The All New Grand Floridian FAQ - MAY 2009

[CanadianGuy]

Welcome to the All New FAQ thread for the Grand Floridian. This will be a work in progress. There will be some errors yet to be found, but we'll find 'em and keep it accurate together.

The Grand Floridian Resort & Spa is Disney's top resort. From its location to its elegant charm, it's easy to see why it's considered Disney's best.

Inspired by San Diego's venerable Hotel Del Coronado, the Grand Floridian is a blend of Victorian elegance and modern day amenities. From its verandas, dormers and cupolas to the red shingled, gabled roofs and intricate gingerbread trim, this stately resort is a shining example of the Victorian era's architecture.

This impressive style extends to the monorail stop which is designed to resemble a Victorian train station. The breathtaking 5 story high atrium lobby is capped with light filtering stained glass domes. Glistening chandeliers, an aviary, potted palm trees and a grand piano providing live music add to the lavish ambiance here. An open-cage elevator transports guests to the second floor shops and restaurants.
Romance abounds at the Grand Floridian. No doubt that's why it was chosen as the location for the nearby Fairy Tale Wedding Pavilion.

When you think of fine dining, there's nothing better than Disney's Victoria & Albert's. This unique dining experience is the perfect enhancement to your stay at the Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. There are other excellent restaurants ranging from upscale to counter serve as well as a fun character meal. You can even partake of afternoon tea.

The Grand Floridian Resort & Spa is located on the Seven Seas lagoon. For a great view of the Magic Kingdom's nightly Wishes fireworks, stroll to the white sand beach or the boat dock and marina near Gasparillas.. You can also watch the Electrical Water Pageant as this old time favorite is performed each night.

Pampering yourself during your trip is easy when you visit the Grand Floridian's full service spa. From a manicure to a massage, its the perfect way to relax and indulge yourself.

There's a fun Beachside pool with a waterslide, and the more serene Courtyard pool. Either one is the perfect spot to cool off during your stay.

If you're looking for an upscale vacation experience, you can't go wrong when you choose Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa.

Check In/Check Out
3:00 PM (EST) / 11:00 AM (EST)

Address
4401 Floridian Way
Lake Buena Vista, Florida 32830

Payment Method(s)
Disney Gift Card, Visa, American Express, MasterCard, Discover, JCB.

For more information about the Grand click here:
http://www.wdwinfo.com/wdwinfo/Resorts/grandfl.htm

 

[CanadianGuy]

Standard guestrooms average about 448 square feet and typically have two queen sized beds, (or one king sized bed) and a daybed (in rooms with 2 queen beds). There is also a spacious armoire, television, table with two chairs, walk-in closet, fridge, small safe, iron and ironing board, nightstand, telephone (with an additional one in the bathroom), ceiling fan, hairdryer, Mickey lamp, make-up mirror and double marble sinks in a vanity area separate from the tub and commode. In the vanity area, H20 brand toiletries such as shampoo, conditioner, body lotion, and shower cap are found and there is a retractable clothesline in the shower. A coffee maker is available in each room.

Most rooms lead out onto a patio or balcony. A typical guestroom sleeps 5, but the Lodge Tower and Concierge Deluxe rooms sleep 4. Dormer or "attic" rooms at the Grand Floridian are in the upper floors under the gabled roofs. These rooms are slightly smaller than the Standard guest-rooms but appear larger because the vaulted ceilings. A private balcony compensates for the lack of room size. Dormer rooms sleep 4 adults.

There are 26 one, two and three-bedroom suites available. Suites have two queen sized beds, or one king sized bed, and a separate parlor area with a wet bar. These rooms can sleep between 4 and 10 adults, depending on the suite type. These suites may include a hamper and upscale line of toiletries in the bathrooms, padded satin hangers, and larger screen televisions.

There are 6 honeymoon rooms in the towers of the main building. The Jacuzzi honeymoon rooms have a Jacuzzi tub of course, and a balcony, but no wet bar or walk-in closet. Octagon honeymoon rooms are larger than the Jacuzzi rooms, but do not have the Jacuzzi tub or private balcony. Instead, you'll find a spectacular view with windows all the way around the suite.

