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Grand Floridian vs. Yacht Club Disney World Resort Guide 2023

By Lisa Gilmore 1 Comment

So, you’re planning a trip to Disney World, and you’ve narrowed it down between two of the most ICONIC Disney resorts in existence (you lucky, lucky person!).

Disney’s Grand Floridian

But how do you choose between Disney’s Yacht Club Resort and Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa ? Well, let’s dive into the deets to see which one is right for you!

Choosing between the Yacht Club and the Grand Floridian, is like choosing a favorite child, a favorite Disney cupcake , or between a Dole Whip or a Mickey Pretzel — there’s enough love to go around! But just like cupcakes and classic Disney snacks (and maybe your kids, too… only you know your family dynamic…😂), there’s a certain flavor that might just hit the spot for what you’re looking for.

Disney’s Yacht Club

There’s no doubt that Disney vacations are expensive , and no one wants buyer’s remorse when it comes to what can usually be the most EXPENSIVE part of your Disney trip . We’re approaching this chaos-agent of a decision with as much logic as possible, so we’re breaking it down into five categories:

Common Ground

Theme/rooms, transportation.

We’re putting each resort through these paces to see where they stand and which one may be speaking to you for your Disney trip.

Before we start down the rabbit hole into the Wonderland of their differences, let’s review the similarities of these resorts. These resorts are both Disney Deluxe Resorts , so they will be at a similar price point, with similar room sizes, and the same perks . They both have close proximity to the Disney Parks, and even within walking distance! The Grand Floridian offers Disney Vacation Club Villas as additional accommodations, and while the Yacht Club does not have DVC Villas, its sister resort — Disney’s Beach Club — does.

Yacht Club Walkway

For the Yacht Club , that means that for the cheapest room at the  cheapest time to visit, you can expect to pay around $537 per night (not accounting for any tax or current discounts), and it goes up to $3,877 per night (not accounting for any tax or current discounts) for the most expensive rooms at the  most expensive time to visit.

For the Grand Floridian , that means that for the cheapest room at the  cheapest time to visit, you can expect to pay around $780 per night (not accounting for any tax or current discounts), and it goes up to $5,502 per night (not accounting for any tax or current discounts) for the most expensive rooms at the  most expensive time to visit.

Extra Theme Park Hours Benefits for Disney World Resort Hotel Guests

Just like our ol’  Friend, Chandler Bing, would say, “Could these resorts BE any more different?” Both the Yacht Club and the Grand Flo are Deluxe resorts and offer the poshest of Disney’s accommodations and perks, but that doesn’t mean they look the same!

Ahoy maties, straighten that ascot and slip on those boat shoes, you’re about to set sail into the Disney resort themed after the grand and sleek yachting clubs of New England. And no, Disney does not require that you own a yacht to stay here (phew, that’s one expense you won’t have to factor into your Disney trip!).

Yacht Club Lobby

This resort makes “subtle” look good. It’s sleek, elegant, and streamlined — like, well, a yacht. If you’re visiting Disney World for a business conference, this hotel might just be the right speed for you as it encompasses a rather executive vibe to it. There are some very nice, and perfectly adequate furnishings, but the rooms themselves just don’t scream lavish.

Our favorite touch in these otherwise “character-less” rooms are the curtains that feature fictional constellations inspired by some of our favorite Disney pals.

The Yacht Club renovated and updated the rooms in 2017, for the more sophisticated appearance with dark woods, crisp whites and deep navy blues.  They definitely don’t have the personality that you can find at the Contemporary and Polynesian . So, if you’re looking for a room with some “character,” the Yacht Club may not be your jam.

Why You Should Add Disney’s Yacht Club to Your Resort Hopping List Right NOW

Grand floridian.

Cross the threshold of Disney World’s flagship resort into the Victorian age of high tea, dressing for dinner, and gloved-hands with pinkies-out. The lobby and restaurants are grandiose and luxurious, almost to the point of making guests reflect on imposter syndrome rather than a welcoming presence. The meticulous grounds and pristine white buildings with their brilliant red-tiled roofs definitely provide that grand allure you’d expect from a flagship resort.

The Grand Floridian Lobby

And the lobby delivers on that jaw-dropping “oh wow” moment ( especially around the holidays ), but it seems like Disney blew the budget on the common areas, and then tightened the purse strings on the room sitch. There are some very nice, and perfectly adequate furnishings, but the rooms themselves just don’t scream lavish.

Grand Floridian Resort Room

The Grand Floridian standard rooms haven’t seen the TLC that the Contemporary and Polynesian rooms have. So, there’s hope out there that the Grand Floridian rooms will be up soon for the next room renovation, but in the meantime, the Grand Floridian rooms don’t quite deliver for the price tag assigned to them.

This could boil down to your preference. Are you looking for a sophisticated resort that feels like you should be sipping a cognac and lighting up a cigar? Or do you want something a bit more glamorous, luxurious, and Victorian? Both resorts deliver beautifully on their themes, but when it comes down to rooms, but when it comes down to rooms, the Yacht Club has the edge with having the most recently updated rooms with a bit more pizzazz.

NEW Minnie Ears Are Themed After a Bougie Disney World Hotel

Pools, splash pads, hot tubs, and lounge chairs, vacation just doesn’t feel completed without spending some time by the pool. Which of these resorts is the aquatic champion of water lounging? Only one way to find out…

The Yacht Club may be understated when it comes to its lobby and resort rooms, but it is not to be outdone in the pool category. Disney’s Yacht Club shares a pool complex with its neighboring resort, the Beach Club, Stormalong Bay.

Stormalong Bay

Stormalong Bay is a destination on all its own. This pool complex is almost like its own mini-water park, with sand at the bottom and even a lazy river! So, your kiddos can take advantage of the ‘shipwrecked’ themed water slide, while you leisurely float around the lazy river, so just relax on of the many lounge chairs.

Stormalong Bay at Disney’s Beach Club

Stormalong Bay is also nestled in close to Beaches and Cream , an iconic ice cream shop, providing over-the-top milkshakes, sundaes, and comfort junk food essentials like burgers and grilled cheese sandwiches.

The Grand Floridian is not to be outdone in the pool category; it hosts two pools as well: the Beach Pool and the Courtyard Pool. And though both pools are pretty, the most memorable experience might be at the Mad Hatter splash pad.

Alice’s Splash Zone

And because it’s the Grand Floridian and sophisticated luxury is this resorts brand, there are plenty of poolside lounge chairs and cabanas available to rent for the day as you relax by the pool and nosh on some peeled-grapes and sip on some sweet tea, like we’re sure Victorian-age vacationers did back in the day.

Relaxation — Grand Flo style!

There’s no real loser in this category if you’ve found relaxation and joy, but our heart leans towards the Yacht Club, because that pool is just epic!

Stormalong Bay at Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club

Toes in the sand, relaxing down a lazy river with a shipwreck-themed water slide. We’ll take the Yacht Club’s pool oasis just tips the scale over the Grand Floridian’s pool situation.

10 Hidden Secrets About Disney World Pools

Because we are Disney FOOD Blog, we take food seriously. Very. Seriously. And we love it all. We love the cheap, comfort of plastic cheese , and we love the high-brow sophistication of a wine flight or a multi-course pre-fixe meal . We don’t discriminate; we are a lover of all foods. Since food is SO important, let’s see who these resorts stack up against each other in the restaurant category.

Hurricane Hanna’s is a pool bar, tucked under the Stormalong Bay waterslide, that provides fixes for your hunger without having to wander too far from the pool.

The Yacht Club is home to two lounges, one quick-service market, a table service option, and a Disney Signature dining restaurant. Not to mention its close proximity to Beach Club and all of those dining options.

The Market at Ale & Compass

An ideal spot to relax with a nightcap while winding down for the evening, or to grab a bite or two from their substantial appetizer menu, head over to Ale & Compass Lounge . The Ale & Compass Lounge is one part of the  Ale & Compass dining concept  at the Yacht Club, which also includes  The Market at Ale & Compass  and the  Ale & Compass Restaurant .

Ale & Compass Lounge

Located right next to  Yachtsman Steakhouse  at  Disney’s Yacht Club Resort , the  Crew’s Cup Lounge is a great place to get a bite and a drink in a relaxing, cozy atmosphere — and it’s a DFB favorite! In addition to  specialty cocktails and a full bar ,  a robust food menu  is served during evening hours as well, including a few full meals. During dinner hours at the Yachtsman, you’ll have a direct view through a glass window of steak being butchered for the steakhouse – so cool!

Crew’s Cup Lounge

Ale & Compass Restaurant  is the  table service  component of the Ale & Market dining concept in Disney’s Yacht Club, which also includes  The Market at Ale & Compass  along with the refreshed  Ale & Compass Lounge . The atmosphere offers a  gastropub ambiance while comfort food (New England-inspired) is featured  on the menu. A la carte options for  breakfast  include classic American breakfast fare, with a few twists like the Dark Chocolate Waffle and Salted Caramel-Apple French Toast, and a pastry buffet option may be paired with your choice of entree. Casual  lunch  options include Fish & Chips, burgers, and more.  Dinner  offerings feature specialties like the New England Seafood Pot Pie and Pappardelle pasta dishes, among others.

Ale and Compass Restaurant

The Market at Ale & Compass  is a  Counter Service  location at  Disney’s Yacht Club Resort . Simple convenience is the name of the game, with a focus on grab-and-go items. However, hot sandwiches, specialty desserts — and even a coffee bar — round out the options nicely. Open for  breakfast, lunch, and dinner , The Market at Ale & Compass is the quick service component of the Ale & Compass dining concept at the Yacht Club, which also includes the  Ale & Compass Restaurant  and the  Ale & Compass Lounge .

Yachtsman Steakhouse comes highly recommended by any discerning carnivore. The  steaks here are some of the best on property , and the service is often excellent. This craftsman-inspired dining room at  Disney’s Yacht Club Resort  caters to all tastebuds with a variety of dishes, incredible sides, and amazing, cut-in-house steaks.

