HAVING A GRAND OLD TIME! The 2013 Grand Floridian Resort & Villas FAQ

[pixarmom]

Awesome to see you here!! I LOVE you DS picked RPC!! That young man has taste. Your teens will enjoy the GF CL offerings and SPACE of the lounge!! They might like the new room décor (I do not ) My DS13 (kinda a teen) loves GF, he really likes the beach pool slide which has a beachy area too like Poly, just not as big. Cool kids hang at the Grand

Great ideas! I started with the photos of the new room decor from the first page, which they do love, so that's a plus. But I hadn't shared much about the beach pool and the "more food," which are excellent selling points! From what I've read, the food offerings seem much more extensive than in other CLs. They will certainly like that! Really amazing how spacious the RPC lounge is. By the end of this, they might like it all too much!

Right back 'atcha
If your boys want a great CL with great views, RPC fits both of those requirements (but, to be fair, we haven't tried Poly CL, so I can't compare the two). However, I can't give any help as far as positives of the GF over the Poly from our DSs as they love the Poly more than the GF . The Poly is our favorite resort overall, but for me, the GF runs a very close second. With that said, I think your boys will love RPC. The lounge is big and spacious, the food offerings are great, the CMs are amazing, and the views are beautiful . Like I said, we haven't tried Poly CL and even though the Poly itself has an edge over the GF for me, I'm not sure if any other CL could beat RPC for me .

Too funny - Poly just seems like such a draw for the boys. So happy to hear good things about the CMs - our boys love the BWI CMs and that's become part of the overall experience for them. I'll share this all with them and let them know that liking GF does not make them disloyal to Poly!!

When I told our ds16 we were staying at new VGF and showed him pictures he said "I am NOT staying there!!!" However once he SAW it he loved the newness and details. Since GF is doing a room refurb the newness should appeal to the guys, I think. They have a more modern look. Check page 1 if you haven't seen them yet.

Excellent point! I think it's different to see the photos vs. the real thing. And in the past, I've always reserved judgment regarding a resort until we actually stay there. CR, for example, wasn't high on my list until we actually stayed there and then it had an entirely different feel - really enjoyed it.

Since we'll be at Poly next week, I was thinking of getting off the boat at GF on the way back from MK next Monday afternoon. Then we can walk the rest of the way back to Poly and they can check out the GF pool area, the main building, etc. Trying to decide if that's a good idea. We've walked through GF many times before, but not for several years and before all the pool renovations.

 

[k&a&c'smom]

Popping in to say hello. We changed again..LOL to all wl cl. Dreaming of a Grand vacation one day with you lovely friends I did a multiquote and it went poof. Grrrr

Why am I not surprised?! I know you'll have a great stay at WL CL, and the Grand isn't going anywhere.

Sorry about the multi-quote, I hate it when that happens.

Thanks! DD and I have been studying the tea room menu. I bought a Lilly Pulitzer dress at the King of Prussia Mall in Pa to wear. Made us feel like we were at Summer Lace They even had champagne and mini cupcakes

I am milking my upcoming "50th" birthday, dress , trip, upgrade to CL...

Only live once, right?

Absolutely! When you mentioned a Lilly Pulitzer dress, I thought immediately of Summer Lace. Fun about the champagne and cupcakes.

pas is on the move!!

Hoping for some help from GF fans! We've stayed at every deluxe and mod, except for GF! Our 7-year-old gets to choose a resort for his birthday in January 2015 for two nights before we transfer to BWI CL - and he chooses GF RPC. Fun (and yay for value season!)

He is, however, highly influenced by his two teen brothers who are (to put it mildly) loyal Poly fans. I took Poly off the list for January 2015 due to construction. We're staying there next week, but once the pool goes down and the center of the resort is a construction pit, I'm not funding it. So then they started lobbying our youngest to choose CR or WL.

Now, our teens how entirely silly it is to "complain" about GF RPC, and their "complaints" are really in jest. They love CL, a nice resort and a good view. They really enjoy signature restaurants and I think Narcoosee's will be a big hit with them. But I'd love to hear thoughts from those of you who have teen boys who love GF. Anyone?

Welcome back! I think your boys will enjoy the Grand, we have had several teen guys fall in love with the resort. DD's high school boyfriend visited with us a few times and loved it; her college boyfriend went with us one year and we stayed at WL (thinking he would love the outdoorsy feel); when we visited the GF for lunch, he said "why didn't we stay here?!"

The first year we stayed at GF, my middle child (boy of 15) didn't like it as much as the Poly. However, we spent most of our time at the parks and were not in CL, I don't think he got the whole experience.

