Today is the 33rd anniversary of Walt Disney World’s flagship resort, Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. On June 28, 1988, another resort hotel on the monorail track finally opened — the first since opening day! To celebrate thirty-three years of this grand resort hotel, I’m sharing a few fun facts that everyone should know.

Victorian Influences

Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa’s looks were inspired by Victoria-era beach resorts built along the state’s coast in the late 19th century. If the exterior looks familiar, the inspiration for the white walls and the red roof came from Mount Washington Resort in Bretton Woods, New Hampshire, and more famously, Hotel del Coronado in Coronado, California. The five outer buildings are named for the islands of the Florida Keys: Sago Cay, Conch Key, Boca Chica, Big Pine Key, and Sugarloaf Key.

Resort Name Change

This resort opened on June 28, 1988, under the name “Grand Floridian Beach Resort.” In the fall of 1997, the resort’s name was changed to Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. It’s now become a top contender for Disney bucket list stays, home to Walt Disney World’s wedding pavilion, and even made an appearance on Full House!

Look Down For Magic

In the five-story lobby of Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, you’ll be tempted to look up and take in all of its beauty. Once you do that, take a look at the ground, too! The Italian marble flooring has several characters hidden within the detailing that you’ll want to hunt when you visit. Keep an eye out for the Fab Five, Cinderella and her prince, Tinker Bell, Peter Pan, and more!

Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa has been one of my favorite places to spend time at Walt Disney World Resort. My family stayed here for the first time when I was ten, and it’s tied to fun memories like my brother’s first waterslide experience, countless brunches at the Grand Floridian Cafe, and truly experiencing Christmastime thanks to their lifesized gingerbread in the lobby.

Happy 33rd anniversary to one of my favorite resorts on property! I’m hoping to book a stay here again sometime soon.

Have you ever stayed at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa?