So, you’re planning a trip to Disney World, and you’ve narrowed it down between two of the most ICONIC Disney resorts in existence (you lucky, lucky person!).

But how do you choose between Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge and Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa? Well, let’s dive into the deets to see which one is right for you!

Choosing between the Animal Kingdom Lodge and the Grand Floridian, is like choosing a favorite child, a favorite Disney cupcake, or between a Dole Whip or a Mickey Pretzel — there’s enough love to go around! But just like cupcakes and classic Disney snacks (and maybe your kids, too… only you know your family dynamic…), there’s a certain flavor that might just hit the spot for what you’re looking for.

There’s no doubt that Disney vacations are expensive, and no one wants buyer’s remorse when it comes to what can usually be the most EXPENSIVE part of your Disney trip. We’re approaching this chaos-agent of a decision with as much logic as possible, so we’re breaking it down into five categories:

• Common Ground
• Theme/Rooms
• Pools
• Food
• Transportation

We’re putting each resort through these paces to see where they stand and which one may be speaking to you for your Disney trip.

Common Ground

Before we start down the rabbit hole into the Wonderland of their differences, let’s review the similarities of these resorts. These resorts are both Disney Deluxe Resorts, so they will be at a similar price point, with similar room sizes, and the same perks.  They both offer Disney Vacation Club Villas as additional accommodations.

For the Animal Kingdom Lodge, that means that for the cheapest room at the cheapest time to visit, you can expect to pay around $469 per night (not accounting for any tax or current discounts), and it goes up to $3,792 per night (not accounting for any tax or current discounts) for the most expensive rooms at the most expensive time to visit. (Based on 2023 rates)

For the Grand Floridian, that means that for the cheapest room at the cheapest time to visit, you can expect to pay around $780 per night (not accounting for any tax or current discounts), and it goes up to $5,502 per night (not accounting for any tax or current discounts) for the most expensive rooms at the most expensive time to visit. (Based on 2023 rates)

Wow. Animal Kingdom Lodge is about 40% cheaper than the Grand Floridian, whether you’re looking for the cheap room/cheap season option, or the lap of luxury.

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Theme/Rooms

Just like our ol’ Friend, Chandler Bing, would say, “Could these resorts BE any more different?” Both the Animal Kingdom Lodge and the Grand Flo are Deluxe resorts and offer the poshest of Disney’s accommodations and perks, but that doesn’t mean they look the same!

Animal Kingdom Lodge

Jambo! And welcome to Animal Kingdom Lodge! This is more than your typical hotel, and honestly, it’s beyond the standard of a typical Disney hotel. This resort offers a few things that none of the resorts do. First, live animals right out your window! Definitely, the only Disney resort where you can wake up and view some giraffes out your window, and drink coffee or snack on some Zebra Domes on your balcony while watching real-live zebras. Disney also brings in Cultural Representatives from countries around Africa to share the unique stories, culture, art, and history of their countries. Off of the lobby, there is an observation room where guests can appreciate artifacts from African exploration or just sit and enjoy the animals on the safari.

And the lobby delivers on that jaw-dropping “oh wow” moment (especially around the holidays).

The Animal Kingdom Lodge standard rooms received a little facelift, like the Contemporary and Polynesian rooms have. So, when you stay here, you’ll get to experience a bit more streamlined and updated decor that is both modern and rustic.

Grand Floridian

Cross the threshold of Disney World’s flagship resort into the Victorian age of high tea, dressing for dinner, and gloved-hands with pinkies-out. The lobby and restaurants are grandiose and luxurious, almost to the point of making guests reflect on imposter syndrome rather than a welcoming presence. The meticulous grounds and pristine white buildings with their brilliant red-tiled roofs definitely provide that grand allure you’d expect from a flagship resort.

And the lobby delivers on that jaw-dropping “oh wow” moment (especially around the holidays), but it seems like Disney blew the budget on the common areas, and then tightened the purse strings on the room sitch. There are some very nice, and perfectly adequate furnishings, but the rooms themselves just don’t scream lavish.

The Grand Floridian standard rooms haven’t seen the TLC that the Contemporary and Polynesian rooms have. So, there’s hope out there that the Grand Floridian rooms will be up soon for the next room renovation, but in the meantime, the Grand Floridian rooms don’t quite deliver for the price tag assigned to them.

