exquisite fairytale ambiance.

The grandness of Disney’s Grand Floridian extends beyond its inside. The gorgeous landscape offers the perfect walking path to get you to and from the parks, and the iconic white frame buildings with red roofs will be a great place to call home during your Disney World vacation. The entire atmosphere of Disney’s Grand Floridian is elegant, stunning, and simply majestic.

Pricing at Disney’s Grand Floridian 

Between Disney’s Riviera Resort and the Grand Floridian, the Grand Floridian is the more expensive option. Room rates at the Grand Floridian range from about $790-$4300, where guests can choose from rooms and suites with Club Level Services as well as rooms and suites without these services. There are many options of rooms and suites with Club Level Service, such as rooms with theme park views, panoramic views of resort grounds, views of the courtyard pool or the lagoon, or even a view of Cinderella’s Castle! 

The rooms and suites that do not offer Club Level Service feature views of the garden, lagoon, pool areas, or Magic Kingdom Park. Most of the rooms and suites sleep up to five adults, with the most being able to sleep up to eight, making any one of them a great option for a medium to large sized family!

The amenities of the rooms and suites are comparable to most hotel services. They include a patio or balcony, small refrigerator, flatscreen TV, bathrobes, and a coffee maker. Those with Club Level Service can enjoy complimentary health club access and access to the club-level lounge in addition to all other room amenities. 

The rooms and bathrooms themselves are spacious, but do not offer a lot of storage space. While they are gorgeous, the rooms and suites are a bit outdated and could use a little bit of a refresh. Despite this, you can still feel the magic and enjoy beautiful views, lots of room space, and a luxurious experience. 

Grand Floridian Restaurants

When it comes to restaurants, Disney’s Grand Floridian has you covered! With a total of 11 restaurants inside of the resort, there is certainly no shortage of dining options.

For an amazing American fine-dining experience, head to Citricos. The whimsical details of this restaurant are inspired by Mary Poppins Returns , bringing guests into a beautiful garden scene that is influenced by the film’s animated scenes. Must-haves at Citricos include the strawberry salad and the roulade of chicken. Or try the house made rigatoni that is made from a tomato! You can also stop by the Citricos lounge for a pre-dinner glass of wine.

The Enchanted Rose lounge is the perfect place to unwind after a long day at the parks. Inspired by Beauty and the Beast , you will notice some familiar characters as well as a stunning chandelier that resembles the flow of Belle’s iconic ball gown. The unique cocktails even pay homage to the Disney classic. If you are craving seafood, Narcoossee’s at the Grand Floridian is the place to go. Grab a table on the water and enjoy the spectacular views and be sure to check out the Finding Nemo -inspired sculpture made out of chocolate!

The Grand Floridian Cafe offers casual American dining for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. You cannot miss this cafe for breakfast, as it features the brioche French toast and the classic Mickey Mouse waffle. Lounging at one of Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort two gorgeous pool areas? Check out Beaches Pool Bar and Grill or the Courtyard Pool Bar! 

Beaches Pool Bar and Grill offers lunch and bar service poolside or even by the sandy beach. Enjoy a tropical cocktail at Courtyard Pool Bar, which also features a ping-pong table and two TVs for added entertainment. If you are looking for a quick bite to eat, Gasparilla Island Grill offers casual dining, fast service American food.

While 1900 Park Fare, Victoria and Albert’s , and the Garden View Tea Room are dining options at the Grand Floridian, they are temporarily unavailable during this time. Overall, the dining options at this resort are incredible! Even if you are not staying at Disney’s Grand Floridian, you will want to eat at least one of these fantastic restaurants during your time at Disney World.

Transportation at the Grand Floridian

The easy access to the parks is a major pro for the Grand Floridian. Just like Disney’s Riviera Resort, the Grand Floridian offers the Disney bus, Disney’s Minnie Van by Lyft (temporarily unavailable), and Disney’s Magical Express until January 1, 2022. 

In addition to those transportation options , Disney World parks are just a leisurely boat ride away upon the grand ferryboat. The Monorail is another choice for quick and complimentary transportation straight to Magic Kingdom. You can even enjoy a convenient walk to the parks via Disney’s Grand Floridian walking path ! If you are planning on spending a lot of time at Magic Kingdom, the Grand Floridian is for you. Easy access to this park is provided by boat, Monorail, or walking path. 

The Grand Floridian’s Amenities

The amenities and recreation options at Disney’s Grand Floridian are very impressive. It offers some of the same amenities as Disney’s Riviera resort, such as parking, Wifi, and housekeeping, as well as an ATM, banking services, laundry and dry-cleaning services, mail services, and a health club. 

There are two large pool areas at the resort: the Beach Pool and the Courtyard Pool. The Beach Pool overlooks the Seven Seas Lagoon, and it features a 181-foot-long water slide both kids and adults will love! Don’t forget about Beaches Pool Bar and Grill if you want to grab a refreshment. Adjacent to the pool is a splash play area perfect for small children. Cabanas are available to rent at the Beach Pool as well. The heated Courtyard Pool offers a more peaceful setting, perfect for unwinding after a long day. It also features a whirlpool spa!

The Electrical Water Pageant is on display on the Seven Seas Lagoon every evening. During this spectacular light show, watch sea creatures sail across the water to the music of Disney. Enjoy the perfect viewing place of this show from the comfort of Disney’s Grand Floridian! To better plan for this experience, be sure to check out the My Disney Experience App . 

In addition to the amenities listed above, the Grand Floridian has tons of recreational activities. Seriously, you could plan an entire day outside of the parks just participating in all the recreation this resort has to offer! Recreational activities include motorized boat rentals, fishing, specialty cruises, arcade games, basketball courts, jogging trails, and campfire activities. You can even enjoy a complimentary viewing of your favorite Disney movie with Disney’s Movies Under the Stars! The possibilities really are endless. 

