The All New Grand Floridian FAQ - MAY 2009

[thecapells]

Does the GF have any children's activities in the afternoon other than the Grand Adventures and the Kid's Club?
That is, are there any daily events similar to the hula lessons at the Poly or the animal tracking at AKL?

 

[thecapells]

Does anyone have any pics of the Grand Floridian playground?
We were thinking of letting the kids unwind somewhere before dinner...

 

[praline3001]

Does the GF have any children's activities in the afternoon other than the Grand Adventures and the Kid's Club?
That is, are there any daily events similar to the hula lessons at the Poly or the animal tracking at AKL?

The waterfall pool has activities every afternoon. They change daily but you can check the activity board poolside.

Also they have a beach campfire at night and roast smores and show a Disney movie on the beach. The daily schedule will let you know which movies for which night. HTH

Does anyone have any pics of the Grand Floridian playground?
We were thinking of letting the kids unwind somewhere before dinner...

The GF doesn't have a playground ~ at least not that I know of!

 

[mmmears]

They do close the Waterfall pool sometimes. DD and I have been in line for the waterslide more than once when the pool has been closed due to "lightning sightings". But that's the way it goes in the summer. Sunny and hot and then brief thundershowers or storms in the afternoons. That's usually it!


The courtyard pool is probably always a sure thing

Thanks for the info -- you are always so helpful! It never occurred to me that one pool might be open when the other one is closed!

 

[simplymama]

Does the GF have any children's activities in the afternoon other than the Grand Adventures and the Kid's Club?
That is, are there any daily events similar to the hula lessons at the Poly or the animal tracking at AKL?

My children attended the Wonderland Tea Party, held in the afternoon. It wasn't free, but they had a really good time. It's held at 1900 Park Fare at GF.

thecapells there is no children's playground at the GF

 

[cosmicrays]

Really, I've been checking online every day, and the outer lodges come up but nothing for the RPC. Did you book through Disney direct?

No I didnt my TA got it for me. She has been checking daily for me.

 

[lala3291]

Wow, when did you change? I've been trying to get those exact dates for RPC for a while now, and it's been booked solid:-(

Lucky you!!!!

Just changed yesterday...I called and they were able to change my resort. I hope that you can get RPC too!

 

[eva]

I've been reading this thread and finally got up to page 62. But I am so excited about our trip to GF in May that I had to post. We are DVC members. For 2010 we changed from a DCL Baltic cruise to a Med cruise. So we have a number of reservation points that need to be used next year. After reading this thread, I have decided to use our points at the Grand. We haven't stayed in a standard hotel room in years. I think I am going to miss the kitchen, washer, and dryer. But I am still very excited. Now I need to go back and read the rest of this thread.

 

[lizbaby007]

Has anyone returned lately? Can you please tell us about the weather there? I'm packing, and the online forcasts just show thunderstorms for each day, but not whether or not they last for the whole day or just an hour or two.

And if it is raining, is it so bad (with the thunder) that they are closing the pools at the GF? Or are people swimming in the rain?

We're planning to spend part of each day swimming in our resort pools, so I'm wondering if I'm going to need a back-up plan...

Thanks for any info!

Hi! I just returned back from a July 5-13 trip. Compared to the miserable heat here in TX, Florida was HEAVEN!!!

As for the rain, everyday we had a thunderstorm or two. Most only lasted 20-30mins and then the sun would come out. Sometimes it would stay cloudy for a bit. Each time it signifigantly cooled the temp down.

I can only recall 2 occasions with really intense or heavy downpour. Those both lasted for over an hour. Once I was got at a waterpark in it (no big deal I was already wet) the other I had just made it back to the room . You can tell when it is about to rain as a strong breeze will hit you moments before the downpour (you will also see dark clouds).

Just pack some throwaway ponchos and you will be fine. I welcomed each and every shower. Mainly because they are quick and cool things off!! HAVE FUN!!

 

[k&a&c'smom]

eva - I think you will be very pleased with your decision, the Grand is a wonderful resort! Have fun with your reading, and if you have any questions, don't hesitate to ask.

lizbaby007 - welcome back, glad to hear you had a great trip!

