On my last visit to WDW, I turned fifty. In celebration, I spent the entire day of my birthday doing all my favorite WDW things. One of my favorite things to do at WDW is heading to one of their stunning spas for a massage. For my birthday spa visit, I selected Senses at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort. I had been to this beautiful location years before when my son was small, and remembered really enjoying the gracious and tranquil environment. Typically, I enjoy a pedicure and massage when I visit a spa on vacation. Since this visit to WDW was a long weekend, and my feet were already looking snazzy, I decided to book just a massage. My WDW visits are planned out pretty carefully, and since I want my spa time to fit neatly into my plan, I book my appointments in advance by calling (407) WDW-SPAS.
I spent the morning celebrating my birthday at Disney's Magic Kingdom. After an early lunch, my husband and son headed back to the Disney's Beach Club Villas, where we were staying. I hopped into a water taxi after exiting Magic Kingdom, and was headed for the Grand Floridian. The day was perfect, and I enjoyed the scenic and peaceful boat ride. Upon exiting at the Grand Floridian dock, I checked one of the outdoor Grand Floridian maps to orient myself. Yes, I know I said I had visited Senses at the Grand Floridian before, but my sense of direction is awful.
Eventually, I found Senses. Like the rest of the Grand Floridian, the Senses building is white with a red-colored roof, and is designed to look Victorian. I entered the welcoming porch, and went inside to sign in. Senses asks that guests arrive thirty minutes before any treatments to check in. During check in, Senses has guests complete information about medical history, and previous treatments. Armed with this information, your cast member can provide you with the safest, and most appropriate treatments for you.
The porch at Senses, a Disney Spa at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort. Photo by Donna Fesel.
A collection of items for purchase in the entrance of Senses, a Disney Spa at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort. Photo by Donna Fesel.
After checking in, and while the cast member who checked me in stepped away, I browsed the array of fashion, spa, and beauty products for sale in the front entrance of Senses. Next, I was lead back to the ladies' locker room, where I secured my belongings and changed into a robe and slippers. I had a seat in a comfy chair in the zen-like waiting area and enjoyed a cup of tea. The cast member who would be providing my service called my name, and I followed her to the tranquil treatment room, which was dimly lit and smelling wonderful.
More things for purchase at Senses, A Disney Spa at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort. Photo by Donna Fesel.
Still more things for purchase at Senses, A Disney Spa at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort. Photo by Donna Fesel.
I opted for the 50 minute Swedish Massage. This is a favorite treatment of mine. The pressure of the massages is relaxing, but somewhat firm, and the massage duration is perfect for busy people who want targeted relaxation time. The massage was wonderful, just what the doctor ordered for my tired WDW walking feet and legs. When the massage concluded, I felt ready to enjoy a full day of birthday WDW fun. Mission accomplished.
Senses, a Disney Spa at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort is one of two Disney-operated full-service spas at WDW hotels (the other is Senses at Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort). Spa treatments are also offered at several WDW hotels near their respective workout areas: Ship Shape Massage Salon at Disney's Yacht Club, La Vida at Disney's Coronado Springs Resort, and Zahanati at Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge. In addition, the Walt Disney World Dolphin Resort features a non-Disney operated full service-spa called Mandara.
There are discounts, for Disney Vacation Club (Disney's timeshare program, DVC) 15% off on merchandise, 15% off on some treatments, and some DVC special offers. Disney Visa cardmembers and Disney World Annual Passholders receive 15% off on some treatments. D23 Gold Membership holders receive 10% off at Mandara. Discounts change often, so if you call to book, confirm what special offers may apply.
What do you think? Have you visited a spa at WDW? Did you love it? Not love it? Are you thinking you might try a visit? Let me know by posting a comment.