The food is a full time affair at the Grand CL. There's rarely a moment throughout the day there isn't something out for a snack; overnight is probably the only time, and you may still be able to grab some fruit, can't remember for sure.

DD really likes the slide, not sure how it compares to the Volcano Pool slide. The Beach Pool has a nice lagoon view, but not that awesome Castle view like at the Poly. Oh, GF Private Dining and quick service, Gasparilla's, are open 24 hours a day - that's a plus with teen boys!!

....

Since we'll be at Poly next week, I was thinking of getting off the boat at GF on the way back from MK next Monday afternoon. Then we can walk the rest of the way back to Poly and they can check out the GF pool area, the main building, etc. Trying to decide if that's a good idea. We've walked through GF many times before, but not for several years and before all the pool renovations.

Great idea, I think that will help give everyone a better idea of the layout of the resort and the feel of things, maybe they'll be happier with it as destination.

 

[BlueSkies]

Hi folks, great thread with tons of info. So excited as I just booked my first stay at GF this summer with the amazing summer discount. I was wondering if anyone knows or has and pics of the outer buildings with garden view, this is the type of room I have booked and was just curious.

Congratulations on booking the GF..and with a discount too! The view from GV rooms are absolutely lovely..there are view of the gardens..lol..of course...and mnay GV are of the courtyard pool area..and the marina!

Good Morning Everyone!!!!

Very busy with junior-prom here...finally done!!! Then had to catch up on everything that went to way side!!!

Now....ready for my July trip!!! Did I miss pictures of the new rooms???

Quick question...friends of mine are going to WDW in May and I want to send Chocolate covered strawberries to her for her birthday. I've been searching and can't seem find any restaurants other then room service that has them. Does anyone have any info for me???

I am sending a mini cake to her daughter and a chocolate slipper to her sister and a chocolate mold to her son. I am trying to come up for something else for her (all these May celebrations!!!!)

Wishes We have always used Private Dining for this type of order..I would recommend the tuxedo strawberries..yummy..and adorable...PD will also decorate the plate with a personalization of the event...Our trip is in June..just in case you wanted to know!

BTW our DD looked just beautiful for her junior prom! Loved the pic!

I'm bad. TPV room is 4403. I misunderstood the room request! I saw standard queen and figured that was two queen beds. Sorry for the misinformation.

k&a&c'smom - college branch is close, but DS does not want to commute.

Oh the pictures from the Grand are spectacular!!!! It looks so warm there. It is 18 degrees right now. Will this cold ever go away?

Have a Grand day my friends.

No worries.. Hope that you have a GRAND day too!

Doing my duty and rescuing us from the second page again...

K&a&c'smom, thanks again for the lovely pictures...brings warmth to a day when even down here in Georgia, the wind chill is near freezing!

DH and I have been down to the SC coast for a few days, celebrating our birthdays and anniversary. It was nice down there, almost a Florida-type day. No swimming for me, but I did see some brave souls in the ocean, and I know that water had to be cold!!

I have only skimmed back a few days to see what you guys have been up to, and see a lot of newbies. Welcome to our friendly GF group!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!! grannyminnie Sounds like a wonderful weekend!!! Thanks for the page 2 rescue!

Popping in to say hello. We changed again..LOL to all wl cl. Dreaming of a Grand vacation one day with you lovely friends I did a multiquote and it went poof. Grrrr

So you made some changes to your reservations!!???? lol... MickeyNut has always said how wonderful CL is at the WL...Enjoy!

k&a&c'smom Thanks you for all of the wonderful pics! I thoroughly enjoyed looking at them ! Are you posting about now??? This has taken me forever...LOL...

MickeyNut Hope that its back to being flip flop weather!

Trish Congrats

pixarmom I am lol at your older sons trying to influence their little brother...Oh those big brothers...My DSs ..who are now young adults..are truly GF fans...always have been..although I will say that the CR is a close second for them...They have always enjoyed the beach pool...and slide..the cabanas..and general activities in the beach pool area...also there is a new and improved game room at the GF..which I am sure will be a draw for your guys.... I am thinking that once your family stays at the GF..they will want to return!

~ I know that many of us lounge lizards (grannyminnie this phrase always makes me think of you!! LOL..)..have been wondering that with the room rehabs going what if anything would be refurbed in the lounges... A friend who was just at the GF said that all of the common areas in the buildings would be refursished...wall paper..carpets..and furnishings...including the lounges in SL and RPC...just thought I would share that for all of my fellow inquiring minds...

My last big loooong post went poof...I retyped the whole thing... Sure hope it doesn't happen again....

