GF refurb question! Taking our sons (will be 4 and 18 months when we travel in November) to DW for their first visit!

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Hey everyone! My wife and I are zeroing in on our final hotel choices for our family's first time to DW together the week after Thanksgiving (likely 11/25-12/2). I grew up visiting DW often (live in MN) with my family and cannot express just how excited I am to bring our boys (will be 4 yo and 18 months at the time we travel) for their first time! I've personally stayed at all of the hotels we're deciding between but it's been years and my wife and our boys haven't so I want to make sure I choose the perfect one for us. As most families with little ones do, I started by looking to book one of the MK resorts and the number one would be GF. I have such fond memories of staying there when I was young and I think it would be a wonderful choice for us. That being said, I have read about the ongoing refurbishments. Our current top choice was to simply book one of the resort studios since they look beautiful and while the room layout with the two queen beds isn't exactly necessary for us (youngest will still require a crib and big brother can easily sleep in one of the pull out/couch situations), it wasn't until today that I read they're now redoing the resort rooms to match the exact style of the studios. I haven't been able to find this actually confirmed by Disney and if that's the case, we may look at a resort room option as well just to compare. Just wondering if anyone has any insight into this and whether it's worth holding off to see what's what? My primary concern is availability is already limited so I want to make sure we act fast (was planning to book something tonight or tomorrow).

I'm also wondering if anyone has any advice/input as to whether looking at staying at the Beach Club (also considering the Poly as I know people adore the hotel but the ongoing construction into 2024 scares me a bit) would be another good option? Again, it's been years since I visited and I always loved the ability to walk to both Epcot and DHS but I also realize we'll likely visit MK more than the other resorts during our stay....

Anyways, any input is greatly appreciated! Thanks so much!

 

[thanxfornoticin]

A GF/Poly stay, along with a few days at Beach Club could be amazing. You're right - since MK would be a priority for your family, definitely look closely at the monorail options. GF even moves up a notch now with the walking path to MK, at least having the option. You also cannot beat the BC location for a few days of enjoying EPCOT and HS. GF/Poly/BC all have great pools for some fun afternoon time with the kids, if they enjoy the water. BC also offers the option of watching the EPCOT fireworks - either in the park with a simple walk back, or perhaps from the bridge along the lake by BC, where you can watch the fireworks from a distance (which sometimes is preferable for some little ones!). BC also offers the walk around the lake and the Boardwalk, where evening entertainment can be fun to watch (for free!!). Good luck with your choices. Hope it all works out for a magical stay!

 

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I own DVC at GF and I will say, with young kids, I like everything about Poly better for young ones. I’d also do the Contemporary before GF, it’s an even closer walk.

 

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A GF/Poly stay, along with a few days at Beach Club could be amazing. You're right - since MK would be a priority for your family, definitely look closely at the monorail options. GF even moves up a notch now with the walking path to MK, at least having the option. You also cannot beat the BC location for a few days of enjoying EPCOT and HS. GF/Poly/BC all have great pools for some fun afternoon time with the kids, if they enjoy the water. BC also offers the option of watching the EPCOT fireworks - either in the park with a simple walk back, or perhaps from the bridge along the lake by BC, where you can watch the fireworks from a distance (which sometimes is preferable for some little ones!). BC also offers the walk around the lake and the Boardwalk, where evening entertainment can be fun to watch (for free!!). Good luck with your choices. Hope it all works out for a magical stay!

Thank you so much! Really appreciate all of your help!

 

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I own DVC at GF and I will say, with young kids, I like everything about Poly better for young ones. I’d also do the Contemporary before GF, it’s an even closer wa

I own DVC at GF and I will say, with young kids, I like everything about Poly better for young ones. I’d also do the Contemporary before GF, it’s an even closer walk.

What do you prefer more at Poly if you don’t mind me asking? I’ll have to check the room options again as I feel like they were very picked over when I first looked but I’ll definitely be taking another look! Thank you!

