One of the most charming traditions at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa is making a return, and honestly, it’s one of those experiences that always feels a little special.
Beginning March 19, 2026, the Garden View Lounge – Tea Experience reopens with a reimagined setting inspired by Alice in Wonderland, blending Victorian elegance with playful Disney storytelling.
Afternoon tea has long been a fan favorite at the Grand Floridian, and seeing it return with refreshed décor and themed touches feels like a perfect match for the resort’s timeless atmosphere.
A Bright, Garden-Inspired Space
Walking into the redesigned lounge, the first thing that stands out is how bright and airy the room feels.
Floor-to-ceiling windows allow natural light to pour into the space throughout the day, giving the lounge the feel of a sunlit conservatory rather than a traditional restaurant. It creates a calm, relaxed atmosphere that feels removed from the busier areas of Walt Disney World.
The design retains much of the Grand Floridian’s classic Victorian style while introducing softer colors and organic shapes that subtly nod to a garden setting. Floral patterns, plush fabrics, and hues of green, blue, and gold help create a peaceful escape that feels both elegant and comfortable.
Disney Details Hidden Throughout
As with many Disney spaces, the magic often lies in the small details.
Brass-framed mirrors shaped like flower petals reflect the room in interesting ways, while stained-glass windows featuring native Florida birds add bursts of color throughout the lounge. The carpeting is inspired by winding garden vines, another detail that ties the room together visually.
The overall effect feels whimsical without being overwhelming, which works especially well for a setting meant for relaxing over tea.
A Classic Tea Service with a Disney Touch
Of course, the highlight of the experience is the return of the Afternoon Tea service itself.
Guests can choose between a traditional tea service and a plant-based option, both featuring Twinings teas and an assortment of savory bites and sweets inspired by Alice in Wonderland. Younger guests can also enjoy a special children’s tea service, making it a surprisingly family-friendly experience.
Tea service experiences like this always feel a little different from the rest of a Disney day. Instead of rushing from attraction to attraction, it encourages guests to slow down, sip tea, and enjoy a more relaxed moment.
And honestly, that’s part of the appeal.
Why Tea at the Grand Floridian Is Always a Treat
If you’ve never done afternoon tea at the Grand Floridian, it’s one of those Disney experiences that tends to surprise people.
It’s elegant but not overly formal, relaxing without feeling stuffy, and a great way to take a break from the parks for a couple of hours. Whether it’s a girls’ day, a celebration, or just an excuse to try some incredible pastries, tea service here always feels like a small event in itself.
Adding the playful Alice in Wonderland inspiration feels like a natural extension of that tradition. After all, few stories are more closely tied to whimsical tea parties than Alice’s adventures in Wonderland.
With the refreshed lounge and the return of afternoon tea, the Garden View Lounge looks ready to become once again one of the most charming hidden gems at Walt Disney World.
Guests can begin enjoying the Garden View Lounge – Tea Experience starting March 19, 2026, at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa.
Janine is a theme park and pop culture nerd from an early age. Since 1994, she’s been traversing the theme park world and has enjoyed all things from Halloween events to new ride releases and beyond. When she’s not at a theme park, she’s probably at a concert or doing something fun with her kiddo.