[1] The Grand Floridian was inspired by the Victorian-era beach resorts built along Florida's east coast during the late 19th and early 20th century.

Its exterior is modelled after the Mount Washington Resort in Bretton Woods, New Hampshire, and Hotel del Coronado in Coronado, California, with red gabled roofs and white walls.

The resort was designed by the Disney company and executed by the architectural firm Wimberly, Allison, Tong & Goo.

[3] Along with Disney's Polynesian Village Resort, the Grand Floridian sits on the shores of the man-made Seven Seas Lagoon near the Magic Kingdom.

[4] The Beach Boys performed at the Grand Floridian in 1988 to film the music video for their hit song "Kokomo".