8-oz Filet Mignon

Is The CHEESIEST Soup in Disney World Hiding at This Forgotten Restaurant?

Beaches Pool Bar  and  Courtyard Pool Bar   provide fixes for your hunger without ever leaving either of the Grand Floridian’s pools.

Grand Floridian is home to two Signature dining restaurants, Citricos and Narcoossee’s.   Citricos is an  upscale restaurant serving American dishes with Mediterranean influences . Reserve the  Chef’s Domain for a private table and specially prepared menu. Narcoossee’s , another Signature Dining restaurant, specializes in  seafood . This beautiful, Victorian-inspired building sits ashore on the Seven Seas Lagoon, offering dramatic views of the Magic Kingdom fireworks.

Citricos dining room

Enchanted Rose Bar and Lounge   is inspired by the live-action  Beauty and the Beast film. Guests can indulge in gourmet bites and crafted cocktails while enjoying any one of the four themed rooms.

Enchanted Rose lounge

Garden View Tea Room hasn’t yet reopened, but when it does, it offers  Afternoon Tea with delicious finger sandwiches, pastries, cheese, and fruit. The beautiful view, elegant atmosphere, and fine china make this an exquisite experience.

Gasparilla Island Grill   is a  counter service restaurant  with a standard food court menu, and it is open for guests 24-hours a day. Dine outdoors overlooking the Marina (with a view of Cinderella Castle) when the weather permits.

The more casual Table Service options at the Grand Floridian are 1900 Park Fare and Grand Floridian Cafe . 1900 Park Fare, when it reopens, provides popular character dining experiences! At breakfast, guests are entertained by Mary Poppins and friends while the young and young-at-heart feast on Mickey waffles. Dinner is a more stately affair hosted by Cinderella and Prince Charming. Grand Floridian Cafe  serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner  in an  airy, casual setting . You’ll find American fare being served at your table overlooking the hotel’s elegant courtyard.

The Grand Floridian Cafe is so pretty

Victoria and Albert’s   is a  AAA Five Diamond Award winner  offering an exclusive dining experience. This Signature Dining restaurant pampers guests with personalized menus, dedicated servers, and long-stemmed roses.

The Victoria & Albert’s Dining Room

A  Chef’s Table  is also available to those who’d like to experience the most exclusive dining experience in Disney World. Also, the  Queen Victoria Room  is available for a bit more privacy.

Join Us For a Meal at Disney World’s Most EXTRAVAGANT Restaurant — Victoria & Albert’s

It’s so hard to designate a clear winner for food — because we love it all! Both resorts offer a fantastic fine-dining experience at either Yachtsman at the Yacht Club or Citricos, Narcoossee’s (when it reopens), or even the poshest of posh at Victoria & Albert’s at the Grand Floridian. And for more casual dining, Ale & Compass at Yacht Club and Grand Floridian Cafe are pretty balanced.

French Onion Soup at Yachtsman

The Grand Floridian really dances that line nicely with Gasparilla Island Grill and Grand Floridian Cafe, offering some comfort food like fried chicken, burgers, and chicken nuggets, and on the OPPOSITE end of that spectrum, Victoria & Albert’s that provides one of the most unique and sophisticated dining experiences in all of Florida!

New DFB Video: Join Us For the Monorail Crawl!

Do these deluxe resorts offer anything different when it comes to transportation? Let’s see!!

The Yacht Club is considered an “EPCOT-area” resort. It sits on Crescent Lake, next to Beach Club Resort, and across the lake from Disney’s BoardWalk Inn.  This resort is situated in between TWO Disney parks, EPCOT and Hollywood Studios. Yep, that’s right, you can walk or enjoy a relaxing boat ride on a Friendship Cruise boat to both EPCOT and Hollywood Studios.

Enjoy a Friendship Boat ride!

If Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, or Disney Springs is your destination, then you can board one of Disney’s busses to transport you over to these parks.

Disney World Bus Transportation

And as if walkways, boats, and busses weren’t enough options for you, Yacht Club guests are also within walking distance of the EPCOT Skyliner station. This means you have easy access to the other Skyliner resorts if you want to go exploring other resorts or just have a relaxing cruise through the sky.

Walt Disney World Skyliner

The Grand Floridian is also on the Monorail loop . It’s the second stop after the Polynesian on the way to the Magic Kingdom. If Magic Kingdom is your destination, there is also a boat option to sail across Seven Seas Lagoon to the front steps of the Magic Kingdom. You can also get your steps in by strolling the walkway over to Magic Kingdom. Though this resort is closer to the Magic Kingdom than the Polynesian, that walk is still about 15-20 minutes.

Grand Floridian and Monorail

If Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom, or Disney Springs is your destination, then you can board one of Disney’s busses to transport you over to these parks.

You can take a boat to the Magic Kingdom from the Grand Floridian.

If EPCOT is your park for the day, the easiest option is to board a Disney bus and head over. If you want to take the Monorail, you  can but you’d have to walk through the Polynesian resort, over to the Transportation & Ticketing Center to catch that Monorail, resulting in a 15-20 minute walk, and that doesn’t include waiting for the monorail. Or you can hop on the Monorail at the Grand Floridian and ride it past Magic Kingdom, past the Contemporary, and then transfer to the EPCOT Loop Monorail once you get to the Transportation and Ticketing Center, but that does add more time and complication to your already busy morning.

These deluxe resorts are pretty much a tie when it comes to transportation. They both have pretty quick access to TWO Disney parks, and have the options of busses, boats, and even direct walkways to help you get around.

The Grand Floridian is right on the Monorail loop, and the Yacht Club gives you access to the Skyliner, so they both have some unique offerings as well. It might just boil down to which parks do you plan to spend more time in, Hollywood Studios or Magic Kingdom?

Why You Should Skip the Monorail on Your Next Magic Kingdom Trip

The winner.

So, who is the ultimate winner in the Yacht Club vs. Grand Floridian battle? We hate to say it, but it depends ! The Grand Floridian may seem like a clear choice because of its theming and popularity with Disney fans. If the Yacht Club seemed like the clear choice to you, it is a great hotel, it has an awesome pool and is just a quick walk from EPCOT’s World Showcase. It’s up to you and your group to decide what makes the most sense for you using all that we talked about above.

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Polynesian Village vs. Contemporary Resort Guide for Disney World in 2023

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What do you think? Is Yacht Club or Grand Floridian Resort better? Let us know in the comments!

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March 3, 2023 at 12:26 am

This is an error- Yacht Club is not a DVC resort. DVC members wish, but as long as pets are allowed there it will never happen as it’s a contract violations-and one we appreciate. However the resort is perfection.

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Planning Resorts Tips

Disney’s grand floridian resort vs disney’s yacht club resort – which disney deluxe resort is best.

With twenty-two Disney Resort hotels to choose from when visiting the Walt Disney World Resort, you have quite a decision regarding accommodation. Disney hotels place you right in the heart of the magic. When you stay in Lake Buena Vista, you are guaranteed the Disney experience in every aspect of your Disney vacation.

If you are considering staying in a Disney Deluxe Resort, you have the most hotels to choose from. Half of the Disney hotels fit the Deluxe Resort category, meaning you have eleven to choose from. Some Disney Resorts are Disney Vacation Club Resorts, while others have dedicated areas for Disney Vacation Club Members. The Disney Deluxe Resorts are:

• Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
• Contemporary Resort
• Polynesian Village Resort
• Beach Club Resort
• Yacht Club Resort
• BoardWalk Inn
• Riviera Resort
• Animal Kingdom Lodge
• Wilderness Lodge
• Saratoga Springs
• Old Key West

But what if you’ve narrowed your choice of Disney hotel to two; Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa and Disney’s Yacht Club? How do you possibly choose between the two? Let’s look at each Resort in more detail. We aim to identify the best of the two Walt Disney World hotels when considering different things.

The Walt Disney Company knows how to theme everything. Disney hotels are no exception. While all Walt Disney World hotels are themed with style, the Deluxe Resorts undoubtedly have the best theming. Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Disney’s Beach Club Resort have a theme that exudes class and elegance.

Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort is a lavish hotel that perfectly combines modern sophistication and Victorian elegance. The Resort’s grand lobby has a classic feel, while the outdoor areas are shaded with palm trees, offering a nod to Palm Beach’s golden era. Expect polished marble floors, plush carpets, classic seating areas, and elegant floral pieces inside the hotel. Externally, stroll along the red-bricked paths alongside perfectly manicured lawns amongst the white and pink-roofed buildings.

The formal grace of New England inspires Disney’s Yacht Club Resort. The lobby is inviting yet intimate, with plush carpets, significant seating areas, and stylish nautical elements. Externally, Disney’s Yacht Club can be identified by the lighthouse in front of the Disney Resort. The light grey finish suits the Disney hotel perfectly and offers a beautiful backdrop to Crescent Lake.

Of the two Disney Deluxe Resorts, Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa takes the crown for theming. While we adore the beauty of Disney’s Yacht Club Resort, Disney’s Grand Floridian keeps us returning every Disney vacation. While we may not be Guests of the Resort, we love to stop by and spend time in the beautiful part of the Walt Disney World Resort.

Both of the Disney Deluxe Resorts have Disney Parks as their neighbor. Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa is located next to Magic Kingdom Park, making it easy for Guests to enjoy Early Theme Park Entry or Extended Evening Hours at the Disney theme park. However, being located close to the most northern part of the Walt Disney World Resort means you must travel for a little longer to get to Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park and Disney Springs.

While Disney’s Yacht Club doesn’t have Magic Kingdom as its neighbor, the Disney Resort has easy access to two Disney Parks. Disney’s Yacht Club is located across Crescent Lake from EPCOT World Showcase. Guests of the Disney Resort hotel also have easy access to Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Disney’s Yacht Club Resort is also centrally located in Lake Buena Vista. As such, you can expect to arrive at Magic Kingdom Park, Disney’s Animal Kingdom, or Disney Springs in less than ten minutes.

