A Bar in the Lobby? Disney’s Grand Floridian Renovation Sparks Debate
- Trixie
- Apr 22
- 2 min read
Disney reveals a new lobby design for the Grand Floridian — and not everyone’s thrilled.
A deluxe resort. A Victorian theme. A brand-new bar in the middle of the lobby?Disney’s latest announcement about the Grand Floridian’s refurbishment is raising eyebrows across the fan community — and not in the way you might expect.
What’s Changing?
Walt Disney World has officially begun work on a major overhaul of the lobby at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, the flagship deluxe property just minutes from Magic Kingdom. The remodel marks the final phase of a multi-year refurbishment that has already seen updated guest rooms, refreshed dining venues like Narcoossee’s and Cítricos, and the reopening of 1900 Park Fare.
But this next step is what has sparked discussion: a new full-service lobby bar is being added, right in the heart of one of Disney’s most elegant resorts.
A Controversial Choice
Fans are divided. While Disney describes the bar as “inspired by the lobby’s iconic birdcage,” featuring Victorian-style stained glass, intricate woodwork, and brass accents — some long-time guests are questioning the decision.
Do we really need more alcohol in a resort that already has multiple lounges and table-service restaurants?
For many, the Grand Floridian has always embodied classic Disney elegance — a place of piano music, floral arrangements, and a timeless family-friendly atmosphere. The idea of placing a bar front-and-center in the lobby doesn’t sit well with those who see it as unnecessary or disruptive to the overall ambiance.
Others point out that the resort already has ample locations to enjoy a drink, including:
Enchanted Rose Lounge upstairs
Citricos Lounge
Narcoossee’s waterfront bar
Poolside refreshment areas
Adding another bar — particularly in a space as central and iconic as the main lobby — has sparked concern that Disney is prioritizing revenue opportunities over atmosphere.
What Else Is Being Updated?
The bar is just part of a broader redesign. Disney Imagineers are also refreshing the lobby’s carpeting, front desk, and surrounding decor with what they call “botanical accents” and a “garden-like” feel. The new design will include:
Hand-drawn floral motifs inspired by vintage botanical studies
Richly finished furnishings with brass elements
Updated staircase visuals and lounge furniture
Themed murals and stained-glass windows featuring birds
Disney assures guests that the renovation is being handled with “great care and focus” to preserve the resort’s unique charm.
But that hasn’t eased everyone’s concerns.
Gingerbread House Fans — Take Note
One confirmed casualty of the construction? The Grand Floridian’s iconic life-size gingerbread house will not appear this holiday season. Work on the bar area and surrounding lobby spaces will be ongoing throughout 2025, making the seasonal favorite impossible to install.
Bottom Line
This isn’t just another lobby refresh — it’s the latest example of how Disney is walking a fine line between modernizing its offerings and honoring its legacy. Whether the new Grand Floridian lobby bar will enhance the resort’s appeal or dilute its character remains to be seen.
But one thing’s for sure: this refurbishment is going to be watched closely by loyal fans who care deeply about what makes Disney’s flagship resort so special.
Stay tuned for updates — and let us know how you feel about a bar in the lobby of the Grand.