When Disney Vacation Club Members talk about Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, the conversation usually starts with its private entrance to Disney California Adventure or its prime location in the heart of the Disneyland Resort.
But one of the best-kept secrets of the resort isn’t its location—it’s the collection of unique experiences available right inside the hotel.
From a fascinating architecture tour that reveals the stories hidden throughout the resort to fitness classes that take place before the parks even open, Disney’s Grand Californian offers opportunities to experience Disneyland in a completely different way. And bonus – most of these activities are available to guests of any Disneyland Resort hotel.
Discover the Story Behind the Resort
This complimentary guided walking tour explores how the Arts and Crafts Movement inspired the design of Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa. During the approximately 45-minute experience, Cast Members explain the architectural influences behind the resort and point out handcrafted details that most guests never notice. The tour highlights the craftsmanship found throughout the lobby, restaurants, and public spaces, giving guests a deeper appreciation for the resort’s design. Reservations are typically required through the Concierge Desk.
Note there is also a special DVC only Art of the Craft Tour for eligible members. The special version of this tour also includes a commemorative keepsake. While the regular version of the tour requires you stay on property, the DVC version is open to any eligible member plus up to 4 additional guests. Reservations for this tour can be made by calling 714-254-2480 or visiting the hotel Concierge Desk.
For Disney fans who love Imagineering details, this may be one of the most underrated experiences at Disneyland Resort.
Fitness Classes – Inside the Parks!
Through the Grand Californian’s Tenaya Stone Spa and Fitness Center, guests can participate in a variety of fitness classes – including several located inside Disney California Adventure prior to park opening!
Power Walking Workout
Participants enter Disney California Adventure Park before regular guests and enjoy an instructor-led workout that combines brisk walking, stretching, and fitness coaching throughout the park.
Walking through an almost-empty Disney California Adventure Park may be worth the price of admission alone. The class covers up to two miles while maintaining an active pace and includes opportunities to enjoy the park from a completely different perspective.
Awakening Yoga in DCA
Join in this early morning yoga session inside Disney California Adventure Park before the park opens for the day. Various sessions are available, including one inside Grizzly Peak. With classes designed for all levels, experience various yoga poses to awaken the body and mind in some very unique settings.
Pixar Pier, Avengers Campus, or Grizzly Peak Fitness Classes
Experience a bootcamp style fitness class using bodyweight movements, resistance bands, and core work right in the middle of one of DCA’s signature areas. Various offerings are available, with some including a jog throughout the park.
Bonus – Unique DVC only Fitness Experiences
While most of the fitness classes offered at the Disneyland Resort are open to all hotel guests, there are a couple unique offerings specifically for eligible Disney Vacation Club members. Keep an eye on the calendar for the “Disney Vacation Club Mindful Morning Magic” and the “Disney Vacation Club Adventure Walk” experiences. Both include light refreshments following the classes.
A Variety of Other Activities
In addition to the unique walking tour and in park fitness classes, the Grand Californian also offers a variety of arts and crafts and other activities throughout the year. Look out for friendship bracelet making, washcloth towel animal classes, animation classes, and live music throughout the lobby. During the summer, pool parties and movie nights are also added into the mix.
While Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure are packed full of attractions and entertainment to fill your trip days, opting into some of these alternative experiences can allow you to experience the Disneyland Resort in a brand new way.
Have you ever enjoyed one of the walking tours or unique fitness classes at the Grand Californian? Share with the DVC Fan community on the DVC Fan Forums or the DVC Fan Facebook group.