Disney’s Yacht Club is our preferred Disney hotel compared to Disney’s Grand Floridian when it comes to location. We enjoy its central location in Walt Disney World and its easy access to two Disney Parks.

Transportation

All of the Disney Deluxe Resorts have access to at least two modes of Disney transport, except Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge. Access to more than one mode of transportation limits the time Guests need to wait at bus stations.

As a Disney’s Yacht Club Resort Guest, you must use the Disney buses to access Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Magic Kingdom Park, the Disney water parks, and Disney Springs. While EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios are accessible by walking, Guests can also use the FriendShip Boats across Crescent Lake. Additionally, the Disney Skyliner is just a short walk away, providing easy access to Disney Resorts on the Skyliner route.

Meanwhile, Guests of Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa have access to three Walt Disney World transportation modes. If you plan on staying at the Disney hotel, you can use the Disney buses to travel to and from Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Disney Springs, and the Disney water parks. The Disney Monorail is recommended to travel to and from EPCOT, although buses may be available throughout the day. To get to Magic Kingdom Park, you can travel one stop on the Disney Monorail, walk the path along the Seven Seas Lagoon, or catch a boat.

Using all of the modes of Disney transport is part of the Disney experience in Lake Buena Vista. Therefore, Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort is the winner regarding transportation. We love the variety available to you as a Guest of the Disney Deluxe Resort.

Guest Rooms

As a Disney Deluxe Resort, Guest rooms in Disney’s Grand Floridian and Disney’s Yacht Club Resorts are spacious, with luxury elements, including a balcony. 

The nautical theme of Disney’s Yacht Club carries through into each Guest room. Expect neutral and blue colors throughout the room, with artwork featuring boats and curtains featuring a constellation pattern. There are several views to choose from when staying in the Disney Resort, including a water view across Crescent Lake, a garden or woods view, and a standard view. Rooms with Club Level access are also available to book for your stay. You can enjoy access to the Regatta Club lounge, where beverages and snacks are available throughout the day. 

Choosing to stay at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort offers you a variety of Guest rooms. Some of the Guest rooms offer a traditional and calming theme. Others have recently been refurbished and offer modern, stylish decor that pays homage to  Mary Poppins  (1964) and  Mary Poppins Returns  (2018). If you’re looking for a standard Guest room, they are located in one of the outer buildings of the Resort. You can choose from a lagoon, garden, or theme park view.

Guest rooms and suites are also available, with access to Club Level. Staying in the main building of the Disney hotel is more expensive but provides access to the Royal Palm Club. Magic Kingdom Park and courtyard views are available from the main building. If you choose to stay in Club Level in one of the outer buildings of the Disney Resort, you will have access to Sugarloaf Club. 

The Villas at Disney’s Grand Floridian is part of the Disney Vacation Club. If you are looking for a little more space, with access to a kitchen, separate bedrooms, a living area, and more, you may consider staying at the Villas. The smaller rooms available are Studios, but there are also one- and two-bedroom villas and 3-bedroom grand villas available to stay in at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort. You can choose from standard, lagoon, lake, and theme park view rooms.

The variety of Guest rooms available at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa takes our preference over those at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort. We also adore the interior of the newly refurbished rooms at the Grand Floridian. 

Quick-Service Restaurants

The Market at Ale & Compass is the quick-service restaurant at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort. The Disney restaurant is open throughout the day, from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m., serving various meals, snacks, and beverages. The Walt Disney World Resort hotel Guests also have easy access to the Beach Club Marketplace, the quick-service restaurant at Disney’s Beach Club Resort. Additionally, during the day, a selection of appetizers, entrees, and salads are served at Hurricane Hanna’s Waterside Bar and Grill. The location of Disney’s Yacht Club provides easy access to the quick-service restaurants at Disney’s BoardWalk Inn and the Walt Disney World Swan & Dolphin Resorts, which are just a short walk away.

Guests of Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort can dine at Gasparilla Island Grill . Open from 6 a.m. through 12 a.m., breakfast, lunch, dinner, and late-night snacks are available. Additional quick-service locations are Beaches Pool Bar & Grill and Courtyard Pool Bar & Grill. Guests can order a selection of entrees, sides, and desserts from both locations throughout the day. In Disney’s Polynesian Village and Disney’s Contemporary Resorts , quick-service restaurants are also located nearby. You may enjoy a short walk to either Disney hotel. Alternatively, you can use the Disney Monorail to travel between the Resorts. 

The quick-service options at Disney’s Yacht Club are great, and the easy access to other Disney Resorts makes it a strong contender. However, Disney’s Grand Floridian is the winner. Gasparilla Island Grill has some exceptional entrees that can be enjoyed from the tranquil marina. Capt. Cook’s at Disney’s Polynesian Village is also nearby, offering fantastic menu items. 

Full-Service Restaurants

Both Disney Resort hotels have a selection of full-service restaurants to dine at. 

Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort has the following full-service restaurants:

• Citrico’s – a fine dining experience in a whimsical restaurant inspired by  Mary Poppins Returns .

• Narcoossee’s – a fine dining experience on the waterfront, serving fresh seafood.
• Victoria & Albert’s – the most exquisite restaurant on Disney property. If you want to celebrate a special event in style, this is the place to dine.
• Grand Floridian Cafe – enjoy Blunch or dinner in an elegant yet relaxed restaurant.
• Enchanted Rose – sip on cocktails while eating unique appetizers in a lounge area inspired by  Beauty and the Beast (2017)

Meanwhile, Disney’s Yacht Club Resort has the following full-service restaurants available:

• Ale & Compass – enjoy gastropub-inspired breakfast and dinner in a cozy setting. 

• Cape May Cafe – dine with Disney characters while enjoying a buffet breakfast. During the evening, the buffet serves up signature turf and seafood dishes.
• Beaches & Cream Soda Shop – enjoy a 50’s-themed diner that serves up old-fashioned ice cream sundaes and hot food items.

• Yachtsman Steakhouse – the New England-style steakhouse serves steak, seafood, and drinks in the signature restaurant.

Both Disney Resort hotels have easy access to other Resorts, providing access to additional Disney restaurants. 

For fine dining, Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort is the best of the two Disney Resorts. However, we prefer Disney’s Yacht Club Resort for more affordable full-service dining. 

You have two pool areas to enjoy when staying at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. The Courtyard Pool offers a calm and peaceful experience. Relax on a sun lounger, or dip in the zero-entry pool. Nearby there’s also a whirlpool spa to relax in. Alternatively, stop by the Beach Pool. Take a ride down the waterslide, chill out underneath the cascading waterfalls, and enjoy views of Seven Seas Lagoon. Your little ones can have fun in the nearby Mad Hatter aquatic play area.

If you plan on staying at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort , you can enjoy four pool areas. Three leisure pools are located around Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club Resorts. But the best pool area to enjoy is Stormalong Bay. Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club Resorts Guests have exclusive access to a three-acre water park. The sand-bottomed pool includes a lazy river, water slide, whirlpool spas, and more. You want to make sure to take advantage of this incredible pool area!

Stormalong Bay is enough for Disney’s Yacht Club to take the crown in terms of the pool area. When staying at the Disney Resort, make plans to spend time there. You won’t be disappointed!

Overall Verdict

So where should you stay when deciding between Disney’s Yacht Club and Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort? You are guaranteed a magical Disney vacation at whatever Resort hotel you choose. You may find that Disney’s Yacht Club may be slightly cheaper, depending on the time of year you will be visiting.

Based on our verdicts here, Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa is our choice of Disney Deluxe Resort. However, the cost or availability of rooms may encourage you to book Disney’s Yacht Club instead.

Which of the two Disney Resorts will you choose for your next Disney vacation?

Victoria Mills

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Are you considering staying in a Club Level room during your Disney World vacation? Or perhaps you’d just like to learn a little more about this concierge option available at select Disney World Resort hotels ?

Well, there may be more factors to consider than you realize to choose the Club Level that’s right for you. (And if you’re curious to learn whether Club Level itself is a good choice for your group to begin with, we dive into that topic here .) Today we’re chatting about which Resort has the BEST Club Level in Disney World. Are you ready?

We are, too! But first things first: let’s give a brief overview of Club Levels at Disney World hotels. Club Level (also called Concierge Club Level) is a room category that offers special perks and accommodations . For instance, Club Level guests have access to an exclusive lounge that offers light meals like continental breakfast, snacks throughout the day, and even evening desserts and cocktail hours. (Cheers!)

Additionally, Club Level guests receive special planning help prior to their visit through Disney Signature Services, as well as a separate dedicated Concierge Desk onsite to help during their stay. Concierge Cast Members are typically available from 7AM to 10PM each day (as well as the time leading up to your vacation). Cast Members can assist with park tickets, advance dining reservations, and many more recommendations that can help throughout your vacation.

So, those are the basics! Now let’s explore WHICH Resort Club Level option is the BEST… or simply the best for YOU! Let’s start by going down the list of options, and then we’ll cover a few factors to consider in your decision.

Disney World Resort Hotels with Club Levels

Atrium club level in disney’s contemporary resort (deluxe resort).

Disney’s Contemporary Resort is mere steps away from Magic Kingdom , and is one of three hotels on the Monorail Loop. The vibe is bright and modern, while guests will also enjoy classic Disney touches including a mural by legendary Disney artist Mary Blair, and recently refurbished guest rooms themed to The Incredibles .

The Contemporary offers Club Level Rooms on the 12th and 14th Floor of the Resort’s Tower, with the 14th floor housing Suites. The 12th floor Atrium Club Concierge and the 14th floor Tower Club Concierge offer the same guest services and food items.

Readers have provided reviews of the Contemporary Club Level which you can read here , but we’re shining a spotlight on a few quotes below:

“Because we were staying Club Level, we were able to walk down and watch the fireworks on the balcony at night and man were the views spectacular! Eating breakfast on the club level balcony while watching the ferry and monorail come and go, as well as admire Cinderella Castle can’t be beat. T he food provided was delicious and my family and I especially enjoyed the desserts provided during the fireworks.”

