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Wondering what it is like to stay at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel at the Disneyland Resort? With luxurious accommodations, exceptional amenities, and a prime location, it provides a magical experience for guests. From the breathtaking lobby to the inviting pool area, every detail is meticulously crafted to immerse you in Disney magic. While it may come at a higher price, the value for the money is undeniable, making it a top choice for those seeking an unforgettable stay.

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Review of Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel

My family recently had the opportunity to visit Disneyland and stay at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa. In this article, we’ll delve into the enchanting world of Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, a magical haven nestled right in the heart of the Disneyland Resort and my review of our recent stay. 

If you’re considering a visit to the Happiest Place on Earth, staying at a Disney hotel like the Grand Californian is an experience like no other. Not only does it offer convenient access to the parks, but it also immerses you in the renowned Disney hospitality and impeccable attention to detail. 

In this review, we’ll take you on a journey through the hotel, sharing our first-hand insights, tips, and recommendations to ensure your stay is nothing short of extraordinary. So, pack your bags, put on your Mickey ears, and let’s dive into the world of Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa!

Atmosphere & Disney Magic

When it comes to the ambiance and theme, Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa at Disneyland Resort is a true masterpiece of creativity and craftsmanship. Drawing inspiration from California’s craftsman style architecture, the hotel seamlessly blends  rustic elegance with a touch of Disney magic. 

As you step into the lobby, you’ll find yourself immersed in an enchanting world of stately American Craftsman-style decor, where soaring redwood beams and a cozy fireplace create a warm and inviting atmosphere. The attention to detail is impeccable, with intricate woodwork, handcrafted furnishings, and artwork that pays homage to the region’s rich history. 

The hotel’s design evokes a sense of tranquility, allowing guests to escape the outside world and embrace the magic of Disney. Whether you’re relaxing in one of the comfortable lounges or exploring the stunning grounds adorned with Monterey pines and redwood forests, the ambiance at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel is sure to transport you to a place of wonder and delight.

Hotel Rooms

When it comes to accommodations, Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa offers a range of enticing guest rooms to suit every guest’s needs and preferences. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with your family, there’s a perfect space waiting for you. 

The hotel features Standard Rooms, which provide all the essential amenities for a comfortable stay. For those seeking an extra touch of luxury, there are also Rooms with Club-Level service, offering additional perks and exclusive access to the concierge lounge. 

If you’re looking for more space and indulgence, the hotel offers Suites that provide ample room and exquisite furnishings, with options ranging from 1-, 2-, and 3-bedroom layouts. Each room category is thoughtfully designed with comfort and style in mind, ensuring a memorable stay. 

So, no matter your preference or party size, Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa has the perfect room option to make your Disneyland trip truly magical.

Tour of a Standard Room with Pool View that Sleeps 5

For our stay at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, we opted for a Standard Room with Pool View that sleeps up to 5 guests. As soon as we stepped inside, we were greeted with a warm and inviting space. The room was beautifully decorated in neutral tones and wood accents, evoking a sense of calmness and relaxation.

Queen Beds & Fold Down Couch Bed

The room featured two queen-size beds, a day bed, and a couch that folds down to reveal an additional twin-size bed. The bedding was plush and comfortable, ensuring a good night’s sleep after long days at the theme parks. The Grand Californian Rooms feature and adorable tree mural over the queen bed. If you look closely, you will find everyone’s favorite chipmunks…Chip and Dale! My kids loved that hidden gem.

Balcony & Pool View

One of the highlights of our room was the balcony that offered sweeping views of Disney California Adventure Park and the hotel’s gorgeous pool area. It was the perfect spot to unwind and take in the stunning scenery. The only thing we disliked, was that the you had to stand up in order to see. There were chairs on the balcony, but when you sat down, you couldn’t enjoy the view.

Other amenities included a flat-screen TV, mini-refrigerator, coffee maker, and complimentary Wi-Fi. 

Bathroom & Shower

The bathroom was also spacious and well-equipped with a separate vanity area and a room with the shower and toilet, allowing family members to still have use of the sinks and mirror, while someone else showered.

Room Storage

Storage in this room  was plentiful, with a large closet and dresser providing ample space for all of our belongings. The room also had a safe, which was convenient for storing valuables while we were out exploring.

Overall, our Standard Room at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa exceeded our expectations and provided us with all the comforts of home, while being surrounded by the magic of Disney.

Dining Options at the Grand Californian

When it comes to dining at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, guests are treated to a delightful array of culinary experiences that cater to every taste and craving. From casual bites to elegant dining options, there’s something for everyone. 

GCH Craftsman Grill

One popular spot is the GCH Craftsman Grill, located near the hotel’s main pool. This eatery serves up delicious dishes and refreshing beverages, providing a convenient and satisfying option for a quick meal. Our favorites were the pizzas and the Hot Dog of the month.

Storytellers Cafe

Another fantastic choice is the Storytellers Cafe, which offers a character brunch where you can enjoy a delightful meal while mingling with beloved Disney characters. The buffet-style dining experience at 

Storytellers Café showcases homestyle food offerings, making it a perfect choice for families looking to make magical memories during their mealtime. 

Whether you’re grabbing a bite by the pool or indulging in a character-filled brunch, the dining options at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa are sure to leave your taste buds tantalized and your stomach satisfied.

We did not dine at Napa Rose, but have heard great reviews. This upscale restaurant requires reservations and offers a fun breakfast experiences featuring the Disney Princesses.

Proximity to Disneyland

Imagine staying just steps away from the magic! The hotel’s prime location offers unparalleled convenience, allowing you to maximize your time in the parks.

