OrcaPotter
Lucky to be local to the Mouse
- Joined
- May 21, 2005
I realize that Saratoga Springs is a DVC property, but I'm surprised at how little DIS information there is on both forums (DVC and Disney Resorts) about this particular resort.
Normally I wouldn't have to ask anything (I'm local and only get a room on property for Not-So-Scary once a year) about a Disney resort, but SSR is one of only a few I know almost nothing about. My friends and I managed to get a good CM rate for our annual Not-So-Scary overnight stay, and decided to make it a 2-night getaway to enjoy a better resort (we always stay at a value). SSR is it, but none of us have stayed there before (and I was only there once to use the bus system back to DTD--long story). I've done some searches and have only managed to gather scattered opinions, photos, etc on this property.
1. I understand that the resort is currently under renovation. I believe there are 6 guestroom areas: The Springs, The Paddock, Congress Park, The Carousel, The Grandstand, and the Treehouse Villas. I've been able to get some limited information on the status of the renovation--as I understand it, Congress Park is pretty much finished and The Springs is next to be started. We're staying at the end of September in a studio. Are there studios in Congress Park? Should we request a room there, if possible?
2. I believe that Congress Park is closer to DTD and further from the main part of the resort. My friends and I will likely use our car to drive to MK for the party in the evening (I won't be off work until 3:55 and it'll take me at least an hour to drive to the resort, then I have to change into my costume) to avoid any unnecessary delay due to the bus system. We do plan to pop into EPCOT the next day at some point to enjoy Food & Wine. I've heard mixed reviews about the efficiency of the buses at SSR due to the size of the property. If it ends up we decide to take the bus, will we have to wait long or battle a full bus from earlier stops? Especially right before the Halloween Party? Paying for parking is moot for us (CMs park free) but not having to drive after all that fun is a relief (when it's not crowded). Anyone have any experience taking the bus from this resort for NSS?
3. I understand there are 2 "main" pools (with slides) and other smaller pools. We plan to spend some time before EPCOT (and maybe after) relaxing and enjoying the resort's amenities. From what I've managed to find, the main part of the resort is close to The Springs. But we don't want to be in the middle of construction. Is it far to walk to the big pools from Congress Park? I've also heard of some issues people have had with towels--even being charged for extra towels. Should I bring some beach towels from home to avoid issues? Looking at a map, it almost looks like you'd need to drive to each area unless you want a substantial walk in your bathing suit. Is this idea unfounded?
4. Mickey waffles are a must for our Not-So-Scary stay. Are the "adult waffles" Mickey? Or will I need to get a kids meal?
That's all I can really think of, since our stay is brief (but longer than it normally would be). Thanks in advance for any info!
Normally I wouldn't have to ask anything (I'm local and only get a room on property for Not-So-Scary once a year) about a Disney resort, but SSR is one of only a few I know almost nothing about. My friends and I managed to get a good CM rate for our annual Not-So-Scary overnight stay, and decided to make it a 2-night getaway to enjoy a better resort (we always stay at a value). SSR is it, but none of us have stayed there before (and I was only there once to use the bus system back to DTD--long story). I've done some searches and have only managed to gather scattered opinions, photos, etc on this property.
1. I understand that the resort is currently under renovation. I believe there are 6 guestroom areas: The Springs, The Paddock, Congress Park, The Carousel, The Grandstand, and the Treehouse Villas. I've been able to get some limited information on the status of the renovation--as I understand it, Congress Park is pretty much finished and The Springs is next to be started. We're staying at the end of September in a studio. Are there studios in Congress Park? Should we request a room there, if possible?
2. I believe that Congress Park is closer to DTD and further from the main part of the resort. My friends and I will likely use our car to drive to MK for the party in the evening (I won't be off work until 3:55 and it'll take me at least an hour to drive to the resort, then I have to change into my costume) to avoid any unnecessary delay due to the bus system. We do plan to pop into EPCOT the next day at some point to enjoy Food & Wine. I've heard mixed reviews about the efficiency of the buses at SSR due to the size of the property. If it ends up we decide to take the bus, will we have to wait long or battle a full bus from earlier stops? Especially right before the Halloween Party? Paying for parking is moot for us (CMs park free) but not having to drive after all that fun is a relief (when it's not crowded). Anyone have any experience taking the bus from this resort for NSS?
3. I understand there are 2 "main" pools (with slides) and other smaller pools. We plan to spend some time before EPCOT (and maybe after) relaxing and enjoying the resort's amenities. From what I've managed to find, the main part of the resort is close to The Springs. But we don't want to be in the middle of construction. Is it far to walk to the big pools from Congress Park? I've also heard of some issues people have had with towels--even being charged for extra towels. Should I bring some beach towels from home to avoid issues? Looking at a map, it almost looks like you'd need to drive to each area unless you want a substantial walk in your bathing suit. Is this idea unfounded?
4. Mickey waffles are a must for our Not-So-Scary stay. Are the "adult waffles" Mickey? Or will I need to get a kids meal?
That's all I can really think of, since our stay is brief (but longer than it normally would be). Thanks in advance for any info!