Results

This could boil down to your preference. Are you looking to explore the adventure of the African savannas? Or do you want something a bit more glamorous, luxurious, and sophisticated? Both resorts deliver beautifully on their themes, but when it comes down to rooms, the Animal Kingdom Lodge has the edge rooms overlooking the savanna and breathtaking views of the exotic wild animals of Africa.

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Pools

Pools, splash pads, hot tubs, and lounge chairs, vacation just doesn’t feel completed without spending some time by the pool. Which of these resorts is the aquatic champion of water lounging? Only one way to find out…

Animal Kingdom Lodge

AKL (as we like to call it) is not to be outdone in the pool category; it hosts two pools as well: the Samawati Springs Pool and the Uzima Springs Pool. Both pools have the natural feel of swimming in a natural spring. Uzima Springs pool is smashing. This oasis is 11,000 square feet. It includes a large free-form, zero-entry swimming pool (gradual like a beach, you can take one centimeter at a time getting in).

Samawati Springs Pool has a 67-foot water slide, a children’s wading pool, and kids’ life jackets in several sizes. There are two private hot tubs, tons of seating in comfy loungers, tables and umbrellas, and unlimited towels.

You can build a herd of towel animals if you want. Oh, and of course, the Uzima Springs Pool Bar is for hydration purposes.

Grand Floridian

The Grand Floridian is not to be outdone in the pool category; it hosts two pools as well: the Beach Pool and the Courtyard Pool. And though both pools are pretty, the most memorable experience might be at the Mad Hatter splash pad.

And because it’s the Grand Floridian and sophisticated luxury is this resorts brand, there are plenty of poolside lounge chairs and cabanas available to rent for the day as you relax by the pool and nosh on some peeled-grapes and sip on some sweet tea, like we’re sure Victorian-age vacationers did back in the day.

Results

Both have two pools, and both have pool bars, lounge chairs, and splash areas. Again, it might boil down to just what your style is. Do you want something a bit on the classier, sophisticated side?  Do you want to soak in a zero-entry oasis surrounded in the middle of an African savanna? These two really make the choice difficult! The Grand Floridian has pretty amazing views of the Magic Kingdom; Animal Kingdom Lodge has a nearby flamingo pond. Grand Flo has easy access to the Gasparilla Island Grill’s epic Mac and Cheese; Animal Kingdom Lodge is just steps away from Zebra Domes!

There’s no real loser in this category if you’ve found relaxation and joy, but our heart leans towards the Animal Kingdom Lodge!

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Food

Because we are Disney FOOD Blog, we take food seriously. Very. Seriously. And we love it all. We love the cheap, comfort of plastic cheese, and we love the high-brow sophistication of a wine flight or a multi-course pre-fixe meal. We don’t discriminate; we are a lover of all foods. Since food is SO important, let’s see how these resorts stack up against each other in the restaurant category.

Animal Kingdom Lodge

Animal Kingdom Lodge has nine(ish) dining spots for you to nibble and nosh your way through the wilderness.

Maji Pool Bar is located near the Samawati Springs Pool at Kidani Village, and Uzima Springs Pool Bar is over at the Jambo House pool. — and both are a pretty standard pool bars, but with some unique African beers and some tasty nibbles, but nothing truly destination-worthy.

The Mara is named after the Masai Mara National Reserve in Africa, this quick service restaurant located in Jambo House is sure to please all appetites with a taste of Africa, as well as American favorites. It is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner and is located next to the Resort’s Uzima Springs pool area. Guests can dine indoors or take their meals poolside, or to a small area offering shaded tables outside.

Unique items, including Bobotie and Breakfast Quinoa are served alongside classic Disney dishes like Mickey Waffles and more for Breakfast. Lunch and Dinner feature the truly tasty African Potjie (a flavorful stew) among the options, which also include counter service favorites like Chicken Nuggets, Burgers, and Flatbreads. The “Grab & Go” market area features snacks, desserts (including the spot’s famous Zebra Domes!), bottled drinks, breakfast pastries, specialty coffees, and fruit. The Mara also offers a selection of African and international wines, beers, cocktails, and even choose-your-own-flavor smoothies.