 

[praline3001]

I've been reading this thread and finally got up to page 62. But I am so excited about our trip to GF in May that I had to post. We are DVC members. For 2010 we changed from a DCL Baltic cruise to a Med cruise. So we have a number of reservation points that need to be used next year. After reading this thread, I have decided to use our points at the Grand. We haven't stayed in a standard hotel room in years. I think I am going to miss the kitchen, washer, and dryer. But I am still very excited. Now I need to go back and read the rest of this thread.

Welcome Eva! You will love the GF! It is so nice to spoil yourself it is so quiet and peaceful (except for the main lobby near the character meals ...they can get a bit loud) but the property and gardens are so nice after a long day in the parks!

 

[johnsonet]

I've been reading this thread and finally got up to page 62. But I am so excited about our trip to GF in May that I had to post. We are DVC members. For 2010 we changed from a DCL Baltic cruise to a Med cruise. So we have a number of reservation points that need to be used next year. After reading this thread, I have decided to use our points at the Grand. We haven't stayed in a standard hotel room in years. I think I am going to miss the kitchen, washer, and dryer. But I am still very excited. Now I need to go back and read the rest of this thread.

Congratulations. It's fun to stay somewhere new - and the GF is one of Disney's best
I'm not a DVC owner but I can imagine I'd miss the kitchen and laundry facilities too! BUT the laundry rooms in the outer lodges are pretty convenient, especially if you're staying on the first floor.
The room views (all categories), lobby, overall GF atmosphere, dining options and other amenities will please you, I'm sure
Have fun planning your vacation.

 

[TinkTatoo]

I've been reading this thread and finally got up to page 62. But I am so excited about our trip to GF in May that I had to post. We are DVC members. For 2010 we changed from a DCL Baltic cruise to a Med cruise. So we have a number of reservation points that need to be used next year. After reading this thread, I have decided to use our points at the Grand. We haven't stayed in a standard hotel room in years. I think I am going to miss the kitchen, washer, and dryer. But I am still very excited. Now I need to go back and read the rest of this thread.

Hi Eva

We're DVC members and love the space and facilities of a 1 bed unit, but we also love spending some time in the resort hotels, if you're used to a DCL cabin, you'll find way more space with a room at the Grand

 

[PolyAddict]

Can you see fireworks from a marina view in Sugar Loaf?

Thanks

 

[BCV23]

I've been reading this thread and finally got up to page 62. But I am so excited about our trip to GF in May that I had to post. We are DVC members. For 2010 we changed from a DCL Baltic cruise to a Med cruise. So we have a number of reservation points that need to be used next year. After reading this thread, I have decided to use our points at the Grand. We haven't stayed in a standard hotel room in years. I think I am going to miss the kitchen, washer, and dryer. But I am still very excited. Now I need to go back and read the rest of this thread.

Welcome to the FAQ, Eva. As everyone said, you will love the GF. One of our favorite things to do now that we are DVC is to do split stays with 2-4 nights at the Polynesian or GF followed by a DVC stay.

Hi! I just returned back from a July 5-13 trip. Compared to the miserable heat here in TX, Florida was HEAVEN!!!

Tell us more, please. What building were you in, did you enjoy any of the restaurants, etc.. Glad the weather cooperated for you.

Welcome Eva! You will love the GF! It is so nice to spoil yourself it is so quiet and peaceful (except for the main lobby near the character meals ...they can get a bit loud) but the property and gardens are so nice after a long day in the parks!

Have a Grand vacation, Brook!

Can you see fireworks from a marina view in Sugar Loaf?

Thanks

No, not well. It was somewhat better with the old firework show but Wishes seems more centered. Still, we love the marina side of Sugar Loaf.

 

[PolyAddict]

Thanks BVC.

I am trying to decide on our 2010 destination...we were originally going to try Y/B club but i keep coming back to the GF thread. I am much more interested in staying at the Grand again and trying sugar loaf. We haven't stayed here since our honeymoon in 1989.

I am sure we will be happy no matter which one we choose.

 

[BCV23]

Michele, good luck with your planning. All three are great options, aren't they?

