Have A Look Inside Gran Destino Tower At Disney's Coronado Resort

Welcome to the Gran Destino Tower, the newest addition to Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort. Having officially opened to the public back in July of 2019, this novel apex annex of sorts offers a fresh new spin to the already overlying Spanish-influential vibes that have been a part of the resort’s central theme all along (though previously through different expressions more along the lines of colonial Mexico and the American Southwest solely). But this Nuevo, modernist take on Spanish-cultural fusion works well in defining the refining qualities of a “grand” new implant at a famed resort classic. Here’s an explorative overview look into the new Gran Destino Tower at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort.

Upon arrival

Since its grand opening last summer, the Gran Destino Tower has been the home base for the newly imagined Coronado Springs Resort two-story lobby. All arrivals to the resort are first dropped off here for resort check-in, even if they are staying at one of the other three classic resort sections—The Ranchos, Cabanas, or Casitas. The lobby is open with plenty of unique features and even serves as the site for one of the resort’s newest dining options—the Barcelona Lounge (we will get to this in more detail later on). The lobby also provides plenty of alternative working space and tables for reading, computer setup, and other quiet activities including the all-too-scarce pastime of relaxation. 

Theme/style/décor

As briefly mentioned before, the style and overall motif for this new 15-story edifice may strike you as a transplant direct from Spain. That’s because much of the central design and décor elements were directly influenced by big-name Spanish greats among notable artists, architects, and adventurers. Still, many visitors have commented on the “Las Vegas” feel the Tower emanates too. It should be noted, however, that the biggest inspiration for Gran Destino comes from the classic Disney short film “Destino,” which was a co-collaboration started by Walt Disney and the famed Spanish artist Salvador Dali in 1945 (unfinished until 2003).

And while at first glimpse one may not immediately notice the same Disney-incorporated theming that’s a little more obvious in some other Walt Disney World Resort locations, by taking a closer look at the designs in art and architecture you will find plenty of Hidden Mickeys and other, more subtle nods to Disney style elements. In fact, much of the artwork throughout comes directly from scenes and character inspirations out of the “Destino” film, which by the way, you will find playing on the Lobby television near check-in. Other nods to the short film find their way into the naming of some of the Tower’s new resort attributes, including the Dahlia Lounge, Chronos Club, and others we will get to in more detail later.

Rooms

With Gran Destino Tower comes the addition of 545 rooms to Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort. What’s more, 50 of the new 545 rooms are actually suites. Regular rooms span a spacious 375 square feet, which is considerably larger than those at other Moderate Resorts as well as even some of the standard room accommodations you’ll find at several of Disney’s Deluxe Resorts. And with more space comes ample storage, which is one of the very first things guests notice about their rooms. Luggage storage under the beds is a plus! Other pleasant in-room features to enjoy include faux-laminate hardwood flooring, spacious bathrooms, free Wi-Fi, the usual amenities like a micro-refrigerator setup and coffeemaker, and many innovative novelties as well.

Most notable among the latter is a new interactive smart television, mounted to the wall. Upon arrival you may be surprised to see the surname of the reservation holder displayed on the screen. And that’s just the beginning! This television is your ultimate in-room smart device, with the ability to access your My Disney Experience account. This includes viewing your PhotoPass photos from the day directly in your room when they become available. You can also do everything else you do with the My Disney Experience app, including checking wait times, FastPass+ selections, meal and event reservations, etc. And then of course, the T.V. can also serve as what it is first and foremost—a television. But with this television you also get access to stream Disney movies on demand for free!