Earlier this week, this rumor from WDW News Today was blowing up the social media feeds of many a Disney fan, myself included. Could this story possibly be true? Would Disney “ruin” one of its most popular and beautiful deluxe resorts? I’ve gotta weigh in here.
Grand Floridian’s Renovation Rumor
The first time I stayed at Disney’s Grand Floridian was on my very first visit to Walt Disney World. It was the winter of 1990, Raymond and I were newly weds, and he wanted to introduce me to his favorite vacation destination. I remember a Cast Member at the Grand Floridian commenting that the resort was unexpectedly popular with families and had been exceeding occupancy expectations since it opened in June of 1988. The grounds, the buildings, the rooms – all gorgeous. We had those fancy robes in our closet. The service was spectacular.
As frequent visitors to Disney World, we’ve remained fans of the Grand Floridian – it still has a lot going for it. Fantastic restaurants, breathtaking lobby with its very own orchestra for entertainment. Mizner’s Lounge is one of our beloved stops on the Resort Loop Pub Crawl. How could anyone think gutting the place in favor of a more modern design would be a popular decision? Unless…
What if modern doesn’t really mean “modern”…as reflected, for example, in the way Bay Lake Tower embraces clean lines and contemporary décor? What if modern for the Grand Floridian means updated finishes, less busy pink carpeting, more natural stone, less classic Victorian, but still reflecting a Victorian influence?
Have you had the opportunity to visit the Grand Floridian’s DVC section? The décor and architecture are still in keeping with the overall theme of the resort as a whole, but are completely updated with popular current features like farmhouse sinks, oversized luxury showers, freestanding tubs, and high-end finishes. The same whimsical and airy feel of the original resort are present, but the overall impression is of a much more modern and luxurious experience.
If that’s what Bob Chapek has in mind for the entire resort, I’m all for it! I would love to see the main lobby, restaurants, guest rooms, and lounge get an update with a more modern interpretation of the resort’s Victorian theme. If anyone thinks the intricately beautiful Victorian exterior of the Grand Floridian could contain an interior of truly modern design…well, that’s just crazy talk.
Are you a fan of the Grand Floridian? What are your thoughts on this interesting rumor?
1st of all the cost for me to stay would put a crimp in any future visits. 2nd one of the highlites for the dumpling & I is a visit just to listen to the orchestra , people watch with a adult beverage from mizners followed by dinner @ citricos . SO lets just hope he comes to his right mind. people who have the dough it may not matter , the little guy like me well maybe I am being selfish .
The charm is undeniable as is. It does look like a 1980’s interpretation of Victorian. An update would be awesome, but I’m with you…Mizner’s & the orchestra have to stay for me to be happy.