Victoria Falls and Cape Town Lounge are cozy lounges in Jambo House near Boma and Jiko. Enjoy a glass of South African wine, or indulge in your favorite martini, beer, or mixed drink. It’s a great place to hang while waiting for a table at Boma or Jiko. Or just stop in before you head to (or after you return from) the parks to grab a quick bite from the unique appetizer menu, including crisp breads and African dips, marinated olives, and more.

Cape Town Lounge serves appetizers and pairings of African wines along with hand-crafted cocktails, dessert wines, and more.  Guests may also order from the full Jiko menu and dine at the bar.

Tucked into the Animal Kingdom Lodge’s Kidani Village, Sanaa, which means “Work of Art” in Swahili, is a beautiful restaurant serving a fusion of African and Indian cuisine made with authentic cooking methods like slow-roasting and tandoori oven cooking. While Sanaa is a table service restaurant serving lunch and dinner, the spot offers the Sanaa Kuamsha Breakfast in the mornings — a quick-service experience for which reservations are not required.

The best part: the view from the restaurant is of Animal Kingdom Lodge’s Sunset Savanna — enjoy the ever-changing scenery of some of the most beautiful African plains animals you’ve ever seen.

P.S. Don’t miss Sanaa’s Indian-style Bread Service, served with NINE different dipping accompaniments!

The other Table Service option at the Jambo House is Boma. Boma continually emerges on the “favorite restaurants” lists of many Disney guests! The popular buffet at Boma gives visitors the opportunity to sample flavorful African dishes while also dining on some American favorites during breakfast or dinner.

We always give two thumbs up to this restaurant, and we always find something new to try here!

And the pièce de résistance: Jiko. Jiko — The Cooking Place is a Signature Dining Experience (which is Disney-speakfor fancy, schmancy), hands-down, one of the most romantic and delicious restaurants on Disney World property. We can highly recommend this one if you enjoy excellent, gourmet food and a lovely and tranquil atmosphere.

Sharing tastes of Africa with a special Jiko flourish, this restaurant doesn’t offer a great view or any characters, but it does offer truly beautiful food — and the Animal Kingdom Lodge savanna is right outside…

Boma vs. Jiko vs. Sanaa: Comparing Animal Kingdom Lodge Restaurants

Grand Floridian

Beaches Pool Bar and Courtyard Pool Bar provide fixes for your hunger without ever leaving either of the Grand Floridian’s pools.

Grand Floridian is home to two Signature dining restaurants, Citricos and Narcoossee’s.  Citricos is an upscale restaurant serving American dishes with Mediterranean influences. Reserve the Chef’s Domain for a private table and specially prepared menu. Narcoossee’s, another Signature Dining restaurant, specializes in seafood. This beautiful, Victorian-inspired building sits ashore on the Seven Seas Lagoon, offering dramatic views of the Magic Kingdom fireworks.

Enchanted Rose Bar and Lounge is inspired by the live-action Beauty and the Beast film. Guests can indulge in gourmet bites and crafted cocktails while enjoying any one of the four themed rooms.

Garden View Tea Room hasn’t yet reopened, but when it does, it offers Afternoon Tea with delicious finger sandwiches, pastries, cheese, and fruit. The beautiful view, elegant atmosphere, and fine china make this an exquisite experience.

Gasparilla Island Grill is a counter service restaurant with a standard food court menu, and it is open for guests 24-hours a day. Dine outdoors overlooking the Marina (with a view of Cinderella Castle) when the weather permits.

The more casual Table Service options at the Grand Floridian are 1900 Park Fare and Grand Floridian Cafe. 1900 Park Fare, when it reopens, provides popular character dining experiences! At breakfast, guests are entertained by Mary Poppins and friends while the young and young-at-heart feast on Mickey waffles. Dinner is a more stately affair hosted by Cinderella and Prince Charming. Grand Floridian Cafe serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner in an airy, casual setting. You’ll find American fare being served at your table overlooking the hotel’s elegant courtyard.

Victoria and Albert’s is a AAA Five Diamond Award winner offering an exclusive dining experience. This Signature Dining restaurant pampers guests with personalized menus, dedicated servers, and long-stemmed roses.

A Chef’s Table is also available to those who’d like to experience the most exclusive dining experience in Disney World. Also, the Queen Victoria Room is available for a bit more privacy.

