Credit: Disney Vacation ClubConstruction crews have officially poured a concrete foundation for a bar in the lobby of Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa.
In April, Walt Disney World Resort shared a first look at plans for an updated lobby at one of its most luxurious (and expensive) Deluxe Resort hotels. The update includes the first-ever lobby bar, inspired by the ornate golden bird cage that has welcomed guests to Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa for over three decades.
The bird cage-shaped bar will feature brass accents, detailed woodwork, and stained glass with bird motifs, paying tribute to the real birds that once lived in the hotel lobby.
Take a look at the new updates coming to The Grand Floridian Resort & Spa at @WaltDisneyWorld! ✨🛎️ http://di.sn/6013FLVGL
Take a look at the new updates coming to The Grand Floridian Resort & Spa at @WaltDisneyWorld! ✨🛎️ https://t.co/NwAVvh8iPg pic.twitter.com/GrFbnO8qwc
— Disney Parks (@DisneyParks) April 10, 2025
The rest of the lobby is also getting a makeover, with stained glass, murals, new furnishings, and custom carpeting that will bring a refreshed, modern feel without sacrificing the hotel’s Victorian charm. Walt Disney World Resort has promised that two of the lobby’s most cherished elements, the vintage cage-style elevator and grand piano, will remain in place post-renovation.
Like most changes at the Disney parks, the lobby overhaul at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa is controversial. Some fans trust Walt Disney World Resort to incorporate modern elements into the Victorian theme, while others feel the family-friendly vacation destination simply doesn’t need any more alcoholic offerings.
Nevertheless, the project pressed ahead. The original golden birdcage was removed from Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, and construction walls surrounded several areas throughout the lobby, including parts of the check-in area. Now, let’s take a look at the most recent renovation updates.
On July 23, WDWNT reported that crews had poured a concrete foundation for the bar in the lobby of Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. From the second floor, guests can see the beginning of the birdcage-shaped structure from behind the construction walls.
After the foundation dried, crews began installing more support structures and bringing construction equipment into the area. Crews haven’t covered up the original carpeting during the renovation, because it will eventually be replaced.
Additionally, new damask and floral wallpaper has been installed throughout the lobby areas, including near the M. Mouse Mercantile gift shop, Basin White, and the Monorail station. A stairway near the Cítricos and Victoria & Albert’s restaurants has been closed for two weeks as crews refresh the area, likely installing similar wallpaper, repainting, and replacing flooring. Both dining locations remain open for dinner.
Work on the lobby overhaul is expected to continue through November 2025. As a result, Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa will not host its annual life-size gingerbread house display this year. Other amenities, like the Monorail and pools, remain open for Disney Resort hotel guests.
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