 

[Figment1990]

Good morning everyone! I've been a lurker here for a while... You all seem to be the experts about the Grand Floridian, so I'm turning to you for advice!

DH and I were originally thinking of trying out the Beach Club for a long weekend trip this August - just us (no kids). I LOVE the new room decor there and but am weary to stay at a place with such a large pool complex with our DS who is only 1. However, i find myself completely drawn to this thread (daily!) and have always wanted to stay at the Grand. With the current offers out there, this might be a great time to try it out!

I'm REALLY having a tough time deciding and hope you can help. We have been totally stressed out trying to work full-time and juggle caring for our son without fulltime childcare. We would really like a relaxing vacation! The pool at the Grand just appeals to me so much more than Stormalong bay (I know i'm in the minority but I really dislike sandy bottoms and a crazy party atmosphere).

On the flip side, we love to spend time at Epcot World Showcase and the Boardwalk (it's a tradition to go to ESPN when we go alone, DH is sports obsessed, and I would like to try out Jellyrolls). The beach club would be so convenient for that on this trip. On the other hand, we will visit MK at least once, maybe twice, and I have to visit the Grand for shopping anyhow... and i'd like to try the afternoon tea too.....

I do plan on staying at the Grand sometime in the future for family trips because I think it's beautiful, the rooms are big, it's convenient and I love the idea of getting a cabana for shade for small kids and older grandparents. So I'm worried I should "save" the Grand for that time.

Please help!!! My biggest dilemma is definitely the transportation to the Epcot area. What do you all think?

Lisa

 

[k&a&c'smom]

Figment1990 - You are asking your question on the GF FAQ, so I have a feeling that you are gonna get a pretty one-sided response. But I'll see if I can help!

We much prefer the GF over the BC, as we like the overall ambiance and facilities better. The number of shops and restaurants on property, the proximity to the MK, the transportation options, the look and feel of the resort. That being said, if you spend more of your time in the Epcot/MGM area, the BC might be a better choice for you, especially if you've wanted to stay there. I'm a little confused, you seem to be worried about your son at the SAB pool - but you aren't taking him this trip? Did I misunderstand?

If you are not taking your son this trip, you may want to choose the BC, for the access to the Boardwalk and other late night activities in that area. Having to travel to and from that area can really eat into your day, especially if it's a quick weekend trip. And if you don't like the atmosphere at SAB, you could always go to the quiet pool.

A good compromise might be the YC, have you considered that resort?

I would always choose the GF; I'm simply trying to think what would make you the happiest for this trip!

Good luck with your choice, and have a wonderful vacation.

 

[johnsonet]

Figment1990 - You are asking your question on the GF FAQ, so I have a feeling that you are gonna get a pretty one-sided response. But I'll see if I can help!

We much prefer the GF over the BC, as we like the overall ambiance and facilities better. The number of shops and restaurants on property, the proximity to the MK, the transportation options, the look and feel of the resort. That being said, if you spend more of your time in the Epcot/MGM area, the BC might be a better choice for you, especially if you've wanted to stay there. I'm a little confused, you seem to be worried about your son at the SAB pool - but you aren't taking him this trip? Did I misunderstand?

If you are not taking your son this trip, you may want to choose the BC, for the access to the Boardwalk and other late night activities in that area. Having to travel to and from that area can really eat into your day, especially if it's a quick weekend trip. And if you don't like the atmosphere at SAB, you could always go to the quiet pool.

A good compromise might be the YC, have you considered that resort?

I would always choose the GF; I'm simply trying to think what would make you the happiest for this trip!

Good luck with your choice, and have a wonderful vacation.

Also wanted to add - if it is a long weekend trip and the Boardwalk and Epcot are your priorities, then BC would probably be most convenient for you.
HOWEVER, I agree that the current offers (like the 35% off club level ) make this an ideal time to try your dream resort.

I've stayed at BC twice and enjoyed it and recently have had the desire to return BUT I have always preferred the GF. Larger rooms, I like the outer lodges rather than endless hallways... I also just love the MK resort area. Not much help am I ? It is hard to pick!

The rooms at GF are more spacious, so you could always save it for a trip with the family and stay BC for your couple's trip. Good luck!