WDW Daily News

With the holiday season approaching, now is the perfect time guests to plan a getaway to the Disneyland® Resort and stay on property for a particularly magical holiday.

As we’ve previously shared, Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa is undergoing a “grand” transformation. In fact, it’s the most extensive refurbishment since its 2001 opening. And while the finishing touches are still in the works, all Guests who check in to Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa now will be staying in our completely redesigned rooms! Stay tuned for a closer look at the refreshed lobby.

Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa has been a favorite of Guests for sixteen years and we know the new, elevated experience will impress. It’s no wonder we’ve just been named one of the Top Hotels in Southern California in the 30th annual Condé Nast Traveler’s 2017 Readers’ Choice Awards!

The Market at Ale & Compass is the first step in a major re-imagining of dining at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort at Walt Disney World® Resort, including a re-imagined lobby lounge and new concept for the former Captain’s Grille.

The airy, new market offers a small merchandise area (which is set to open later this month) and 28 seats for casual dining. With both made-to-order and grab ‘n go, your Clients can start the day with an egg white wrap, spinach and feta pastry, or sticky bun. Lunch and dinner include specialties such as grilled paninis, ham and Cheddar on a pretzel roll and a veggie sandwich with roasted broccoli and garlic, kale, almond, golden raisins and cheese on a whole-grain baguette.

A grab ‘n go selection offers sandwiches, salads and other eats, including kid-friendly items. For sips, there’s a Coca-Cola® Freestyle, beer and wine, and a specialty drinking station that offers both specialty coffees and smoothies.

A whole new Ale & Compass concept debuts at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort in October, when the lobby lounge is transformed with a new interior and expands to 58 seats, offering a new menu of classic cocktails and light bites. But the biggest change is the adjacent Captain’s Grille, which becomes Ale & Compass Restaurant.

The Ale & Compass Restaurant menu is still in the works, but the re-imagined restaurant will have a gastropub ambience with New England-inspired comfort food, open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. An on-stage hearth oven is the focal point. Décor is inspired by the cozy warmth of a lighthouse, as a comforting respite from the outside world. The casual, table-service restaurant is on the Disney Dining Plan.

This year there are three ways for guests to ring in the New Year at Disney’s Contemporary Resort. These “can’t miss” experiences, which are part of the Enchanting Extras Collection, enhance the Walt Disney World® Resort experience.

For an evening of dining and dancing, “Disney Countdown to Midnight” includes delightful dining, live music, libations and more. An interactive band and DJ will fill the dance floor (and we hear that Mickey and Minnie may make a special appearance). Plus, guests can welcome in 2018 with a flute of bubbly and a viewing of those legendary New Year’s Eve fireworks at the Magic Kingdom® Park. The party takes place from 8 p.m.-1 a.m. in the Fantasia Ballroom and is designed for Guests 18 years and older.

If guests are looking for a family-friendly way to ring in the New Year, they can enjoy “Pixar Party: A New Year’s Eve Celebration.” From Andy’s Room in “Toy Story” to  Metro City with The Incredibles, this immersive celebration will include theatrical backdrops, dramatic set pieces and fun props that re-create the fantastic worlds of the Pixar films. And, of course, favorite characters will be on hand from “Toy Story,” “The Incredibles,” “Cars,” and “Up.” Kids can have fun with Pixar face painting, a balloon artist and a boot camp with Sarge, while an interactive DJ will spin hits from Radio Disney.  Dinner is buffet style. At midnight, guests can head outdoors to ring in the New Year with a viewing of the Magic Kingdom fireworks.  This event takes place from 8 p.m.-12:15 a.m in the Ballroom of the Americas.

Fine dining is the theme of the third party, “Down in New Orleans: A Disney New Year’s Eve Dining Experience” in the Grand Republic Ballroom. Inspired by the Disney animated film “The Princess and the Frog,” the room is beautifully decorated French Quarter style to transport you to the Big Easy. Signature dishes will include herb-crusted Louisiana redfish, crayfish etouffee, Black Angus beef cooked two ways, braised short ribs and filet of beef with truffled celery root silk. A N’awlins jazz band will entertain during dinner, joined later in the evening by a vocalist who will bring to life the Academy-Award-winning classics from the film. Guests can slip outside with a glass of bubbly just before midnight to ring in 2018 with a private viewing area for theMagic Kingdom fireworks. This party takes place from 7 p.m.-12:15 a.m.

Book beginning July 11, 2017 by calling 407-WDW-DINE.

