Everyone talks about new rides and shows at Disney World, but resort upgrades deserve just as much hype — especially when they involve the Grand Floridian. The moment you see that white exterior and hear the monorail gliding toward Magic Kingdom, it hits you: this is Disney luxury.
Over the past year or so, the Grand Floridian has been going through a full-on glow-up. Rooms got refreshed, lounges got polished, and the lobby has been getting a serious makeover. And now, one exciting part of that transformation is finally ready for prime time.
Say hello to The Perch, the brand-new lobby bar opening November 10. Notice the name? Yep, it’s a nod to the old birdcage that used to sit in the lobby and became a fan-favorite icon. The cage may be gone, but Disney clearly knew fans still loved the vibe, so they’ve woven that Victorian charm into this space.
The bar is designed with beautiful wood finishes, elegant stained glass, and classic brass touches. It feels upscale but warm, not stuffy. Think “grab a handcrafted cocktail after a park day” energy, not “only show up if you brought tuxedos” energy.
And honestly, this addition makes perfect sense. The Grand Floridian isn’t just a hotel — it’s the kind of place where families celebrate anniversaries, engagement trips, and big bucket-list vacations. For some fans, staying here means they finally made it into the Disney dream vacation tier. So giving guests a new spot to relax, sip something refreshing, and enjoy that grand lobby atmosphere feels like a win.
Of course, plenty of Disney fans were watching this refurbishment closely, worried the resort might lose its charm. Thankfully, that hasn’t happened. Disney didn’t throw out the old-world feel — they modernized it thoughtfully. It still feels like a Victorian seaside retreat, just with updated beauty and better places to sit, sip, and chill.
So whether you’re staying at the Grand Floridian or just doing a monorail lounge crawl, The Perch deserves a spot on your must-visit list. Head over, take in the fresh look, soak in the piano music, and enjoy a drink in one of the most iconic hotel lobbies on property.
A new era is settling in at the Grand, and if The Perch is any sign, it’s going to be a smooth and classy ride.
