Grand Floridian vs The Polynesian

[Unomas]

We have reservations for the Polynesian in June. We are thinking of changing that reservation to The Grand Floridian. Last summer we stayed the The Poly and loved it. One of my favorite things was late night Dole Whips enjoyed in the main lobby after a long day at the parks in the heat.

I worry that The Grand Floridian just won't have that same feel or that it won't deliver other unique experiences like that. I'm asking you guys to discuss this because we have to make the decision in about two weeks.

 

[chrisbarry]

I've stayed at the Poly twice. Never stayed at the Grand Floridian but have been there a lot to dine. The GF is certainly a beautiful and elegant place to visit and we've had a lot of great meals there, but every time we go there we always say, " I don't think I'd ever want to stay here." It feels a little sterile to me. A little too stuffy. We never felt that way at the Polynesian. It's a very different vibe. The Poly is definitely more laid back. To answer your questions, I would say, yes the GF will offer its own unique experiences, like each resort does, but no, it will not have the same feel.

I would always go Polynesian over Grand Floridian. Maybe an actual stay there would make me feel different, but as it stands, I have no interest to even give it a try. For my money, it's awfully hard to top a stay at the Polynesian.

 

[Minthorne]

Poly. Always.

 

[DisneyPrincess5]

Stayed at the Poly twice, which we adore, but never the GF.
DH and I always struggle with staying where we love and where we are comfortable versus breaking out of our comfort zones and trying new things. There's certainly value to both. Trying a new resort gives you the opportunity to love something new and have a new experience, or learn to abandon it if it's not for you. Going where you love (hopefully) means a comfortable and enjoyable stay is in the bag.

If I were you, what I would do to decide is check out all the photos I could, YouTube videos, consider cost (which I'm assuming you have if you're considering either), read responses and info here and make a choice from there.

 

[Missymoe4]

I have stayed at both, and in my estimate, the Poly is incredibly over crowed now (I was there during the summer). The new additions to the resort are cool, but its small compared to the amount of people booking.

On the other hand, the GF won my heart. I have met the kindest people at the resort (fellow resorters). If you can swing the GF, I would go there any day of the week. It's the flagship resort and just wonderful.

...This all coming from a girl who used to the GD was snooty. It truly isn't. I met some world-class Disney people at the GF. It grabbed my heart, and the pool is one of the simplest, yet best on the property (note: you can drink in the pool if you're looking to do so).

 

[JTT]

You can't go wrong with either.

GF is quieter and more subdued. Definitely a more elegant feel.

POLY is more family friendly. The rooms are bigger. I like the pools better. IMHO, the food offerings are better. Love the Tonga Toast and the Dole Whip!

 

[LIMA TIME]

I have stayed at both and they both rock. The GF is an experience that I think you should experience at least once. It has sooooo much of the Disney Magic that makes it over the top. What I feel makes it great, is that it is so laid back, that it is a nice change from the chaos/ hustle and bustle of the park. It is not stuffy in the least.

I feel you can't go wrong with either.

Enjoy your trip.

 

[cinderellafan6]

The Poly has the best atmosphere. IT is so wonderful there. It gets me every time I walk into the lobby.

 

[Seanual757]

Both are excellent resorts if you have never stayed at GF go for it. This is why I purchased a DVC for both resorts we love them both. It's an easy walk to Poly from GF to grab some dole pineapple dessert.

 

[monothingie]

Resort Hop. Split your trip. Problem Solved.

 

[worldfanatic]

I stayed at each one for the first time on my last two WDW vacations.
They're both great, but for me (for several reasons), the Poly is superior.

 

[alissafalco]

I've stayed at both and it really comes down to personal taste. GF is very elegant, while Poly is a casual island feel. Two very different atmospheres. I personally like GF better but that's just ME. I would suggest to stay at the GF just to get a different experience so you know for yourself and can compare later on down the road.