Resort Thread Disney's GRAND FLORIDIAN Resort & Spa + Construction Updates!! **LOBBY REFURB STARTED 4/14**

[808blessing]

Hmm, I wonder if the real process is go pay at the register, then return with your receipt for pick up. Kind of like at Food and Wine Festival but they didn't figure it out yet.

 

[mrsap]

Land Clearing Begins West of Magic Kingdom for Roadway Expansion, New Hotel Speculated

Land clearing is underway west of Magic Kingdom for an expansion and rerouting of Floridian Way north of Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort. The work is part of a multi-year project that includes adding roundabouts near Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort and Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort. There is speculation that the roadway rerouting is to support a new hotel near or attached to Magic Kingdom, but no such plans have been officially announced by Walt Disney World. Here’s a closer look at the permitting.

Floridian Way Reroute and Expansion Near Magic Kingdom​

The land clearing is taking place near where there will be laydown yards for construction equipment for the upcoming Cars-themed expansion to Frontierland and Villains land in Magic Kingdom. It’s important to distinguish that the work taking place here is not associated with the theme park project, which is still awaiting approval from the state to move forward.
Going back to the recent land clearing west of Magic Kingdom, the permit below shows the planned roadway adjustments for the Floridian Way/World Drive Phase III work. We can see Magic Kingdom on the right side of the screenshot below, the Grand Floridian near the middle of the image, and Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort in the lower left. The work is outlined in purple, with the most recent land clearing taking place at the light blue section.

For reference, the image below shows the northern portion of the World Drive Phase III permitted work with a look at the unrelated laydown yards (blue) that are still awaiting final permit approval from the state. While the work is in the same area, the cleared areas are separate. The roadway reroute is clearly part of some bigger plans, but it’s unclear what those plans are right now.



It’s also worth noting that while the Magic Kingdom laydown yards/Rivers of America demolition is still awaiting final approval from the state, the roadway project has been approved for years. Other impacts from the roadway project include adjustments to Disney’s Magnolia golf course and a new entrance to Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort.



In terms of where a hotel could go, the area below outlined in orange could be a great spot for a new hotel. It could even go a bit closer to Magic Kingdom depending on what Disney’s long-term plans are for the laydown yard right next to it. In theory, two of the three laydown yards will not be utilized for theme park projects and could be used for either further expansion over the next few decades, or a new hotel.

 

[mrsap]

Transportation Takes Center Stage at Polynesian and Grand Floridian DVC Quarterly Meetings​

The major question at hand was raised by multiple members, focusing on how the opening of the Polynesian Island Tower will affect transportation for both resorts.

Boat Transportation​

One of the first concerns discussed was the resort’s boat transportation to Magic Kingdom. Rumors suggest that larger boats will begin servicing the Polynesian and Grand Floridian, which could help alleviate some bottlenecks, but no concrete plans have been confirmed.

Monorail Transportation​

Monorail capacity remains a sticking point, particularly for Grand Floridian guests. The current loop places Grand Floridian as the last stop before Magic Kingdom, leaving many guests frustrated with crowded monorails and extended wait times.

Bus Transportation​

Members also shared concerns about bus transportation, especially for guests using ECVs. The shared bus service between the Polynesian and Grand Floridian often results in full buses arriving at Grand Floridian with little to no space for additional guests or ECVs.

Leadership Response​

Alison Armor, DVC’s Vice President of Resort Operations—and formerly Vice President of Transportation Operations—addressed these concerns directly. She noted that based on studies conducted, they believe infrastructure in place should be sufficient to meet the increased demand, citing the Polynesian Island Tower’s relatively modest 268-room addition. They will be mindful of Member feedback, however, and keep a close eye on this once the tower opens.


In terms of budget adjustments, the Polynesian’s transportation budget saw a $300,000 increase for 2025, rising from $3 million to $3.3 million. This allocation appears to be tied to the new tower, possibly accounting for enhancements such as larger boats. However, the Grand Floridian’s transportation budget remains flat year-over-year, leaving some members questioning if enough is being done to address the current and future issues.

