On more than one occasion, the lobby of one of the Disney World resort hotels has provided my family with a short respite from a day filled with fun at the parks. Although there are many days when we head back to our own resort for a nap and swim in the pool, there are other days when all we really want is a short break. By visiting the lobby of another resort, we get a chance to relax but still feel well rested as we transition from the morning hours to an afternoon and evening in one of the theme parks.
When using this strategy, we have generally found ourselves at one of the Magic Kingdom resorts, and our favorites of these for relaxing purposes are the Grand Floridian and the Wilderness Lodge. The Grand Floridian is accessible via the monorail, and the boat from the Magic Kingdom to the Wilderness Lodge is all by itself a nice break from the rest of the day. The lobbies of both of these resorts offer a variety of choices when a recharge is needed for the body, the mind, or both:
Air conditioning. Of course, both resorts offer this wonderful source of respite! Stepping into the vast, cool space of their lobbies immediately inspires a sigh of relief, especially after being in a hot, crowded theme park. In particular, I love how the subdued lighting and the feeling of being in the woods at the Wilderness Lodge lobby adds to the feeling of coolness.
A relaxing chair. After air conditioning, there is nothing more basic needed for relaxation than a place to sit. Both of these lobbies have numerous chairs and couches arranged in smaller seating groups. Many of the Grand Floridian’s chairs have high backs—perfect for leaning back and closing one’s eyes for a few minutes. At the Wilderness Lodge, grab a rocking chair by the fire, or to really get away from it all, find a comfy chair or couch on the next level overlooking the lobby.
Entertainment. And while you are closing your eyes at the Grand Floridian, listen to the wonderful music provided by a live pianist. At the Wilderness Lodge, for those with smaller children (who may not be interested in a more sedentary break), ask the front desk for a clue sheet for the Hidden Mickeys that can be found throughout the lobby and balconies.
A leisurely stroll and exploration. If you are not up for a Hidden Mickey hunt, take a leisurely stroll around either the Grand Floridian or Wilderness Lodge lobbies. Do some browsing in the shops, or walk out onto the deck overlooking the Silver Creek Springs Pool at the Wilderness Lodge. Take in the view from the upper floors overlooking the main floor of the lobby. Grab a soft drink at Wilderness Lodge’s Roaring Forks or the Grand Floridian’s Gasparilla Island Grill.
Holiday decorations. You may be lucky enough to relax in a lobby decked out with beautiful decorations starting in November and extending through the holiday season. The Christmas tree at the Wilderness Lodge is enormous!! And of course the lodge atmosphere perfectly evokes the holiday season with its woodsy feel. At the Grand Floridian is another impressive tree plus the famous giant gingerbread house where yummy treats are sold.
And so, next time you are looking for the perfect “pick me up” during a busy Disney day, head to one of the fabulous lobbies of the Grand Floridian or Wilderness Lodge!
