Disney's Grand Floridian Lobby Bar Construction Progresses with Decorative Elements

Sep 19, 2025 in "Disney's Grand Floridian Resort and Spa"

Disney's Grand Floridian Resort Lobby Refurbishment - September 19, 2025
Posted: Friday September 19, 2025 11:00am ET by WDWMAGIC Staff

The refurbishment of Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa lobby continues, with more progress underway on two major projects - the new lobby bar and the Garden View Lounge.

Inside the main lobby, the framework of the new Victorian-inspired bar is now complete. This week, crews have begun adding themed design elements that will tie the bar into the resort's classic Victorian style. When complete, Disney says the bar will feature intricate woodwork, brass detailing, and stained glass touches inspired by the Grand Floridian's iconic birdcage.





On the far side of the lobby, work is also active in the Garden View Lounge, which is currently receiving a complete makeover. Updates include fresh paint, new moulding, and flooring changes designed to brighten and modernize the space while maintaining its historic character.

The Garden View Lounge was known for hosting afternoon tea service, but Disney has not yet announced how the space will be used following its renovation.

The bar and lounge updates are part of the resort's multi-year refurbishment, which has already brought enhanced guest rooms and refreshed dining venues such as Victoria & Albert's, Cítricos, Narcoossee's, and 1900 Park Fare. The lobby work, scheduled through November 2025, is the final stage in this transformation.

Guests visiting during construction should expect daytime activity and modified pathways in the lobby, though dining, pools, and most resort amenities remain available.




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easyrowrdw18 hours ago

I agree. I don’t think the dark wood (or tile) fit the rest of the lobby. I think you could have white with the stained glass or other colorful accents to bring visual interest without it being such a contrast. The overall footprint doesn’t seem as obtrusive as I’d feared though so that’s good

Disney Analyst20 hours ago

I mean unless they will redesign the entire bar to fit it in, but I doubt that. You don’t just throw a big espresso machine on the counter.

jah495521 hours ago

“It’s kind of fun to do the espressible” ☕

TrainsOfDisney21 hours ago

“It’s kind of fun to do the impossible” ☕️

LittleBuford22 hours ago

I still think the barstools are really ill-fitting, and, as others have noted, the tiles around the bar don't work very well either, but yes, they've done a decent job overall.

Disney Analyst22 hours ago

There’s nothing stopping them from offering coffee in the future, based on feedback or wanting to boost money in the mornings. Although it would likely need to be simple drip, and tea etc. I can’t imagine they will install a full espresso machine. Could easily serve coffee 6am-10am or something.

JMcMahonEsq22 hours ago

I could see that, or a full service bar with coffee/cappuccino machine. Either/or something with flex serviceability that would let you serve coffee before noon, and drinks after.

MisterPenguin23 hours ago

Shoulda had Disney bird characters M&G there! Bonus points if they mime they are trapped in a cage.

TrainsOfDisney23 hours ago

A fancy coffee bar that also serves pre-Mixed drinks would be a win-win then!

JMcMahonEsq23 hours ago

The space probably would get equal use but at different times. During the morning, i would see a coffee bar being a huge hit, but not so sure in the afternoon/evenings.

wdwmagic23 hours ago

Here is the ribbon cut from this morning

JMcMahonEsq23 hours ago

No. Everything is done to make money.

Disney Analyst23 hours ago

I personally think the updated lobby hall area is just gorgeous. My only issue is the check in counter light fixtures (an easy future fix).

LittleBuford23 hours ago

More than that, dark brown wood is much more in keeping with old-fashioned bars than white would be.

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