“The staff could not have been more wonderful and attentive… The snacks were not as nice as at some of the other club levels where we have stayed, but they were adequate.”

Kilimanjaro Club Level in Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge (Deluxe Resort)

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge is nearest to Disney’s Animal Kingdom park . The most unique thing about this remarkable Resort is that there are over 200 animals that LIVE on the Savannas of the Lodge!

The Kilimanjaro Club Level is on the 6th floor of the Resort’s Jambo House, and while it is spacious and lovely, the Lounge itself does not offer a view of the Savanna (where the animals can be seen).

If you have dined at Boma or Jiko — The Cooking Place , you may be thrilled to know that the Lounge offers many bites like those you’d enjoy at those restaurants! A selection of South African wines is also available to try.

You can find reviews from AllEars readers for the Kilimanjaro Club Level Lounge here , and we’ve provided a few quotes below:

“It takes a bit of a walk to get to the top floor for refreshments and free food, even if you are close to the elevators on the lower levels.”

“The food offerings, except breakfast, shouldn’t be viewed as meal replacements but for a very light eater you can eat enough to not want a lunch or heavy dinner. The offerings in the evening tie into the theme of the resort and are a great way to try something you might not otherwise eat.”

“There were hot options at breakfast and cocktail hour. The staff were very helpful with providing food for our daughter with a food allergy. Everyone was very helpful in the lounge. I do wish the club level rooms were closer to the club area.”

King Kamehameha Club Level in Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort (Deluxe Resort)

The “Spirit of ALOHA” awaits at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort ! This South Island-inspired Resort is on the Magic Kingdom Monorail Loop and sits on the shores of Seven Seas Lagoon.

The Club level rooms at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort are located in the Hawaii and Tonga buildings, and the private lounge is on the second floor of the Hawaii building.

A HUGE bonus to the lounge is that it offers fantastic views of Cinderella Castle and the Magic Kingdom fireworks (and the music for the fireworks is played on speakers inside the lounge during the show).

Here’s some of what AllEars readers had to share in their reviews of the Polynesian’s Club Level :

“Lots of different kinds of food at each meal time and the alcoholic beverages were plentiful! I recommend the punch!! We had breakfast each day and enjoyed at least one other treat time or drink time each day. We were able to take back to our room or eat in the very nice lounge.”

“Since they built the bungalows on the beach, the views from Hawaii bldg rooms have been severely impacted, such that now only the third floor rooms have a true theme park view…. during the Magic Kingdom fireworks, the CM’s make it extra magical for all in the lounge by turning down the lights in the room and piping in the music, so we can watch AND hear the show…and it’s wonderful.”

“The concierge was always helpful, whether I needed something picked up from a park or printing out my boarding passes. Food in the club was plentiful and always tasty.”

Old Faithful Club Level in Disney’s Wilderness Lodge (Deluxe Resort)

The beauty of the Pacific Northwest and the legacy of great National Parks is celebrated at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge ! Though Wilderness Lodge is not a stop along the Monorail Loop, this Resort offers easy (and fun!) access to the Magic Kingdom by boat.

The Concierge rooms (all located on the seventh floor, along with the Club Level Lounge) offer a privacy balcony and the view will be either woods or courtyard.

Here are a few quotes from AllEars reader reviews :

“ The cast members at the club level are all top notch. Super helpful with answering any questions. Breakfast every day was great. Each day was a little different but there were always staples. The croissants were particularly great!”

“The lounge was welcoming with a stunning view of the lobby. The staff were extremely helpful and every time you passed a CM in the hallway, they smiled and said hello. We felt completely at home and very welcome indeed… The food was lovely, always plenty available with a fridge full of chilled drinks available too… The WL CL really know how to treat their guests, and it shows.”

Royal Palm Club Level in Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort (Deluxe Resort)

Disney’s Grand Floridian is Disney World’s flagship Resort! Presenting a turn-of-the-century Victorian theme, the Grand Floridian is on the Monorail Loop… and the very next stop is the Magic Kingdom .

All of the Club Level room (and about half of the suites) are located on the third, fourth, and fifth floors of the main building. The Lounge is located on the fourth floor. Unless you are staying in one of the Club Level rooms, you cannot get to the third, fourth, or fifth floors of the main building. Access is by private elevator only. (The Sugar Loaf building also offers full club-level service.)

AllEars readers had the following to share in our collection of reviews for Club Level at the Grand Floridian :

“We loved the club level perk of the food and beverages. The staff was not as friendly as I was expecting, and the eating area was always crowded.”

“After many stays at The Boardwalk in Concierge level and the Wilderness Lodge Concierge level I expected a lot more from Grand Floridian.”

“The private lounge was beautiful and the food and drinks plentiful.”

Stone Harbor Club Level in Disney’s Beach Club Resort (Deluxe Resort)

Disney’s Beach Club is styled after the New England seaside at the turn of the century and the seashore theme is evident throughout this bright and airy Resort, which also boasts a pool complex that’s like its own mini water park! The Beach Club connects directly to its sister Resort, the Yacht Club. It’s also within walking distance to EPCOT !

Club Level room options are diverse, ranging from standard, garden, and water view rooms to the Newport Presidential Suite (and also including 1- and 2-bedroom suites.)

Allears readers have shared the following within this collection of Club Level reviews of Beach Club :

“It was awesome from beginning to end. The staff were outstanding and got to know us so much so when we came in from the parks, be it mid afternoon or evening, they brought us our favorite alcoholic beverages and kept bringing more. The evening offerings were enough to fill us up so we didn’t need to buy dinner.”

“the best part was the staff. Awesome helpful people. The food was always warm and restocked, staff members were constantly inquiring about how the food was and if you needed anything. They were also happy to chat and provide tips, or little known facts, or suggestions.”

Regatta Club Level in Disney’s Yacht Club Resort

Where the Beach Club celebrates life along the shore, its sister Resort, Disney’s Yacht Club , is a tribute to life ON the sea with its more nautical theming. As it connects directly to the Beach Club, the Yacht Club likewise boasts a walking path directly to EPCOT as well as easy access to the Disney Skyliner .

All Club Level rooms are located on the Yacht Club’s 5th floor.

Readers have several great things to say about the Regatta Club Level in our collection of reviews :

“We definitely took advantage of the breakfast more than any of the other options since we were at the parks most of the day. On one of the late afternoons we did stop back in and were able to try out the hors d’oeuvres consisting of crudites, various cheeses, sliced roast beef and turkey with dinner rolls, chicken fingers, mac and cheese, smoked salmon and a few others I don’t recall. You easily could have made a dinner out of what was there. Another night we came back in time to enjoy the desserts which included 2 to 3 assorted mini cupcakes, mini tarts, rice crispy treats, ice cream, fresh fruit, and cookies. Good thing we were doing a lot of walking on this trip! Overall, the lounge was busy but not overcrowded.”

“This stay really lead me and my husband to decided to continue staying club level going forward… Club Level was definitely worth it.”

Innkeeper’s Club Level in Disney’s Boardwalk Inn

We have one more option for you within walking distance to EPCOT : Disney’s BoardWalk Inn . The turn-of-the-century Coney Island-inspired BoardWalk offers Club Level guests access to the Innkeeper’s Club.

Club Level guests may choose from standard rooms or water or garden views, or opt for a 2-Bedroom Suite.

Take a peek at the following quotes from AllEars reader reviews of the Innkeeper’s Cub Level at the BoardWalk .

“As for the Innkeeper’s Lounge, the Continental Breakfast had a number of good offerings. The afternoon snacks were good. The dinner time appetizers and other offerings were a big disappointment… The seating in the Lounge was usually insufficient, which is another disappointment when spending so much money for club level.”

“It’s by no means cheap but replaces mini expensive restaurant meals. Fantastic [cast members]. Overall a terrific experience!”

Chronos Club Level in Gran Destino Tower at Coronado Springs Resort (Moderate Resort)

Do you see how “One of these things is not like the other?” (Sing along if you remember that one 😉 ). Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort is the single Moderate Resort on the list of Resorts with a Club Level option.

Club Level options for Coronado Springs Resort arrived with the addition of Gran Destino Tower in 2019. In fact, Club Level access is exclusive to rooms in the Tower, which include Standard View rooms, Deluxe-, 1-Bedroom- and Presidential Suites.

You can take a photo tour of the stunning Gran Destino Tower here ; and it’s good to know that the nearest park to Coronado Springs is Animal Kingdom (and, therefore, a bit of a bus trek to the other parks).

Factors to Consider

Theme and style.

When it comes to choosing a Club Level, choosing your preferred theme or style is much like that of choosing your Resort! So, this one all boils down to preference.

Do you love the idea of the casual feel of the Beach Club? Does the idea of seeing animals on the daily at Animal Kingdom Lodge pique your interest?

Then simply follow where your instincts lead! If you are looking more into logistics, we have more factors to consider…

Proximity to Parks

If you know you’ll be spending a lot of your time in EPCOT, the Beach Club, Yacht Club, or BoardWalk Inn would be your best bets.

If you’re planning to tackle ALL. THE. RIDES. in Magic Kingdom, a Resort on the Monorail Loop might be best for you. We’ve mentioned closest park proximity in all of the individual Resort sections above to help you consider your options.

Ratings from Readers

You may feel a little more confident in your decision by checking out what others have to say about their experience.

With the exception of the newest Club Level option (at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort), you can click on any of the review links above to check out full reviews from fellow AllEars readers to find out their thoughts and experiences regarding the individual Resort Club Levels.

Be sure to consider if a specific view from your room is of importance to you.

Because Club Level Rooms are relegated to certain areas of the Resorts, you may want to factor that into your decision.

Ah, yes… ’tis a splurge to enjoy Club Level access. As we mentioned in a previous post , the price of staying Club Level ranges from an additional $100 a night to $275 a night depending on the resort. A good rule of thumb is that the more expensive the hotel and room category, the greater the added cost.