Disney’s Grand Floridian: In Conclusion

If you are looking for a magnificently luxurious experience during your Disney vacation, the Grand Floridian is for you. From its abundant array of amenities to the spectacular dining options, you really can’t go wrong at this resort.

Keep in mind that most rooms and suites average over $790 a night, living up to its deluxe resort name. It is a great place to stay if you are planning on spending lots of time at Magic Kingdom, and all the transportation options at the Grand Floridian really can’t be beat. While this resort may not be the best option for those on a budget, staying at Disney’s Grand Floridian is recommended if you’re wanting to splurge. 

Best Disney World Hotel

It is difficult to say which Disney World hotel or resort is the best. Depending on your price range, distance to the parks, and overall desired experience, the choice is different for everyone. Both Disney’s Riviera Resort and Disney’s Grand Floridian provide deluxe, luxurious experiences. 

For everything it offers, Disney’s Riviera Resort is the best place to stay to get the most bang for your buck. The fact that it is the newest hotel built makes it very appealing to guests. 

The lush grounds, easy access to the parks via the Skyliner, the size and amenities of the villas, and the overall elegant ambiance can’t be beat. Between Disney’s Riviera Resort vs Grand Floridian, Disney’s Riviera Resort is the best Disney World Hotel in which to spend your next Disney World vacation!

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You Might Also Like:

• Disney’s Grand Floridian review
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Michael has been visiting Disney World since he was a kid. He's also been to Disneyland and sailed on the Disney Dream. Michael is the owner and editor of Countdown to Magic.

