I recently had the privilege of staying at The Grand Floridian Resort and Spa at the Walt Disney World Resort. I got in rather late and walked into the resort rather tired from my travels. To be honest, I just wanted to get to my room and lay my head on the pillow. As I entered the doors to the lobby, I was greeted first by a heavenly scent…a special combination of citrus and floral. The floral was probably from the lovely arrangements spread throughout the…WOW, this lobby is massive and beautiful! I felt transported back in time to the Victorian Era, complete with the Grand Floridian Society Orchestra serenading from the second floor. After I picked my jaw up off the floor, I was greeted by a friendly cast member and checked in. My room pillow was forgotten for the moment as I took in the lobby.
They had an adorable area for kids to wait during check in with cute little fancy chairs and a television with cartoons. Next to that was an intricate metal over glass elevator. There was a beautiful staircase across from that.
There were plenty of couches and chairs in cozy vignettes throughout the lobby. As I stepped toward the center of the lobby, my eyes were drawn to the chandeliers and gorgeous detailed ceiling 5 stories above my head. I stood staring at the ceiling for probably longer than was normal until I noticed the beautiful grand piano in the center of the lobby and large bird cage behind it. Disney, as they often do, sure got the theming right on this one. The elegant white railings, paneling and ceiling is contrasted by the royal looking green carpet and soft hues in the furniture. It left me with a grandiose impression and yet still felt like home. I kept expecting gentleman with canes and hats and ladies with their parasols to come traipsing through.
Decor was limited to oversized urns, some plants, and some impressive horse statues on tables. There were many old fashioned lamps around the room that encourage that feeling of home. You could see some stores and restaurants and corridors around the outer ring of the lobby. There the floors were Italian marble with Disney character inlays. What is that smell!? My senses were truly overwhelmed. I found my room, but enjoyed walking through the lobby during my stay. One of my favorite stores was Basin White on the second floor where I picked up some soaps with Mickeys on them as gifts.
I had an opportunity at the end of my stay to relax in the lobby while waiting for Disney’s Magical Express. I was able to enjoy the pianist, complete with Victorian style coat tail jacket, play his tunes and sink into the comfortable couches. I was impressed when a young girl took an interest in the pianist and he invited her and her brother to take a look and listen underneath the piano all while not missing a note. I had a tough time leaving and will surely be back!
If you have stayed here, what was your favorite part of the lobby? Do you have other lobbies at Walt Disney World that you have enjoyed? For more information about The Grand Floridian Resort and Spa you can visit our resort information page or our Pinterest page.