 

[OnThisMagicNight]

Hey everyone! My wife and I are zeroing in on our final hotel choices for our family's first time to DW together the week after Thanksgiving (likely 11/25-12/2). I grew up visiting DW often (live in MN) with my family and cannot express just how excited I am to bring our boys (will be 4 yo and 18 months at the time we travel) for their first time! I've personally stayed at all of the hotels we're deciding between but it's been years and my wife and our boys haven't so I want to make sure I choose the perfect one for us. As most families with little ones do, I started by looking to book one of the MK resorts and the number one would be GF. I have such fond memories of staying there when I was young and I think it would be a wonderful choice for us. That being said, I have read about the ongoing refurbishments. Our current top choice was to simply book one of the resort studios since they look beautiful and while the room layout with the two queen beds isn't exactly necessary for us (youngest will still require a crib and big brother can easily sleep in one of the pull out/couch situations), it wasn't until today that I read they're now redoing the resort rooms to match the exact style of the studios. I haven't been able to find this actually confirmed by Disney and if that's the case, we may look at a resort room option as well just to compare. Just wondering if anyone has any insight into this and whether it's worth holding off to see what's what? My primary concern is availability is already limited so I want to make sure we act fast (was planning to book something tonight or tomorrow).

I'm also wondering if anyone has any advice/input as to whether looking at staying at the Beach Club (also considering the Poly as I know people adore the hotel but the ongoing construction into 2024 scares me a bit) would be another good option? Again, it's been years since I visited and I always loved the ability to walk to both Epcot and DHS but I also realize we'll likely visit MK more than the other resorts during our stay....

Anyways, any input is greatly appreciated! Thanks so much!

The regular resort rooms at the GF are also being refurbished to match the decor of the DVC Resort Studios. Disney confirmed it here but also check out the Grand Floridian thread for pictures of refurbished rooms that are open already. The last 2 outer buildings to be refurbished are closed now so will definitely be done by November. It's still unknown when the lobby refurbishment will start, so keep that in mind as that could potentially impact your stay (I personally think they would probably try to wrap that up before the holidays though, as the gingerbread house is such a big draw for the GF.) If you want a microwave, you may want to go with the Resort Studio anyway - otherwise there would be no difference in booking one of those vs a regular outer building room, other than you'd at least know which building you'd be assigned to. I think the GF is the place to be with little ones. Walking path to MK, first stop on the monorail on the way to MK and first stop on the boat on the way back. The kids water play area is tons of fun (my 4 year old went down the slide countless times). My kids also adore the Electrical Water Pageant.

 

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The regular resort rooms at the GF are also being refurbished to match the decor of the DVC Resort Studios. Disney confirmed it here but also check out the Grand Floridian thread for pictures of refurbished rooms that are open already. The last 2 outer buildings to be refurbished are closed now so will definitely be done by November. It's still unknown when the lobby refurbishment will start, so keep that in mind as that could potentially impact your stay (I personally think they would probably try to wrap that up before the holidays though, as the gingerbread house is such a big draw for the GF.) If you want a microwave, you may want to go with the Resort Studio anyway - otherwise there would be no difference in booking one of those vs a regular outer building room, other than you'd at least know which building you'd be assigned to. I think the GF is the place to be with little ones. Walking path to MK, first stop on the monorail on the way to MK and first stop on the boat on the way back. The kids water play area is tons of fun (my 4 year old went down the slide countless times). My kids also adore the Electrical Water Pageant.

Thank you so much for the response!!

 

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What do you prefer more at Poly if you don’t mind me asking? I’ll have to check the room options again as I feel like they were very picked over when I first looked but I’ll definitely be taking another look! Thank you!

Poly (DVC side) has one full bath, one half bath which makes mornings easier, it has better seating/eating surface areas in the Poly studio vs the GF resort studio, Pineapple Lanai (ok maybe that's more for me but my kids love Dole Whip also), shorter walks to elevators/quicker to get outside with a stroller, GF is closer to the fireworks, but I like watching them from Poly beach better, we like Captain Cook's more than Gasparilla's, the neighbors noise was less noticeable to me, quick walk to TTC for Epcot monorail, and while I like that GF is the last stop before MK on the monorail, it also means it's pretty full at peak times. And while I think that GF lobby is the best lobby of all WDW for Christmas (even WL, yes), that also means that's it's packed with every person in Orlando looking at the house and tree and it's a nightmare to move around. There's construction at Poly, so that's a big negative mark in my recommendation, but you can't really go wrong with either place.