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Title and navigation Title and navigation September 2024 September 2024   S M T W T F S 35 36 37 38 39 40 The menu below has been automatically set to the panelist you were reviewing, however, you can ask anyone on our panel. Close Ask a Question Opens the Ask a Question dialog box. Thanks for submitting your question! You'll receive an email if your question is answered., please note. Email communication is the only way we can notify you when your question has been answered. If you choose to opt-out of receiving emails, you will need to return to the site to check if your question has been answered. Update Browser For a better experience browsing this website, please download an updated version of Internet Explorer . Or you can continue browsing without updating. Search forums Media New media Disney Trip Planning Forums Disney Resorts Grand Floridian vs Beach Club Thread starter Gracie'smom85 Start date Jan 9, 2017 Gracie'smom85 Earning my ears. Jan 9, 2017 I would really appreciate some input on these resorts, as I'm completely torn. My husband and I will be taking our (then) 19 month old little girl for a week in Oct. 2017. My parents will be joining us- we're hoping to get connecting rooms. My dad will be attending a conference (I believe at the conference center by the Beach Club) most of the week. The rest of us plan on spending the days primarily at MK and AK. I've heard amazing things about the GF and have always wanted to stay there. Plus, the monorail would probably be a huge plus with a toddler that will need a midday nap. But, the BC would be more convenient for my dad (although they are completely ok with staying at the GF if that's what we want). My parents are planning on watching our baby after she goes to bed, so my husband and I hope to spend time at the various parks at night. I like that Epcot is so close to the BC. So....given those factors, which would you pick?   William Ades Mouseketeer. Grand Floridian is an amazing resort, but Beach Club is exceptional as well. With the transportation options available am no longer concerned about how you will get to each park. I have found that none of them are any better than the others in terms of time or convenience. As great as GF is, you can save a few points (not many though) by going with BC. The pool is by far the best of all the resorts. Your daughter will love playing in the "sand" on the "beach." I say it that way because the "beach" is built into the pool area, and actually the entire pool has a "sandy" bottom that is made out of some sort of composite sand material that is really pretty cool. The resort is beautiful, and the rooms are fantastic. Additionally, you and your husband could walk to the Boardwalk one evening since you will have a baby sitter. There are several great places to enjoy a meal and/or a drink. There is also a pretty decent view of the nightly Epcot fireworks from the pool area if I remember correctly (as you said, it is relatively close). We are probably going during the same time frame to try and check out the Not-So-Spooky Halloween Party this year.   Mousemommy1 I like both, and both have really positive reasons to choose one over the other. Given that your parents will be staying with the baby in the evenings, and that you will be spending most of your time in DAK or MK, I would choose the Grand. I think that the lobby offers so much in regards to entertainment, the grounds are gorgeous and relaxing, this would be my choice.   MamaMaleficent2016 When we stay at the Beach Club we take the monorail to Magic Kingdom and back. You just enter Epcot thru International Gateway and then catch the Monorail outside the main entrance to Epcot. We prefer the walk and monorail to taking a bus. We do love to walk though. (I'm one of those people who parks far away from the store entrance to get my steps in). And you would have to have park hopper tickets. Just another perspective to consider.   DIS Veteran Jan 10, 2017 I believe the conference center is technically at the Yacht Club? The Beach Club and Yacht Club are part of the same resort complex and share the Storm Along Bay (SAB) pool complex which is generally considered to be the best pool complex of all the resorts. However, the GF has the newish Alice in Wonerland kids splash area which would probably be quite attractive for your 19 month old. What type of transportation will your dad have from his conference at the YC/BC back and forth to the GF? If he has a car, no biggie, but if not it's really hard to get from resort to resort using Disney transportation. For example, to get from the YC/BC back to a room at the GF your dad would have to bus to the MK then hike over to the boats or monorail and then ride to the GF and from there hike to whichever outbuilding your rooms were in (unless you go CL at the GF and are in the main building.) To get from the GF to the YC/BC is even harder using Disney transportation. You can bus from GF to Epcot (assuming his meetings start late morning after Epcot opens) or DHS (assuming buses have started running early enough for DHS) and then walk through Epcot or boat/walk from DHS to YC/BC. Personally I would lean towards the YC/BC for this trip unless your dad will have a car.   I agree with @sndral - resort to resort transportation is difficult, making it even more difficult would be first thing in the morning as the buses and other modes of transportation haven't yet woken up. The only way I'd make dad commute would be if I was putting him in a cab each morning -- getting back would be oh so easy - he could do as suggested and take the monorail right to the TTC - which is adjacent to the Poly and a short 5-8 minute walk from the GF or jump on the resorts monorail from there as the first stop is the poly and the next is the GF, he could take a bus to the MK and then jump on the resorts monorail from there, or he could jump on one of boats from the MK to the GF as well. Or, most likely of all -- he could meet you at whatever park you are at. My two cents, Tom   I've never stayed in either (though will hopefully be at GF in December), but from a transportation stand-point, I'd say get park-hoppers if you do the Grand. That way your dad can always walk to Epcot and ride the monorail to the resort when he's done with his conference. ETA: Ah. I hadn't thought of getting TO the conference in the morning. I'd probably go with Beach Club then. I'd get park-hoppers regardless. When you're right there next to two parks and only a monorail ride away from the third, it just makes sense to me. YMMV.   We have stayed at both and prefer the BC. When you stay at the GF you are dependent on transportation to get anywhere. And you are limited to the restaurants at GF unless you want to travel somewhere. And taking two monorails to get to Epcot was a pain. We really liked the elegance of the GF but hated trying to get to Epcot. The BC has two parks and lots of dining options within walking distance. We found that it is much easier to take a bus to MK from the BC than to travel around GF. And it will be much more pleasant for your Dad if you stay at the BC or YC.   