Hope that you all are having a wonderful Wednesday!

 

[BlueSkies]

k&a&c Well there you are!!! Hey!

Just thought I's share....3 edits on that last post...and over by one smilie!!!!

 

[grannyminnie]

Thanks for the bd and anniversary wishes Blue, k&a&c'smom and Mickeynut! Actually, the trip last week was a combination: a visit to my dad, and then the drive down to the coast. He's doing alright. Today is his birthday, but of course, it's a bittersweet celebration without my mom there.

 

[k&a&c'smom]

k&a&c Well there you are!!! Hey!

Just thought I's share....3 edits on that last post...and over by one smilie!!!!

Hey, my posting pal! We were right on it this time.

Only 3 edits and one extra smiley?! A record to shoot for. (hey, where'd ya get that cake thingie?!)

Thanks for the info on the CL lounges, btw. Looking forward to seeing the new furnishings - hope I like them better than the rooms.

Thanks for the bd and anniversary wishes Blue, k&a&c'smom and Mickeynut! Actually, the trip last week was a combination: a visit to my dad, and then the drive down to the coast. He's doing alright. Today is his birthday, but of course, it's a bittersweet celebration without my mom there.

I know it's true, so hard, especially those first milestones and holidays. Happy Birthday to him.

 

[ClareH37]

If I wanted to be at Epcot for 9 am what time would suggest being at the GF monorail station?

 

[k&a&c'smom]

If I wanted to be at Epcot for 9 am what time would suggest being at the GF monorail station?

Do you mean Epcot rope drop? I would be AT the monorail station by 8:15, probably leave the room by 8:05 or so. You have to allow time for missed monorails, both at the GF and TTC stations.

 

[ClareH37]

Do you mean Epcot rope drop? I would be AT the monorail station by 8:15, probably leave the room by 8:05 or so. You have to allow time for missed monorails, both at the GF and TTC stations.

Thank you I'm going to miss strolling into the Epcot 'back entrance' but that's a minor inconvenience, I can't wait to really enjoy RPC again, it's been too long.

 

[WishesQueen]

Pictures of the new rooms are on page one.

I get my choc strawberries at the confectionery in MK or villian shop in HS . I have not seen in my usual restaurants.

I think room service is best bet and hopefully they could customize something for you?

It is amazing how quickly we get behind when focusing on our families

My dd away at school this year and I have cleaned out very closet and drawer in the house. I never had this much free time. Enjoy the chaotic- ness , soon it will be over.

Thank you so much!!!

:

Is your school's prom over already? Or do you mean finished with the prep? Either way, glad the work is finished.

As trishadono said, I don't think there are any restaurants that have chocolate covered strawberries. Private Dining is the only way to have them delivered to the room, as far as I know. We have done this at various resorts over the years, it is always a nice presentation - they will customize it, you can add a white chocolate Mickey or various messages. There is a list of "amenities" on the first page, I'll see if I can find it for you. (maybe in the Restaurants post under Private Dining...brb)

The photos of the new rooms are linked in the above link I provided for ChiDisneyFan, the red text at the top of that page has a link.



Wow, you have been busy. I haven't done any closet cleaning, and my kids have been gone for years. Agreed, you have to enjoy the chaos while it lasts, soon the house will be quiet.

We get choc strawberries from Main Street Confectionery, too.

Thank you so much!!! Their staying at Coronado Springs, I hope they have then there!!

My DD's prom is over, her school does the Junior Prom in March so it doesn't interfere with the Senior's Prom and the SAT's

Here is the list of Private Dining amenities, posted on the first page under "Dining Summary"!

Thanks this is great!!!

Congrats on booking the GF with a great discount . Have a great trip. The GF is an amazing resort, you're going to love it .



Kids do find a way of keeping this chaotic . Your trip will be here before you know it and then you will be able to relax and enjoy the beautiful GF .

Thanks, I am dreading an empty house one day....but thats whats supposed to happen!!!

Wishes We have always used Private Dining for this type of order..I would recommend the tuxedo strawberries..yummy..and adorable...PD will also decorate the plate with a personalization of the event...Our trip is in June..just in case you wanted to know!

BTW our DD looked just beautiful for her junior prom! Loved the pic!

Thank you my friend!!!

Grannyminnie - Happy Birthday and Happy Anniversary...BELATED!!!!

 

[WishesQueen]

Ooops!!! I wanted to ask one more thing....

I really want to read a good book about Walt Disney and or Walt Disney World. I absolutely loved Saving Mr. Banks and wish I would have read the book first.

Any suggestions??????