Looking Ahead​

Both Polynesian and Grand Floridian members expressed concerns that these transportation challenges already exist and could be exacerbated by the Island Tower’s opening. While leadership seems confident that existing infrastructure can handle the increase in guests, it remains unclear if the proposed budget adjustments will adequately address the strain on these shared systems.

 

[RoseGold]

Not at all worried about transportation. This will be high end Four Seasons competitor. It won't be sharing transportation with us peasants at Grand Floridian. This is like being upset about the Golden Oak buses.

Disney doesn't have anything even trying in this category right now, and it's lost badly to all the new, gorgeous stuff.

 

[dizneedoll]

Progress being made on the patio in front of Gasparillas

 

[mrsap]

Progress being made on the patio in front of Gasparillas
View attachment 919881

Thanks for sharing!

 

[TammiMcMan]

Just got back from a 2 bedroom Villa stay. Was definitely not expecting the sea of humanity in the main building for the Gingerbread house and lines for the monorail. I took the monorail several times throughout my stay and it was really hit or miss. Having the single entrance was a challenge and while CM’s seemed to load pretty efficiently, some definitely struggled and we watched monorails taking off with empty cars after only letting on maybe a dozen people in the long line. Traffic for the buses was tough once you got past the TTC. Took us about 15 minutes one weekday late morning to travel from just after TTC to the Grand. Weekends were better with no construction going on. We mostly stuck to the theme pool and had great service there. Luckily weather was nice enough a few days for lounging. Saw so many weddings!

 

[mrsap]

New Walkway Now Open Between Polynesian Village Resort and Grand Floridian

New Walkway From Polynesian to Grand Floridian and Magic Kingdom

The walkway goes from between the Aotearoa and Fiji buildings, around the new Cove Pool, along the Seven Seas Lagoon waterfront, and toward the Wedding Pavilion. Here’s a look at the updated running map showcasing the route, followed by a walk from Polynesian toward the Wedding Pavilion.



*click link for pics

 

[Dispro1]

I haven’t really posted much lately but thought this was worth posting with all the crowds flocking to GF for the Gingerbread house causing extra long monorail lines…don’t forget about the walkway from GF to MK! These pictures were taken the Saturday before Thanksgiving. It was a non party night so MK was packed and the monorail was backed up toward Enchanted Rose like others have mentioned. It probably took us less time to walk than we would’ve waited in line and it was so peaceful! Much better than being crammed on a monorail with hundreds of people, especially since the weather is nice outside right now vs 100 degrees lol! I’ve already prepared my kids to get ready to walk if the line is long when we go back after Christmas for the New Year celebration!

 

[mrsap]

Received this email today, wonder if they’re tightening up parking because of the tower opening next door.
View attachment 921755

Wanted to share this post from the DVC thread for those with upcoming trips. Thanks for posting @sndral

 

[mrsap]

Some additional info from the Condo meeting…

Grand Floridian Villas December 2024 Condominium Meeting Recap​

Q: The main bank of elevators is marked for concierge guests only. Can something be done to address long waits for the "birdcage elevators", especially for guests with mobility scooters who cannot use stairs?

A: Resort GM Kristin Lindsay will discuss with staff, but said guests are welcome to use both sets of elevators during periods of peak demand.

Q: Are any steps being taken to address monorail capacity, particularly with the Polynesian's Island Tower opening?



A: Monorail capacity was carefully analyzed before committing to add the new rooms. They do have the ability to add more monorail trains to the line if needed. Alison Armor stated that "we do feel confident that we will be OK on service levels with this add." Also pointed out recent addition of walkway connecting resort to Magic Kingdom.

Q: Can anything be done to reduce crowding and clutter in the resort lobby?

A: This is the first holiday season with all resort restaurants open, including 1900 Park Fare, in 5 years. Agree that the volume of guests and strollers has been significant. Kristin Lindsay will discuss with staff and see if there is a better solution for stroller parking and guest management during peak periods.

