It feels like the final piece of a long-awaited puzzle is finally falling into place. Disney has just revealed refurbishment plans for the lobby at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa! If you’ve been following along, you know this resort has undergone a multi-year transformation—from room refurbishments to refreshed dining spaces like Cítricos and Narcoossee’s, and the recent return of 1900 Park Fare. Now, the heart of the resort—the iconic lobby—is getting the attention it deserves.
As someone who considers the Grand Floridian their home resort, this feels like a huge moment and I’m excited to see what’s in store!
A Lobby That’s Getting a Grand Refresh
Disney has just unveiled the first details and concept art for the newly imagined lobby. According to the announcement, the makeover aims to preserve everything we love about the Grand: the elegance, the charm, the Victorian character—but with a lighter, airier design and some new touches to bring it into a modern era.
Per Scott Gustin, work on the Grand Floridian lobby refurbishment is scheduled to begin later this month and will continue throughout 2025. As part of this renovation, the tea room area will also receive updates, with more details expected to be shared in the future. Unfortunately, due to the ongoing work, the beloved Grand Floridian gingerbread display will not be available during the 2025 holiday season. All pools and dining will remain open throughout the duration of the project.
Think botanical influences, soft tones, hand-drawn florals woven into the carpet, and finishes that still honor the golden age of travel. The lobby will also maintain beloved elements like the iconic birdcage elevator, ensuring that timeless traditions aren’t lost in the update.
A Lobby Bar Inspired by the Birdcage
One of the additions I’m personally most excited for? A brand-new lobby bar.
Inspired by the Grand Floridian’s signature birdcage design, this bar will feature intricate woodwork, brass accents, and even stained-glass birds and murals. It’s set to become a prime spot to sit back with a cocktail or mocktail and soak in the beautiful ambiance of the space.
It’s not just a new feature—it’s a functional way to elevate the experience of relaxing in the lobby after a long day in the parks or while waiting for your dinner reservation. I love the idea that this resort, so rich in Disney history, is continuing to evolve in thoughtful, elegant ways.
As a Disney Vacation Club Member, this feels like a capstone moment. From the addition of Big Pine Key, to refreshed rooms, to new dining—and now, the lobby—this truly marks the completion of what has been a five-plus-year evolution of the Grand Floridian.
There’s been a lot of debate over the years about how much change is too much. I get it. For many of us, the Grand is more than just a resort—it’s our vacation tradition, our “welcome home.” But from what I’ve seen so far, it looks like Imagineering is walking a careful line between honoring the past and embracing the future.
And for those of us who consider this place a home base, the idea of being able to enjoy a refreshed, vibrant lobby without losing that iconic Grand Floridian feel? That’s something to celebrate.
This upcoming refurbishment brings with it a sense of completion, a fresh chapter, and most of all, the continued promise that Disney is investing in the legacy of one of its most beloved resorts. We’ll be keeping a close eye on the progress—and I’m looking forward to the day when I can walk into that new lobby, grab a drink at the bar, and say, “Yep… it’s still home.”
Stay tuned to DVCFan.com for continued updates on the Grand Floridian and all things Disney Vacation Club!
Laurie Eback
April 10, 2025So exciting!!!
Gary Everling
April 10, 2025I wish Grand Flo would add an old fashioned ice cream shop!
Janet
April 10, 2025Not a fan of a lobby bar. Maybe bring back the orchestra. The grand feeling of hearing the orchestra play when u walk in. Disney has gone off the wall.
Mary C Kendall
April 10, 2025Now bring back the jazz band, or at least a jazz combo.
Kim Witvliet
April 10, 2025I don’t understand why a bar is needed in the lobby when Citricos and Enchanted Rose are right upstairs. I’m sure the colors will be beautiful, but I think it’s lost its Victorian look and now gives me Poly vibes.
Highland Kitchen & Bath
April 10, 2025This is the direction that Disney has been doing lately, putting bars in every corner they can, this is by far the worst spot to put it in. It ruins the whole vibe of that beautiful lobby. I sure hope they don’t stick one in Wilderness Lodge!