 

[Scott MC]

Thank you I'm going to miss strolling into the Epcot 'back entrance' but that's a minor inconvenience, I can't wait to really enjoy RPC again, it's been too long.

And what's interesting, is that while we usually stay at the Epcot resorts, the only thing we complain about concerning Epcot, is that we miss coming in through the front door and hearing all the great music they play at the gates at the beginning of the day.

 

[pixarmom]

Welcome back! I think your boys will enjoy the Grand, we have had several teen guys fall in love with the resort. DD's high school boyfriend visited with us a few times and loved it; her college boyfriend went with us one year and we stayed at WL (thinking he would love the outdoorsy feel); when we visited the GF for lunch, he said "why didn't we stay here?!"

The first year we stayed at GF, my middle child (boy of 15) didn't like it as much as the Poly. However, we spent most of our time at the parks and were not in CL, I don't think he got the whole experience.

The food is a full time affair at the Grand CL. There's rarely a moment throughout the day there isn't something out for a snack; overnight is probably the only time, and you may still be able to grab some fruit, can't remember for sure.

DD really likes the slide, not sure how it compares to the Volcano Pool slide. The Beach Pool has a nice lagoon view, but not that awesome Castle view like at the Poly. Oh, GF Private Dining and quick service, Gasparilla's, are open 24 hours a day - that's a plus with teen boys!!

Thank you!!! Again, these boys and Poly! Looks like GF has just about the best food situation possible! I did show our oldest some photos of the evening appetizers in RPC, and he's definitely interested. He's not a burgers and fries kind of guy at all, doesn't really like pizza, etc. and is always looking for interesting foods to try - so the GF RPC appetizers are looking great to him!

pixarmom I am lol at your older sons trying to influence their little brother...Oh those big brothers...My DSs ..who are now young adults..are truly GF fans...always have been..although I will say that the CR is a close second for them...They have always enjoyed the beach pool...and slide..the cabanas..and general activities in the beach pool area...also there is a new and improved game room at the GF..which I am sure will be a draw for your guys.... I am thinking that once your family stays at the GF..they will want to return!

Wow - if they remodeled the lounge to match the new furnishings in the rooms, our boys would be SOLD! All great information - thank you! And the cabana - hadn't even thought of that! Again, January weather is so unpredictable, but they were HUGE fans of the cabana rental at GCH in DL last summer. They seriously loved it, and so did my husband. More necessary at GCH in August, but would be great at GF, too!

Super helpful - thanks so much again to everyone for all the responses!

 

[mickeynut1]

MickeyNut has always said how wonderful CL is at the WL...Enjoy!

MickeyNut Hope that its back to being flip flop weather!

Yes, WL CL is great....you need to give a try sometime, even if it is for a just a night or two .

No flip flop weather yet ......the sun is shining which is a nice change, but temps are only in the 30s ......but I do have those flip flops ready and waiting .

Thanks for the bd and anniversary wishes Blue, k&a&c'smom and Mickeynut! Actually, the trip last week was a combination: a visit to my dad, and then the drive down to the coast. He's doing alright. Today is his birthday, but of course, it's a bittersweet celebration without my mom there.

Happy Birthday to your dad. I'm sure your dad enjoyed your visit and loved having you there .

Do you mean Epcot rope drop? I would be AT the monorail station by 8:15, probably leave the room by 8:05 or so. You have to allow time for missed monorails, both at the GF and TTC stations.

I agree that 8:15 is probably good . I was going to say 8:00, but that's the over planner in me that can't help but give myself more than enough time, even if it means getting to my destination super early .

I can't wait to really enjoy RPC again, it's been too long.

Your trip will be here before you know it . RPC is so amazing it's hard not to miss it .

I am dreading an empty house one day....

Me too .

And what's interesting, is that while we usually stay at the Epcot resorts, the only thing we complain about concerning Epcot, is that we miss coming in through the front door and hearing all the great music they play at the gates at the beginning of the day.

I love walking into Epcot and hearing the music .

Thank you!!! Again, these boys and Poly! Looks like GF has just about the best food situation possible! I did show our oldest some photos of the evening appetizers in RPC, and he's definitely interested. He's not a burgers and fries kind of guy at all, doesn't really like pizza, etc. and is always looking for interesting foods to try - so the GF RPC appetizers are looking great to him!

I know.....there's just something special about that Poly . Glad your oldest liked what he saw of the evening apps.....I'm sure he will love RPC .

 

[mickeynut1]

Too funny - Poly just seems like such a draw for the boys. So happy to hear good things about the CMs - our boys love the BWI CMs and that's become part of the overall experience for them. I'll share this all with them and let them know that liking GF does not make them disloyal to Poly!!