TIP: You don't have to be on your honeymoon to enjoy a honeymoon suite, it's perfect for anniversary or second honeymoon trips too. Note that these rooms only accommodate 2 guests.

The third, fourth and fifth floors of the main building are home to the 83 Concierge rooms (including suites). Access to these floors is by private elevator only. Staff is available on the third floor to answer questions, plan outings, to make dining Priority Seating arrangements, ticket purchases, make transportation arrangements and to fill requests for special dining or accommodation needs.

The Concierge Lounge is located on the fourth floor. Here, guests may enjoy a continental breakfast from 6:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. The continental breakfast includes danish, bagels, cereal, fresh friuts, coffee, tea and juice. "Daily Delights" from 11:30am to 2:30pm (the menu varies daily, but usually includes a meat dish, fruits and a vegetarian dish, including cookies, coffee, sodas and juices). Afternoon tea from 3pm to 4:30pm (includes scones, fruit breads, cookies, jam tarts, and of course, tea). Twilight Refreshments from 5pm to 7pm (includes wine and cheese, with appetizer type dishes served. NOTE: The Sugar Loaf Key Building serves a different Twilight Refreshment service, with no wine or children's items being offered). "Grand Indulgences" (desserts and cordials) from 8pm to 10pm. Other concierge amenities include robes (for use while at the resort).

Guests who need to connect to home or work via the Internet while vacationing, will find high speed internet access. Cost is $9.95 per day and it is a 'wired' connection in each room. The cable is provided and usually found in a labeled bag on a hanger in the closet area.

Rollaway beds are offered free of charge. Guest may request bed boards, bed rails, down pillows, heating pads, microwave oven (limited number available), extra pillows, blankets, towels, robes and International Electrical Adapters. Call Housekeeping to do so.

If there are more than 2 adults in the same room, there is an additional charge of $25 per person, per night. For families with very small children, cribs (the pak-n-play variety), playpens and high chairs are available by calling Housekeeping or Guest Services.

A limited number of handicapped accessible rooms are available. In Sago Cay, there are 3 rooms, Sugar Loaf has 2, Big Pine Key has 2 and there are some in Conch Key as well.

Check-in is at 3 p.m. and check-out is at 11 a.m. Guest may check in as early as 7 a.m. and if the room is not ready, store luggage with Bell Services and head for the theme parks when they open.

 

[CanadianGuy]

SERVICES/AMENITIES:

* Valet Service Cleaning
* Coin Operated Laundry facilities
* Express Check-out
* Daily Maid Service
* Bell Services
* Poolside bar
* Valet Parking
* Complimentary Local Newspaper
* ATM machine
* Shops: Sandy Cove (sundries, snacks, collectibles)
* Summerlace (ladies wear)
* Commander Porter’s (men’s wear)
* M. Mouse Mercantile (character shop)
* Voice Mail
* Beauty/Barber Shop
* Modem lines in the room
* Shoeshine Facilities (available from Housekeeping)

 

[CanadianGuy]

DINING:

QUICK SERVICE: 1 Location

Gasparilla Grill and Games

# Food/Dining Type: American
# Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner,
# Location: Grand Floridian / 1st floor, overlooking the marina
# Reservations: Not Accepted
# Hours: Breakfast - 6:00 am -11:00 am; All Day Dining 11:00am - 11:30pm; Late Night Dining 11:30pm - 6:00am
Link to Menu


FULL SERVICE: 6 Locations

1900 Park Fare
(Character dining)

# Food/Dining Type: American
# Meals: Breakfast, Dinner, Character
# Location: Grand Floridian / Off of the Main Lobby
# Reservations: Suggested
# Hours: Breakfast: 8:00am-11:10am.;Dinner 4:30pm-8:30pm

The 1900 Park Fare Restaurant is located in the Grand Floridian Resort. This is a large dining area with whimsical touches that enhance the character meal experience.

"Big Bertha", a turn of the century organ, takes center stage. Built in France, this beautifully crafted instrument plays while you're dining.

There are two Character Meals offered. Both are served buffet style:

The Supercalifragilistic Breakfast is hosted by Mary Poppins, Alice in Wonderland, the Mad Hatter and friends.

The Cinderella's Gala Feast Dinner is hosted by Cinderella, Prince Charming, Lady Tremaine, and Anastasia and Drisella.

Price includes non-specialty drinks such as soda, coffee, tea, iced tea, lemonade, punch and milk.

Dress is Resort Casual. Wine list featuring Kendall Jackson Merlot and Chardonnay, Silverado Cabernet Sauvignon and Caymus Conundrum

Disney Dining Experience 20% - excluding holidays
Link to Menu


Citricos
# Food/Dining Type: French
# Meals: Dinner,
# Location: Grand Floridian / Second Floor
# Reservations: Suggested
# Hours: 5:30pm - 9:30pm Wednesday through Sunday

**Reminder that Citricos at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa remains open for dinner 7 days a week currently.
Link to Menu

Grand Floridian Café

# Food/Dining Type: American
# Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner,
# Location: Grand Floridian / Off the Main Lobby
# Reservations: Suggested
# Hours: Breakfast: 7 a.m. - 11:30am; Lunch 11:30am - 2:00 pm, Dinner 5:00pm - 9:00pm

Elegant yet unpretentious, the Grand Floridian Cafe is a delightful restaurant. The Victorian motif features lovely florals and muted tones. A wall of windows overlooks the courtyard of the Grand Floridian Resort.

Disney Dining Experience 20% discount - Holidays excluded
Link to Menu

Garden View Tea

# Food/Dining Type: Lounge
# Meals:
# Location: Grand Floridian / First floor of main lobby
# Reservations: Suggested
# Hours: 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

The Grand Floridian Afternoon Tea is offered in the Garden View Lounge from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. with a number of aromatic herbal and exotic teas to appeal to all tastes. This lovely, light filled lounge overlooks the manicured gardens and pool area of the Grand Floridian Resort. It is the perfect spot to spend the afternoon alone or for a Mother/Daughter outing. You can indulge in a centuries old English tradition in one of the most beautiful resorts on Disney property.

Most of the offerings are three courses, so be sure to bring your appetite. If you are looking for a unique experience outside of the theme parks, Afternoon Tea is a great choice. Priority Seating is highly recommended for this popular event. Specialty coffees and champagne are also available. Disney Dining Experience 20% discount available for the Afternoon Tea ONLY.
Link to Menu


Narcoossee's

# Food/Dining Type: Seafood
# Meals: Dinner,
# Location: Grand Floridian / on the shores of the Seven Seas Lagoon
# Reservations: Required
# Hours: Dinner: 5:30pm - 10:00pm
Link to Menu


Victoria & Albert's

# Food/Dining Type: American
# Meals: Dinner,
# Location: Grand Floridian / Second Floor
# Reservations: Required
# Hours: Two seatings:5:45pm-6:30pm and 9:00pm-9:45pm

This upscale dining experience is now offered solely to guest's age 10 and up. (Note that the price/menu remains the same regardless of age.)

Victoria and Albert's is Disney's premiere dining venue. Personalized menus, elegant decor, gentle harp music and a long stem rose for the lady combine for a dining experience unlike any other.

There is a dress code. Gentleman are asked to wear a dinner jacket with dress pants and shoes. (Ties are optional.) Ladies are requested to wear a cocktail dress, dressy pantsuit, skirt/blouse or nice dress. The following are not allowed: jeans, shorts, capris, flip-flops, sandals or sneakers.)

Prices are per person and do not include tax, tip or alcohol unless indicated:
$125.00 per person (Tax, alcohol and gratuity additional)
Price of wine pairing - additional $60.00 per person

PREMIUM MEAL - Six-course meal featuring fresh ingredients gathered from the world's markets - Contemporary American cuisine.
Link to Menu


Chef's Table at V & A

# Food/Dining Type: American
# Meals: Dinner,
# Location: GF / 2nd Floor - Inside the Kitchen of Victoria & Alberts
# Reservations: Required
# Hours: 1 Seating only at 6:00pm

This upscale dining experience is now offered solely to guest's age 10 and up. (Note that the price/menu remains the same regardless of age.)

Victoria and Albert's is Disney's premiere dining venue. Personalized menus, elegant decor, gentle harp music and a long stem rose for the lady combine for a dining experience unlike any other.

There is a dress code. Gentleman are asked to wear a dinner jacket with dress pants and shoes. (Ties are optional.) Ladies are requested to wear a cocktail dress, dressy pantsuit, skirt/blouse or nice dress. The following are not allowed: jeans, shorts, capris, flip-flops, sandals or sneakers

At Victoria and Albert's Chef's Table, guests are seated at a special table in the kitchen, and can interact with the chef and staff as they prepare the meals.

Nine to ten-course meal featuring American regional cuisine with classical influences.

Prices are per person and do not include tax, gratuity or alcohol unless indicated.

$165.00 per person (tax, gratuity & alcohol additional)
$70.00 per person *additional* for Royal Wine Pairing
Link to Menu

 

[CanadianGuy]

All Prices Plus Tax Where Applicable

RECREATION

Swimming at Disney's Grand Floridian offers two options. If you prefer a more lively time then the Courtyard Pool, nestled in the midst of this beautiful resort, is perfect. If you prefer a quieter setting, the grotto themed Beach Pool with zero entry and it's slides and waterfalls will more than meet your expectations. The Grand also a kiddie pool for the littler guests and a relaxing spa. Both pools have posted hours for lifeguards.

You're welcome to head to the private sandy beach where you'll find canopied lounge chairs, but please note that swimming in the Seven Seas Lagoon is prohibited.

Cabana Rental:

Rental Cabana amenities include:
. Two padded chaise lounge chairs
. Two padded straight-backed chairs
. Plush towels
. 22 inch LCD television with cable access and optional earphones
. Ceiling Fan
. Mini refrigerator stocked with complementary sodas and water
. Complementary fruit basket
. Private dining and poolside massages are available at an
additional cost.

A half day is $100.00 and is from 10am - 2pm OR 3pm - 7pm
A full day is $185 for 10am - 7pm


Call 407 WDW -PLAY to reserve.


Watercraft Rental:

Other water related recreational activities include rentals at the marina of water mice, sail boats, pontoon boats, pedal boats or water skiing.

Grand 1 Sea Ray Yacht - A new level of luxury awaits you for cruises around Seven Seas Lagoon and Bay Lake. Available for rental, it is routinely used for anniversary parties, birthdays, fireworks cruises and special events.

The yacht has a top speed of 36 miles per hour. It features a small kitchen and dining area as well as three, fully furnished staterooms. A microwave oven, four televisions, a heating / air conditioning unit and a state-of-the-art Bose stereo system round off the amenities.

The cost to rent this fantastic vessel is a steep $480 per hour, and it can accommodate as many as 13 guests. Call 407-824-2682 for reservations.

Sea Racers: 2 Guests Maximum
$21.59 (plus tax) per 1/2 hour/$27.23 (plus tax) per 45 min./$30.05 (plus tax per 60 min)

Sun Tracker Pontoon Boats (1-10 passengers):
$45 (plus tax) per 1/2 hour

Canopy Boats
$24.88 (plus tax) per 1/2 hour

Sailboats
13' Catamaran $25.00 (plus tax) per hour

Fireworks Sailings

Fireworks from the Magic Kingdom Park can be viewed from the lagoon on a boat cruise on the Grand 1. On this elegant cruise, you can have private dining served by a butler for up to 12 people. For more information, call 407-824-2439.

HealthClub & Fitness Activities

For those that prefer their sports and recreational activities to be done on dry land, 2 lighted clay tennis courts, jogging, volleyball, croquet, an arcade and the Grand Floridian Spa & Health Club are available. Open from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily, the Health Club offers top-notch services with a full range of Cybex cardio-vascular and strength equipment, personal trainers, saunas, steam-rooms, whirlpools, 16 treatment rooms and a couples' treatment room.

SPA Services

There is a wide range of spa services that include hand and body treatments (facials, manicures and pedicures), facial therapy, massage therapy, water therapy and soaks, and nutrition and fitness counseling. Kids' Massages, mini-facials, manicures and pedicures are also offered. The Spa is open from 8 a.m. until 8 p.m. daily and there is also a selection of beauty products and apparel offered. For appointments, call 407-824-2332. Guests under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult and a 24 hour cancellation policy is in effect. (www.relaxedyet.com)

 

[CanadianGuy]

INFORMATION FOR CONCIERGE LEVEL GUESTS

Available at *ALL* Disney Deluxe Resorts for Concierge Guests :

• Nightly Turndown Service
• High Speed Internet Access (access fees apply)
• Bathroom Amenities (shampoo, conditioner, hand/body lotion, bath & facial soap)
• Complimentary Fax Assistance
• Complimentary Health Club Access
• 2 Adult-Size Spa Bathrobes (in-room use, additional robes can be requested)
• Club Level Check-In from 7am - 10pm
• Club Level Assistance from 7am - 10pm (tickets, dining, recreation, special events)
• Advanced Itinerary Planning
• Refreshments throughout the day in Concierge Lounges
• Secured Key Access to Club Level Floors
• USA Today Newspaper
• Coffee Maker with Coffee & Tea Assortment
• Iron and Board
• Safe
• Hair Dryer
• Refrigerator - not stocked (available upon request at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa)
• Library of Disney Movies at Concierge Desk
• VCR and/or DVD Players in suites (upon request at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa)
• CD/Clock Radios in Suites
• Discovery Wildlife Excursion

LOUNGES

Disney's Grand Floridian Resort Royal Palm Club 7:00 am - 10:00 pm 4th Floor, Main Building

Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa Sugar Loaf Key Club 7:00 am - 10:00 pm Sugar Loaf Key Building

LOUNGE OFFERINGS

Morning:
7:00am - 10:30am
pastries, fruit, cereal & beverages

Snacks:
11:30am - 4:00pm
chips, cookies & beverages

Afternoon Tea: (Royal Palm & Sugarloaf ONLY)
3:00pm - 4:30pm
scones, cookies, tartlettes, fruit breads, trifle & beverages

Evening:
5:00pm - 7:00pm
hot item samples, children's corner, crudites, cheese tray, beverages, wine & beer (champagne at Royal Palm & Sugarloaf)

Cordials & Desserts:
8:00pm - 10:00pm
assorted desserts and cordials

All Day:
7:00am - 10:00pm
whole fresh fruit & beverages
--

Concierge Levels Tours & Excursions

Discovery Wildlife Excursion

Offered to ALL Club Level Concierge Guests

Disney's Animal Kingdom® Theme Park invites you to venture off the beaten path of the Harambe Wildlife Reserve for a unique animal observation and photo excursion. Led by a seasoned Safari Guide and an animal expert, this 1-hour vehicle adventure takes you off the Safari trail, stopping at special observation and photo areas throughout the Reserve.

The hour-long excursion costs $45 USD for each Guest - with a portion of the proceeds donated to the Disney Wildlife Conservation Fund. Offered twice a day (Tuesday through Saturday) at 10:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. Advanced reservations and Theme Park Admission is required. All Guests must be at least 3-years of age to participate. Reservations can be made through the Itinerary Planning Office at their home resort. (Not included in Magic Your Way Packages)

Pre-Arrival Information

Once you make concierge reservation you should email the IPO and touch base with them and introduce yourself. Then around 2 weeks before dining can be made email them with what you want.