 

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Poly (DVC side) has one full bath, one half bath which makes mornings easier, it has better seating/eating surface areas in the Poly studio vs the GF resort studio, Pineapple Lanai (ok maybe that's more for me but my kids love Dole Whip also), shorter walks to elevators/quicker to get outside with a stroller, GF is closer to the fireworks, but I like watching them from Poly beach better, we like Captain Cook's more than Gasparilla's, the neighbors noise was less noticeable to me, quick walk to TTC for Epcot monorail, and while I like that GF is the last stop before MK on the monorail, it also means it's pretty full at peak times. And while I think that GF lobby is the best lobby of all WDW for Christmas (even WL, yes), that also means that's it's packed with every person in Orlando looking at the house and tree and it's a nightmare to move around. There's construction at Poly, so that's a big negative mark in my recommendation, but you can't really go wrong with either place.

Thank you!

 

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It's great to hear that you are planning your family's first trip to Disney World together and are considering different hotel options. As for the ongoing refurbishments at the Grand Floridian, it's best to check with Disney directly or with a travel agent to confirm the current status and if it will affect your stay. Keep in mind that refurbishments are common at Disney hotels, and it's possible that some areas may be closed off during your visit.

In terms of choosing between a resort studio or a resort room, it ultimately depends on your personal preference and what's important to you and your family. If you prefer the updated design and amenities of the studios and don't mind the higher price point, then go for it. However, if you are looking for a more budget-friendly option or prefer the traditional resort room layout, then that may be a better choice for you.

As for considering the Beach Club or Polynesian resorts, they both offer unique experiences and amenities. The Beach Club is known for its location within walking distance of Epcot and its Stormalong Bay pool complex. The Polynesian offers a South Pacific-inspired atmosphere, a variety of dining options, and easy access to the Magic Kingdom via the monorail. You could also consider the Contemporary Resort, which also offers monorail access to the Magic Kingdom and has recently been refurbished.

Thank you so much for your input!

 

[4dents]

You've raised some GOOD questions ... but TOUGH to answer! My family (wife and two grown daughters) have visited Disney for years, are DVC owners, AP-holders, and have stayed at most of the Disney resorts. We were fortunate enough to snag one of the GF resort studios last August--immediately after completion--and LOVED it. We've also stayed in a VGF resort studio; while the layouts are different, the proximity of the resort studios to the main building makes them more "attractive" in our opinion ... so much so that we've booked a week's stay there in May 2023!

We've stayed in Poly (DVC deluxe studios) twice in the last two years and loved our stays there, too. Their close proximity (short walking distance) to the TTC is a plus, and the Poly pool, beach area, and unparalleled fireworks views are an added bonus.

We've stayed once at Beach Club (hotel side)--room seemed to be a mile from the front desk/check-in area, but was one of the closest to the bridge going over to Epcot; so, that was an unexpected bonus. Epcot is one of our favorite parks, so the walking distance from BC--and BC's close proximity to the Skyliner station just outside of Epcot make BC a very attractive option, too.

We also tend to do split stays, which can be a small inconvenience (i.e., packing up and moving resorts), but provides an opportunity to enjoy different resort experiences. So, you could consider splitting your stay between two or more resorts. Perhaps a split stay between a monorail resort (say, GF or Poly) and an Epcot/Skyliner resort (say, BC) would be a good "compromise?" Each resort offers numerous, unique experiences, which your children, regardless of age, would enjoy. If nothing else, they'll likely be amazed and thrilled with riding the monorail and Skyliner!

Best of luck with your family; hope your November 2023 family vacation is as fun and memorable as ours continue to be. Nothing compares to experiencing Disney through the eyes of your children!