Specific pricing can be found on the Disney World website, in exactly the same way you would search for any room in a Disney World Resort hotel. (In fact, when perusing “Room Rates” on the Disney World website, Club Level rooms are clearly marked in the search, so you can conduct an easy cost comparison between both regular rooms and other Club Level options at various Resort hotels.

We hope this chat has helped in your Disney World vacation planning! And if you’ve ever experienced Club Level at Disney World, we’d love to hear about it with a comment!

Animal Kingdom Lodge Concierge Offerings

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One Reply to “Which Resort Has The Best Club Level In Disney World?”

The picture of the Animal Kingdom Lodge Concierge lounge is labelled incorrectly. That picture is of a lounge just off the lobby that anyone can access.

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GRAND FLORIDIAN VS BEACH/YACHT CLUB

• Thread starter WDWOswald
• Start date Mar 24, 2017

DIS Veteran

• Mar 24, 2017

I'm trying to decide between a split stay at beach and yacht club (2 nights at beach club and 5 nights at yacht club both in a garden view room) or 7 nights at the Grand Floridian lagoon view. We will be going to Epcot and Magic Kingdom the same amount of time during our trip, and also visiting Hollywood studios and animal kingdom once. I feel like the Grand Floridian, as the "crown jewel" of all Disney Resorts, might be the ultimate vacation. However, there's the walk to Epcot from the yacht/beach club and I love the boardwalk resort area. I also love that we can get our 3 year old back and forth to magic kingdom very quickly at the Grand Floridian, vs needing to drive and park and take the monorail to MK if staying at yacht/beach club. It's a really hard decision, the Grand Floridan would cost about $600 more than Yacht/Beach club. I don't mind paying up though. Or I could save a few hundred dollars staying at animal kingdom lodge in a pool view room. Decisions... Decisions...  

If you are still bringing a stroller, I might lean GF because you can monorail to MK and Epcot without folding up the stroller. Without a stroller I might more strongly consider the YC/BC.  

With a 3yo, I'd skip the split stay and go for the GF. It's a really tough call, though, for sure!  

Mouseketeer

I would do a split stay between Beach Club (3 nights ) and Grand Floridian (4 nights). Plan your Epcot and HS days at Beach Club and MK/AK, etc at the GF!  

Thank you Walt

I'm a fan of staying put, and GF is my favorite resort. This is a tough call. Although, I don't know why you would split between BC and YC, they are literally next door to each other. I don't see the benefit of splitting between these two resorts. I think the ease of GF will fit the bill. Bottom line, you can't go wrong because you will be at Disney!!  

GF for sure. The ease of the monorail with a little one is worth it.  

Grace&Carolinesmom

• Mar 25, 2017

Another vote for the GF. We've never stayed at the YC but have stayed at the BC and while we had a nice stay, we prefer the GF. We also find there to be more of a variety of dining options around the monorail vs the Epcot resorts.  

Earning My Ears

I have stayed at both resorts with small kids in a stroller... Grand Floridian: Pros: Beautiful resort. Hearing the Magic Kingdom train from our balcony was priceless. -very peaceful -great for kids. I don't understand the people who say it is not kid friendly. All three of mine loved this resort over AKL, which we have also stayed at. -splash pad is wonderful and easy to keep track of my small kids Cons: Monorail. It has been on a modified schedule, and we had to use another mode of transportation a few times. It broke down twice while we were there. Both times we walked all the way from Conch Key to the monorail to find it was broken down, and then we had to walk all the way back to wait for a boat to get to MK. Also, to get to the monorail in GF's main building, you have to take stairs or an elevator to the second floor. The one elevator for non-main building guests fits one stroller, so there was often a line during busy times. We would sometimes have to carry the double stroller up the stairs to save time. This was a bit frustrating because we paying for the convenience of the monorail, and the inconsistency made it inconvenient multiple times. We had an impressive discount for this room, but if I had been paying more than $400, I would be pretty upset about these inconsistencies. -you have to collapse your stroller for the GF to MK boat. Beach Club: Pros: one main building which was great when it rained -walkable to Epcot and HS -the shallow sand pool my kids LOVED. Even my 10 yr old stayed in the sand pool most of the time. It is a bigger pool area, so we just planted ourselves somewhere and stayed in that area. The 7 and 10 yr olds could roam if they wanted and the little stayed where we planted. -the boardwalk is beautiful at night and after the kiddos were asleep, one of the us could relax at the boardwalk or walk to the IG and stroll through the countries Cons: -The winding halls to our room were a bit claustrophobic for me. We never had to wait for an elevator though. - the views. We got the cheapest view room at GF and The balcony overlooked the water and the boat docks. Our standard view room at BC overlooked a roof. -The busses. They consistently took longer than 20 minutes. We are rope drop people, and there were a few mornings when there wasn't even a CM out there to call in a bus if we waited past 30 min. Quite a few frustrated people. (This was the end of Jan/beginning of Feb). When my kids are melting, waiting for a bus is much more torturous than walking somewhere. Here is what we did to rectify the bus situation: On Day Two, we bought the express transportation for the week. When we left a park, we would take the express transportation to Epcot and walk back to the resort. Epcot closed later than the other parks every night, so we would always hop on Test Track single rider or do a very short wait on Soarin' on our way back to the resort. Stopping for a Croissant doughnut was routine too. We did MK three days and this still worked out best for us. We would just finish up in tomorrowland, walk to the express bus stop next to Buzz a few minutes before it was scheduled to leave, hop on and be at Spaceship Earth in 15 min. Knowing the bus schedule was priceless for us. We also park hopped much more this trip because of this. The express bus was SO convenient, we easily did the four park challenge with three kids. I never would have attempted that without the express bus. We just walked back to the resort after the fourth park. I didn't miss the monorail once on this trip. The express bus was worth every penny. All of this to say, having a toddler and stroller didn't make a big difference between the two resorts especially if the monorail is on a modified schedule and if it's still breaking down. I would choose the resort you love. My kids would tell you to pick the Beach Club because of the sand pool, but they really loved both of them.  

Lisann said: I'm a fan of staying put, and GF is my favorite resort. This is a tough call. Although, I don't know why you would split between BC and YC, they are literally next door to each other. I don't see the benefit of splitting between these two resorts. I think the ease of GF will fit the bill. Bottom line, you can't go wrong because you will be at Disney!! Click to expand...

With neither BC or YC being avail for entire week, I'd do either GF for all 7 days or split YC 3 days & GF 4 days. The best of both worlds and plan your park days according.  

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• The Villas at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
• The Campsites at Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort

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• sidemenu#activeChildLayerTwo mouseover->sidemenu#activeChildLayerTwo" class="text-black text-base font-eucliarSemiBold flex items-center justify-start gap-2 pt-[20px] leading-18"> The Villas at Disneyland Hotel
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Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa

Last updated: March 20, 2024

Walt Disney World's flagship hotel, the Grand Floridian combines 19th-century, ocean-resort styled verandas, intricate latticework, dormers, and turrets under a distinctive red-shingle roof.

$816 - $5,808

Lodging Area

Boat, Bus, Monorail, Walk

Guest Overall Rating

Based on 231 surveys. (See our Ratings and Research page for details)

Lighting: A

modal#open click->video-modal#modalVideo">Grand Floridian Resort Tour

modal#open click->video-modal#modalVideo">Grand Floridian Room Tour

High staff-to-guest ratio

Excellent dining options for adults

Large rooms with daybeds

Very good on-site spa

Fantastic kids' Alice in Wonderland-themed splash area

Boat and monorail transportation to the Magic Kingdom, plus a pedestrian walkway

Diverse recreational options

Close to Palm, Magnolia, and Oak Trail Golf Courses

Most expensive WDW resort and the rooms don't live up to the price

Self-parking is across the street

Public areas often blocked by wedding parties

Noise from Magic Kingdom, boat horns,and whistles

Bus transportation to DHS, Animal Kingdom, water parks, and Disney Springs is shared by the other monorail resorts

We stayed at the Grand Floridian. I feel the Yacht Club's food options were much more accessible, being they were in the same building, while we had to walk what seemed 100 yards outside to reach the Grand Flo's food court.

We stayed at the Grand Floridian. I feel the Yacht Club's food options were much more accessible, being they were in the same building, while we had to walk...

Christopher W

July 5, 2021

Grand Floridian was wonderful.

September 19, 2021

We would probably choose to stay at The Grand Floridian again above all the other hotels.

March 14, 2021

The Grand Floridian exceeded our expectations! It's a beautiful hotel, but what sets it apart from other Disney properties is the qualify of the staff. I am sold. We won't hesitate to stay there again!

The Grand Floridian exceeded our expectations! It's a beautiful hotel, but what sets it apart from other Disney properties is the qualify of the staff. I am...

August 17, 2019

We loved it! We watched the fireworks at Magic Kingdom by the marina and truly enjoyed that experience. Our room location was nice, the hotel just lovely. Definitely want to stay there again.

We loved it! We watched the fireworks at Magic Kingdom by the marina and truly enjoyed that experience. Our room location was nice, the hotel just lovely....

February 19, 2019

Our girls loved being able to watch the Magic Kingdom fireworks from the Grand Floridian!

December 4, 2018

We loved that we could see the Magic Kingdom fireworks from our room at the Grand Floridian! Also, near the marina area, there were speakers playing the music for the fireworks too!

We loved that we could see the Magic Kingdom fireworks from our room at the Grand Floridian! Also, near the marina area, there were speakers playing the...

November 15, 2017

Large by any standard, the typical room is 440 square feet. The woodwork, marble-topped sinks, and ceiling fans amplity the resort's Victorian theme.

• Room with Queen Bed(s) and en-suite bathroom
• Balcony or patio
• Dresser with drawers
• Full-length mirror
• Wireless Internet (Wi-Fi)
• Flat-panel TV
• Coffee maker and starter supply of coffee pods
• Ironing board and iron
• Digital thermostat
• In-room safe
• Shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and bar soap

Bathrooms are large, with plenty of counter space and fluffy towels. Two shelves under the sink provide a small amount of storage. A separate dressing area next to the bathroom includes two sinks and enough counter space to fit a lot of toiletries.