One of these benefits is personalized itinerary planning. The benefits of an on-site Itinerary Planner are substantial, providing your Clients with a “seamless vacation” and giving them the best opportunity to participate in all the activities and events that interest them during their stay. Personal Itinerary Planning assistance includes :

- Recreational Activities
- Entertainment
- Childcare
- Dining
- Special Arrangements
- Special Events
- Spa Services
- Golf

Club Concierge Itinerary Planner Office
(For Confirmed Club Level Reservations Only)

PH: 407-824-1775
FX: 407-824-3461
Grand.Floridian.Itinerary.Planning@disneyworld.com

 

[CanadianGuy]

Buildings:

Sago Cay:
Lagoon/Marina View Rooms, Garden View

Sugar Loaf:
Concierge Rooms

Conch Key
Pool/Marina/Lagoon views

Boca Chica
Lagoon, Pool Views

Big Pine Key
Lagoon/Pool/Garden Views

Main Building
Concierge Rooms and Suites


Important Numbers:

407-824-3000 The Grand Floridian

407-824-2332 The Grand Floridian Spa

407-824-1089 Victoria and Albert's Reservations

407-824-2474 Grand Floridian Private Dining

407-934-4004 Disney's PhotoPass

407-824-1775 Grand Floridian Concierge Itinerary Planning Office for Concierge Guests ONLY

407-621-1991 Tennis Court Bookings

 

[CanadianGuy]

And here it is, the ALL NEW GF FAQ!

Let's build on it from here.

 

[BCV23]

It looks great, Knox. Thanks for creating it!

 

[k&a&c'smom]

Thanks, Knox!

 

[praline3001]

Looks great!

 

[johnsonet]

Thank you CanadianGuy So nice to see a brand new GF FAQ Thread

 

[loralie]

I am so happy to see the GF board is back. I can't wait for my first trip to the GRAND in 21 days!

Loralie

 

[CanadianGuy]

LOTS and LOTs more info to come ...

 

[CanadianGuy]

Unique Experiences

Campfire & Movie

On select evenings, the Grand Floridian hosts guests around a Mickey-shaped campire on the short of the Seven Seas Lagoon. Guests will roast marshmallows and sign their favorite campfire tunes and maybe a few Disney favorites as well. Be prepared to see the "stars" both on the big screen and up in the sky, as your family enjoys a family friendly Disney film on the beach! S'mores and marshmallow roasting kids are available for purchase. For more information call 1-407-824-4321

 

[michelle1]

This Aug will be our first stay at GF, actually our first deluxe stay and I'm a little confused between what's included with a standard room and concierge. I am aware of the food and beverages offered with concierge but is there a fee for the fitness center or the tennis if we are in a standard room?

 

[BCV23]

This Aug will be our first stay at GF, actually our first deluxe stay and I'm a little confused between what's included with a standard room and concierge. I am aware of the food and beverages offered with concierge but is there a fee for the fitness center or the tennis if we are in a standard room?

Use of the fitness center is free for all guests of the GF and Polynesian.

 

[BCV23]

Michelle, sorry I was rushing in my above post.

Club level doesn't afford any freebies other than the food in the lounge. You must still pay for valet parking, court fees, rental fees for boats and cabanas.

The services of the IPO are a real advantage of booking club level. They will make dining and recreation reservations for you. And the concierges are available to help guests with questions, problems and reservations once you're there, too. But dining reservations should be made ahead of time.

 

[johnsonet]

This Aug will be our first stay at GF, actually our first deluxe stay and I'm a little confused between what's included with a standard room and concierge. I am aware of the food and beverages offered with concierge but is there a fee for the fitness center or the tennis if we are in a standard room?

Hi there. You are in for a real treat this summer

I looked on my "Around & About" (GF newsletter you will receive at check-in) from our most recent stay in August of 2008.
"Tennis Center:
Mon.-Sat. 9am-noon & 4-8pm
Sun.: 9am-noon
Court fees are $10 per guest, per hour.

Private tennis lessons are available daily for $80 per hour from 8am-7pm. Racquet rentals are available. Junior tennis clinics are available daily at 4pm (for ages 6-8) and 5pm (ages 9-12). Reservations required; cost is $25 per child and racquets are available at no additional charge. Call (407)621-1991 for reservations and information."

 

[Misti]

Here are some additional room categories.

Lodge Tower Room:

Main Building, Royal Palm Club, Deluxe Room:

Main Building, Royal Palm Club, Deluxe King (old Honeymoon Room category):