(2014-2020) Disney's GRAND FLORIDIAN RESORT & SPA + VILLAS Information & Questions

[MissMet]

Hey guys. I will be booking a room at GF Club Level, main building. This is my first time staying at GF & Club Level- this is a special trip just my DH & I for my 30th. Just trying to get info on which room to go with. Was back & forth between standard, park view or deluxe king room. I was thinking against deluxe king since I'd really like to have a balcony & from what I've researched so far, I could end up with the gorgeous octagon, I think, room, but it wouldn't have a balcony. So is theme park view really worth it at GF (main building)? I've had theme park view at CR so I'm not stuck on the theme park view, I just want to have a nice view to enjoy time on our balcony.

Which would you pick & why?

Thanks!

 

[Sue M]

Hey guys. I will be booking a room at GF Club Level, main building. This is my first time staying at GF & Club Level- this is a special trip just my DH & I for my 30th. Just trying to get info on which room to go with. Was back & forth between standard, park view or deluxe king room. I was thinking against deluxe king since I'd really like to have a balcony & from what I've researched so far, I could end up with the gorgeous octagon, I think, room, but it wouldn't have a balcony. So is theme park view really worth it at GF (main building)? I've had theme park view at CR so I'm not stuck on the theme park view, I just want to have a nice view to enjoy time on our balcony.

Which would you pick & why?

Thanks!

It's pretty subjective. We loved RPC, and had a lovely view of the courtyard pool. It was a standard view. Close to the lounge just had to walk up from 3rd floor to 4th. I haven't stayed in the theme park rooms but I believe they're above Gaspirillas, pretty far from the lounge. I just go walk to the patio in front of Gaspys and watch.

 

[mandy200587]

Well we won't be at GF this next year....we made the decision to downgrade to a moderate. I'm still going to have breakfast there though, it's not vacation without my mickey waffle from GFC or strawberry soup from Park Fare.

 

[Sue M]

Well we won't be at GF this next year....we made the decision to downgrade to a moderate. I'm still going to have breakfast there though, it's not vacation without my mickey waffle from GFC or strawberry soup from Park Fare.

Our fav moderate is POR Riverside. Love the mansion section. It's a beautiful resort. Strolling along the river is so enjoyable. I never feel like I'm downgrading, just a different place. And the boat to DTD is very scenic and relaxing, watching the carriages go by, visiting the lounge to watch Bob Jacksons show, fun!! And the Make Your own Pasta bar in food court is a fav. Sometimes we go to have it even when we're staying deluxe. Then will hop on the boat to DTD.

 

[bethclayton]

Hey guys. I will be booking a room at GF Club Level, main building. This is my first time staying at GF & Club Level- this is a special trip just my DH & I for my 30th. Just trying to get info on which room to go with. Was back & forth between standard, park view or deluxe king room. I was thinking against deluxe king since I'd really like to have a balcony & from what I've researched so far, I could end up with the gorgeous octagon, I think, room, but it wouldn't have a balcony. So is theme park view really worth it at GF (main building)? I've had theme park view at CR so I'm not stuck on the theme park view, I just want to have a nice view to enjoy time on our balcony.

Which would you pick & why?

Thanks!

i have had both and i would definitely not spend the money for a theme park view. all of the views in the main building are beautiful. the theme park view rooms are the furthest from the lounge. the view is also from very far away and at a weird angle. i personally slightly preferred my view in the room right across from the lounge, to the theme park view.

 

[mmmears]

Hey guys. I will be booking a room at GF Club Level, main building. This is my first time staying at GF & Club Level- this is a special trip just my DH & I for my 30th. Just trying to get info on which room to go with. Was back & forth between standard, park view or deluxe king room. I was thinking against deluxe king since I'd really like to have a balcony & from what I've researched so far, I could end up with the gorgeous octagon, I think, room, but it wouldn't have a balcony. So is theme park view really worth it at GF (main building)? I've had theme park view at CR so I'm not stuck on the theme park view, I just want to have a nice view to enjoy time on our balcony.

Which would you pick & why?

Thanks!