Grand Floridian Standard Room

Grand Floridian Couch Bed

Grand Floridian Chair, Dresser, TV, and Couch

Grand Floridian Desk and Coffee Maker

Grand Floridian Standard Room Desk and Chair

Grand Floridian Bathroom

Grand Floridian Room 4424 View

We’ve mapped and taken photographs of the views from every single room on Walt Disney World property! Our Room Finder helps you find the perfect room for you and then request that room from Disney.

Many of Disney highest-rated restaurants are here. The Grand Floridian Cafe has excellent casual meals. Citricos is upscale yet welcoming. And it's only a question of how many Michelin stars Victoria & Albert's will get, not if.

1900 Park Fare A good choice for character dining, but too bright and loud for adults without children.

Cítricos Citricos's fanciful garden setting is inspired by the 2018 film Mary Poppins Returns. Disney describes the menu as "Mediterranean-inspired." Cítricos is one of the few restaurants where our rating differs significantly from readers. Our rating is much higher, and the difference might be whether the kitchen is able to deliver consistent quality night after night. Expect the menu to change often, and ask your server for their recommendations. If you can’t get a reservation at Victoria & Albert’s next door, this is the next best thing we’ve eaten.

Grand Floridian Cafe A quick place to grab a tasty bite in a pleasantly themed room.

Narcoossee's Narcoossee’s, an oft-forgotten Signature restaurant, outpaces its upscale competitors around Walt Disney World in delivering both impeccable service and outstanding food. You’ll certainly pay a hefty price for a meal here, but the fresh ingredients shine every time.

Victoria & Albert's Hunnel (a James Beard Award nominee) and his team prepare modern American cuisine with the best of the best from around the world. The main dining room and Queen Victoria’s Room are whisper-quiet, but the Chef’s Table is convivial and relaxed.

Gasparilla Island Grill The Grand Floridian's quick-service eatery serves up a variety of foods throughout the day. Hot feed is available for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and grab-and-go items are available until midnight.

Beaches Pool Bar & Grill Beaches Pool Bar and Grill is near the pool at the south end of the resort (the one with the water slide) and, yes, it is next to the beach. In a large, octagonal, pagoda-topped structure that blends in exactly with the rest of the Grand Floridian architecture, the bar is an appropriately formal, yet basically standard pool bar. What makes this a nice place for a drink is sitting either at one of the available tables or in one of the many pool or beach chairs. From these you can look out over Seven Seas Lagoon. The dozen or so tables located behind the bar on the lagoon side are the real prizes. From there, the resort and the new Disney Vacation Club Villa bookend a 180 degree view that includes the lagoon, the tops of Cinderella Castle and Space Mountain, the Contemporary Resort, and the Polynesian. The area around the pool bar is beautiful and peaceful despite the often rambunctious children in the pool. It also makes a great place to catch Happily Ever After or the Electrical Water Pageant.

Courtyard Pool Bar The Grand Floridian Resort is a classy place in every way. Unsurprisingly that classiness extends to its central pool area, where an elegant pool is bordered by lovely bar. The Courtyard pool bar is located in the main courtyard (hence the name), next to the largest, and quietest, pool at the Grand Floridian. While the view is not quite as nice as the Beaches Pool Bar (Grand Floridian buildings versus the beach and lagoon), there are generally far fewer children around this pool. If relative peace and quiet is more important to you, the Courtyard bar is the one for you.

Enchanted Rose

Grand Floridian Gingerbread House Seasonal holiday cart in the Grand Floridian lobby selling gingerbread shingles and other sweets during the Christmas season.

Grand Floridian Private Dining

Refillable Mugs Allows guest self-service soft drink refills from quick-service locations in hotels ( NOT in theme parks ) for $21.99 for the length of stay.

SWIPE TO EXPLORE

The Grand Floridian has excellent pool areas. The Beach Pool is large enough that ducks often mistake it for the nearby lagoon. It's also got a 181-foot water slide, waterfalls, and a zero-entry side for kids. The Courtyard Pool is a more quiet bathing experience. A nearby, Alice In Wonderland-themed play area for kids, is excellent.

Arcadia Games arcade is in the main building and features relatively recent video games of all kinds.

Free Disney Movies Under the Stars are shown on Sunday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday, weather-permitting, at the Sommerhouse

The Grand Floridian Health Club has weights, treadmills, and other equipment for your workout. Hours are typically 6 AM to 9 PM.

The Sense Spa is a full-service spa and salon. We think it's the best on property. Services include massages, body treatments, mani/pedi. and more.

Roast marshmallow around a campfire starting at 5:30 PM on Sunday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday on the Grand Floridian beach.

Motorized boats, and pontoon boats that seat up to 10 adults can be rented at the marina. Check with the marina for cost and operating hours.

Disney resort guests get into each theme park 30 minutes earlier than off-site guests, every day.

Those staying at Disney's Deluxe and Deluxe Villa hotels can buy Lightning Lane via Individual Purchase at 7:00 a.m. each day. Others cannot make that purchase until the official park opening time.

Disney's Deluxe and DVC resort guests get two extra hours in select theme parks on certain days of the week. The schedule changes, so check with the front desk.

Board the Walt Disney World Monorail on Floor 2 of the Grand Floridian's Main Building for convenient access to Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, and the Contemporary and Polynesian hotels.

Performed at nightfall on the Seven Seas Lagoon, this show is a stunning electric-light show aboard small barges and set to nifty electronic music.

Practical Matters

Check-in is 3:00pm Check-out is 11:00am

All Disney resorts participate in Disney’s Online Check-In program. If you’ve checked-in online and provided a mobile phone number or email address, you will receive your room number electronically. Then you can go straight to the room and use your smart phone or MagicBand to open the door, skipping the lobby altogether.

These rubber and plastic wrist bands can function as your room key, park admission, charge card, and more! MagicBands cost money, but if you'd like a free option you can use the official Disney World app on your phone or request an RFID-embedded card at the front desk.

Park tickets are best purchased online in advance either directly through Disney or via our Least Expensive Ticket Calculator . However, if you arrive without park tickets, head to the concierge desk in the hotel lobby.

Dining reservation are best made online in advance or on your phone or tablet during your visit. You can also use our Disney World Reservation Finder .

Washers and dryers are availabile in laundry facilities at each Disney World hotel. Cost is $3 per wash, and another $3 per dry cycle. A small selection of soap, fabric softener, and dryer sheets are also sold, for around $1 each. Only credit/debit cards can be used for payment. For more information, see our Disney World Laundry Facilities page.

If you lose something in a theme park or during your stay at a Disney-operated hotel, visit Disney's Lost and Found website or call (407) 824-4245.

Disney hotels have gifts shops near their lobbies with a decent collection of Disney-branded souvenirs. You will also find basic pharmacy items such as sunscreen, aspirin, allergy and cold medicine, baby diapers and formula, shampoo, and the like. Resort hotels with Deluxe Villa rooms offer an assortment of groceries, as well.

Disney recommends a third party company, Kid's Nite Out , to provide babysitting services at the resort hotels. See our Disney World Child Care page for more information.

Disney's Grand Floridian Resort is in the Magic Kingdom Resort Area. All modern GPS apps, and Google Maps, will have clear driving directions to it. As a backup, look for Disney road signs directing you toward the Magic Kingdom once you're on property.

Disney provides free bus service to all destinations except the Magic Kingdom. Buses run about every 20 minutes. Disney's bus transportation system is the fastest option to get to EPCOT and Disney's Hollywood Studios. For all other destinations, it's faster to drive your car if you have one.

If you have your own car , it's faster to drive yourself to Disney's Animal Kingdom, the Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach water parks, and Disney Springs. Disney's transportation system is faster to EPCOT and Disney's Hollywood Studios.

The Magic Kingdom is accessible via walking path .

Boat service is available to the Magic Kingdom. Boat service might not be available during thunderstorms.

The Magic Kingdom is accessible via the resort's monorail station; walking is faster. For EPCOT, take the monorail to the Transportation and Ticket Center (TTC) and transfer to the EPCOT monorail.

The Polynesian is a short walk from the Grand Floridian, but hot during the summer and wet when it rains. An alternate way to get to the Contemporary, Bay Lake Tower, and Polynesian is by taking the resort monorail. For all other hotels, it's faster to drive or use Uber/Lyft/taxis than to rely on Disney's bus service. If you must use Disney's bus service and the Magic Kingdom is open, it's probably fastest to walk to the Magic Kingdom bus station and take the bus going to the resort you're headed.

if you have a car, the easiest way to get to Universal Orlando, SeaWorld, and other tourist destinations is to drive. Alternatively, Mears Transportation operates shuttle services between the Disney hotels and other theme parks.

tabs#change">Driving to the Resort

tabs#change">Getting to the Parks and Disney Springs

tabs#change">Getting to Another Hotel from Grand Floridian

tabs#change">Getting to Universal Orlando

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An Outdoor Sanctuary

Relax in luxury and style, enjoying the day your way. You can lounge in the sun or retreat to your furnished, shaded oasis—complete with personal electronics and refreshments.

Disney’s signature attention-to-detail sets the standard for the ultimate in poolside pampering. So treat yourself, friends and family to this unforgettable vacation experience.

Cabanas are available for full day rentals. Cabanas at Disney's Contemporary Resort and Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa —as well as those shared by Disney’s Beach Club Resort and Disney’s Yacht Club Resort —are available to Guests of those Resorts only.

To reserve a cabana, please call (407) WDW-PLAY or (407) 939-7529. Private dining is also available at an additional cost. Guests under age 18 must have parent or guardian permission to call.