AAA, one of the leading sources of travel ratings in the industry, has recognized Disney’s Vero Beach Resort and its cast members with a coveted Four Diamond rating, an honor that goes to fewer than six percent of the nearly 28,000 hotels approved by the travel company. According to AAA, “A Four Diamond hotel is refined and stylish, providing upscale physical attributes, extensive amenities and a high degree of hospitality, service and attention to detail.”

We are honored to receive such a coveted rating and proud of the resort’s Cast Members for achieving such high marks!

Located on Florida’s East Coast just a two hours’ drive from Walt Disney World Resort, Disney’s Vero Beach Resort immerses visitors in its themes of citrus, treasure and the environment. The resort boasts a variety of water-themed activities, including access to the warm waters of the Atlantic, a children’s water play area, a miniature golf course, a Mickey Mouse-shaped swimming pool complete with a water slide and so much more.

Situated on one of the most active sea turtle nesting beaches in Florida, sea turtles are an important part of Disney’s Vero Beach Resort. As part of Disney’s overall commitment to sea turtle conservation, a team of Disney researchers track sea turtle nests on several miles of the beach near the resort to help protect them and study what factors contribute to the successful hatching of sea turtle nests. From May to October, members and guests can observe the nesting season of threatened or endangered sea turtles such as loggerheads and leatherbacks during special outings with Disney sea turtle experts.

New to the resort is Wind & Waves, a dining experience that includes a grill focused on fresh, local seafood and produce, a market with grab-and-go meals and a poolside bar. This Florida-themed food experience offers something for every dining style.

Not only is the food amazing, but the accommodations at Disney’s Vero Beach Resort are stunning. Situated along the beautiful Atlantic coastline, Deluxe Studios, Inn rooms and one- and two-bedroom villas offer an assortment of options for your family, making this resort a truly unique Disney retreat.

Guests can celebrate the Fourth of July in grand style at Walt Disney World® Resort as Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa hosts a cookout at the resort’s Summerhouse from 7 – 8:30 p.m. After dinner, guests can head to the Grand Floridian Marina for sweets and a view of the Magic Kingdom® Park Fourth of July fireworks spectacular. It’s a great way to experience the fireworks for guests looking for a new experience outside the theme parks!

The cookout event will feature a menu of traditional, grilled holiday favorites as well as grilled steak and shrimp, accompanied by specialty drinks, beer and wine. There will also be a live DJ and crafts for kids throughout the evening.

The cost to attend is $120 plus tax for adults and $59 plus tax for children ages 3-9 (gratuity included). In the event of rain, the event will move to the Disney’s Grand Floridian Convention Center.

Reservations are now open and can be made by calling 407-WDW-DINE.

Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel® & Spa at the Disneyland® Resort is currently undergoing an exciting hotel-wide renovation—the most extensive refurbishment since the hotel’s 2001 opening.Guests have already been enjoying some of the updates—with many new Guest rooms already available and the redesigned pool area now open for summer fun! Here’s a look at some of the details found at our refreshed pool deck.

Each pool area was designed with a variety of natural stones and brick to not only create a warm and welcoming environment, but also define three distinct pool settings. In keeping with the Arts and Crafts style of the hotel, the stone work was hand-laid by master stone mason

The Redwood Pool, with its irregular shape, features earthy, organic-feeling materials, including rustic brown flagstone and multicolored brick bands and slide accents. Situated just behind the Redwood Creek Challenge Trail in Disney California Adventure park, the 90-foot-long waterslide curves around a giant Redwood tree stump!

Golden flagstone is used throughout the Fountain Pool. The new urn-shaped fountain serves as the pool area’s centerpiece. Our original turtle fountain can now been seen nestled in the garden as a fun addition to the Craftsman-inspired landscape.

The quiet Mariposa Pool features serene bluestone laid in an ashlar (or rectangular) pattern creating a sleek look. For Guests who wish to stretch out and relax, private cabanas line the edge and are available for half-day or full-day rentals.

Guests visiting the Disneyland Resort this summer will be thrilled to discover the new, action-packed attraction, Guardians of the Galaxy — Mission: BREAKOUT!, at Disney California Adventure Park. For those looking to extend their epic theme park adventures, the Disneyland Resort offers three on-property hotels with a variety of accommodations plus family-friendly amenities and activities for the ultimate, multi-day vacation experience.

