Hoping to get some info from GF RPC veterans. Been to GF CL on our honeymoon, and a few other times, but not since the WDW 25th anniversary, so it's been a while. We are going back this December for our 30th anniversary, so of course we had to stay at the GF!
We are splitting our stay over 10 days:
1) Check into GF RPC
2) Move to GF 1BR Villa
3) Move to Boardwalk Villa
My questions deal with the GF portion of our stay.
First, on the day of RPC checkout will/should we retain access to the RPC for the rest of that day/evening, even after we check into the GF Villa? I know the amenities are supposed to be available until midnight of checkout but wondering if the RPC access gets invalidated when we check into the Villa since it is a Grand Floridian property (but without club access).
Second, what are the pros and cons between rooms on the 3rd or 4th floors? I have restricted mobility so thought it would make more sense to ask for a room on the 4th floor since that's where the lounge is. (I had originally booked a Deluxe King, but didn't like the elevator gyrations needed to get to the DKs on the 2nd floor).
We are going to ease into the trip by starting off the vacation with primarily resort days - certainly when we have RPC access. This is a reverse of what we did last time - it was really nice to have all of the park hopping done before we stayed at the GF - but schedule and availability didn't line up this time.
Also- if we have afternoon tea in the RPC (free), is there any reason to go to the main tea downstairs (not free)? Other than the surroundings, is there any significant difference?
Finally- any significant changes in 20+ years?

(Other than the massive increase in planning required?)