Cabana Amenities

Disney's Contemporary Resort

• Padded furniture, including chairs and couch
• Ceiling fan
• Bluetooth® speaker
• Television with cable service
• Phone for internal Resort calls
• Mini refrigerator stocked with complimentary sodas and water

Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa

• Dedicated Cast Member providing service to the cabanas
• 2 padded lounge chairs
• Padded sectional couch
• Smart TV with cable service
• Fruit basket (may not be available without advance reservation)
• Snack basket (may not be available without advance reservation)
• Plush towels

Disney’s Yacht Club Resort and Beach Club Resort

• Cocktail service
• Television with cable access
• Charging outlet/USB
• Cabinet safe

Know Before You Go

• Advance reservations are highly recommended as cabanas book quickly.
• Availability of amenities may change without notice. Check with the Resort hotel at time of booking to confirm what will be provided.
• Cabanas at Disney's Contemporary Resort and Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa can only be booked by Guests of each Resort hotel.
• Cabanas shared by Disney’s Beach Club Resort and Disney’s Yacht Club Resort can only be booked by Guests of either Resort hotel.
• A MagicBand or Key to the World Card is required at Resort hotel cabana check-in.
• One Guest in the party must be at least 18 years old.
• Guests who need to cancel cabana reservations must provide 24-hour notice. The full price of your reservation will be charged in the event of no-shows or same-day cancellations.
• Rentals may be cancelled by the Resort hotel due to inclement weather. Guests will not be charged in this case.

Polynesian v. Grand Floridian

When choosing a luxury hotel near Magic Kingdom on the monorail loop at Walt Disney World, vacation planners debate between two Deluxe Resorts: Grand Floridian and Polynesian Village Resort. This head-to-head comparison weighs the pros & cons of each, picking a “winner” in theme, dining, transportation, pools, and other categories. ( Updated August 8, 2021 )

This continues our Walt Disney World Hotel Comparison Series , which includes several other difficult dilemmas you might face when trying to pick a hotel. Other versus posts include Animal Kingdom Lodge v. Wilderness Lodge, BoardWalk v. Beach Club, Port Orleans Riverside v. French Quarter, and even Caribbean Beach v. the Poly.

This Grand Floridian v. Polynesian comparison pits Walt Disney World’s flagship hotel against a fun fan-favorite that some might argue should be WDW’s “crown jewel” hotel. While both are similar in terms of location (literally a short walk from one another) and pricing, there are many differences in terms of theme, atmosphere, restaurants, and amenities.

While we will draw our own conclusions as to which is better, along the way we will explain our reasoning, so you can form your own conclusions. Since so much of this is a matter of subjective, personal preference, we feel that’s the best way to approach these comparisons. Plus, it would be a pretty short blog post if we didn’t offer explanatory text along with the winner of each element.

Okay, with that, it’s time to see whether the Grand Floridian delivers a sick People’s Elbow to the Poly, or if the Poly can pull off a surprise Stone Cold Stunner… (Sorry, I’ll stop with the wrestlin’ talk–those are the only terms I know, anyways.)

Theme: It Depends – Theme is such a tricky subject since so much of it is predicated in personal preference. Rather than making a value judgment about which theme is inherently “better,” we approach this from their respective execution of theme.

Grand Floridian is no doubt the most elegant and refined hotel at Walt Disney World, befitting of its high-brow Victorian theme. The lobby oozes sophistication and class, and makes a strong first impression. From that alone, it’s easy to see why this is Walt Disney World’s most luxurious and flagship resort. It is, as the name suggests, grand.

If there’s a good “opposite” of opulence, Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort is it. The Poly captures the essence of vacationing at a tropical resort. From the lush grounds to the South Seas vibe throughout the resort, it’s the confluence of 20th century tiki culture and authentic island paradise. It’s a great place to decompress and has an undeniable “vacation mode” vibe.

Both stumble on executing their themes in some regards. There are areas where the Grand Floridian feels dated, like a 1990s interpretation of the elevated Victorian theme. Some say it reminds them of “grandma’s house.” Then there are spots where modernization feels a bit bland and off-theme, the the Beauty and the Beast bar. Likewise, the Poly’s theme has been chipped away at in recent years with the removal of its lobby waterfall and other tropical elements, but other enhancements make it feel like a good blend of mid-century and modern.

For what it’s worth, if this were simply our personal preferences, we’d give the win to the Poly. Objectively, they are difficult to compare and both succeed and stumble in the same ways, so we’re calling this a push.

Rooms: Polynesian – This comparison catches Grand Floridian near what is hopefully the end of its current rooms’ lifecycle and the Poly as it unveils the new rooms. (See our Review, Photos & Video: New Moana Rooms at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort .) This one is no contest.

The Poly’s new Moana rooms are bold, with distinctly “Disney” style and use of characters. They have a lot going on in terms of colors, patterns, and textures that won’t appeal to everyone. We think they strike the right balance, but some will undoubtedly disagree, finding them too “loud.” Regardless of that, the quality of finishings, features, and functionality is all high–much higher than the Grand Floridian’s older rooms.

Grand Floridian’s rooms are bland and lightly-themed, with a look that is virtually indistinguishable from a nice Marriott or Hilton. The rooms aren’t bad by any stretch, they are just dull and not what you might expect at this price point. They need more luxurious details and finishings, in addition to thematic enhancements.

The rooms at Grand Floridian could also benefit from a number of functional upgrades–ones that have become ubiquitous at nearly every other hotel that has received room reimaginings in the last ~5 years. It’s highly likely Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort will receive its own room reimagining in 2022, so hopefully this large chasm won’t exist for much longer.

Dining: Grand Floridian – The culinary scene at the Grand Floridian is befitting of its flagship status. Narcoossee’s and Citricos are two of the most highly regarded restaurants at Walt Disney World, and the latter just received a Mary Poppins-inspired overhaul that took it to the next level . Then there’s Victoria & Albert’s ( closed until 2022 ), which is in a league of its own.

At the less expensive end of the spectrum, Grand Floridian Cafe is an underrated gem and has become one of our favorite spots for a casual meal or last minute Advance Dining Reservation around Magic Kingdom. Gasparilla Island Grill is likewise a strong counter service restaurant. There’s also the recently-reimagined Enchanted Rose Beauty and the Beast Bar , we aren’t fans, but others seem to like it.

The casual end of the spectrum is where Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort excels. Captain Cook’s is one of Walt Disney World’s best counter service restaurants . Of course, ‘Ohana is a fan favorite…although its new modified dinner is a significant downgrade .

Fortunately, two other options pick up the slack. Kona Cafe is another underrated gem , a stand-out for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. With Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto , the Poly has one of the best lounges at Walt Disney World.

We ultimately give the edge to Grand Floridian due to the Poly’s lack of fine dining options–a big misstep for a Deluxe Resort–but this is another category that comes down to personal preference. It should also be kept in mind that resort-hopping for meals is incredibly easy among the monorail loop resorts.

Transportation: Push – This should come as no surprise given that the Polynesian and Grand Floridian are right next to one another. Both are on the Magic Kingdom Monorail loop. Both offer boat transportation. Both have comparable (shared) bus service to other parks.

Additionally, both are now walkable to Magic Kingdom. We’ve already breathlessly covered this in “ Photos & Video: Meandering the Magnificent Magic Kingdom to Grand Floridian Walkway .” In case you missed that, it’s now possible to walk all the way from the Transportation and Ticket Center to Magic Kingdom.

Grand Floridian is closer to Magic Kingdom, giving it the edge there. However, the Poly is closer to the Ticket & Transportation Center, which means it’s more convenient for walking to the monorail to Epcot. All of that makes this a tie.

Pools: Polynesian – Our favorite pools at these resorts at Beach Pool at the Grand Floridian, which we ranked #4 on our list of the Top 10 Pools at Walt Disney World , and Lava Pool at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort (#2). We give the edge to the newly reimagined Lava Pool because it’s more imaginative, immersive, and ultimately, more fun for kids.

Both of these resorts have a couple solid pools beyond their main feature pools, but none of the quiet or secondary pools at Grand Floridian move the needle back towards it. If anything, the retro style (and shade structures!) at Polynesian’s Oasis Pool provide an adult foil to the more family-friendly main pool. By contrast, both of the “main” pools at the Grand Floridian skew towards adults.

Cost: Polynesian – While these are the two most expensive resorts in all of Walt Disney World when comparing standard rooms, the Grand Floridian is significantly more expensive.

While rates vary by season and room category, you can expect to pay about 20% more for a comparable room at the Grand Floridian. That’s a bit difficult to swallow given the Polynesian’s other victories in this comparison…

Verdict: Polynesian – For us, this is an easy one. In looking back, even at the categories that Grand Floridian won, I have a difficult time seeing the Grand Floridian with an advantage that matters to me in pretty much any regard. In fact, everything we love most about the Grand Floridian–dining and lobby atmosphere–can just as easily be enjoyed while staying at the Poly and doing a “date night” at the Grand.

While the Grand Floridian has grown on us, the Polynesian is a masterpiece of Imagineering, and is transportive in theme. It’s where we actually want to stay while on vacation, with atmosphere, amenities, rooms, and other features we’d regularly use over the course of a trip. We would take the Poly even if prices were equal, and with the Poly being $100+ cheaper per night, it’s no contest.

When comparing any two resorts, other factors will obviously come into play. Important amenities, location, recreation, and other variables are going to matter and weigh differently for different parties.

Our goal is for this post to be helpful in offering a head-to-head comparison of the most crucial elements of each Walt Disney World resort experience, but we suggest supplementing this with our full review of Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa and our Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort Review .

Planning a Walt Disney World trip? Learn about hotels on our Walt Disney World Hotels Reviews page. For where to eat, read our Walt Disney World Restaurant Reviews . To save money on tickets or determine which type to buy, read our Tips for Saving Money on Walt Disney World Tickets post. Our What to Pack for Disney Trips post takes a unique look at clever items to take. For what to do and when to do it, our Walt Disney World Ride Guides will help. For comprehensive advice, the best place to start is our Walt Disney World Trip Planning Guide for everything you need to know!

