What is the Most Expensive Resort at Disney World?

Have you ever wondered about the most expensive resort at Walt Disney World? With so many well-known resorts at Disney World, you probably have a few guesses. When updating this article, I even had to do a little fact-checking by previewing rack rates for the year.

But at the time of this update, Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa reigns as the most expensive resort at Disney World. You can probably picture the iconic red-roof hotel across Seven Seas Lagoon from Magic Kingdom. It’s featured in most of Disney’s commercials, and many consider staying here a bucket list vacation.

But is it worth the high price tag? As you may know, the resort has recently undergone an extensive multi-year refurbishment. Updates include newly refurbished accommodations, fresh paint, and new roofs. But the main draw for staying at the Grand Floridian is its proximity to the Most Magical Place on Earth. Below, we’ll discuss what makes this resort command its high price tag.

So, how expensive is it to stay at the Grand Floridian? Here is an example of room rates for a standard guest room in November 2024.

• Resort View $951.00
• Water View $958.00
• Theme Park View $1155.00
• Club Level $1576.00

Rack rates for the Grand Floridian are available here on Mousesavers. These prices are per night. But it’s important to note that rack rates are the standard room rates before any discounts are applied. So, in most cases, you can apply one of Disney’s special offers to make the prices more reasonable.

Disney’s Grand Floridian falls under the deluxe resort category at Disney. Deluxe resorts are considered high-end hotels with more amenities than some lesser-category resorts on the property. But I want to stress what you and I consider luxurious could vary greatly.

While many consider the Grand Floridian luxurious, I don’t feel it offers the same appeal as a high-end resort like the Four Seasons Orlando at Walt Disney World. The Four Seasons sits adjacent to Fort Wilderness Resort and is considered part of the Walt Disney World area. However, the hotel is independently owned and operated. Guests of the Four Seasons can take advantage of the 30-minute early morning park benefit offered to Disney Resort guests. But they do not receive access to the extended evening hours benefit that’s available to deluxe and deluxe villa guests.

Therefore, the Grand Floridian offers two significant things you can only get at a Disney-owned and operated hotel. Those things are being within walking distance of Magic Kingdom and having access to extended evening hours in the parks twice a week. Both of those items are a huge advantage that somewhat trumps luxury.

But if you would prefer a hotel that offers a level of service incomparable to others, the Four Seasons is an excellent place to start. The Waldorf Astoria (near Disney) and the Ritz Carlton are not far behind.

Related: Waldorf Astoria Orlando Review

Is the Grand Floridian Worth the Expense?

This is another one of those questions that could go either way. Some people love the resort and think it’s worth every penny. But others are often disappointed with the level of service they receive.

We have stayed at every Disney hotel, and I assure you that you will not receive the same level of service as you would at a high-end brand hotel. Those hotels have someone waiting at the door to greet you. They provide bottled water around every turn. They also have staff at the pool and recreation areas that are readily available.

In comparison, you might see a greeter now and then at the Grand Floridian. The real charm comes from the bellhops who deliver your luggage to the room. Many of them have worked at the hotel for ages. They care about the hotel guests, and it shows.

Now, if you want that above-board level of service, you can stay club-level at Disney’s Grand Floridian. Most of Disney’s higher-end resorts offer a concierge level. This upgrade provides access to a lounge with food offerings throughout the day and dedicated staff to help should any needs arise.

Of course, staff is always available at the front desk. But with Disney’s text-to-room service, we find that most guests rarely interact with anyone at the hotel throughout their stay, with the exception of food service cast members.

That said, the Grand Floridian is Disney’s flagship hotel and does provide a few bells and whistles. For example, the resort is stunning and a peaceful place to reside during your Walt Disney World vacation.

Another example is dining. The Grand Floridian offers three signature dining options. One of these restaurants, Victoria and Albert’s, is a AAA Five Diamond award recipient. The minimum price for a meal here averages $295.00 per person, and reservations can be difficult to obtain. The two other fine dining options are Narcoossee’s and Citricos, both worthy of a dining reservation.

Even the lounge, The Enchanted Rose, is elevated compared to other Disney Resorts. It has a gorgeous chandelier that is supposed to resemble Belle’s ball gown from Beauty and the Beast.

Related: Grand Floridian Restaurant Guide

Disney’s Grand Floridian is also known for its grand lobby. This is the kind of lobby where you might spend the evening relaxing with your loved ones. A solo pianist plays off and on through the later afternoon hours into the evening.

To be considered an expensive resort, it must have fresh flowers. Disney’s Grand Floridian doesn’t lack in that department. No matter how many times I visit, I always stop for a quick photo and admire the beauty of the exquisite arrangements.

This upscale Disney Resort is also home to Senses Spa. Who says a Disney vacation has to focus solely on the theme parks?

What else makes this resort cost so much? From my point of view, it all comes down to being within walking distance of the Most Magical Place on Earth. Only a handful of resorts offer the opportunity to walk to Magic Kingdom. But for those who prefer not to walk, the Disney World monorail and boat launch are other options for traveling to Magic Kingdom. Sailing across the lagoon and feeling the breeze as you take in the scenic surroundings is incredible.

Related: Walking from the Grand Floridian to Magic Kingdom

Guests of Grand Floridian might also enjoy seeing the Electrical Water Pageant from the dock or a lagoon-facing room. Or you might head out to the boat dock in the evening for a unique viewing of Magic Kingdom’s nightly fireworks. While you can’t see the castle projections from this area, the fireworks display is still splendid. Speakers within this outdoor area stream the audio for the performance.

Another item that makes the Grand Floridian stand out is its wedding chapel. Imagine pulling up in Cinderella’s horse-drawn coach and walking down the aisle. It sounds like a dream wedding and something you would only find at the most expensive resorts.

Lastly, the Grand Floridian has two impressive pools that guests can choose between. You can even see Cinderella Castle from the resort’s Beach Pool.

Related: The Pools at Disney’s Grand Floridian

Additionally, it’s one of a few resorts with private patio rentals at the pool. Below is a look at a patio rental at the Courtyard Pool. If you want to know more, we have an article sharing our experience with cabana rentals at Disney World. (They are a luxury.)

Parents with small children also love the Alice in Wonderland aquatic play area near the Beach Pool. Mom and Dad can relax in a nearby lounge chair while the kids play.

Ultimately, we think the most expensive resort, Disney’s Grand Floridian, is worth it. But we wouldn’t want you to expect to be waited on hand and foot during your stay. Most of the premium price tag goes to location and convenience.

For more about Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa, you might enjoy one of these articles:

• Grand Floridian Resort Review
• Grand Floridian Villas Review
• Transportation Options at Disney’s Grand Floridian
• Christmas at Disney’s Grand Floridian
• Grand Floridian Cafe Review

Are you planning a Walt Disney World vacation and not sure where to stay? Start with our Disney World Hotel Reviews for a brief overview of each and every resort. From there, you can further research the resorts that most interest you.

If you’re planning a meal, you might enjoy our entire list of Disney restaurant reviews. Some of our most popular articles include our Disney World character dining guide and our list of the best Disney Springs restaurants. We keep those articles updated regularly to provide the latest news.

What Do You Think?

So now that you know a little more about the most expensive resort at Disney World, do you think it’s worth the price? Leave us a comment and share your thoughts. Have you stayed at the Grand Floridian? Is this on your bucket list?