The Villas at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa—a crown jewel of the Disney Vacation Club (DVC)—are stepping into a new era with their first major refurbishment since opening in 2009. While the resort’s iconic Craftsman charm remains untouched, these updates add a fresh sparkle to the magic. Buckle up as we take you on an exclusive tour of the newly refreshed Two-Bedroom Villas, where classic elegance meets modern comfort. Spoiler: There’s a Bambi-inspired surprise waiting!

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The Living Room: Where Function Meets Fairytale Flair

Let’s kick things off in the heart of the villa—the living room. The star of the show? A brand-new pull-down sofa bed that’s a game-changer for families and groups. Gone are the days of creaky fold-outs! This sleek unit features a real mattress that tucks neatly into the wall by day, freeing up space for Mickey-shaped snack sessions or planning your next Lightning Lane dash. And here’s the Disney touch: The queen bed nearby showcases artwork of Flower the skunk from Bambi, adding a whimsical woodland vibe to the room.

But wait—there’s more! The living area now dazzles with laminate flooring (bye-bye, dated carpets!), accented by a vibrant, oversized area rug that injects a pop of color. The original pull-down twin bed—a trailblazing feature when the resort debuted—still holds its own, proving that some classics just get better with time.

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Dining & Kitchen: Subtle Upgrades with a Side of Nostalgia

The dining area keeps things elegantly simple. The table sports fresh upholstery, but the beloved rustic-chic seating, warm lighting, and statement mirror remain, ensuring that Craftsman coziness stays front and center.

Over in the kitchen, it’s all about understated upgrades. Shiny new appliances (hello, modern convenience!) blend seamlessly with the existing cabinetry, countertops, and retro subway tile backsplash. Translation: It’s still the perfect spot to whip up a pre-park breakfast or midnight churro feast.

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Bedrooms: Sweet Dreams with a Splash of Color

The master bedroom is where the refurbishment flexes its muscles. Out with the moody dark green carpet and in with a plush, colorful replacement that brightens the space. A standout feature? The pass-through panel to the master bathroom—a beloved quirk that’s been scrapped in other DVC resorts—remains intact.

Meanwhile, the guest bedroom keeps its practical charm. New flooring modernizes the room, but the desks (a rarity in newer DVC refurbs!) stay put, perfect for jotting down Genie+ strategies or penning postcards to jealous friends.

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Bathrooms: Minimal Tweaks, Maximum Comfort

Don’t expect a bathroom revolution here—these spaces were built to last. The ¾ bathroom stays true to its original design, right down to the artwork and tilework.

In the master bathroom, you’ll find subtle upgrades like wall-mounted shampoo dispensers (eco-friendly and practical!), but the pièce de résistance—the giant Jacuzzi tub—still reigns supreme. Soak those park-weary muscles in style, just like you did in 2009.

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Why This Refurbishment Works… Even Without a Full Overhaul

Okay, let’s address the pixie dust in the room: This isn’t a jaw-dropping, tear-down-the-walls transformation. But here’s the magic—it doesn’t need to be. The original design of the Grand Californian was a masterpiece of Craftsman artistry, with handcrafted woodwork, earthy tones, and Disney’s signature storytelling woven into every detail. This refurbishment isn’t a reboot; it’s a loving refresh.

Furniture looks pristine (shoutout to Disney’s maintenance wizards!), and the timeless decor ensures the villas still feel like a cozy lodge tucked into California’s wilderness—just with a few modern perks. For DVC purists, that’s a win.

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The Verdict: A Fresh Chapter for a Beloved Classic

Is this refurbishment revolutionary? Nope. But it’s a smart, thoughtful update that honors the Grand Californian’s legacy while keeping things fresh for the next generation of guests. The new pull-down beds, vibrant rugs, and kitchen tech prove Disney’s listening to families’ needs, while the preserved desks, pass-through panels, and Jacuzzi tubs remind us why we fell in love with this resort in the first place.

So, whether you’re a DVC owner or a first-time visitor, these villas promise the same enchanting escape—now with a sprinkle of 2024 polish. Ready to book your stay? Just don’t forget to say “hi” to Flower from Bambi on your way to dreamland!

Have you stayed at the Grand Californian since the refurb? Share your thoughts in the comments—we’re all ears (and maybe a little envious)! 🏰✨