We had a TPV room -- it was down the hallway from the lounge. Not that long of a walk, and it had a great view of the castle and the fireworks at night. Those rooms are above Gasparilla's. While we really liked it, I didn't want to pay more this time and we chose a standard room. I think we'll be ok without that castle view. I think it's really just personal preference.

 

[mandy200587]

Our fav moderate is POR Riverside. Love the mansion section. It's a beautiful resort. Strolling along the river is so enjoyable. I never feel like I'm downgrading, just a different place. And the boat to DTD is very scenic and relaxing, watching the carriages go by, visiting the lounge to watch Bob Jacksons show, fun!! And the Make Your own Pasta bar in food court is a fav. Sometimes we go to have it even when we're staying deluxe. Then will hop on the boat to DTD.

Thank you, I admit completely it's been a long time since I'v stayed at a moderate, like since early 90s...and then that area was Dixie Landings. We're booked in a preferred room and honestly I am looking forward to trying it and experiencing it.

 

[trishadono]

Hey guys. I will be booking a room at GF Club Level, main building. This is my first time staying at GF & Club Level- this is a special trip just my DH & I for my 30th. Just trying to get info on which room to go with. Was back & forth between standard, park view or deluxe king room. I was thinking against deluxe king since I'd really like to have a balcony & from what I've researched so far, I could end up with the gorgeous octagon, I think, room, but it wouldn't have a balcony. So is theme park view really worth it at GF (main building)? I've had theme park view at CR so I'm not stuck on the theme park view, I just want to have a nice view to enjoy time on our balcony.

Which would you pick & why?

Thanks!

I wouldn't choose a TPV at gf because the TPV rooms at CR have an amazing view. At gf you can see the castle and fireworks buts it's not as awesome as Cr. Gf I choose for food and hotel ambiance.

However if you truly plan on being at the hotel for long periods and will watch the fireworks from your room etc. then you would enjoy it.

I have stayed in the deluxe king both octagon and the2nd floor TPV rooms. I did not miss the balcony in the octagon because I sat in the lounge instead. There are 2 very large patios on the 3rd floor that are rarely occupied, you could sit out there too.

If I ever go back with dh I would do deluxe king because bed size most important for him. With dd I wou do a std because I think it wouldn't matter for her.

Sounds like a great birthday trip! Enjoy

 

[MissMet]

Thank you guys!! That's the type of responses I was hoping to get. Very helpful. Thanks!

 

[Sue M]

Thank you, I admit completely it's been a long time since I'v stayed at a moderate, like since early 90s...and then that area was Dixie Landings. We're booked in a preferred room and honestly I am looking forward to trying it and experiencing it.

I've not stayed in the AB section, have to admit I'm not a fan of the room decor there, lol! We love the mansions, either Acadian House or Magnolia Terrace location close to Old Man Island foot bridge is close (enough) to the main buildings and very close to main pool.
Hope you have a great stay!! I think aside from Poly, POR has the best landscaping of all the resorts.

 

[mandy200587]

I've not stayed in the AB section, have to admit I'm not a fan of the room decor there, lol! We love the mansions, either Acadian House or Magnolia Terrace location close to Old Man Island foot bridge is close (enough) to the main buildings and very close to main pool.
Hope you have a great stay!! I think aside from Poly, POR has the best landscaping of all the resorts.

We booked preferred because of my mom, so she wouldn't have to do quite as much walking if she wants to go without a wheelchair. Thank you!

 

[Sue M]

We booked preferred because of my mom, so she wouldn't have to do quite as much walking if she wants to go without a wheelchair. Thank you!

AB buildings don't have elevators. So you may want a ground floor room. If that's the case fax the POR room assignor team around 4 days before arrival explaining why you need a ground floor. POR room assignors are one of the few resorts (or only resort) that actually looks at faxes! They do a great job.

 

[mandy200587]

AB buildings don't have elevators. So you may want a ground floor room. If that's the case fax the POR room assignor team around 4 days before arrival explaining why you need a ground floor. POR room assignors are one of the few resorts (or only resort) that actually looks at faxes! They do a great job.

