The best thing about the new Gran Destino Tower at Disney World

The new 16-story Gran Destino Tower at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort offers vibrant Spanish tile patterns accents on the walls, the latest hotel technological advances (smart elevators and interactive televisions), scrumptious menus at its new restaurants, and a huge choice of gins at the various bars (we really thank you for this.)

But the most impressive thing that people will most likely remember is the view at the top of the tower.

There are not many locations where you get to survey the Walt Disney World property. The California Grill at Disney’s Contemporary, the top of the 15-story Bay Lake Tower, next to the Contemporary and the Aerophile balloon at Disney Springs are the three that come to mind.

The top of the Gran Destino provides views of Epcot, Hollywood Studios, Blizzard Beach and Expedition Everest from the Dahlia Lounge outdoor terrace. You can also see Disney Springs and Celebration is you look closely. The Magic Kingdom is visible from inside the Toledo – Tapas, Steak & Seafood restaurant.

What makes these views memorable is the perspective you get on how much property makes up the Walt Disney World Resort. The resort is nearly 40 square miles. You could almost put two Manhattan islands in that space.

And for now, you do not need a reservation to see the view. Unlike the California Grill at the Contemporary, you can head to the 16th floor and find a spot at the Dahlia Lounge or head out to the terrace.

As you stand outside the doors to the terrace, you will find Epcot to your left. In front of you is the Tower of Terror and the expansive Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. As you look to the right, you will see Blizzard Beach’s Mount Rushmore and at the end of the terrace peaking to your right you will see Everest.

As the popularity increases, this might change. But in the meantime, head on up and look.