MamaMaleficent2016 said: When we stay at the Beach Club we take the monorail to Magic Kingdom and back. You just enter Epcot thru International Gateway and then catch the Monorail outside the main entrance to Epcot. We prefer the walk and monorail to taking a bus. We do love to walk though. (I'm one of those people who parks far away from the store entrance to get my steps in). And you would have to have park hopper tickets. Just another perspective to consider. Click to expand... Its going to a pain for your dad to go hotel to hotel for his conference unless he uses a taxi or Uber, which is absolutely what I'd do. I think that the pool and the convenience of the BC would be the winner.   Beach Club. It's a better overall resort and the walking to two parks is a much better perk than the monorail that is pretty unreliable. At 19 months, your child isn't going to care, but IMO, the BC pool is FAR more toddler friendly. And being where the convention is happening is hugely important. Save the GF for next time.   Stayed at both and I don't think the Beach Club even compares to the Grand Floridian, even with young children. The Grand Floridian is my happy place and I don't think I would ever stay elsewhere again.......except, perhaps in the circumstances you describe. It will be a major pain for your dad to commute. I also think there are more "date night" type opportunities near the Beach Club (Epcot, Boardwalk, Hollywood Studios, etc.) so that would be an added factor. Also, at your daughter's age, my kids liked Epcot just as much (if not better) than MK. IF my dad REALLY didn't care, I think I would still vote Grand Floridian because I think it is that much nicer, but it is a tough call given your circumstances. Good luck!!!   longboard55 GF is nicer. but the beach club has a much better location. Walk to epcot and boat to Hollywood is the best, If you want to go to MK they drop you off at the entry. Follow the ressies, yacht club and beach club are the first to sell out   Grand Floridian will make you feel special. Being in front of 7 seas lagoon and seeing the castle from the resort, the beautiful grounds, hearing the train from the magic kingdom, the beachsand walkway to the Polynesian, you will be surrounded by the Disney magic. Even my brother who was never interested in the grand Floridian said it was amazing after staying there. when I showed him beach club he said it was nice but didn't seem like anything special. I'm sure the walkway to epcot would be great and the beach club pool will be fantastic but coming home to the grand after a beautiful night at the magic kingdom is a wonderful feeling and staple of my Disney vacations.   Personally, I'll vote away from the majority and say GF. If you're going to have a toddler at MK all week, you can't beat the hotels with MK access. But I'm also the type that - if I had a convention at BC - I would love taking the monorail everyday and walking through Epcot to get to BC. Stop at Starbucks, grab a crepe if World Showcase is opening up, try and squeeze in a ride on Soarin' before I'm due at the convention lol! But that's me.   Jan 11, 2017 AshleeH said: Personally, I'll vote away from the majority and say GF. If you're going to have a toddler at MK all week, you can't beat the hotels with MK access. But I'm also the type that - if I had a convention at BC - I would love taking the monorail everyday and walking through Epcot to get to BC. Stop at Starbucks, grab a crepe if World Showcase is opening up, try and squeeze in a ride on Soarin' before I'm due at the convention lol! But that's me. Click to expand... Looking forward to our next Disney trip! Grand Floridian is amazing, has the easy monorail access, and a fun play area at the pool. That would be my vote. Beach Club is great, but GF is incredible. You can't go wrong with either of them, enjoy your trip!   DLgal said: Beach Club. It's a better overall resort and the walking to two parks is a much better perk than the monorail that is pretty unreliable. At 19 months, your child isn't going to care, but IMO, the BC pool is FAR more toddler friendly. And being where the convention is happening is hugely important. Save the GF for next time. Click to expand... Both are great. But, with our kid when she was that age, she loved sand, and at the beach club you not only have the beaches, you have the sand at the pool to enjoy. Also, buses were never tough with her (she really liked the buses).   Share this page Dis news & updates. Disney Experiences Chairman Josh D'Amaro to Speak at INBOUND Wednesday New Limited-Time Eats: Everglazed, Vivoli & The Polite Pig Should Disney Reinvent Horizons in EPCOT? 3 Homecomin' Specialty Cocktails Arrive for New Celebration Magic Kingdom's Top 5 Rides for Toddlers New DISboards Threads luvthatduke Today at 1:34 AM Community Board Today at 12:23 AM Disney Restaurants LynnetteeSpaghetti Yesterday at 11:59 PM Adventures By Disney Yesterday at 11:31 PM Purchasing DVC Yesterday at 11:29 PM DVC Member Services Yesterday at 9:47 PM Walt Disney World News Walt Disney World Articles Disney Cruise Line News Disneyland News General Disney News New DISboards Posts Latest: FairyGodmother00 A moment ago Latest: nascargirl Latest: Anna131517 Latest: Wood Nymph Latest: Karlk 1 minute ago Jun 12, 2020 Universal Studios/Islands of Adventure Forums May 22, 2024 Disney Trip Reports Yesterday at 9:48 AM Theme Parks Attractions and Strategies Oct 5, 2023 scrappinginontario Dec 8, 2021 Doing the Happy Dance! sethschroeder Jul 8, 2020 #1hoosierfan Jan 19, 2022 Jul 13, 2014 Meriweather Sep 1, 2013 Aug 13, 2021 the disney food blog food IS a theme park Read the Latest Posts Looking for something? Get the dfb newsletter. STAY CONNECTED Polynesian Village vs. Grand Floridian Resort Guide for Disney World in 2023 By Lisa Gilmore 2 Comments So, you’re planning a trip to Disney World, and you’ve narrowed it down between two of the most ICONIC Disney resorts in existence (you lucky, lucky person!). Disney’s Grand Floridian But how do you choose between Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort and Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa ? Well, let’s dive into the deets to see which one is right for you! Choosing between the Polynesian Village and the Grand Floridian, is like choosing a favorite child, a favorite Disney cupcake , or between a Dole Whip or a Mickey Pretzel — there’s enough love to go around! But just like cupcakes and classic Disney snacks (and maybe your kids, too… only you know your family dynamic…😂), there’s a certain flavor that might just hit the spot for what you’re looking for. Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort There’s no doubt that Disney vacations are expensive , and no one wants buyer’s remorse when it comes to what can usually be the most EXPENSIVE part of your Disney trip . We’re approaching this chaos-agent of a decision with as much logic as possible, so we’re breaking it down into five categories: Common Ground Theme/rooms, transportation. We’re putting each resort through these paces to see where they stand and which one may be speaking to you for your Disney trip. Before we start down the rabbit hole into the Wonderland of their differences, let’s review the similarities of these resorts. These resorts are both Disney Deluxe Resorts , so they will be at a similar price point, with similar room sizes, and the same perks .  