With a special entrance to California Adventure park accessible right from inside the hotel, you’ll have quick and easy access to all the thrilling attractions and entertainment.

Plus, you’ll also have direct access to Downtown Disney District, where you can explore a variety of shops, restaurants, and live entertainment, all just a stone’s throw away from your hotel room.

But the convenience doesn’t stop there! Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel is also centrally located between the main entrance to Disneyland Park and the entrance to the Monorail. If you’re looking to start your day at Disneyland Park or hop on the Monorail for a seamless journey to Tomorrowland, this prime location puts you right at the heart of the action.

Early Entry

One of the perks of staying at one of the Disneyland Resort hotels, like the Grand Californian, is that guests get early access to both Disneyland at Disney California Adventure starting 30 minutes before official park opening to the public. 

This means you can get a head start on experiencing your favorite attractions with shorter wait times before the crowds arrive. It’s also a great opportunity to take photos of the parks without many people around, creating truly magical memories.

Redwood Pool Area

When it comes to finding the perfect place to cool off and relax, Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa has got you covered with its incredible pool area. Picture multiple pools and hot tubs nestled in a lush forest oasis, creating a serene and inviting atmosphere for guests of all ages. Whether you’re looking to take a refreshing dip, soak in the bubbling warmth of a hot tub, or simply lounge poolside, this haven of relaxation is sure to rejuvenate your spirit.

Now, let’s talk about the real highlight of the pool area – the thrilling redwood water slide! It’s a favorite among guests of all ages, offering an exciting splash-filled adventure. Spiral down the towering slide, feel the rush of adrenaline, and make lasting memories as you plunge into the refreshing pool below. It’s an absolute blast for kids and adults alike!

During our stay, the water slide closed because it needed some maintenance. Cast Members at the hotel were very apologetic and offered to drive us to experience the Monorail Water Slides at the nearby Disneyland Hotel. Such great service!

But the fun doesn’t stop there. As the sun sets and the evening unfolds, hotel guests have the opportunity to unwind and enjoy live music by the pool. Imagine lounging in a comfortable chair, sipping on a refreshing beverage, and being serenaded by talented musicians. It’s the perfect way to end a fun-filled day at the parks and create magical moments that will stay with you long after your trip.

Room Service

Great news for guests staying at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa! Room service is available, allowing you to savor delicious meals right from the comfort of your hotel room. Whether you’re looking for a convenient breakfast or a satisfying dinner, you can simply dial “Room Service”from your in-room phone to place your order. Indulge in exquisite eats delivered directly to your door and enjoy the convenience of enjoying a meal in the privacy and comfort of your own space. 

Here is the menu below, to give you an idea of what to expect:

Price and Value

If you have the budget to splurge on an unforgettable Disneyland vacation, Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa is an option that offers exceptional value for the money. While it’s true that the hotel can be quite expensive, the overall experience and the magical atmosphere it provides make it worth every penny, especially if you can afford it.

Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa offers a level of luxury, convenience, and enchantment that sets it apart from other accommodations in the area. From the moment you step into the grand lobby with its stunning architecture and cozy fireplace, you’ll feel transported into a world of Disney magic. The attention to detail, the impeccable service, and the abundance of amenities create an experience that is truly exceptional.

While the cost may be high, the benefits of staying at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa are plentiful. The proximity to the parks allows you to maximize your time in the magic, with convenient access to both California Adventure park and Disneyland Park. The ease of being so close to the action, coupled with the luxurious accommodations, creates an unparalleled experience that can enhance your entire trip.

Book Your Stay

If you’re interested in experiencing the magic of Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa but are looking for ways to save money, consider reaching out to Get Away Today, my trusted travel partner. They specialize in finding discounts and deals on Disney vacation packages, including accommodations at this amazing hotel. Their expertise and knowledge can help you find the best possible price, making your dream of staying at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa more attainable.

Check Disneyland vacation package prices here and use the coupon code: Clubhouse10 to save even more on a 2-night or longer package that includes hotel and park tickets.

So, if you’re looking for a luxurious and enchanting experience at Disneyland, and your budget allows, Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa is definitely worth the cost. And with the assistance of Get Away Today, you can make your dream a reality while potentially finding some great discounts along the way.

My Overall Review of Disneyland Grand Californian Hotel

Personally, I can’t recommend Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa enough. From the stunning grounds and impeccable service to the convenient location and luxurious amenities, it truly is a magical place to stay during your Disneyland vacation.

The combination of being so close to the parks and having access to exclusive park entrances and transportation options made our trip even more enjoyable and stress-free. And with the added bonus of being able to order room service and relax by the pool, our stay was nothing short of perfect.

But it’s not just the convenience and luxury that make this hotel stand out – it’s the Disney magic infused into every aspect. From the subtle touches of Mickey Mouse in the decor to the cheerful greetings from Cast Members throughout our stay, we truly felt like we were in a world of enchantment.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, if you have the opportunity to stay at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, I highly recommend it. It’s truly an experience that will make your Disneyland vacation even more unforgettable and magical.  So why wait? Book your stay today and start counting down the days until you can immerse yourself in the luxury and enchantment of this beautiful hotel. 

More Hotels To Consider In The Area

More Disneyland Area Hotel Reviews 

• Disneyland Hotel
• Courtyard by Marriott Theme Park Entrance
• Howard Johnson Anaheim Hotel & Water Playground
• The Viv Hotel Anaheim
• Cambria Hotel & Suites
• Great Wolf Lodge Anaheim
• Knott’s Berry Farm Hotel
• 8 Hotels Within Walking Distance of Disneyland

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