Thank you! That's good to know! I know we were going to note in our reservation. We still aren't sure 100% if we're renting outside this year or just using the parks. That we'll figure out closer.

 

[goofy friend]

Just completed stay at the Grand Floridian Villa's, I had a 2 bedroom villa with a standard view. I very please with my room, it was number 1407 ( 4th floor ). I could stand or sit on my huge balcony and look across at the main building, to my left I could watch the monorail and by looking to my right, I could see the Magic Kingdom fireworks. It had a great view, I am sure better than most standard view rooms. I tried to post pictures, but keep getting error message that my files are to large.

 

[KonaKaiTom]

Thank you, I admit completely it's been a long time since I'v stayed at a moderate, like since early 90s...and then that area was Dixie Landings. We're booked in a preferred room and honestly I am looking forward to trying it and experiencing it.

Four years ago next month was my first trip back to WDW in over 10 years. We stayed POR in AB 14 - the preferred locations -- it was less than a minute to the River Mill or the bus stop and it was a lovely resort. Every morning while the teenagers slept a bit later than I did, I'd walk over to POFQ and get coffee and beignets and eat them on the way back....they never knew what they missed sleeping in!!! We had no problem with buses (POR and CBR get bashed for too many bus stops), and had a very nice vacation.

I hope you enjoy it as much as we did!

Tom

 

[Lisann]

Just completed stay at the Grand Floridian Villa's, I had a 2 bedroom villa with a standard view. I very please with my room, it was number 1407 ( 4th floor ). I could stand or sit on my huge balcony and look across at the main building, to my left I could watch the monorail and by looking to my right, I could see the Magic Kingdom fireworks. It had a great view, I am sure better than most standard view rooms. I tried to post pictures, but keep getting error message that my files are to large.

Sounds wonderful!

 

[OregonGirl]

Boat to Poly for breakfast

Thanks for the photos, Pas! Sounds like you had a great time. TR?

This is my first time staying at GF & Club Level- this is a special trip just my DH & I for my 30th. Just trying to get info on which room to go with. Was back & forth between standard, park view or deluxe king room. I was thinking against deluxe king since I'd really like to have a balcony & from what I've researched so far, I could end up with the gorgeous octagon, I think, room, but it wouldn't have a balcony. So is theme park view really worth it at GF (main building)? I've had theme park view at CR so I'm not stuck on the theme park view, I just want to have a nice view to enjoy time on our balcony.

MissMet, I had the EXACT SAME DILEMMA. I chose the deluxe king, main building, because I figured DH and I will love either a non-balcony octagonal room OR a balcony rectangle room but either way the king bed was way important for me over 2 queens. If you want a balcony I guess its a risk, because if you request a balcony deluxe king you aren't guaranteed (others, correct me if I am wrong?), much like how - I think - if I request an octagonal room I am not guaranteed that either. But I think whatever we end up getting, we will love it. Main building was important to me as I wanted to try RPC over SL. I saw your post at the CLub Level thread and glad you decided on GF.

Also - everyone - HI! After several challenging months in my professional world, which jeopardized our Disney vacation, it looks like our March 1-5 GF RPC vacation is back on the table! Yay! Followed hopefully by a week on Holland America, Southern Caribbean. Its been a few years since a Disney vacation or a cruise, and DH and I are very much looking forward to it. Thanks for all the helpful information on this thread, and the photo sharing and such.

Quick question, which I posted in the Club Level thread as well: Our wedding anniversary is February 19th and hubby's birthday is March 18. Do you think it would be appropriate to 'celebrate' both occasions at Disney? I always feel a little weird claiming a celebration that is a few weeks off... but on the other hand it's part of our treat to each other for both occasions, so I think it makes sense.

- Carey

 

[dansdad]

Quick question, which I posted in the Club Level thread as well: Our wedding anniversary is February 19th and hubby's birthday is March 18. Do you think it would be appropriate to 'celebrate' both occasions at Disney? I always feel a little weird claiming a celebration that is a few weeks off... but on the other hand it's part of our treat to each other for both occasions, so I think it makes sense.

- Carey

As I posted in the Club Level Thread....It is ALWAYS appropriate to Celebrate a milestone while at Disney no matter when the actual date is. One of the many, many things I love about WDW!