They both have the same resort layout with a central lobby building and outer buildings with rooms, and they are both considered Monorail Resorts, offering the same transportation to Magic Kingdom and the other resorts. And both offer Disney Vacation Club Villas as additional accommodations. The Beach at the Polynesian For the Polynesian Village , that means that for the cheapest room at the  cheapest time to visit, you can expect to pay around $662 per night (not accounting for any tax or current discounts), and it goes up to $5,492 per night (not accounting for any tax or current discounts) for the most expensive rooms at the  most expensive time to visit. For the Grand Floridian , that means that for the cheapest room at the  cheapest time to visit, you can expect to pay around $780 per night (not accounting for any tax or current discounts), and it goes up to $5,502 per night (not accounting for any tax or current discounts) for the most expensive rooms at the  most expensive time to visit. Extra Theme Park Hours Benefits for Disney World Resort Hotel Guests Just like our ol’  Friend, Chandler Bing, would say, “Could these resorts BE any more different?” Both the Poly and the Grand Flo are Deluxe resorts and offer the poshest of Disney’s accommodations and perks, but that doesn’t mean they look the same! The Polynesian The Polynesian celebrates tiki culture, and offers a nostalgic image of Pacific island vacations, but isn’t necessarily a literal representation of those environments. It’s filled with dark woods, tribal symbols, and tropical flowers. The Polynesian is one of Walt Disney World’s opening day hotels, it has a rich history, and a large following among Disney fans. It really does embrace its name of “village” as its layout is comprised of 11 longhouses plus the over-the-water Bora Bora Bungalows , which branch out from the Great Ceremonial House. Polynesian Village Resort All of the rooms have recently been renovated and updated with a  Moana -inspired theme, and Kona Cafe , a table service restaurant in the Great Ceremonial House, has also recently reopened with a new look and refreshed menu. So even though this beauty is 50 years old, she’s gotten some TLC and looks better than ever! But with renovations and updates comes construction, like over at the old Spirit of Aloha Dinner Show location , which is currently an active construction zone as it will be the site for a new DVC tower . Though it shares the same white sand beaches as the Grand Floridian, the island vibe here just makes them pop. Sunsets on the Poly beach are just superior to the other Disney World “beaches”. Grand Floridian Cross the threshold of Disney World’s flagship resort into the Victorian age of high tea, dressing for dinner, and gloved-hands with pinkies-out. The lobby and restaurants are grandiose and luxurious, almost to the point of making guests reflect on imposter syndrome rather than a welcoming presence. The meticulous grounds and pristine white buildings with their brilliant red-tiled roofs definitely provide that grand allure you’d expect from a flagship resort. The Grand Floridian Lobby And the lobby delivers on that jaw-dropping “oh wow” moment ( especially around the holidays ), but it seems like Disney blew the budget on the common areas, and then tightened the purse strings on the room sitch. There are some very nice, and perfectly adequate furnishings, but the rooms themselves just don’t scream lavish. Grand Floridian Resort Room The Grand Floridian standard rooms haven’t seen the TLC that the Contemporary and Polynesian rooms have. So, there’s hope out there that the Grand Floridian rooms will be up soon for the next room renovation, but in the meantime, the Grand Floridian rooms don’t quite deliver for the price tag assigned to them. This could boil down to your preference. Are you looking for a casual, island theme and feeling welcome to wander through the lobby in bathing suits and flip-flops? Or do you want something a bit more glamorous, luxurious, and sophisticated? Both resorts deliver beautifully on their themes, but when it comes down to rooms, the Polynesian has the edge with having the most recently updated rooms. NEW Minnie Ears Are Themed After a Bougie Disney World Hotel Pools, splash pads, hot tubs, and lounge chairs, vacation just doesn’t feel completed without spending some time by the pool. Which of these resorts is the aquatic champion of water lounging? Only one way to find out… The Polynesian’s whole vibe is stepping into a tropical oasis, so the pool game is strong with this one! There are two pools at the Polynesian: the Lava Pool and the Oasis Pool. However, the Lava Pool is the showstopper here — because it’s a volcano! Ok, not a for-real volcano, obvi, but it has a waterslide from the top of the volcano’s peak, which is pretty epic. Even if you’re not looking to swoosh down a volcano waterslide, the lounge area at these pools and the pool bars (which definitely enhance the atmosphere), the Barefoot Pool Bar , and the Oasis Bar & Grill . And Capt. Cook’s and Trader Sam’s Tiki Terrace  are also so close they could be considered pool area enhancements, too. There are lots of drink options and plenty of food options for your day by the pool. You can even try a DFB Dole Whip drink hack that became a permanent menu item on the Barefoot Pool Bar menu ! And now we’re officially on island time! The Grand Floridian is not to be outdone in the pool category; it hosts two pools as well: the Beach Pool and the Courtyard Pool. And though both pools are pretty, the most memorable experience might be at the Mad Hatter splash pad. Alice’s Splash Zone And because it’s the Grand Floridian and sophisticated luxury is this resorts brand, there are plenty of poolside lounge chairs and cabanas available to rent for the day as you relax by the pool and nosh on some peeled-grapes and sip on some sweet tea, like we’re sure Victorian-age vacationers did back in the day. Relaxation — Grand Flo style! Both have two pools, and both have pool bars, lounge chairs, and splash areas. Again, it might boil down to just what your style is. Do you want something a bit on the classier, sophisticated side? Or something a bit more casual and with that island vibe? For the pure wow factor with the Volcano and the proximity to Dole Whips , our vote goes for the pools at the Poly. There’s no real loser in this category if you’ve found relaxation and joy, but our heart leans towards the Poly! 10 Hidden Secrets About Disney World Pools Because we are Disney FOOD Blog, we take food seriously. Very. Seriously. And we love it all. We love the cheap, comfort of plastic cheese , and we love the high-brow sophistication of a wine flight or a multi-course pre-fixe meal . We don’t discriminate; we are a lover of all foods. Since food is SO important, let’s see who these resorts stack up against each other in the restaurant category. Polynesian Village Polynesian Village has ten (10!) dining options, including lounges and pool bars (because those count!)