What makes the Grand Floridian so "wonderful"?

[stacyleigh1978]

After reading some pretty unfavorable critiques of CBR, DH and I decided to change our resort (one week before leaving

This is a very special trip for our family and we decided to upgrade to a deluxe resort. We read so many posts on the disboards saying that the GF was "wonderful." Can anyone share with me what makes this resort so "wonderful?" I know it is a beautiful resort, having visited it a couple times before, and we're lucky to be there to see the Gingerbread House and other Christmas decorations. I was just wondering what other positives this resort has for us.

On a side note- I heard that GF has a photopass photographer onsite to take pictures in front of a Christmas tree. Are they there all day?

Thank you!

[mickeynut1]

For me, the GF is "wonderful" because the grounds are beautiful and it's nice walking around the resort taking everything in (however, with that said, I'm not sure how the DVC construction is effecting the resort as we haven't been there since the construction started). The lobby is very hectic during the holidays with everyone coming in to see the gingerbread house, but it also has a very festive feel to it. There is a photographer around taking pictures in front of the tree, but I'm not sure of the schedule. Have a great trip and enjoy the GF.

[Pakey]

I've only stayed RPC CL; I did one night at Sugarloaf and disliked being in an outer building.

Things that make it special: the evening band, watching the electrical water pageant from the dock, walking from my room to monorail without going outdoors, watching a lot of wedding parties, being able to walk back to my room after those huge meals at V&A, renting a cabana at the pool, watching Wishes from my balcony, going downstairs for afternoon tea.

[ExpatDisneyLover]

What makes the GF magical?

I love the ambiance - the jazz band - the Garden View tea room - looking across the lagoon. The grounds are relaxing and quiet - it is nice to take the boat to and from the MK if you want a change from the monorail.

Be aware - the DVC construction is going on - but IMO doesn't make the Grand Floridian any less magical - just know that it will be there.

Have great stay!

[disneydreamfan14]

We've never personally stayed at the GF, but after eating there plenty of times, the one thing that immediately comes to my mind is its BREATHTAKING. The effort put into the lobby and grounds are what makes it wonderful.

And you'll love the Gingerbread House. In 2006 we were there and it was up, I still remember how much my family loved it. This year we were a little early and they were building it, we wish we could've the finished product!

The DVC construction doesn't look too bad. The DVC building is right near the monorail track, looked pretty separate from the other resort buildings so sound shouldn't be a problem.

[bcrook]

I have never stayed there, and I don't have enough DVC points to try that in the future. But, I love the grand Floridian cafe. Breakfast is awesome, and I love that key lime pie.

[xipotec]

Very pretty this time of year to be sure, we do not stay there because it also feels a bit "stuffy" and "uptight" at times to us.
I am sure to be crucified for saying that..,,
Lol

[Disney/Universal Fan]

Originally Posted by xipotec

Very pretty this time of year to be sure, we do not stay there because it also feels a bit "stuffy" and "uptight" at times to us.
I am sure to be crucified for saying that..,,
Lol

Which is exactly why you made the post. I have stated quite a few times that one of the main reasons you post is just to get some sort of reaction. Hopefully, no one takes the bait this time (like I did!) and responds. We have stayed at The Grand Floridian and also stayed at the All-Stars and have always found the staff AND the guests to be very accomodating, no matter the resort.

[Sammie]

Absolutely everything.


The decor of the building, the grounds, the staff, the smells, the music, the shops, the restaurants, the view, the comfortable beds, the spa toiletries, and that is during the non holiday season.

During the holidays it is even more magical.

[CaliforniaDreaming]

Originally Posted by Sammie

Absolutely everything.


The decor of the building, the grounds, the staff, the smells, the music, the shops, the restaurants, the view, the comfortable beds, the spa toiletries, and that is during the non holiday season.

During the holidays it is even more magical.

I couldn't have said it better myself! It just feels right to me.

[xipotec]

Originally Posted by Sammie

Absolutely everything.

The decor of the building, the grounds, the staff, the smells, the music, the shops, the restaurants, the view, the comfortable beds, the spa toiletries, and that is during the non holiday season.

During the holidays it is even more magical.

Just being honest?
I enjoy the Poly much more, sorry i will temper my post as to not offend anyone ever....

[Eeyore's Wife]

While I do enjoy the Grand Floridian, it is not a favorite of mine. I much prefer to stay at The Contemporary. I like being in the same building as the restaurants and have the option of waiting for the Monorail inside. Getting a room inside the main building at the Floridian is so much more expensive than a Tower Theme Park room.

In addition, I adore the walkway from The Contemporary to the Magic Kingdom. When the lines for the Monorail are brutally long, or the whole system is down, I have easy access.

Add in the construction work at GF right now, and it really seals the deal for me.
I enjoy the ambiance at the GF, but can boat or monorail there and enjoy the restaurants or entertainment.

On a Day with torrential sideways rain it is so nice to step out of my tower room and go eat breakfast or purchase a tylenol without having to brave the elements.

[Mike&AllisMom]

Originally Posted by xipotec

Just being honest?
I enjoy the Poly much more, sorry i will temper my post as to not offend anyone ever....

Is there anything specific about the Poly you like more? We have stayed at GF & the Poly is on my list to try. Would love to hear about it!

[bcrook]

Originally Posted by xipotec

Very pretty this time of year to be sure, we do not stay there because it also feels a bit "stuffy" and "uptight" at times to us.
I am sure to be crucified for saying that..,,
Lol

I agree grand Floridian is the most formal of all locations, other than for the cafe, I am not sure i would like staying there. I don't use the spa, and I think theming is more exciting at the other locations. Other places are more laid back.

No need to pile on for this comment.

[luvthemouse71]

Originally Posted by xipotec

Very pretty this time of year to be sure, we do not stay there because it also feels a bit "stuffy" and "uptight" at times to us.
I am sure to be crucified for saying that..,,
Lol

I think it feels a little uptight too. That feeling wasn't helped by a snooty CM that was rude to my sister.

I'm still willing to give it a chance eventually though. The grounds are beautiful.