 

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You've raised some GOOD questions ... but TOUGH to answer! My family (wife and two grown daughters) have visited Disney for years, are DVC owners, AP-holders, and have stayed at most of the Disney resorts. We were fortunate enough to snag one of the GF resort studios last August--immediately after completion--and LOVED it. We've also stayed in a VGF resort studio; while the layouts are different, the proximity of the resort studios to the main building makes them more "attractive" in our opinion ... so much so that we've booked a week's stay there in May 2023!

We've stayed in Poly (DVC deluxe studios) twice in the last two years and loved our stays there, too. Their close proximity (short walking distance) to the TTC is a plus, and the Poly pool, beach area, and unparalleled fireworks views are an added bonus.

We've stayed once at Beach Club (hotel side)--room seemed to be a mile from the front desk/check-in area, but was one of the closest to the bridge going over to Epcot; so, that was an unexpected bonus. Epcot is one of our favorite parks, so the walking distance from BC--and BC's close proximity to the Skyliner station just outside of Epcot make BC a very attractive option, too.

We also tend to do split stays, which can be a small inconvenience (i.e., packing up and moving resorts), but provides an opportunity to enjoy different resort experiences. So, you could consider splitting your stay between two or more resorts. Perhaps a split stay between a monorail resort (say, GF or Poly) and an Epcot/Skyliner resort (say, BC) would be a good "compromise?" Each resort offers numerous, unique experiences, which your children, regardless of age, would enjoy. If nothing else, they'll likely be amazed and thrilled with riding the monorail and Skyliner!

Best of luck with your family; hope your November 2023 family vacation is as fun and memorable as ours continue to be. Nothing compares to experiencing Disney through the eyes of your children!

First of all, thank you so much for your input! Really appreciate it! And it's pretty awesome timing as I actually called and spoke with an amazing employee over at David's DVC Rentals this morning. My wife and I started looking at everything in more detail (we just got back from Mexico with the boys on Sunday and our youngest got tubes put in on Tuesday so as you might imagine, things have been a bit nuts haha) last night and decided to do a split stay! And the awesome David's employee even provided me with the availability at each of our options so we now just need to sit down this evening after the boys are asleep and decide which rooms we want to book and then we're sending off our requests! At this point, we're definitely booking the 1 bedroom villa at the BC for our first four nights and then it's between either the theme park view resort studio (the other studio options are also available but those resort studios look absolutely beautiful) and the 1 bedroom...I believe she said lake view (but would have to confirm) villa. Getting so excited to book this and have this trip to look forward to. Literally cannot wait to show the boys (especially our oldest given his age) DW for their first time! I remember, so fondly, all of the trips my family took when my sister and I were younger and the pure magic of each and every experience. Thanks again and I hope you and yours have an amazing stay in May! Can't wait to hear about it!

 

[Grace&Carolinesmom]

JMTC...... Given the ages of your children, I would stay on the monorail vs Epcot resorts. You will probably spend more time at MK and the magic of staying across the lagoon from MK is priceless. In addition, unless you think you need the kitchen and extra room of a one bedroom DVC, booking a DVC third party rental is basically non-changeable and non-refundable. Life happens....illness, etc. and losing all that money if you can't go on vacation is a dealbreaker for our family.

We stayed at CR, Poly and GF when the kids were younger. With the ages of your children and the current state of the Poly construction, I would highly recommend staying at the GF in a regular resort room. By the time of your vacation, all of the rooms will have been renovated and the lobby will most likely be finished for the holiday season. The GF has balconies in all the rooms (except for a literal handful of odd rooms) which allows parents to hang outside enjoying the sights and sounds of the resort and MK while the kiddos are napping. Being able to walk, boat, or monorail to MK is super convenient. There are many restaurant choices on the monorail loop. Each GF longhouse has a laundry room. The kids waterplay area is REALLY nice and rarely crowded. Being able to watch the MK fireworks and the EWP from your resort in the evening is so wonderful with littles. You can have them bathed and in their jammies and then walk outside to watch the shows. Afterwards, it's a quick walk back to the room for sleepytime.