YOUR THOUGHTS

Which of these two Deluxe Resorts is the better one, in your opinion? Is money the deciding factor for you or is something else? Is there anything you can think of to make Grand Floridian the better pick? Do you prefer the Moana rooms at the Poly or Grand Floridian’s more subdued style? Are we missing a key variable that could, potentially tilt the scales in the Grand’s favor? Do you agree or disagree with our picks? Any questions we can help you answer? Hearing your feedback–even when you disagree with us–is both interesting to us and helpful to other readers, so please share your thoughts below in the comments!

Written by Tom Bricker

I found this review very amusing. We stayed at the Grand Floridian villas in February and when we walked over to the Polynesian it was a total mess of a construction. We couldn’t believe that this was a Disney property. We went back again to see the completed resort in September and it reminds me of my childhood when I went to Wildwood New Jersey and stayed at any of the tacky themed Hawaiian hotels from the seventies. There are plenty of cheap looking Hawaiian hotels off of I-4 you can stay at it, if thats the theme you are looking for. The only asset to the Polynesian is the Monorail and it that instance the Contemporary hotel is the beats the Polynesian by a mile and is the true essence of a Disney hotel.

Tom you are correct to say that theming is a matter of personal preference. We have owned DVC properties at both the Poly and currently at the Grand. For us, there is no comparison. We have found the staff friendlier and the grounds immaculate and well maintained at the Grand Floridian. That has not always been our experience at the Poly. The light, bright interior decor at the Grand Floridian lifts my spirits, whereas the overwhelming predominantly darker wood and decor of the Poly we personally found kind of depressing. The two bedroom villas at the Grand are luxurious. Where else do you find embossed Kleenex?!? We love feeling pampered on vacation and for us, the Grand Floridian is the resort that beats all others hands down. But to each his own.

We LOVED the Polynesian before it’s last major overhaul. It was our favorite destination anywhere!!! We scrimped and saved just so we could stay there because it truly transported us to Bali Hai. First was walking into this incredible lobby dominated by a 3 story waterfall with over 70+ different species of plants (and at one time parrots). It didn’t feel like a lobby; it felt like stepping through a magical door into another world. Our magical world experience continued as we strolled down sidewalks which snaked around ginormous tropical plants so high you could often not see over them. Then you’d turn a corner and be surprised by a tiki god! Finally, our favorite building had a private beach outside of it which was perfect to watch the fireworks with a sprinkling of other families. We would slide into a hammock and watch the show. I’ll also say that without Trader Sams and the other bar, there were only a few folks outside the resort who would come for dinner reservations. They didn’t overwhelm public areas or the main beach. But once the lobby was made into a normal lobby and the tropical plants were removed and the sidewalk widened — the Polynesian seemed like a nice hotel, but a hotel. My sister’s comment was “well I’m glad I stayed in it before it became a hotel.” So the Polynesian is very nice, yes, but not a unique and magical immersive experience for us anymore. I prefer to stay elsewhere and visit the bars. .

GF is wonderful and is my favorite monorail resort at this point. We find it laid back and quiet; so more immersive in that sense; hthe lobby and outside areas seem to absorb visitors better than the Poly. The cabanas are THE most decadent experience (a fan, a tv, chairs, table, a couch, 2 lounge chairs, a refirgerator with unlimited drinks, a fruit bakset, a snack basket, a CM whose job is to take care of you and 2-3 other cabanas…did I mention the amazing lobster sliders at the pool bar/rquick service?) . Then there is the spa with the oh so comfortable ergonomic chairs in the quiet room… OThe rooms are quiet but not bland (to me) and seem to go with the relax vibe of the resort. We also enjoyed the Princess Promenade when Cinderella came downstairs with the Prince in the lobby. We did mother/daughter high tea, enjoyed the shops, and oh Narcoosees was great! I adore the Beauty and the Beach lounge which was a much-needed addition to the lobby (which seemed kind of large and empty except at Christmas); it is beautiful and very themed in a classy way. I dream of staying club level here someday!

I should weigh in, we have stayed at the Polynesian years ago and thought it was the best, when Grand Floridian open, we walked through the hotel, I go to Disney for vacation, not for a stuffy hotel of snobby people. Currently my wife and I stay at the back entrance of Epcot, mostly Yacht club since it was the only thing open. Again when the Swan and Dolphin originally opened it was too business for me, suits and not short pants. Oct I’m looking forward to the Beach Club. Hopefully 2022, we will stay at the Polynesian again.

I’ll always take the Grand Floridian over all others.

Bummer I have been waiting to hear somethi7about Victoria and Albert. Was really hoping it would be o0en by the holidays but you’re saying 2022

To your knowledge are hotels booking at capacity right now for November December dates or do we expect new rooms to become available as more workforce and maybe covid declines happen? Still waiting for discounts to drop. I would expect before the end of the month

An important factor for me in comparing these two is that “day visitors” overwhelm both of these resorts. In my experience, the Grand Floridian’s layout manages to disperse visitors and keep paths clear for resort guests better than the Poly’s does. As a guest in Fiji, our room was noisy all day, into the night, with luau guests coming and going, and Trader Sam’s guests milling about, waiting for tables. The crowds waiting for ‘Ohana leave a train of strollers winding through the second floor of the Poly lobby, and the beach can look like a mosh pit, come fireworks time. GF brings similar crowds, but the alcoves for restaurant waiting areas and outbuilding rooms keep the resort vibe a little quieter. Overall, I felt neither of these resorts came close to living up to their price tags, but I understand why people love them.

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Restaurant-Yacht Chaika

Ratings and reviews, location and contact.

Pleasantly surprised, service is good so is the food. Great selection of Fusion food, a mixture of Italian, Japanese, European, Asian etc. A pleasantly nice dining experience, highly recommended, a must try!

Thank you for your feedback and invite you to have lunch or dinner again aboard the ship in an atmosphere of high standards of yacht hospitality.

everything was perfect - the food, the service, the desserts were the best, nice atmosphere and the location - magical

Best food, best view in Moscow. absolutely faultless from arrival to finish. Best risotto i had for many years absolutely perfectly cooked. The view on Ukrainian hotel and the white house by night is amazing

Had to wait for the food for 1.5 hours and then another 20 minutes for the check. Finally called for the manager and he offered... a 10% discount as a compensation. Simply pathetic! The food is mediocre at best. Not bad per se, but one... would expect something better considering the prices. There are many places to eat in area that are much better. Avoid this one at all costs. More

Hello, Alexander Your comment is extremely important for us, thank you a lot for it. We are terribly sorry for your time that you`ve spent waiting your order and we have already taken actions to improve quality of our service and it would be realy... More

Food is very expensive,very pretentious, doesn't worth that money. Portions are very small. We ordered ravioli and there were 4! Four raviolis! For almost 15 euros. Then we asked to bring us dessert menu but nothing, they didn't even bothered, so we payed and left... without dessert. Very poor service for that price. More

This is a very good restaurant. The food is really good, maybe the best in Moscow. The service is also good. The view from the restaurant is great. The prices are very high.

I often visit this restaurant and must say it’s one of the best in Moscow in terms of quality and service. Staff really try hard to make sure that you are happy and satisfied. Customer service is a huge problem in Moscow but Chaika sets... a great example for others in the industry! Food is delicious and the menu has lots of options for everyone! Atmosphere is great and view is beautiful on the embankment. Special thanks to German & Oleg! More

Thank you for your feedback! Again aboard the yacht restaurant "Chaika" in accordance with the high standards of yacht hospitality.

Highly recommended, great location in the city center of Moscow with a superb atmosphere. Too many menu choices, though all delicious!

Thx a lot for your review! We are looking forward to see you in our restaurants.

Visited this lovely restaurant with a friend of mine. It was relaxingly warm August evening - so the place on the river seemed like a good idea. We came quite early and the restaurant was not full. The hostesses kindly offered several places to sit... and we chose to sit on the sofas. We had some wine, which was good. We struggled a bit when deciding about the food as few options (scallops) were not available. Fish on ice on display did not look very fresh. To be honest it was an unusually hot August and it is probably understandable that some see food options were not available. However, we did manage to order something and sat waiting and looking onto the river. My long-legged friend struggled sitting at the low sofa and the manager noticed that, offering as a very good, proper table beside the open window. It was nice touch and I was very pleased by their polite observations and immediate reaction to solve the problem. Food was quite good and presentation was perfect. Perhaps I can something about the food, but 1 visit is not enough to criticize or make a definitive opinion. Overall, quality place, which of course, does not come cheap. I would recommend this restaurant without hesitation. More

Good afternoon! Thank you for your detailed feedback! We are looking forward to seeing you again, we are sure that you will be delighted with our dishes!

I've been here several times during two business trip in Moscow. The overall quality for both service and food is absolutely top-notch, plus the location is very unique.

Hello! Thank you for your feedback! We are looking forward to visiting again!

Located on a boat at Krasnopresenskaya River Bank this 5 Star Restaurant transforms into a party location due to multiple groups hosting events. Impressive wine selection, Asian and European kitchen...

Thx a lot! We are waiting for you!

It is a nice place to gather specially at the lounge The service and staff very good I like the river view The food is almost like all restaurants in Russia they serve different cuisine. Staring Russian appetizer till Asian dishes Presentation and taste amazing... I consider it overpriced little bit More

Good location. Nice views. Good choice of food and drinks. European and Asian menu. Nice service. Pricey enough.

Had a large group dinner here. Food was above average and service quite good. The real attraction is the view of Moscow from the river on a nice night. Great place for a larger group dinner. More

Hello, John We are really pleased by reading that you and your friends were satisfied by our service, client`s experience is the highest value for us. We will be happy to see you again, come and enjoy some new dishes from our chef and nice... More

The luxurious atmosphere of this place, the view and the location make it quite outstanding. We had dinner here with friends and the dishes were amazing, accompanied by a chilled bottle of Chablis, it really made me feel as if it was a part of... the classic Russian movie. More

RESTAURANT-YACHT CHAIKA, Moscow - Presnensky - Restaurant Reviews, Photos & Phone Number - Tripadvisor

• Service: 4.5
• Atmosphere: 4.5