Coronado Springs is one of my favorite Walt Disney World Resorts! This Moderate resort has recently updated rooms, plenty of dining options, and the addition of the new Gran Destino Tower. While the resort is quite spread out, I found that sticking near the Gran Destino Tower gave me access to everything I needed.
Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort Review (Including Gran Destino Tower)
According to Disney, Coronado Springs celebrates the “unique blend of Spanish, Mexican and Southwest American cultures.” It is considered to be in the Disney’s Animal Kingdom Resort area but is also very close to EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios, making it a great central location.
Table of Contents
Hotel Details
- Moderate Resort
- 2,416 guest rooms (includes Gran Destino Tower)
- Convention center
- Four pools
- 10 dining options
- Check-in time is 3pm
- Check-out time is 11am
Hotel Grounds
Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort is one of the largest resorts at Walt Disney World. If you are staying in one of the standard rooms (verses the Tower), you may have quite a walk from your room to the lobby, restaurants, or buses.
The Spanish/Mexican theming is done well. It’s subtle in the rooms, but the landscaping and the decor in the common areas feels authentic.
Gran Destino tower is heavily influenced by Spain, and more specifically by the art of Salvador Dali. Inside the lobby and hallways you’ll find bright colors and abstract patterns. The tower opened in 2019 so everything still feels new and modern.
Rooms
The non-tower rooms underwent refurbishment in 2018 and feature a lot of modern amenities, such as a large flat panel TV, laminate flooring, and USB outlets. The decor has a subtle Three Caballeros theme which is very cute.
As with most moderate resorts, Coronado Springs standard rooms have a split bathroom which is really handy when getting ready in the morning. The sink and closet area is separated from the washroom, and sliding doors give the whole space privacy if desired.
The rooms include most standard hotel amenities including:
- Flatscreen TV (with Netflix and Hulu if you log in with your accounts)
- Free Wi-Fi
- Mini Fridge
- Microwave
- Coffee Maker (Keurig)
- Iron & Ironing Board
- Hairdryer
- Toiletries
The Gran Destino Tower rooms feel like a step-up from the regular rooms, but essentially have all the same amenities. One big plus for the tower are the interior hallways. One negative is the standard rooms don’t have bathtubs so be sure you request a room with a tub if it is important to you.
The bathrooms feature a very nice glass-enclosed shower and separate toilet area.
Pools and Amenities
The main pool area is called The Dig Site and is located in the center of the resort, but closest to building 8A of the Cabanas section. The Dig Site features a large pool, water slide, “the largest hot tub on Walt Disney World property”, sand volleyball court, kiddie pool, arcade, and a pool bar.
The resort also has three smaller, calmer pools in each section – Casitas, Ranchos, and Cabanas.
The Gran Destino tower does not have a dedicated pool area. Guests of the tower may use any of the four pools on property.
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As far as other amenities and activities, the property also has the following available:
- Family-friendly activies by the pool daily
- Campfire activities nightly at The Dig Site
- Movies Under the Stars – Watch Disney movies most nights on the Gran Destino tower lawn
- Colors of Coronado – Instructor-led painting classes
- Jogging trail
- Playgound
- Fitness Center
- Spa
- Laundry facilities
Dining
There are 10 dining locations to choose from at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort. I’ll share some of my favorites.
Three Bridges Bar and Grill – Villa del Lago
Three Bridges is located in the center of the resort, making it easily accessible from anywhere on property via … you guessed it … bridges. This outdoor location offers a full bar and Spanish-influenced bar food. This location also offers Sangria University, an afternoon course all about making sangria that includes a tasting, on Saturdays and Sundays.
Rix Sports Bar & Grill
Rix is basically the lobby bar and is a great place to relax and hang out.
El Mercado de Coronado
This is the main quick service eatery with several different stations and seating areas.
Toledo
Located on the top floor of the Gran Destino tower is Toledo, a tapas and steakhouse. I had an amazing cheese flight here. If you’re a foodie you won’t want to miss this location.
Dahlia Lounge
Also on the top floor of Gran Destino is this casual indoor/outdoor space with great views towards Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
Barcelona Lounge
This is the lobby bar of the Gran Destino tower. Lots of Spanish wine options and lounge seating in a relaxed, open atmosphere.
Shopping
Panchito’s Gifts and Sundries is located in the main building of Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort. The shop sells Disney merchandise, unique items just for Coronado Springs, snacks, alcohol, and basic necessities such as medicine, sunscreen, and toiletries.
Parking
Outdoor parking is complimentary for guests of the hotel and day visitors. Valet parking is available for an upcharge.
Summary
I have been a guest in the standard rooms and the Gran Destino tower and enjoyed my stay both times. Gran Destino tower does feel a lot like a deluxe resort at a moderate price. As a big fan of Mexican food and Spanish wines, I enjoyed the dining experiences very much. Three Bridges is a great location to chill. The Dig Site was a bit too lively for me but is a great spot for families with kids. Overall this is one of my favorite resorts at Walt Disney World and wouldn’t hesitate to stay here again.
