Of course, a transformation of this scale requires some temporary adjustments. For the 2025 holiday season, the beloved life-size gingerbread house that traditionally graces the lobby will be paused. But never fear—Disney has confirmed that festive treats will still be available to keep the holiday spirit alive!
Additionally, the traditional front desk has been temporarily removed to accommodate construction. True to form, Disney is ensuring guest comfort remains a top priority with temporary, well-appointed seating areas, convenient check-in tables, and thoughtful amenities like spa water and park maps readily available.
This grand project is scheduled for completion in November 2025, and we cannot wait to see the final result.
The Grand Floridian has always been Walt Disney World’s flagship resort, and this thoughtful refurbishment ensures it will continue to set the standard for luxury, elegance, and magic for decades to come.
Wow, I have to admit I’m fangirling just a little over here. I love this aesthetic and I think it looks great! Can’t wait to see the fully finished project once it’s complete.
Progress is coming along at the beloved resort, and the changes are looking great. The first update we noticed is happening with the birdcage.
Grand Floridian Lobby Refurb
This iconic centerpiece was dismantled earlier this year to make way for a new one. The new birdcage will be inspired by the original structure’s Victorian aesthetic, complete with intricate woodwork and stained glass.
Grand Floridian Lobby Refurb
Neutral-colored construction walls and cleverly placed greenery and figures hide the construction on the lower levels, but an overhead view shows the new structure being assembled.
Once complete, the lobby upgrade project will offer a refreshed yet familiar space where guests can once again relax and enjoy the elegance of the Grand Floridian.
Normally I’d say “it’s Disney so Jan” but I kinda think the GF Manager is going to be itching to get the dough flowing in the lobby since they don’t have the gingerbread house this year so I’m voting we’ll see it open by T-Day…
Checked in. Kinda disappointed that room upgrades aren't being discounted. There were rooms available in all categories..Was going to upgrade but then realized it was the same rates as online. Also she said because im a passholder I wouldn't get a discounted room rate on day of as well. But im wondering if I should have asked someone else since she kinda gave me misleading info regarding package deliveries. She told me because it wasn't groceries I can't ask bell services but on the phone they said it was
They don't offer discounted upgrades at the Front desk, and have not since 1971 when WDW opened. If you want a discount room you need book it or change it before you arrive. Many of us have changed our resort and/or room type from the parking lot even from the lobby online or by phone.
She was only guessing just like 95% of all CMs that don't perform that specific task. Who did you as on the phone? Was this before you arrived or once you got to the GF?
… she kinda gave me misleading info regarding package deliveries. She told me because it wasn't groceries I can't ask bell services but on the phone they said it was
Nobody will stop you from asking bell services if they have your item, you can ask on the phone or in person. If it’s a package that was shipped and you can see on tracking it was delivered, talk to the front desk in person.
I never made it over there on my Labor Day trip (was too busy camped at S71 lounge when I was at CR ) and am only now getting around to checking in on the progress, I’m so happy at how the carpet turned out. I was honestly terrified but they knocked it out of the park.
I never made it over there on my Labor Day trip (was too busy camped at S71 lounge when I was at CR ) and am only now getting around to checking in on the progress, I’m so happy at how the carpet turned out. I was honestly terrified but they knocked it out of the park.