Quick Answer
Yes, you can swim at the Grand Floridian Resort & Spa located at Walt Disney World in Florida. The Grand Floridian has multiple pools that guests can enjoy swimming in during their stay.
Overview of the Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
The Grand Floridian Resort & Spa is one of the premier hotels located at the Walt Disney World Resort in Bay Lake, Florida just outside of Orlando. It opened in 1988 and was the first Disney resort to be located directly on the monorail line that provides transportation to the Magic Kingdom and Epcot theme parks.
With 900 rooms, the Grand Floridian Resort & Spa is designed after the Victorian era summer resorts of the late 1800s along Florida’s coast. The lush gardens, picturesque pools, and elegant architecture all combine to create a luxurious and relaxing environment for guests.
In addition to its well-appointed guest rooms, the Grand Floridian also offers fine dining options, spa services, specialty shops, and recreational activities. Though it carries premium price tags, the exceptional service, amenities, and convenience make it a top choice for many Walt Disney World visitors.
Swimming Pools at the Grand Floridian
The Grand Floridian has a number of pools that guests can enjoy swimming in during their stay.
The main feature pool is called the Courtyard Pool. Located just outside the main building, this large pool has a zero-entry section, a waterfall, and a 137-foot waterslide for guests to enjoy. Lifeguards are on duty at the Courtyard Pool.
For those seeking a more relaxed and peaceful atmosphere, the Grand Floridian also has the Beach Pool located along the sandy shores of Seven Seas Lagoon. The zero-entry pool features a fountain centered on a lighthouse structure. Guests can swim or simply relax in the cocktail tables sprinkled around the pool deck.
The Courtyard Pool and the Beach Pool both have pool bars where adults can order beers, cocktails, and light food items while swimming or lounging poolside.
In addition to the two larger pools, the Grand Floridian has some smaller leisure pools located near its various buildings. These include the pool in the Sago Cay building that has a waterslide for kids along with a whirlpool spa for adults.
All of the pools have lifeguards during regular daylight hours. Pool hours vary seasonally but are typically open from at least 9am to 10pm daily.
Pool Policies and Rules at the Grand Floridian
The Grand Floridian Resort & Spa has certain policies and rules in place for swimming in its pools in order to maintain a safe and enjoyable environment for all guests. Some key policies to be aware of include:
– Children under 12 must be supervised by an adult at all times when swimming or playing poolside.
– Proper swimwear is required. Cutoffs, dungarees, or street clothes are not permitted as swim attire in the pools.
– Guests are required to shower before entering the pools.
– Running, diving, and rough play are prohibited.
– Outside flotation devices like water wings are not allowed. Coast Guard approved life jackets are permitted.
– Food and beverages are not allowed in the pools, though drinks in plastic containers are permitted on pool decks.
– Glass containers of any kind are not permitted.
Guests who violate the pool rules may be asked to leave the pool area. There are also “No Diving” and “No Lifeguard on Duty” signs posted around the pools for safety.
Other Recreational Amenities Besides the Pools
In addition to its pools, there are many other recreational amenities and activities for guests to take advantage of during their stay at the Grand Floridian Resort & Spa:
Beach – The resort’s beach area along Seven Seas Lagoon is a perfect place to relax, swim, and enjoy watercraft rentals and lake cruises.
Marina – Guests can rent a variety of water vehicles including pontoon boats, kayaks, canoes, and more at the resort’s marina.
Campground – The campground has wilderness cabins and sites for tents and RVs with amenities like grills, a campfire pit, and fishing excursions.
Arcade – Kids can enjoy playing the latest video and arcade games at the resort’s large arcade room.
Movies Under the Stars – Nightly outdoor movies play on the beach with free popcorn available.
Jogging Trails – Designated jogging trails weave through the resort grounds.
Playground – An expansive playground features Equipment perfect for younger kids.
Tennis – Championship tennis courts are available at the resort for a fee.
Fishing Excursions – Fishing excursions that depart from the marina can be booked for an additional cost.
The Grand Floridian truly has something for everyone when it comes to recreation and activities day and night.
The Pools at Other Disney World Resorts
While the pools at the Grand Floridian Resort & Spa are beautifully designed for a luxurious swimming experience, all of the Walt Disney World owned and operated resorts have fun and themed pools for their hotel guests to enjoy. Here is a quick overview of some of the other unique pools at Disney World resorts:
Yacht and Beach Club Resorts – Known for Stormalong Bay pool complex with sand bottom pools, waterslides, and a lazy river.
Animal Kingdom Lodge – Uzima Springs Pool has water slides, fountains, and a zero-entry access point.
Wilderness Lodge – The normally tranquil Copper Creek Springs Pool features a waterslide shaped like a rocky mountain.
Polynesian Village Resort – The volcano themed pool includes a 142-foot long waterslide and cascading waterfalls.
Caribbean Beach Resort – Massive themed pool complex called Old Port Royale has pirate theming.
Pop Century Resort – Three differently themed leisure pools each with its own whirlpool spa.
The luxury of the Grand Floridian combined with Disney’s expertise in designing fun, themed pool complexes allows guests many great options for swimming and pool time during a Disney World vacation.
Conclusion
The Grand Floridian Resort & Spa offers guests a luxurious and relaxing pool experience with options like the large, feature Courtyard Pool complete with waterslide along with more peaceful pools like the Beach Pool nestled along the shores of the Seven Seas Lagoon. While the elegant pools match the upscale Victorian theme of the resort, guests should be aware of and follow the pool rules and policies for safety and the consideration of others. Beyond its pools, the Grand Floridian has a host of other recreational amenities from beach access to tennis courts and more that make it a perfect, convenient home base for enjoying all that Disney World has to offer.