First VGF stay in 2 days!!

[goofy4wdw2]

Our first VGF stay is in two days...can't wait! We are in a 1BR, split between lake view and standard view (still on wait list for all of the same view in the unlikely chance something opens up). I requested upper floor but I know it's not guaranteed...and other recommendations?

Any tips or hidden gems at the GF that we shouldn't miss?!?

Any favorite entrees/snacks/drinks only available at the GF that you recommend?

I saw mention of modified monorail hours. I think it will only affect us one morning when we have an 8:20am ADR for Be Our Guest. If the resort monorail is down, will the boat be running or do the boats only start at a designated time every day? Just wondering the best way for us to get to MK that morning. If anyone has any info on the boat or ferry operating times in general in the GF/MK area, I'd love to know.

Thank you!!

 

[nalajms]

Doesn't the boat run an hour prior to park opening?

Have a great trip! Those 1 bedrooms are great.

 

[disneynutz]

Turn the ice machine on when you first get to the room.
The pool bar next to VGF has some good food.
The TV in the mirror doesn't work very well.
If you used the soaking tub, don't be alarmed when to turns on after use as it purges the water in the air system.

Bill

 

[Donna M]

I love VGF, my new favorite! We walked over from Poly to get the salad at the quick serve restaurant in the main building. If you enjoy salad, this is one you have them create in front of you with many more selections than the typical chicken Caesar salad.

We enjoy going to the main building in the evening to listen to the live music, and there always seems to be something interesting to watch while there.

In the Villa's lobby there is a nice checkers/chess board. There are games to borrow along with the DVDs. You can shot baskets out front by the fitness center. If parking, head to the end of the lot. You will have a nice head on view of the entry when you walk from that end.

 

[dbfrom]

At VGF now. At that time of morning both boats and monorail will be running. Since boat goes GF, then Poly, then MK the monorail should be faster going over to Mk. Boat is always a good way back.

They will give you a paper noting monorail down times if they are going to happen during your stay.

I concur that is seems there are different choices at captain cooks. I had the fish tacos today and DW had the grilled ham and cheese, both were quite good.

Enjoy your stay.

 

[dbfrom]

FYI, forgot to mention, captain cooks over at Poly is only a bit further walk than the gaspirilla grill so it isn't that far out of the way. Both are a bit far for the mug refills which I believe you can do at the pool bar if it is open.

 

[thisismyusername]

FYI, forgot to mention, captain cooks over at Poly is only a bit further walk than the gaspirilla grill so it isn't that far out of the way. Both are a bit far for the mug refills which I believe you can do at the pool bar if it is open.

The pool bar does have a refill area, and definitely is the best location for VGF when you have the mugs. They open that side earlier than the walk-up window and the bar--I think it was open around 8 a.m. last summer. (And I'm pretty sure they had coffee, too.)

 

[goofy4wdw2]

Thanks everyone! Love all of these tips!

 

[nalajms]

I think it was open around 8 a.m. last summer.

When we were there in Feb, it definitely was not open at 8am. I remember having to walk to the QS It might be dependent on when the pool opens. The pool hours were not consistent when we were there. Some days 9, others 10. Just don't be disappointed if it's closed. And they def had coffee, soda, & tea. Hot chocolate machine too.

 

[brelyt]

18 days for us. 2 bedroom standard. I think I have asked this before, is the master closet big enough for a pack and play? Door open or closed?

 

[nalajms]

18 days for us. 2 bedroom standard. I think I have asked this before, is the master closet big enough for a pack and play? Door open or closed?

I would guess yes. Def the small one that's in DVC rooms. If it was a big full sized ones, might be a tight fit to try to close the door.

I have a big Samsonite hard case luggage. I can open it on the floor and spread with room in the closet.

Poor baby! Sleeping in the closet ... like Harry Potter

 

[thisismyusername]

When we were there in Feb, it definitely was not open at 8am. I remember having to walk to the QS It might be dependent on when the pool opens. The pool hours were not consistent when we were there. Some days 9, others 10. Just don't be disappointed if it's closed. And they def had coffee, soda, & tea. Hot chocolate machine too.

Good guess: It is probably based on pool hours since the pool opens earlier in the summer.

 

[MickeyBobby]

18 days for us. 2 bedroom standard. I think I have asked this before, is the master closet big enough for a pack and play? Door open or closed?

The master closet is definitely big enough for a pack n play. We have our two boys in one bedroom and our daughter sleeps in the pack n play in the master closet. It works out great. The closet is large.

 

[chicita713]

Why is the pak n play going in the closet? Is there not enough space otherwise? It is it just more Private/quiet? Will be staying at VGF with an infant so this just sparked by curiosity.

 

[nalajms]

Why is the pak n play going in the closet? Is there not enough space otherwise? It is it just more Private/quiet? Will be staying at VGF with an infant so this just sparked by curiosity.

Some kids need total darkness and quiet. Mine were always too tired and just passed out regardless of where we put them.

 

[Miss Monorail 1971]

I love the tips. Our first stay isn't until November but I am so excited. The rooms are just beautiful. Anyone know how long it takes to walk to monorail?

 

[brelyt]

Our kid is loud and likes it dark.

 

[dbfrom]

I love the tips. Our first stay isn't until November but I am so excited. The rooms are just beautiful. Anyone know how long it takes to walk to monorail?

Depends on your speed. Plan on between 5-10 minutes once you get outside. If they would let you up the stairwell at the end of the monorail platform it would cut the time down to 3-4 minutes. It is considered an emergency exit only, so can not use it for either coming or going to monorail, but it is so tempting when you are tired and just want to get to your room.

 

[ProTraderColin]

Staying at VGF 1 br in August. Thanks for the info!

 

[Fantasia79]

Such a great place to stay!!! Make sure you catch the Grand Floridian Society Orchestra in the lobby of the GF. Our first night, we just hung out, got drinks at Mitzers and listened to the entertainment.

Also, very cool to see fireworks from the beach.