Guests looking to stay in the middle of the magic have distinct choices at the Hotels of the Disneyland Resort. The Disneyland Hotel, a modern classic, is infused with Disney’s nostalgic heritage at every turn. The coastal-cool Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel overlooks Disney California Adventure with a view of the iconic Paradise Pier section of the park. And the Arts & Crafts-designed Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa is a luxurious retreat. Currently undergoing a hotel-wide renovation, Disney’s Grand Californian will unveil the new pool area by Memorial Day weekend, followed by redesigned guest rooms, a refreshed lobby and the concierge-level Craftsman Club by the end of 2017—completing the most extensive refurbishment since the hotel’s 2001 opening.

“While each resort hotel offers something unique for guests, what remains consistent is Disney’s exceptional guest service, famed hospitality and of course, magic,” said Elliot Mills, vice president, Hotel Operations, at the Disneyland Resort. “At our three hotels, you are just  footsteps from everything, making it easy to play at both theme parks and to explore Downtown Disney. When you extend your stay at the Disneyland Resort, you are sure to create unforgettable memories.”

For a limited time, a special hotel offer is available for guests looking to stay in the middle of the magic. Guests may save up to 20 percent on premium rooms for select nights at Disney’s Grand Californian or the Disneyland Hotel, for travel from now through June 15, 2017, if booked by June 15.*

Superb Disney Dining and New Experiences

The Hotels of the Disneyland Resort offer delicious dining options for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Guests will find special character dining experiences at each hotel:

• Surf’s Up! Breakfast with Mickey & Friends in Disney’s PCH Grill at Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel
• Chip ‘n Dale Critter Breakfast in Storytellers Cafe at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa
• Goofy’s Kitchen at the Disneyland Hotel buzzes with character encounters throughout the day, including the new Disney Dinnertime Magic with Chef Mickey.

Also at the Disneyland Hotel, the vintage Hollywood-inspired Steakhouse 55 recently developed a new menu filled with indulgent breakfast items—and creative cocktails.

In the afternoons, guests will experience Classic Afternoon Tea at Steakhouse 55. The mid-day tea service offers sweets, savories and an exquisite selection of specialty teas. At Disney’s Grand Californian’s signature restaurant, Napa Rose, Disney’s expert staff of sommeliers have curated a special menu during the new Napa Rose Food and Wine Pairing Experience. Offered on weekend afternoons, guests will indulge in hand-selected wine tastings in the lounge.

For delicious dinners in a casual setting, guests will enjoy meals at Disney’s PCH Grill at Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel and Storytellers Café at Disney’s Grand Californian. Fine dining is available at the award-winning Napa Rose at Disney’s Grand Californian and at Steakhouse 55 in the Disneyland Hotel.

Ideal Daytime Activities

Guests will enjoy sunny summer days at any of the distinct pools found at the on-property hotels. The Disneyland Hotel pool and water play area feature waterslides reminiscent of the original Mark I Monorail trains from Disneyland Park in the early ‘60s. The boardwalk-inspired, rooftop pool at Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel features a 186-foot slide resembling a classic, beachside roller coaster.

At Disney’s Grand Californian, the recently refreshed pool deck includes new hardscape reinforcing the resort’s Craftsman design. A variety of natural stones were chosen to create a warm and welcoming environment at each pool. The 90-foot-long Redwood Creek waterslide curves around a giant Redwood tree stump, inviting guests to come and splash into the Redwood Pool.

The pools at each of the hotels come to life during energetic afternoon pool parties. These parties throughout the summer include games, music, dancing and more.

Guests who enjoy lounging by the pool may consider reserving a private, poolside cabana, available at the Disneyland Hotel and Disney’s Grand Californian for a half-day or full-day rental. Guests will stretch out under a shaded cabana equipped with everything they need to relax.

Special Evening Experiences

On select summer nights, guests also will enjoy movie screenings at all three hotels. During Magical Night at the Movies, guests are encouraged to kick back on beach chairs and towels to watch a Disney movie under the stars.

Guests with concierge-level reservations may take advantage of evening desserts and after- dinner beverages in the three hotels’ concierge lounges. For guests staying at the Disneyland Hotel, the E-Ticket Club is ideal for viewing the nighttime fireworks spectacular with a corresponding soundtrack piped in throughout the lounge.

Extra Magic Hour at the Theme Parks

Guests also enjoy many extras when they stay at the Hotels of the Disneyland Resort. Registered Disneyland Resort hotel guests with admission tickets may take advantage of Extra Magic Hour, which allows them access to select theme park attractions, stores, entertainment and dining locations for one full hour before the parks open to the general public (available on select mornings; theme park admission and valid hotel key card required**). In addition to being steps away from Disneyland and Disney California Adventure parks, the hotels are a short walk from the eclectic mix of dining, shopping and entertainment features of the Downtown Disney District.

