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Ultimate Guide to Planning a Relaxing Resort Day at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa

An opulent hotel atrium with a multi-story layout, featuring balconies lined with white railings. A grand chandelier hangs centrally, and sunlight streams from a large, ornate dome at the top, illuminating the space with a warm glow.
Credit: Becky Burkett

When you catch a glimpse of the stunning white structures and red gabled rooftops of Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa from across the Seven Seas Lagoon, it’s easy to imagine a world of luxury and elegance awaiting you. As you ride the monorail toward this iconic Victorian-style resort, its beauty captivates you, and you can’t help but think, “This is where I want to stay next.”

The Grand Floridian Resort is more than just a place to rest between park visits—it’s an experience in itself. If you have a full day to explore, here’s how to make the most of your time at this luxurious Disney World resort.


8. Start Your Day with Breakfast at 1900 Park Fare

For an unforgettable start to your day, head to 1900 Park Fare for the Supercalifragilistic Breakfast. Located on the first floor of the resort, this character dining experience offers a delicious all-you-care-to-enjoy buffet featuring Mickey waffles, made-to-order omelets, pastries, fresh fruit, and more.

What makes this breakfast truly magical is the company you’ll keep—characters like Mary Poppins, the Mad Hatter, Alice, Winnie the Pooh, and Tigger make their rounds to greet guests and pose for photos. The lively atmosphere and beloved characters make it a must-do, so be sure to book your reservation well in advance through the My Disney Experience app or by calling (407) WDW-DINE.

Cinderella and Company at 1900 Park Fare

Credit: Disney


7. Stroll Through the Grand Floridian’s Victorian Elegance

After breakfast, take some time to explore the beauty of the Grand Floridian Resort. Its Victorian-inspired architecture and lush gardens make for a peaceful stroll. From the grand lobby to the outdoor courtyards, every corner of this resort reflects timeless elegance.

As you wander, you’ll notice intricate details in the décor and design that transport you to a bygone era of opulence. Whether you’re soaking in the atmosphere or snapping photos, the resort’s “grand” aesthetic is truly something to marvel at.


6. Hop on the Monorail for a Quick Trip to Magic Kingdom

One of the best perks of staying at the Grand Floridian is its convenient location on the Monorail loop. After a relaxing morning, hop on the monorail and in just a few minutes, you’ll find yourself at the gates of Magic Kingdom—no long bus rides or waits to deal with.

This seamless connection between the resort and the park allows for easy access to all the magic and excitement Magic Kingdom has to offer. Spend part of your day enjoying rides, shows, and attractions before heading back to the resort for some well-deserved relaxation.


5. Enjoy Some Pampering at Senses Spa

After a few hours of park fun, why not indulge in some pampering? Return to the Grand Floridian for a rejuvenating experience at Senses Spa, a full-service spa offering everything from facials and massages to skin and body treatments.

The spa’s serene, 1900s-era Floridian garden setting creates the perfect atmosphere for unwinding. If you’re looking to keep up with your fitness routine, the 24-hour fitness center is equipped with cardio machines, free weights, and more. Whether you prefer a massage or a workout, Senses Spa provides the perfect mid-day break to recharge.


4. Relax in Your Elegant Resort Room

The rooms at the Grand Floridian are known for their elegant design and attention to detail. After your spa session, head back to your room to unwind or take a nap before dinner. The Victorian décor and luxurious amenities provide a tranquil retreat after a busy morning of activities.

Take a few moments to enjoy the comfort and beauty of your room while recharging for the evening’s events.


3. Dine Like Royalty at the Happily Ever After Dinner with Cinderella

For dinner, return to 1900 Park Fare for the Happily Ever After Dinner—an experience fit for royalty. Hosted by Cinderella and her Prince Charming, this character dining experience also features Anastasia, Drizella, and either Lady Tremaine or the Fairy Godmother, depending on the night.

Disney's Happily EVer After Fireworks

Credit: Disney

Guests will enjoy an all-you-care-to-enjoy buffet with options like prime rib, peel-and-eat shrimp, salads, soups, and decadent desserts. The interactive character experience allows for fun photos, autographs, and a chance to immerse yourself in the world of Cinderella. After dinner, don’t forget to take a photo with Cinderella and Prince Charming, captured by Disney’s PhotoPass photographers.


2. Experience the Magic of the Grand Floridian Lobby

Before calling it a night, take some time to enjoy the Grand Floridian’s lobby. With its grand staircase, intricate chandeliers, and lavish décor, the lobby is a destination in itself. Live music fills the air, with a pianist playing classic Disney tunes throughout the day, and in the evening, the resort’s orchestra performs jazz and ragtime favorites.

Guests often gather in the lobby to listen to the orchestra’s renditions of beloved Disney songs like “Beyond the Sea” from Finding Nemo. If you’re feeling adventurous, make a song request and experience Disney magic through music in one of the most beautiful settings on property.


1. End the Day with the Spectacular Electrical Water Pageant

Cap off your resort day with the Electrical Water Pageant, a floating parade of illuminated floats that takes place nightly on the Seven Seas Lagoon. This 15-minute spectacle features glowing sea creatures and Disney music, culminating in a patriotic finale.

A nighttime scene of a lake with illuminated, colorful dragon-shaped boats reflecting on the water. The sky is overcast, and greenery with orange flowers is visible in the foreground.

Credit: V Mills

Guests at the Grand Floridian Resort have their own designated viewing area, making it easy to enjoy the show without needing to leave the resort. Watching the Electrical Water Pageant is a magical way to end your day and reflect on the enchanting experiences you’ve enjoyed.


Final Thoughts

A day at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa is not just about staying in luxurious accommodations; it’s about immersing yourself in elegance and relaxation while enjoying the magic of Disney. From character dining to spa treatments and live music, the Grand Floridian offers a variety of experiences to make your resort day unforgettable.

Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, family fun, or just a day of pampering, the Grand Floridian provides the perfect setting for a magical Disney experience. Next time you’re planning a visit to Walt Disney World, be sure to carve out time to fully explore all that this incredible resort has to offer.

About Rebekah Tyndall Burkett

Rebekah grew up in Forney, Texas and lives just outside of Dallas. She’s been a Disney superfan since childhood, experiencing the magic at Walt Disney World for the first time at the age of 11. Journeys to Neverland are at least a yearly occurrence for her, her husband and her four children (the Fab Four). When they go to the parks, they stay in Florida for three weeks at a time. Rebekah loves exploring the history of the parks, the genius behind the Magic in the person of Walt Disney, and she is intrigued by all things Disney World and Disney Imagineering. When in the parks, Rebekah and her husband Scott make the most of their time by enjoying every minute with their Fab Four, by delving deeper into Walt’s vision for the parks and into the history behind the Walt Disney World Resort, and by photographing the many different types of architecture at Magic Kingdom, Disney’s Hollywood Studios and on the World Showcase at EPCOT. When she’s not in the parks, Rebekah is excitedly setting travel dates and planning her family’s next adventure to their happy place deep within the Sunshine State. On breaks from planning her next trip, Rebekah is a writer, journalist and children’s author, penning children’s books about kids with special needs that she affectionately calls “believement-achievement” stories. Her hobbies include creative writing, paper crafting and interviewing Imagineers. She is also an advocate for Autism Awareness and for children with developmental disabilities of all kinds.