Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, a flagship hotel at Walt Disney World, has been undergoing a multi-year, phased refurbishment to refresh and modernize its signature Victorian elegance. The most recent focus has been the resort’s grand, five-story lobby.
After months of construction walls and gradual reveals, the transformation is nearly complete. This update brings a refreshed aesthetic to the iconic space, introduces a new lobby bar called The Perch, and sets the stage for the return of the beloved afternoon tea service in early 2026.
A Refreshed Lobby Design
The goal of the lobby refurbishment was to honor the resort’s original Victorian-era inspiration while infusing it with a lighter, more inviting atmosphere. The updated design maintains the classic charm that guests expect from the Grand Floridian but introduces a brighter color palette and more contemporary furnishings.
Key elements of the refreshed lobby include:
- Updated Furnishings: New vintage-inspired, wood-framed seating and grand pier mirrors have been added, providing comfortable and elegant spaces for guests to relax.
- Restored Details: The grand chandeliers and intricate woodwork have been carefully refreshed, preserving the architectural integrity of the space.
- New Carpet: A new carpet has been installed, featuring a design inspired by the Victorian “Language of Flowers.” The pattern includes florals native to Florida, such as the orange blossom (the state flower), and incorporates subtle details like palms, moonstones (the state gemstone), and even a few Hidden Mickeys.
- New Mural: A new impressionist-style mural has been added above the grand staircase, depicting a turn-of-the-century vision of the Grand Floridian resort.
These updates collectively create a space that feels both familiar and new, blending the resort’s heritage with modern comfort.
The Perch: A New Lobby Bar
A significant addition to the lobby is The Perch, a brand-new bar that officially opens on November 10, 2025. The bar is located in the spot once occupied by a decorative birdcage, and its design pays homage to this history with subtle avian motifs in the stained glass, murals, and wallpaper.
The Perch features intricate woodwork, elegant herringbone tile, and custom stained glass, all designed to complement the updated lobby. It will offer a light menu of champagne, wine, and beer. The signature cocktail menu includes two new creations: the Sunshine State Rum Sazerac and the Floridian 75. A non-alcoholic Blueberry and Basil Iced Tea will also be available. This new space provides a sophisticated setting for guests to enjoy a drink while taking in the ambiance of the grand atrium.
Future Updates and Convention Center
The evolution of the Grand Floridian does not end with the lobby. Disney has announced that The Garden View Lounge will reopen in early 2026 with a refreshed look. This space will host a new tea experience, continuing the tradition of afternoon tea at the resort with updated, whimsical Disney touches suitable for all ages.
In addition to the main lobby, the Grand Floridian Convention Center has also been refreshed. The new design carries the refined aesthetic from the guest rooms and lobby into the event spaces, ensuring a cohesive and elegant look throughout the property.
A New Chapter for the Grand Floridian
The near completion of the Grand Floridian’s lobby refurbishment marks a significant milestone in the resort’s multi-year transformation. By blending its storied past with modern sensibilities, the resort continues to set a high standard for hospitality at Walt Disney World.
The introduction of The Perch and the anticipated return of the Garden View Lounge provide new and refreshed experiences for both first-time visitors and long-time fans of this iconic resort. As these final touches are completed, guests can look forward to enjoying a new era of timeless elegance at the Grand Floridian.
Stay tuned to the DVC Shop blog and subscribe to our newsletter for more updates as the project progresses!
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Grand Floridian
Written by
Rachel Van Norman
Contributing Writer
Rachel fell deeply in love with all things Disney as a little girl. Now as a wife and a mother herself, she shares this Disney obsession with her son and everyone around her. From her love of princesses to eating all the Disney food, Rachel spends her time radiating Disney magic and keeping everyone up to date on Disney news.
