The GC isn't noisy at all. And we had the Downtown Disney view, so there was plenty of action out our window. Yes - there were balconies.
Some of the balconies had bars (which you could see through). Ours was a solid wood balcony, so you couldn't see through it - but obviously you could see over it. The balcony was small, but good enough for the two of us.
The only time I noticed any noise was very early in the morning, when kids were going out of their minds in the corridors, obviously dying to get into the parks.
We didn't do Napa Rose as the food looked pretty fancy and both DH and I don't care for that, but we did go to Storyteller's Cafe which was absolutely excellent. We had the breakfast buffet where the characters mingle. Lots of fun in a very beautiful restaurant.
The location of GC can't be beat. You have easy, quick access to both parks and DTD. It was no big deal to run back to the room quickly from either park or DTD.
We didn't go in the pool, but it looked very nice. There's a snack bar near the pool and the arcade is also right there.
The lobby is downright gorgeous. We spent a couple late evenings sitting by the fireplace and enjoying a drink. Very relaxing after a day in the parks.
I highly recommend the place. Service was outstanding. And once again, location, location, location. You can't beat that part.
