Gran Destino or CBR?

[4Hawks]

Please help me decide between CBR and Gran Destino for a 2-night stay next month (July).

- We're making a pit stop in Orlando on our way back from South Florida, so we will have a car
- We don't plan to visit the Theme parks, but will attend the Glow Nights After Hours event at Typhoon Lagoon
- We have kids, so a nice pool is important: CBR seems to have a better feature pool
- Nice dining options (table service) are important: GD has more/better options; Riviera and Boardwalk are a Skyliner ride away from CBR
- Theme is important but not a deal breaker
- We usually stay Deluxe or DVC.

Thanks in advance!

 

[VicarJT]

CBR’s feature pool is probably better for kids, but when we were there, it was so crowded and we had to hunt for awhile for lounge chairs. Rooms at CBR are okay but really need a refurb, Banana Cabana is a good place for food/drinks. Proximity to Riviera is its best feature for us, but we’re not planning to stay there again.

GDT is one of our top resort choices. We love the indoor corridors especially when the weather is iffy. Food choices are great; we eat at Dahlia’s several times per trip. The pool is fun, the resort is beautiful. Especially if you normally go Deluxe or DVC, I imagine you would be happier here. Either way, it’s Disney!

 

[4Hawks]

CBR’s feature pool is probably better for kids, but when we were there, it was so crowded and we had to hunt for awhile for lounge chairs. Rooms at CBR are okay but really need a refurb, Banana Cabana is a good place for food/drinks. Proximity to Riviera is its best feature for us, but we’re not planning to stay there again.

GDT is one of our top resort choices. We love the indoor corridors especially when the weather is iffy. Food choices are great; we eat at Dahlia’s several times per trip. The pool is fun, the resort is beautiful. Especially if you normally go Deluxe or DVC, I imagine you would be happier here. Either way, it’s Disney!

This is very helpful. Thank you!

 

[disneyworld19]

We adore Coronado Springs so that would get my vote, especially the tower, it truly is gorgeous. I’ve never stayed at CBR but have visited and it just didn’t feel as whimsical to me.

 

[carbonF1]

Gran Destino. I also usually stay Deluxe/DVC and I thought GDT (the lobby at least) was nicer than some of the deluxes...you'll feel at home. Been to both feature pools a few times, I slightly prefer Coronado Springs/GDT. Had a great time at Toledo for signature dining if that's something you're looking to do, can recommend. The walk to the main CSR building isn't too bad either. GDT is a strong contender for my next solo visit.

 

[GADisneyDad14]

GDT would win hands down for me. IMHO the Tower is wonderful - it’s really a deluxe on a moderate property (my opinion) and is one of the best resort additions that Disney has done in awhile. The themeing is more abstract but the backstory is actually really interesting.

I like how CSR is smaller and easier to navigate than CBR. Knowing you’ll be in the Tower vs not knowing where you’ll be at CBR has huge value to me. Depending on your room category at CBR you could be a hike from the main pool, but pretty much a non issue at GDT.

Not sure if your trip is during the summer months but evening storms can quickly take the Skyliner offline for a bit, meaning it’d be bus only to get to those other resorts for meals. (This isn’t an issue when storms are less likely).

Unless you just don’t like the type of food at CSR’s dining options (could be a consideration for some), this would definitely be GDT for me.

 

[4Hawks]

Thanks All! You've sold me on GDT. My husband and I are big foodies and particularly fond of tapas and Spanish cuisine.

Now let's see if I can talk DH into getting a Club Level room

 

[GADisneyDad14]

Now let's see if I can talk DH into getting a Club Level room

Don’t ask, just do. GDT CL is one of the best CLs on property, IMHO.

For only 2 nights and no parks, I could easily justify CL.

 

[gatormom2tots]

I give a slight edge (very slight) to pool at CBR and they are on skyliner, but GDT hands down in every other department!