! Barefoot Pool Bar   is the perfect place to grab a specialty cocktail to enjoy while lounging  by the Lava Pool . Oasis Pool Bar & Grill   serves up Polynesian-themed food and specialty cocktails to guests enjoying the  Oasis Pool. Captain Cook’s   is a  quick-service location , popular for being the place you can grab Tonga Toast for breakfast in the morning, and  Island-inspired dishes like the Pulled Pork Nachos and Thai Coconut Meatballs for lunch and dinner. The recently renovated and reopened Kona Cafe serves  breakfast, lunch, and dinner in a casual setting . The sweet Tonga Toast makes breakfast at Kona is a guest favorite . Kona Island   conveniently sits right off the second-floor monorail entrance. In the morning, this location serves Kona coffee and pastries, while at night, it becomes a sushi bar with cocktails. Kona Cafe is right next to Kona Island ‘Ohana  has an  oak wood fire pit that flavors the grilled meats served at an  all-you-care-to-enjoy meal  each evening. In the morning, Lilo and Stitch entertain guests during an  Island-style character breakfast . Hawaiian side dishes complement each meal. Tambu Lounge   is a relaxing bar where you can enjoy a drink prior to your dinner at ‘Ohana or Kona Cafe. The  Lapu Lapu  (a rum concoction served in a pineapple) is its claim to fame. Our favorite noodles Pineapple Lanai   is where you can find the famous  Dole Whip ! This is a Polynesian Village Resort claim to fame, as it was the first Disney World Resort where Dole Whip was served outside of the parks. The Polynesian remains the only Resort with its own spot dedicated to the treat. Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto   is a  unique tiki bar  located in the Great Ceremonial House, complete with an  interactive room  (elements react based on the ordering of certain drinks) and  wacky hijinks from your servers , the Skippers!  Trader Sam’s Tiki Terrace   is the more relaxed (but still entertaining)  outdoor counterpart  to Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto. Learn more about the Polynesian Village Resorts Restaurants here! Beaches Pool Bar  and  Courtyard Pool Bar   provide fixes for your hunger without ever leaving either of the Grand Floridian’s pools. Grand Floridian is home to two Signature dining restaurants, Citricos and Narcoossee’s.   Citricos is an  upscale restaurant serving American dishes with Mediterranean influences . Reserve the  Chef’s Domain for a private table and specially prepared menu. Narcoossee’s , another Signature Dining restaurant, specializes in  seafood . This beautiful, Victorian-inspired building sits ashore on the Seven Seas Lagoon, offering dramatic views of the Magic Kingdom fireworks. Citricos dining room Enchanted Rose Bar and Lounge   is inspired by the live-action  Beauty and the Beast film. Guests can indulge in gourmet bites and crafted cocktails while enjoying any one of the four themed rooms. Enchanted Rose lounge Garden View Tea Room hasn’t yet reopened, but when it does, it offers  Afternoon Tea with delicious finger sandwiches, pastries, cheese, and fruit. The beautiful view, elegant atmosphere, and fine china make this an exquisite experience. Gasparilla Island Grill   is a  counter service restaurant  with a standard food court menu, and it is open for guests 24-hours a day. Dine outdoors overlooking the Marina (with a view of Cinderella Castle) when the weather permits. The more casual Table Service options at the Grand Floridian are 1900 Park Fare and Grand Floridian Cafe . 1900 Park Fare, when it reopens, provides popular character dining experiences! At breakfast, guests are entertained by Mary Poppins and friends while the young and young-at-heart feast on Mickey waffles. Dinner is a more stately affair hosted by Cinderella and Prince Charming. Grand Floridian Cafe  serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner  in an  airy, casual setting . You’ll find American fare being served at your table overlooking the hotel’s elegant courtyard. The Grand Floridian Cafe is so pretty Victoria and Albert’s   is a  AAA Five Diamond Award winner  offering an exclusive dining experience. This Signature Dining restaurant pampers guests with personalized menus, dedicated servers, and long-stemmed roses. The Victoria & Albert’s Dining Room A  Chef’s Table  is also available to those who’d like to experience the most exclusive dining experience in Disney World. Also, the  Queen Victoria Room  is available for a bit more privacy. Join Us For a Meal at Disney World’s Most EXTRAVAGANT Restaurant — Victoria & Albert’s It’s so hard to designate a clear winner for food — because we love it all! If you and your family love some more “unique” food, and options that vary away from the traditional comfort food of fried chicken, steak, seafood, burgers, and chicken nuggets, then the Polynesian might be your jam! All of its menus are influenced by island flavors, and though not bizarre or untraditional, you’ll definitely find some creative takes on your familiar favorites. Kids’ Sushi The Grand Floridian really dances that line nicely with Gasparilla Island Grill and Grand Floridian Cafe, offering some comfort food like fried chicken, burgers, and chicken nuggets, and on the OPPOSITE end of that spectrum, Victoria & Albert’s that provides one of the most unique and sophisticated dining experiences in all of Florida! New DFB Video: Join Us For the Monorail Crawl! Do these neighboring resorts offer anything different when it comes to transportation? Let’s see!! Polynesian Village is on the Monorail loop . It’s the first stop after the Transportation & Ticketing Center (TTC) on the way to the Magic Kingdom. If Magic Kingdom is your destination, there is also a boat option to sail across Seven Seas Lagoon to the front steps of the Magic Kingdom. You can also get your steps in by strolling the walkway over to Magic Kingdom, but its not for the faint of heart as it is about a 20-25 minute walk. Boat launch from Polynesian Village Resort to Magic Kingdom If Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom, or Disney Springs is your destination, then you can board one of Disney’s busses to transport you over to these parks. Polynesian Bus Service But if EPCOT is your park for the day, here is where the difference sets in. Because the Poly is so close to the Transportation & Ticketing Center, if you don’t mind a brief 5-10 minute walk, you can waltz over to the TTC and board a Monorail to whiz you off to EPCOT. This may give the Poly the edge over the Grand Floridian as it does provide relatively easy access to that EPCOT Monorail loop . The Grand Floridian is also on the Monorail loop . It’s the second stop after the Polynesian on the way to the Magic Kingdom. If Magic Kingdom is your destination, there is also a boat option to sail across Seven Seas Lagoon to the front steps of the Magic Kingdom. You can also get your steps in by strolling the walkway over to Magic Kingdom. Though this resort is closer