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Results

It’s so hard to designate a clear winner for food — because we love it all! If you and your family love some more “unique” food, and options that vary away from the traditional comfort food of fried chicken, steak, seafood, burgers, and chicken nuggets, then the Animal Kingdom Lodge might be your jam! Menus are influenced by approachable African flavors and spices, and though not bizarre or untraditional, you’ll definitely find some creative takes on your familiar favorites.

The Grand Floridian really dances that line nicely with Gasparilla Island Grill and Grand Floridian Cafe, offering some comfort food like fried chicken, burgers, and that creamy mac and cheese, and on the OPPOSITE end of that spectrum, Victoria & Albert’s that provides one of the most unique and sophisticated dining experiences in all of Florida!

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Transportation

Do these deluxe resorts offer anything different when it comes to transportation? Let’s see!!

Animal Kingdom Lodge

Animal Kingdom Lodge is not on the Monorail loop. Or the Skyliner Route. Or even boat access. If you want to visit any of the Disney Parks (even the nearby Animal Kingdom), your only option for free Disney transportation is a bus.

Now, Animal Kingdom Lodge is already the furthest resort from the Disney Parks (except Animal Kingdom), and having to rely solely on bus transportation sure makes it feel every inch of that distance. And no one really looks forward to having to wrestle to get their stroller on and off the bus, or standing in those lines at the end of a park day to be packed in like sardines with your fellow Animal Kingdom Lodgers once that bus does arrive.

Guests staying at the Animal Kingdom Lodge can also use ride share, taxis, and Minnie Vans at an extra cost in case you find yourself in a hurry.

Grand Floridian

The Grand Floridian is also on the Monorail loop. It’s the second stop after the Polynesian on the way to the Magic Kingdom. If Magic Kingdom is your destination, there is also a boat option to sail across Seven Seas Lagoon to the front steps of the Magic Kingdom. You can also get your steps in by strolling the walkway over to Magic Kingdom. Though this resort is closer to the Magic Kingdom than the Polynesian, that walk is still about 15-20 minutes.

If Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom, or Disney Springs is your destination, then you can board one of Disney’s buses to transport you over to these parks.

If EPCOT is your park for the day, the easiest option is to board a Disney bus and head over. If you want to take the Monorail, you can but you’d have to walk through the Polynesian resort, over to the Transportation & Ticketing Center to catch that Monorail, resulting in a 15-20 minute walk, and that doesn’t include waiting for the monorail. Or you can hop on the Monorail at the Grand Floridian and ride it past Magic Kingdom, past the Contemporary, and then transfer to the EPCOT Loop Monorail once you get to the Transportation and Ticketing Center, but that does add more time and complication to your already busy morning.

Results

When looking at the transportation battle between the Grand Floridian and Animal Kingdom Lodge, the Grand Floridian definitely comes out on top. The Grand Floridian is closer to the Magic Kingdom if you want to use the walking trail (but there’s also a monorail and a boat to get you there, too). And, if you’re up for a little walk to monorail tour, Grand Floridian guests are also close enough to the Transportation & Ticket Center, which gives it closer access to the EPCOT Monorail loop.

Though Animal Kingdom Lodge is the closest resort to the Animal Kingdom park, guests still have to take a bus to get there. And buses are the only free Disney transportation from Animal Kingdom Lodge to any of your Disney destinations. If you brought your own car or are renting a vehicle, this may not be a concern to you, but if you’re relying on Disney transportation, that’s a factor you’ll have to consider!

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The Winner!

So, who is the ultimate winner in the Animal Kingdom Lodge vs. Grand Floridian battle? We hate to say it, but it depends! The two resorts both hold their own when it comes to food. When it comes to Theming/Rooms and Pools, Animal Kingdom Ldoge may seem like a clear choice with its immersive lobby and amazing savanna complete with animals!

If the Grand Floridian seemed like the clear choice to you, it is a great hotel, that wins the Transportation battle handily, but it doesn’t have the same energy, food, or pools that the Animal Kingdom Lodge does. And the price difference between the two definitely gives the advantage to Animal Kingdom Lodge. It’s up to you and your group to decide what makes the most sense for you using all that we talked about above.

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What do you think? Is Animal Kindgom Lodge or Grand Floridian Resort better? Let us know in the comments!

The post Grand Floridian vs Animal Kingdom Lodge Resort Guide 2023 first appeared on the disney food blog.