When it comes to Disney resort lobbies, few are as iconic—or as instantly recognizable—as Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. For nearly four decades, this flagship hotel has stood as the crown jewel of Walt Disney World, a symbol of timeless elegance and Disney storytelling. And now, in 2025, its next chapter is almost ready to debut.
Over the past several months, guests have watched the transformation take shape—bright new finishes, refreshed furnishings, and that familiar grand piano music echoing beneath stained glass and chandeliers. The result is a lobby that feels both new and nostalgic, honoring the past while looking confidently toward the future.
The Perch: A New Chapter in the Lobby Story
Opening November 10, The Perch at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa will offer a refined yet relaxed way to enjoy the lobby’s new look. Guests can sip on signature cocktails like the Sunshine State Rum Sazerac or the Floridian 75, or cool off with the Blueberry and Basil Iced Tea—a non-alcoholic nod to the resort’s tropical spirit.
The Perch continues the Victorian theme with intricate woodwork, herringbone tile, and custom stained glass that glows with soft hues. Look closely, and you might even spot subtle bird motifs across the murals and décor—a playful Disney touch hidden in plain sight.
Honoring the Past, Inspiring What’s Next
The Grand Floridian’s design has always celebrated the romance of the Victorian era. This latest update continues that legacy, blending classic charm with a modern sensibility. Warm light pours through updated stained-glass skylights, glimmering across refreshed chandeliers and intricate woodwork that make the space sparkle once again.
The seating areas have been redesigned with comfort and heritage in mind. Vintage-inspired furniture, soft florals, and elegant mirrors featuring the resort’s logo nod to the hotel’s roots while welcoming a new generation of Disney guests.
A Look Back: Great Hotels and Grand Memories
Disney fans will remember the Grand Floridian’s spotlight moment on Travel Channel’s Great Hotels with Samantha Brown back in 2001—a segment that captured the hotel’s charm and cemented its reputation as one of the most luxurious resorts in the world. That episode perfectly showcased what made the Grand Floridian special: the live orchestra, the sweeping staircase, and the lobby’s unmatched ambiance. Watching it now feels like peering into a time capsule, one that today’s updates beautifully honor.
And before Samantha Brown ever set foot inside, the Grand Floridian lobby had already made its mark on pop culture. In 1990, The Muppets at Walt Disney World, Disney CEO Michael Eisner shared tea with Fozzie Bear and his mother Emily right there in the lobby—a whimsical scene that combined the worlds of Disney, the Muppets, and hospitality magic. It’s a reminder that long before the Grand Floridian was a filming location, it was a character in the Disney story itself.
Nearly two decades later, that same space would become the stage for another unforgettable moment when Céline Dion performed “O Come All Ye Faithful” during the taping of the Disney Parks Christmas Day Parade. From Muppets to music legends, the Grand Floridian lobby has long been where Disney magic meets real‑world artistry.
Victorian Charm Meets Disney Magic
Above the staircase, a new impressionist mural reimagines what the resort might have looked like at the turn of the century, framed by Florida palms and subtle gold tones. Beneath your feet, a new atrium carpet blooms with hidden stories—orange blossoms, moonstones, and Hidden Mickeys woven into more than 200 floral details.
It’s a design that speaks the “Language of Flowers,” celebrating hospitality, grace, and the joy of returning to a place that always feels like home.
The Garden View Lounge Returns in 2026
The story doesn’t end with the lobby. In early 2026, The Garden View Lounge will reopen with a refreshed tea experience—complete with whimsical Disney touches and nods to the resort’s legacy. It’s a fitting continuation for a space that has hosted countless memories and special occasions over the years.
Convention Center and Beyond
The Grand Floridian Convention Center has also been elegantly updated, carrying the same tone of timeless sophistication that defines the resort. Whether it’s a wedding, corporate event, or intimate gathering, the setting remains pure Disney luxury.
Sam’s Disney Diary Take
The Grand Floridian’s lobby has always been more than just an entrance—it’s an experience. From the moment you step inside, you’re transported to another era. Watching this transformation unfold feels like seeing a beloved film remastered for a new audience. Disney has carefully balanced tradition and innovation here, creating a space that celebrates its history while feeling fresh and alive.
As Samantha Brown once said on Great Hotels, “You don’t just stay here; you arrive.” And in 2025, that sentiment feels more true than ever. The Grand Floridian continues to define Disney hospitality—elegant, welcoming, and absolutely unforgettable.