to the Magic Kingdom than the Polynesian, that walk is still about 15-20 minutes. Grand Floridian and Monorail If EPCOT is your park for the day, the easiest option is to board a Disney bus and head over. If you want to take the Monorail, you  can but you’d have to walk through the Polynesian resort, over to the Transportation & Ticketing Center to catch that Monorail, resulting in a 15-20 minute walk, and that doesn’t include waiting for the monorail. Or you can hop on the Monorail at the Grand Floridian and ride it past Magic Kingdom, past the Contemporary, and then transfer to the EPCOT Loop Monorail once you get to the Transportation and Ticketing Center, but that does add more time and complication to your already busy morning. These neighboring resorts are pretty much a tie when it comes to transportation. The Grand Floridian is closer to the Magic Kingdom if you want to use the walking trail (but there’s also a monorail and a boat to get you there, too). And the Polynesian is closer to the Transportation & Ticket Center, which gives it closer access to the EPCOT Monorail loop. If you don’t plan to walk anywhere, then there is no difference between these resorts at all. If you don’t mind a bit of a stroll, then the Polynesian has a bit of an edge giving some closer access to that EPCOT Monorail loop. Why You Should Skip the Monorail on Your Next Magic Kingdom Trip The winner. So, who is the ultimate winner in the Polynesian vs. Grand Floridian battle? We hate to say it, but it depends ! The Polynesian may seem like a clear choice because of its theming and popularity with Disney fans. If the Grand Floridian seemed like the clear choice to you, it is a great hotel, but it doesn’t have the same energy, food, or pools that the Polynesian does. It’s up to you and your group to decide what makes the most sense for you using all that we talked about above. Keep following DFB for more articles like this, and sign up for our newsletter below to get them straight into your inbox! Polynesian Village vs. Contemporary Resort Guide for Disney World in 2023 Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! We know disney. you can, too.. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW What do you think? Is Polynesian Village or Grand Floridian Resort better? Let us know in the comments! TRENDING NOW You are going to want to go to Gideon's Bakehouse's Original location located outside of... Bob Iger recently took part in a wide-ranging Q&A about the past and future of... Here's why Netflix canceled eight shows. Recently, a young celebrity from a popular spin-off show was spotted on a family vacation... Even more Disney World menus changed this week! Yes, we're eating our way around Disney World...again. And with that endless venture came an... Three BIG changes could be in store for Disney World in 2025. We have a Disney World transportation HACK that may save your vacation! Yet another one of our favorite things in Disney World is gone, and this time... Disney's newest Christmas collection is online NOW! Lougefly Mania is real. How do we know? Cause we totally have it! Yup, a... We're so glad this out-of-this-world treat has returned! We've got a new look at a new restaurant coming to Disney World. There's a NEW perk for Disney Visa cardholders. Soon, one of the animal trails at Disney's Animal Kingdom will be getting a new... Let us help you decide on your 2025 Disney World hotel! We were quite surprised to see such a large area covered by construction walls and... There's a SPECIAL song playing on Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind this month! These are the three My Disney Experience app updates that you NEED to know about... Get a full look at a two-bedroom suite at Disney's NEW Polynesian Village Resort Island... November 15, 2022 at 12:57 pm The Grand Floridian has a better range of food options from counter service to high-end, all of which have outstanding food quality. Trader Sam’s is a great experience, but is difficult to just walk into. The Enchanted Rose is as good as it gets when looking for a relaxing spot in a beautiful setting with outstanding service. Service is where The Grand Floridian shines. Servers in the restaurants at The Grand Floridian are the best of the best. The biggest star though is Barry at the Beach Pool who is a long-term Cast Member who makes every visit a magical one and someone you look forward to seeing during the next visit. November 15, 2022 at 5:58 pm Why wouldn’t you just take the monorail from GF and get off at the TTC to go to Epcot? Leave a Reply Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked * Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Notify me of followup comments via e-mail. You can also subscribe without commenting. CHECK OUT OUR OTHER EBOOKS SUBSCRIBE TO OUR FEED 263 IMAGES Disney's Grand Floridian Resort vs Disney's Yacht Club Resort Disney's Grand Floridian Resort vs Disney's Yacht Club Resort Grand Floridian vs. Yacht Club Disney World Resort Guide 2023 Grand Floridian vs. Yacht Club Disney World Resort Guide 2023 Grand Floridian vs. Yacht Club Disney World Resort Guide 2023 Grand Floridian vs. Yacht Club Disney World Resort Guide 2023 VIDEO LIMITED TIME ONLY! Walt Disney World's Resorts HOLIDAY Gingerbread Houses 2023! Grand Floridian Disney Yacht Club 2016 cape may minnie mouse Disney's Yacht Club resort and room tour Exclusive Disney Room Tour!! Disney's Yacht Club- Club Level Meandering Around at Yacht Club Resort Boink COMMENTS Grand Floridian vs. Yacht Club Disney World Resort Guide 2023 Grand Floridian vs. Yacht Club Disney World Resort Guide 2023. By Lisa Gilmore 1 Comment. ... Choosing between the Yacht Club and the Grand Floridian, is like choosing a favorite child, a favorite Disney cupcake, or between a Dole Whip or a Mickey Pretzel — there's enough love to go around! But just like cupcakes and classic Disney snacks ... Disney's Grand Floridian Resort vs Disney's Yacht Club Resort Therefore, Disney's Grand Floridian Resort is the winner regarding transportation. We love the variety available to you as a Guest of the Disney Deluxe Resort. Guest Rooms. As a Disney Deluxe Resort, Guest rooms in Disney's Grand Floridian and Disney's Yacht Club Resorts are spacious, with luxury elements, including a balcony. Disney World's Club Level ("Concierge") Offerings Explained Club Level at Deluxe Resorts. First, the cheapest Club Level rooms at Walt Disney World's deluxe resorts are at Wilderness Lodge and Yacht Club, and they start at (including tax) $781 and $830 nightly in 2024. Using a deep discount of 30%, which Disney occasionally offers, Club Level could probably be had for around $550 per night. Grand Floridian vs. Yacht Club 84 helpful votes. Grand Floridian vs. Yacht Club. 17 years ago. Hi all, Just got back from our first family vacation to Disney. We stayed at POR and loved it but decided we would do a deluxe for our visit next fall. Now, the quesiton is, which one. It will be me, my husband, 9 yo (at the time) daughter. Best Disney World Deluxe Resorts [Ranking + Why To Stay] Three deluxe resorts—Grand Floridian, Polynesian, and Contemporary—sit