You won't be disappointed in the RPC CMs as they are all amazing . We've never stayed BWI CL, but I have heard nothing but great things about it (especially the CMs ). LOL on telling them that liking the GF won't make them disloyal to the Poly .....but you are right .

 

[kids1617]

First time back to disney since 2008. Now kids are 8 and 10. It's going to be a whole new experience! Just booked GF garden view room with wonderful summer rate, very excited! Great info on this thread. Will all come in handy for Aug 2014 vacation

 

[mickeynut1]

First time back to disney since 2008. Now kids are 8 and 10. It's going to be a whole new experience! Just booked GF garden view room with wonderful summer rate, very excited! Great info on this thread. Will all come in handy for Aug 2014 vacation

Congrats on booking the GF. It's an awesome resort.....you're going to love it . Don't hesitate to ask any questions you may have as there are some very knowledgeable (as well as very friendly) posters on this thread .

 

[BlueSkies]

If I wanted to be at Epcot for 9 am what time would suggest being at the GF monorail station?

Do you mean Epcot rope drop? I would be AT the monorail station by 8:15, probably leave the room by 8:05 or so. You have to allow time for missed monorails, both at the GF and TTC stations.

I agree...about an hour is a good rule of thumb!

Ooops!!! I wanted to ask one more thing....

I really want to read a good book about Walt Disney and or Walt Disney World. I absolutely loved Saving Mr. Banks and wish I would have read the book first.

Any suggestions??????

Walt Disney The Triumph of the American Imagination...it is available as a Nook book too.. I loved Saving Mr Banks too..We bought it and DD and I just watched it again the other night!

Thanks for the bd and anniversary wishes Blue, k&a&c'smom and Mickeynut! Actually, the trip last week was a combination: a visit to my dad, and then the drive down to the coast. He's doing alright. Today is his birthday, but of course, it's a bittersweet celebration without my mom there.

How did I miss that it was your anniversary too??? Happy Belated Anniversary my friend! How nice that you got to visit with your Dad too...I am sure that all of these firsts without your Mom are difficult for all you...

First time back to disney since 2008. Now kids are 8 and 10. It's going to be a whole new experience! Just booked GF garden view room with wonderful summer rate, very excited! Great info on this thread. Will all come in handy for Aug 2014 vacation

Congratulations! August will be here before you know it!! We will be happy to help share in your excitement in anticipation of your trip!!

k&a&c'smom My posting pal..Are you posting about now??? I am an early bird today... enjoying my morning coffee and some computer time! ETA..5 edits..but...not over on my smilies !!! lol...

pixarmom We have always enjoyed a cabana day..actually half day..too.. I know that the January weather can be iffy...but this past January we did spend some time at the pool..with very lovely temps of about 75-80 degrees... As for CL at the GF...their offerings are plentiful enough for the hollow leg that those adolescent boys can have! lol...

MickeyNut We will def try that spit stay WL/GF...you have piqued my curiosty...Maybe on our next gal pal trip.... Wonder if we can get Sheila to agree?? LOL...

~ Refurb thoughts..lol...I too wonder what the common areas and lounges will look like..I will say the lobby of VGF..furnishings and all are very lovely..and Victorian looking...so I am hoping for the best!

Its 22 degrees here...will spring every arrive ... lol...

Hope that everyone has a terrific Thursday...

 

[bakes]

Hi everyone -

First time poster! I've been lurking around for a few weeks, what a great resource here!

I'll apologize in advance for my noobish questions as it seems this has been covered many times here but I'm just completely overwhelmed at this point.

Some background - this will be our first Disney trip as a family and we recently upgraded our resort choice to the GF. My wife is over the moon about this as she has always wanted to stay here since she was a kid. We have 3 boys who will be 9, 6, and 6 (twins) at the time of the trip (8/20-8/26).

My question is about room/building requests. We are booked for a garden view/outer building. Is it necessary to make requests to get a good room? While we aren't super particular I'm a little nervous about getting one of the dormer? rooms (no day bed?) with there being 5 of us. I'd also prefer not to be on the first floor but it's not the end of the world. Any view would be a plus. Finally, and this seems like a silly question to ask but, where do I make a request if I were to make one and is it too early to do so?

TIA for any help and for bearing with my questions as I learn the ropes.

 

[grannyminnie]

You didn't miss the anniversary, Blue! It's tomorrow...we are actually going out for lunch today to celebrate (again). DH has a dr's appt tomorrow.

On another note...I am now going to try to book the last week of May if our bounceback discount is available that week. This has been so frustrating!!