For many visitors to Walt Disney World, it might seem strange to add visiting a Disney Resort lobby to your must-do list. Typically you will find thrill rides such as Tron Lightcyle Run, Guardians of the Galaxy Cosmic Rewind, or Space Mountain on a must-do list for Walt Disney World.
Although we have plenty of these lists, too, we have learned over the years of visiting Walt Disney World that Disney Resorts are part of the Disney magic. We enjoy visiting Disney Resorts for shopping, dining, and even the lobbies.
It shouldn’t surprise us that Disney Imagineers that designed and envisioned these amazing Disney Resorts created breathtaking lobbies. We want to share a few of the lobbies you think you should add to your must-do list when visiting Walt Disney World.
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, Jambo House
If you asked Disney veterans what Walt Disney World Resort has the best lobby, Jambo House at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge would be the top vote. This fantastic lobby is wide open, and the large windows in the back open right to the savannah where African wildlife roam.
The beautiful artwork throughout the lobby creates a warm, homey feel to the lobby. Enjoy a name on one of the many couches, walk across the bridge as you gaze out onto the savanna, or even take in the lobby’s artwork. Talk to the Cast Members to learn more about the artwork and their personal stories. This is what makes this lobby so magical.
You can also often find crafts and activities in the lobby. Look for jewelry-making or other fun activities kids can enjoy throughout the day.
Schedule a meal for Jiko or Boma, located within Jambo House at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, and then enjoy the massive lobby.
Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
Very similar to Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge’s lobby is that of Wilderness Lodge. This lobby is also warm and welcoming. What makes this lobby stand out is the multi-story fireplace. Grab a rocking chair and book to enjoy a lovely relaxing afternoon.
We love that there are two stories where Guests can find comfortable seating and work areas as they look over the lobby. This is especially magical during the holiday season. Disney’s Wilderness Lodge has a huge tree that they put up, transforming this lobby even more into a wonderland.
The smells, sounds, and warm vibes make the lobby at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge a favorite.
Gran Destino Tower at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort
When Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort went through a significant update, we weren’t sure about adding a tower. We can say that Gran Destino Tower quickly became one of our favorite lobbies at Walt Disney World.
Guests enter on the second floor of this lobby, giving them magnificent views of the beautiful landscape outside the high windows. The inside features warm colors and patterns, giving it a Spanish touch.
Our favorite aspect of the lobby is the stunning painting of Walt Disney and Mickey that takes up one whole wall. In the lobby, Guests can enjoy coffee in the morning and a cocktail at night by visiting the Barcelona Lounge in the lobby of Gran Destino Tower.
We love relaxing and enjoying the Gran Destino Tower and the upscale atmosphere it provides.
Disney’s Polynesian Resort
There is nothing like walking up to the lobby of Disney’s Polynesian Resort. As you walk towards the lobby, you will hear the rush of the waterfalls and see the tiki torches lighting your way. Once you enter, you are welcomed home with a lei and by the giant Tiki statue.
Looking past the statue, you can see Cinderella Castle waiting to welcome you in the distance. The lobby at Disney’s Polynesian Resort has a lot of options for Guests. They can relax in the oversized, comfortable chairs, visit a store, or head upstairs for a great meal at Kona Cafe or Ohana. Don’t forget to head outside to grab a Dole Whip—a perfect way to celebrate being at the Polynesian.
Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
There is nothing like walking into Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. This Victorian-style Resort takes your breath away with its beauty. The lobby has sweeping staircases, birdcages, chandeliers, and beautiful flower arrangements.
Like Disney’s Wilderness Lodge, the lobby at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa transforms during the holiday season. This is where Guests can experience the stunning life-size gingerbread house and a gorgeous Christmas tree. Recently, we have also really enjoyed visiting the lobby during Easter. Incredible decorated eggs are on display and are works of art.
Disney’s Grand Floridian’s lobby is majestic, and it is an easy walk or monorail ride away for all Guests to enjoy.
Art of Animation
Our final lobby to visit is the Art of Animation. What makes this lobby so unique is the fantastic pop of color. The walls are full of excellent Disney artwork that features Disney characters. These sketches show these beloved characters in various stages, from quick, initial sketches to complete paintings.
This lobby is full of energy and welcomes Guests into the excitement with lots of colors, great music, and their favorite characters.
It might seem strange to take time out of your Walt Disney World vacation to visit a lobby of a Disney Resort, but we assure you they are part of the magic. The next time you are at Walt Disney World, consider heading to a nearby Resort for a meal, snack, drink, or just to check out one of these outstanding lobbies.
Related: Disney Resorts You Should Visit