 

[pas130]

Thanks for the photos, Pas! Sounds like you had a great time. TR?



MissMet, I had the EXACT SAME DILEMMA. I chose the deluxe king, main building, because I figured DH and I will love either a non-balcony octagonal room OR a balcony rectangle room but either way the king bed was way important for me over 2 queens. If you want a balcony I guess its a risk, because if you request a balcony deluxe king you aren't guaranteed (others, correct me if I am wrong?), much like how - I think - if I request an octagonal room I am not guaranteed that either. But I think whatever we end up getting, we will love it. Main building was important to me as I wanted to try RPC over SL. I saw your post at the CLub Level thread and glad you decided on GF.

Also - everyone - HI! After several challenging months in my professional world, which jeopardized our Disney vacation, it looks like our March 1-5 GF RPC vacation is back on the table! Yay! Followed hopefully by a week on Holland America, Southern Caribbean. Its been a few years since a Disney vacation or a cruise, and DH and I are very much looking forward to it. Thanks for all the helpful information on this thread, and the photo sharing and such.

Quick question, which I posted in the Club Level thread as well: Our wedding anniversary is February 19th and hubby's birthday is March 18. Do you think it would be appropriate to 'celebrate' both occasions at Disney? I always feel a little weird claiming a celebration that is a few weeks off... but on the other hand it's part of our treat to each other for both occasions, so I think it makes sense.

- Carey

Yes Carey the deluxe King are only a request with balcony vs. octagon room. I REALLY wanted the turret room, they are hugs, but we got the tree view room LOL However we were compensated by a wonderful do-ever at Sugarloaf and it was so awesome we are returning this summer. I haven't done at TR, I should Your upcoming trip sounds awesome and I say celebrate away!!!!!!!!!!!! Like an un-birthday, you can celebrate any and all occasions at WDW!!!!!!!!!!

 

[BlueSkies]

Hey guys. I will be booking a room at GF Club Level, main building. This is my first time staying at GF & Club Level- this is a special trip just my DH & I for my 30th. Just trying to get info on which room to go with. Was back & forth between standard, park view or deluxe king room. I was thinking against deluxe king since I'd really like to have a balcony & from what I've researched so far, I could end up with the gorgeous octagon, I think, room, but it wouldn't have a balcony. So is theme park view really worth it at GF (main building)? I've had theme park view at CR so I'm not stuck on the theme park view, I just want to have a nice view to enjoy time on our balcony.

Which would you pick & why?

Thanks!

I am going to echo what most others have said about TPV room as opposed to standard room...while the TPV views are nice..they are not nearly as nice as the TPVs in say CR or the Poly..which are both closer and have a more centered view...and they are farthest from the lounge as opposed to the rest of the rooms....But ..if you want a TPV and a king room you can book deluxe king...there are several of those with a TPV ( and one 4201)..with a TREE view.... ..but are not only further from the lounge ..they are also on the 2nd floor..so a bit inconvenient IMO..there are others who do love those particular room though..someone ..I can't remember which poster it was..was nice enough to pop in over here..and post about that.... I any case lots of choices..all GRAND...best of luck with your decision...and Happy Birthday!

It's pretty subjective. We loved RPC, and had a lovely view of the courtyard pool. It was a standard view. Close to the lounge just had to walk up from 3rd floor to 4th. I haven't stayed in the theme park rooms but I believe they're above Gasparillas, pretty far from the lounge. I just go walk to the patio in front of Gaspys and watch.

I agree Sue...

i have had both and i would definitely not spend the money for a theme park view. all of the views in the main building are beautiful. the theme park view rooms are the furthest from the lounge. the view is also from very far away and at a weird angle. i personally slightly preferred my view in the room right across from the lounge, to the theme park view.

..We prefer those rooms nearer to the lounge too....maybe because its all about the food....lol...

I wouldn't choose a TPV at gf because the TPV rooms at CR have an amazing view. At gf you can see the castle and fireworks buts it's not as awesome as Cr. GF I choose for food and hotel ambiance.

However if you truly plan on being at the hotel for long periods and will watch the fireworks from your room etc. then you would enjoy it.

I have stayed in the deluxe king both octagon and the2nd floor TPV rooms. I did not miss the balcony in the octagon because I sat in the lounge instead. There are 2 very large patios on the 3rd floor that are rarely occupied, you could sit out there too.

If I ever go back with dh I would do deluxe king because bed size most important for him. With dd I wou do a std because I think it wouldn't matter for her.

Sounds like a great birthday trip! Enjoy

Well said Trish... Good point about that nice balcony on the third floor...we always enjoy grabbing some dessert in the lounge and heading out to that balcony to watch the fireworks...Kind of like your own private Wishes dessert party!

Just completed stay at the Grand Floridian Villa's, I had a 2 bedroom villa with a standard view. I very please with my room, it was number 1407 ( 4th floor ). I could stand or sit on my huge balcony and look across at the main building, to my left I could watch the monorail and by looking to my right, I could see the Magic Kingdom fireworks. It had a great view, I am sure better than most standard view rooms. I tried to post pictures, but keep getting error message that my files are to large.

Sounds wonderful!! I have had the same issues with picture file size....but have resolved it by adjusting the file size setting on the camera ...and have since been able to post pictures...

Thanks for the photos, Pas! Sounds like you had a great time. TR?



MissMet, I had the EXACT SAME DILEMMA. I chose the deluxe king, main building, because I figured DH and I will love either a non-balcony octagonal room OR a balcony rectangle room but either way the king bed was way important for me over 2 queens. If you want a balcony I guess its a risk, because if you request a balcony deluxe king you aren't guaranteed (others, correct me if I am wrong?), much like how - I think - if I request an octagonal room I am not guaranteed that either. But I think whatever we end up getting, we will love it. Main building was important to me as I wanted to try RPC over SL. I saw your post at the CLub Level thread and glad you decided on GF.

Also - everyone - HI! After several challenging months in my professional world, which jeopardized our Disney vacation, it looks like our March 1-5 GF RPC vacation is back on the table! Yay! Followed hopefully by a week on Holland America, Southern Caribbean. Its been a few years since a Disney vacation or a cruise, and DH and I are very much looking forward to it. Thanks for all the helpful information on this thread, and the photo sharing and such.

Quick question, which I posted in the Club Level thread as well: Our wedding anniversary is February 19th and hubby's birthday is March 18. Do you think it would be appropriate to 'celebrate' both occasions at Disney? I always feel a little weird claiming a celebration that is a few weeks off... but on the other hand it's part of our treat to each other for both occasions, so I think it makes sense.

- Carey

HI Carey And Welcome!! Glad that you are over the hurdles and able to be back on track planning a Disney trip to celebrate two wonderful occasions! As other posters have pointed out..if you are heading to WDW to celebrate...it matters not if its not on the exact dates of the celebrations..just that you are there because of them... Hope that is a magical trip!

As I posted in the Club Level Thread....It is ALWAYS appropriate to Celebrate a milestone while at Disney no matter when the actual date is. One of the many, many things I love about WDW!

This!

Yes Carey the deluxe King are only a request with balcony vs. octagon room. I REALLY wanted the turret room, they are hugs, but we got the tree view room LOL However we were compensated by a wonderful do-ever at Sugarloaf and it was so awesome we are returning this summer. I haven't done at TR, I should Your upcoming trip sounds awesome and I say celebrate away!!!!!!!!!!!! Like an un-birthday, you can celebrate any and all occasions at WDW!!!!!!!!!!

pas Miss Sugar!! I am so happy that you enjoyed your recent stay.... I agree that any stay can be a celebration! Un birthdays are such fun! Yes..do a TR!! Love reading them! Maybe when you get some spare time......lol....

~ Purple fans...there will soon be purple MBs available for purchase at certain locations at WDW....Sure wih that this would be an option from the standard MBs that you can order with a reservation....

Hope that all of my fellow GF fans are having a terrific Tuesday! preppy GF gal..who is done shopping and wrapping..and looking forward to my first Epcot/MK resort split stay!