 

[4dents]

First of all, thank you so much for your input! Really appreciate it! And it's pretty awesome timing as I actually called and spoke with an amazing employee over at David's DVC Rentals this morning. My wife and I started looking at everything in more detail (we just got back from Mexico with the boys on Sunday and our youngest got tubes put in on Tuesday so as you might imagine, things have been a bit nuts haha) last night and decided to do a split stay! And the awesome David's employee even provided me with the availability at each of our options so we now just need to sit down this evening after the boys are asleep and decide which rooms we want to book and then we're sending off our requests! At this point, we're definitely booking the 1 bedroom villa at the BC for our first four nights and then it's between either the theme park view resort studio (the other studio options are also available but those resort studios look absolutely beautiful) and the 1 bedroom...I believe she said lake view (but would have to confirm) villa. Getting so excited to book this and have this trip to look forward to. Literally cannot wait to show the boys (especially our oldest given his age) DW for their first time! I remember, so fondly, all of the trips my family took when my sister and I were younger and the pure magic of each and every experience. Thanks again and I hope you and yours have an amazing stay in May! Can't wait to hear about it!

Second half of your split stay … which resort?

Planning the trip is almost as exciting as the actual trip, huh?!

 

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Second half of your split stay … which resort?

Planning the trip is almost as exciting as the actual trip, huh?!

So exciting! So we have moved things around a bit based on David’s DVC availability and we decided to take a couple extra days off of work so instead of being in DW for the last few days of the crazy thanksgiving holiday crowds, we’ll be arriving on that Sunday after thanksgiving and assuming the availability remains the same in the next couple days when we book, we’ll start with a five night stay in a lagoon view resort studio at GF and then finish off the trip in a one bedroom villa at the beach club! Getting so excited to complete our reservations and then it’s time to move on to more planning!

 

[4dents]

So exciting! So we have moved things around a bit based on David’s DVC availability and we decided to take a couple extra days off of work so instead of being in DW for the last few days of the crazy thanksgiving holiday crowds, we’ll be arriving on that Sunday after thanksgiving and assuming the availability remains the same in the next couple days when we book, we’ll start with a five night stay in a lagoon view resort studio at GF and then finish off the trip in a one bedroom villa at the beach club! Getting so excited to complete our reservations and then it’s time to move on to more planning!

Probably wise to move out a couple of days to enjoy lower crowd levels! Great resort choices, too.

 

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Probably wise to move out a couple of days to enjoy lower crowd levels! Great resort choices, too.

Thanks! Ya, definitely feeling better about our new dates. It’s been years for both of us (a long time ha) and as I mentioned, it’ll be the first time for our boys so I’m hoping the crowds will be a little more manageable. I’ve read everywhere that there’s no such thing as a low period anymore but for us, that’s honestly not a huge deal given our oldest will only be four when we travel and I’d guess we won’t be hitting a few of the thrill rides (that is unless I head to MK or Epcot for the extended evening hours once everyone else is asleep haha!). Hopefully it’ll make things a little easier!

 

[4dents]

Just pace yourselves so you don’t exhaust yourselves in the first couple of days. Afternoon naps at your resort and an “off day” (or afternoon) of enjoying your resort pools is another game changer. Remember, too, that your wife and you will need the rest and downtime, too.

We enjoy table service lunches in the parks, too … good way to sit, relax, and re-group/ re-fuel!

 

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Just pace yourselves so you don’t exhaust yourselves in the first couple of days. Afternoon naps at your resort and an “off day” (or afternoon) of enjoying your resort pools is another game changer. Remember, too, that your wife and you will need the rest and downtime, too.

We enjoy table service lunches in the parks, too … good way to sit, relax, and re-group/ re-fuel!

Amazing advice, thank you! That’s exactly the type of trip we’ve discussed!

 

[4dents]

Amazing advice, thank you! That’s exactly the type of trip we’ve discussed!

You’re welcome. Glad to help, offer advice, etc.!