*Savings based on the non-discounted price for the same room at the same hotel for most Sunday through Thursday nights. Travel must be completed by 6/16/17. Savings on premium rooms are available on Premium, Deluxe and Woods/Garden/Courtyard rooms. Offer excludes select Concierge rooms and suites, except Artisan and Regal suites.  Ask about savings on other room types. Not valid on previously booked rooms. Advance reservations required.Subject to availability as the number of rooms allocated for this offer is limited. Excludes applicable fees and taxes. Limit two (2) rooms per reservation and five (5) people maximum per room. Not valid in combination with any other hotel discounts or offers. Subject to restrictions and change without notice. Separate Theme Park admission required to enjoy the Parks.

**Extra Magic Hour currently allows registered Disneyland Resort hotel guests admission into select attractions at a designated Theme Park each day of their stay before the applicable park opens to the general public. Check disneyland.com for schedule of when each park offers Extra Magic Hour. Each registered hotel guest (ages 3 and older) must have a valid theme park ticket and active hotel room key card. To enhance the Extra Magic Hour experience, it is strongly recommended that guests arrive at least one hour and 15 minutes prior to regular park opening. Applicable theme park, days and times of operation and all other elements including, but not limited to, operation of attractions, entertainment, stores, restaurants and appearances of characters may vary and are subject to change without notice. Subject to capacity, cancellation and other restrictions.

An exciting, hotel-wide refurbishment is bringing new magic to the luxurious Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa at the Disneyland Resort, with completely redesigned guest rooms plus a refreshed lobby, pool areas and the concierge-level Craftsman Club. The most extensive refurbishment since the hotel’s 2001 opening will elevate the premium guest experience and bring a contemporary approach to the Arts & Crafts design style.

The renovations are currently in progress, with expected completion in the fall of 2017. Guests may already enjoy some of the updates, with many guest rooms available and the redesigned pool area ready for summer fun.

Recently named a AAA Four Diamond hotel by the Automobile Club of Southern California for the sixteenth year in a row, the 948-room Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa captures the romantic spirit of California’s Arts & Crafts movement in the early 20th century.

“Our renovation adds more luxury to this iconic Southern California hotel, while staying committed to its signature Arts & Crafts design,” said Dan Coleman, General Manager of Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa. “We want our guests to feel they are staying in a Disney hotel that’s distinctly situated in beautiful California. The revitalized design helps convey this feeling and allows us to continue exceeding guest expectations.”

Redesigned Guest Rooms
Every single element in the redesigned guest rooms will be new, creating a fresh sense of luxury – from floor and walls to furnishings, bedding and linens, as well as upgraded bathrooms. Upon entry, guests will notice beautiful hardwood flooring transitioning into soft, bright-toned carpeting. Linens and pillows are restyled in a bright, white palette and upgraded bathrooms include new fixtures. The room decor is a contemporary take on the Arts & Crafts style featuring all-new furniture made of natural oak, specially designed for each room, as well as California-inspired artwork created by artists and Disney Imagineers, including beautiful headboard walls with wood inlay designs featuring Chip ‘n Dale climbing orange trees! Guests with sharp eyes will catch other uniquely Disney details throughout these newly enhanced rooms.

Other Enhancements

• Pools: The pools and surrounding areas have been redesigned with new hardscapes that reinforce the Arts and Crafts feeling of this premier Disney resort.  A variety of natural stones were chosen to create a warm and welcoming environment at each pool.

• Lobby: The already spectacular six-story Grand Hall lobby will continue to impress guests with new, stylish furnishings to complement the existing Arts and Crafts décor.

• The Craftsman Club: The new design for The Craftsman Club, the hotel’s concierge-level lounge, will draw inspiration from the architectural and furniture designs of Charles Rennie Mackintosh, a visionary of the Glasgow Style of the Arts and Crafts movement. New hardwood flooring, custom-designed rugs, finely-crafted artisanal furniture and specially- commissioned art will add to the sophisticated, upscale tone of the Club.

Disney’s Grand California Hotel & Spa is the first Disney resort hotel in the world to be located inside a theme park, providing guests with an exclusive entrance to Disney California Adventure Park.

Guests staying at Disneyland Resort hotels also enjoy Extra Magic Hour, which provides early entry to select Disneyland and Disney California Adventure attractions.

Opened on May 28, 1994, Disney’s Wilderness Lodge Resort quickly became a popular destination for those who wanted to be near the action, but not in the middle of it.

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Check out our Photo Gallery of the Easter Egg Display at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort Lobby.  Click on the photos for larger views.  Let us know on Twitter which one is your favorite.