Staying at GF for one night but no parks - a few questions

[barefootMom]

Hi all - I have never stayed at GF before and am taking my 17 year old daughter just for one night and staying club level (Sugarloaf building) while we are in FL after she attends her college orientation to just have a mom/daughter celebration. I mostly am hoping the weather cooperates so we can enjoy the pool and the club level lounge, however I know if it rains the whole time we may want to do some monorail trips to the other monorail resorts. I cannot really afford any of the spa treatments but just wondering if anyone has ideas of some fun/easy things to do in the event of rain with no park tickets?

Also, I do not not to make big dining plans but am thinking of visiting the California Grill Lounge with her just to get sushi (her favorite) as a sort of light dinner so we can see what California Grill looks like as we have never been. Is that appropriate with a 17 year old and can I likely get a spot there in the evening for just sushi or is it packed with those waiting for tables for full dining?

Finally, where at the Grand Floridian should we watch the fireworks from?

 

[GADisneyDad14]

Also, I do not not to make big dining plans but am thinking of visiting the California Grill Lounge with her just to get sushi (her favorite) as a sort of light dinner so we can see what California Grill looks like as we have never been. Is that appropriate with a 17 year old and can I likely get a spot there in the evening for just sushi or is it packed with those waiting for tables for full dining?

A 17 year old is totally appropriate at CG. While it is a bit more of an upscale place/vibe, you’ll see kids/babies of all ages there (it’s Disney after all).

My wife and I usually sit in the lounge or bar. The lounge doesn’t have that many tables, so we often end up at the bar. We have had reasonable luck showing up when the restaurant opens or very shortly thereafter. We have not had good luck if it gets too late as all spots can fill up. So, I’d suggest arriving early, even if it’s earlier than you really prefer to eat dinner. Good luck, and enjoy your trip.

 

[cedricandsophie]

Visit trader Sams at the Polynesian. It opens at 4. You should be there a little early. Fun place for a drink, alcohol or not. I have seen people turned away from the CG without a reservation even just to use the bar. It depends on the person downstairs at the registration desk. You can watch the fireworks from the GF pier. Or take the boat over to the MK just for fun. If it is a nice day you can rent one of the little two person boats to take around.

 

[GADisneyDad14]

Visit trader Sams at the Polynesian. It opens at 4.

FYI, they recently changed hours, it now opens at 3pm daily.

 

[foodiddiedoo]

Outside of the Gasparilla Island Grill is a straight line of sight to the fireworks and you can even see some of the projections on the castle. They also play the music from the show to go along with it and there's a bunch of outdoor seating. You can get a snack at the quick service and eat it while you watch the fireworks.

 

[trishadono]

My dd was also 17 her first one night stay at SL. She was just so happy to have the scones lol(we usually do the tea room in the lobby).

You can make her a mock mimosa or pogmosa. Mix the OJ in the morning with a little sprite, gingerale or sparkling water for breakfast . For afternoon evening use the POG (at gf it is called tropical juice) for the same effect.

If not out you can ask for nesquick. I can't remember if at GF stocked in frig or upon request.

You can take items from lounge out to pool, just not glass. IF need paper products just let them know you heading to pool and they help you out. I know the cups are usually in the drawer under where the ice bucket/water setup is on the far right of lounge food area.

They also have trays upon request if you want a little party in your room.

Love the other suggestions. We also just enjoy wandering the mono hotel shops and even peek at the QS. Even if you dont need anything looking at what cupcakes are offered at each resort is a fun way to pass the time on a rainy/cold day.

 

[Cotillard]

What a great idea. SL will make a quick trip more special. Walking around the grounds and checking out the shops and pools will make for a fun time. Enjoy

 

[barefootMom]

thank you all for the ideas!!

 

[toodycat]

CG is a good choice, but it can get crowded. If it rains, spend time in the lobby of the main building listening to the pianist. Also, make sure you watch the Electrical Water Pageant as well as the fireworks from the dock. If you are there on a Monday or Friday at 8 am, keep an eye out for the GF Mousekeepers Parasol Parade.

 

[mrsswat]

You will not have to worry about filling up your day! Especially if you have never been in that area! Just touring the GF, Poly, and Contemporary could fill most of your day! And you can always hop the monorail to the Magic Kingdom and take a bus over to the Wilderness Lodge - the theming at that hotel is simply fabulous. You will not be bored and I hope you can take it slow and relaxing and take everything in that area has to offer! You enjoy the mother/daughter time! How special!

 

[foodiddiedoo]

You will not have to worry about filling up your day! Especially if you have never been in that area! Just touring the GF, Poly, and Contemporary could fill most of your day! And you can always hop the monorail to the Magic Kingdom and take a bus over to the Wilderness Lodge - the theming at that hotel is simply fabulous. You will not be bored and I hope you can take it slow and relaxing and take everything in that area has to offer! You enjoy the mother/daughter time! How special!

You can also take a boat to Wilderness Lodge from Contemporary for a different feel.