Q: Can anything be done about "walking" reservations by members or (apparent) commercial renting activity by large-point owners?

A: (See our detailed write up regarding board comments on walking reservations and commercial point renting.)

Q: Are there any plans to replace the "beverage coolers" in Resort Studio rooms with standard mini refrigerators?

A: DVC did hear the feedback and as a result, rooms in Big Pine Key were upgraded to mini-fridges back in March 2024.

Q: Are there any plans to bring back the afternoon tea at Garden View Tea Room?

A: It is on the radar but there is nothing to announce at this time. The space is currently open to resort guests, to help alleviate lobby crowding.

Q: Can you explain about policies regarding 2025 dues payments? If someone cancels the monthly payment option, are there interest or fees applied?

A: Systems were changed to not allow gift card payments if on autopay. If a member drops off the autopay option, the full balance is immediately due or it will be subject to late fees and interested. (Additional details can be found in our 2025 annual dues write-up.)

Q: Will there be a time when the Capital Reserves balance is unnecessarily high, and could be used to defray the cost of member dues?

A: Per Tylana Hill, that could happen but "we are not at that point" now. It would most likely occur near the end of the contract term, if collected reserves exceed what is needed to maintain the property. In that case, a credit would be issued to owners.

Q: What is Disney doing to help manage property insurance costs?

A: Disney has the benefit of working with The Walt Disney Company's insurance team to manage those costs. To date, there has been very little change in insurance rates for DVC resorts.

Also during the meeting, the 2025 budget was approved by the board. The new Annual Dues rate is $7.93 per point, an increase of $0.36 or 4.7%.

 

[dizneedoll]

Looks like a great resort view room! We are also booked in a resort view for July. When you trip is over would you mind sharing the room number? Thanks!

We are back and the room was 8339 in Boca Chica. It is a resort view room but you can see the castle, fireworks, space mountain, The Contemporary and the boat parade at night.

 

[DisneyMomx7]

Thank you!

 

[mrsap]

Merry Christmas All!

 

[Dispro1]

Merry Christmas All!

View attachment 923876

Merry Christmas! We’ll be there Saturday, and I can hardly wait!

 

[PinkPixel]

On the subject of transportation...Just got back from the GF and wanted to mention that there was a large sign next to the Gingerbread house directing people to also use the Boats and Walkway. Was hoping they would move more towards keeping the boats uncrowded for the resort guests vs direct advertising to everyone coming to visit. It worked out fine for us this time though. In April we were not able to board due to large amount of people using GF boat dock for fireworks viewing and leaving MK beforehand.

Monoraills seemed to run more frequently last weekend so never had to wait long on the platform even with increased traffic. Was a great trip!

 

[grahf1234]

Just got back from stay. First time we stay at vgf after the walkway to mk opened, took it a few times, really love it!
It’s not the shortest walk, specially to the original villas building, still much faster and less hectic than the alternatives if it’s extremely busy I would imagine.
To be fair though this year the crowds seem to pale in comparison to the last few years for the same time period (Dec 15-25). Monorail traffic was very pleasant and not overcrowded like years past. Even buses didn’t suck quite as much as we’re accustomed to.

 

[GADisneyDad14]

I’ve been wondering what they did with the Grand 1 yacht. Parked back stage it appears. Anyone see it actually used for anything lately?

https://twitter.com/x/status/1874765428243026044

 

[GADisneyDad14]

Still a ways to go with the Floridian Way expansion and reconfiguration project that will eventually reroute Floridian Way on the “outside” of the current CM (and dining overflow) parking lot, but you can see it visually starting to take shape.

https://twitter.com/x/status/1874563856489750829

https://twitter.com/x/status/1874561558699008063

 

[Dave006]

I’ve been wondering what they did with the Grand 1 yacht. Parked back stage it appears. Anyone see it actually used for anything lately?

I don't believe it ever returned to service after the March 2020 shutdown. It did require 2 licensed boat captains to operate which also likely contributed to it not returning due a shortage of licensed captains for the last couple of years.

Dave