on the monorail, which connects them to Magic Kingdom (and, with a transfer, Epcot).You can also walk from these hotels to Magic Kingdom. Three deluxe resorts—BoardWalk Inn, Yacht Club, and Beach Club sit around the Boardwalk, between Hollywood Studios and Epcot, with boat and walking access to those two parks. Grand Floridian vs Yacht Grand Floridian vs Yacht. Thread starter Abatts; Start date Mar 2, 2022; 1; 2; Next. ... times, and I would recommend to save the $800 and stay at the Yacht Club. The kids will absolutely love the pool at the Yacht Club, and the proximity to Epcot and the Boardwalk is one of my favorite parts about staying there. ... I have 4 boys but they are ... Guide to Club Level or Concierge Lounges at Disney World Regatta Club at Disney's Yacht Club Resort; ... For instance, adding Club Level at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa would "only" be an additional $228 on New Year's Eve. That's Walt Disney World's most expensive hotel on its most expensive night of the year. The surcharge for Wilderness Lodge on that same night would be $274. Which Resort Has The Best Club Level In Disney World? As we mentioned in a previous post, the price of staying Club Level ranges from an additional $100 a night to $275 a night depending on the resort. A good rule of thumb is that the more expensive the hotel and room category, the greater the added cost. Elegance…. Disney's Grand Floridian Resort. Disney World Resort Comparison Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa: Deluxe: 💲💲💲💲💲- from $612: Magic Kingdom Resort Area: ... Disney Yacht Club Resort is themed after a Martha's Vineyard-style grand hotel. Located on Crescent Lake, Yacht Club is designed with authentic nautical details and upscale, classy charm. Disney Grand Floridian Vs Yacht Club (2022 UK GUESTS) The Rooms At Grand Floridian. The rooms at the Grand Floridian come with a variety of views and room types guests can choose from that include: garden, pool, theme park, marina, courtyard, or lagoon. The different rooms include: standard, club level, deluxe studios, resort studios, 1 & 2 bedroom suites, and 1, 2, & 3 bedroom villas all of which ... Disney World Resort Showdown: Yacht Club vs. Grand Floridian The very first time we decided to take the plunge and stay on property at Disney World, I really did not do a lot of research. It was sort of a last minute addition to a trip we already had planned so there weren't too many options available. We landed on the Yacht Club and I was officially hooked! We had such a great experience that we decided to come back to Disney for a longer trip a few ... 8 things to know before you decide to stay at Disney's Grand Floridian Only the Contemporary Resort and Bay Lake Tower at Disney's Contemporary Resort, which are about a half-mile away from the park, are closer, as the Grand Floridian is roughly 0.7 miles away via the newly completed walkway. SUMMER HULL/THE POINTS GUY. Depending on your strolling speed, expect this walk to take 10 to 15 minutes. GRAND FLORIDIAN VS BEACH/YACHT CLUB GRAND FLORIDIAN VS BEACH/YACHT CLUB. Thread starter WDWOswald; Start date Mar 24, 2017; WDWOswald DIS Veteran. Joined Mar 25, 2013 Messages 508. Mar 24, 2017 #1 ... I feel like the Grand Floridian, as the "crown jewel" of all Disney Resorts, might be the ultimate vacation. However, there's the walk to Epcot from the yacht/beach club and I love ... Grand Floridian vs. Beach Club Disney World Resort Guide for 2023 Grand Floridian. Cross the threshold of Disney World's flagship resort into the Victorian age of high tea, dressing for dinner, and gloved-hands with pinkies-out. The lobby and restaurants are grandiose and luxurious, almost to the point of making guests reflect on imposter syndrome rather than a welcoming presence. GRAND FLORIDIAN versus yacht club club level GF is definitely more impressive & better experience IMO. It's also usually considerably more that YC. I like to do a split stay & use the GF portion to relax & enjoy the resort & CL more. YC's food is very good, but GF has more options, especially for the midday snacks. GF had the soup back midday while YC has only crudite, cookies ... Polynesian vs. Grand Floridian Other versus posts include Animal Kingdom Lodge vs. Wilderness Lodge, BoardWalk vs. Beach Club, Port Orleans Riverside vs. French Quarter, and even Caribbean Beach vs. the Poly. This Grand Floridian vs. Polynesian comparison pits Walt Disney World's flagship hotel against a fun fan-favorite that some might argue should be WDW's "crown ... Grand Floridian vs. Yacht Club The Yacht Club is currently undergoing a room refurbishment that most likely will not be completed by your visit. In my opinion the rooms are not in that great of shape at the Yacht Club. I would choose Grand Floridian as it's a much better experience. If being close to Epcot is a must for you, then I would select the Beach Club. Grand Floridian VS. Yacht Club Well-Known Member. Feb 24, 2010. #11. wdwfan22 said: In my opinion the Floridian is the resort to choose. The Grand Floridian has better kept rooms than the Yacht or the Beach Club. The rooms at the Floridian are also larger than those at Yacht & Beach Club. On all of our visits the rooms have always been spotless. Disney's Riviera Resort vs Grand Floridian Just like Disney's Riviera Resort, the Grand Floridian offers the Disney bus, Disney's Minnie Van by Lyft (temporarily unavailable), and Disney's Magical Express until January 1, 2022. In addition to those transportation options, Disney World parks are just a leisurely boat ride away upon the grand ferryboat. What's the best way to get to the Grand Flori... The BEST way to travel from Disney's Yacht and Beach Club Resort to Disney's Grand Floridian Resort and Spa is to take a bus from Disney's Yacht and Beach Club to Magic Kingdom. From Magic Kingdom, you will then take the Monorail to Disney's Grand Floridian Resort and Spa. If the Monorail is really busy, another alternative is to take a boat ... Polynesian Village vs. Yacht Club Disney World Resort Guide 2023 This may give the Poly the edge over the Grand Floridian as it does provide relatively easy access to that EPCOT Monorail loop. Yacht Club. The Yacht Club is considered an "EPCOT-area" resort. It sits on Crescent Lake, next to Beach Club Resort, and across the lake from Disney's BoardWalk Inn. Grand Floridian vs Beach Club Joined. Jan 9, 2017. Jan 9, 2017. #2. Grand Floridian is an amazing resort, but Beach Club is exceptional as well. With the transportation options available am no longer concerned about how you will get to each park. I have found that none of them are any better than the others in terms of time or convenience. Polynesian Village vs. Grand Floridian Resort Guide for Disney World in The Polynesian is one of Walt Disney World's opening day hotels, it has a rich history, and a large following among Disney fans. It really does embrace its name of "village" as its layout is comprised of 11 longhouses plus the over-the-water Bora Bora Bungalows, which branch out from the Great Ceremonial House. catamaran gulet motorboat powerboat riverboat sailboat trimaran yacht