(CLOSED) Disney's WILDERNESS LODGE and VILLAS INFORMATION THREAD ~2013~

[GrandCalifornian]

Transportation question... How long is the bus trip from WL to DtD?

For us it was one of the longer trips and took about 25 minutes. We picked up people at GF and also stopped at a water park.
Waiting for the bus to arrive was the worse part for us, as we ended up waiting over half an hour but that's just luck of timing.

 

[WDWKOOK]

We just returned from 9 nights at Riverside which is where we have stayed the past 4 trips. We are seriously considering staying at the Lodge for Christmas in 2014.
The weather is so hot and humid in June that I am ready for something different and what could be than better Christmas time at the Lodge!!!
Now I am trying to learn all I can because this would be our first time staying at the beautiful Wilderness Lodge. Can't wait for 2014 dates and rates to be released.
Looks like I might need to brace myself for "sticker shock" also. The room prices look pretty expensive for the week around Christmas. Are there ever any discounts offered for that time of year?

Thanks!!

Carla

Carla! WL is a great choice for a Christmas stay. The resort decorations really get you in the spirit of the season. The fireplaces are so cozy to sit near and there are lots of nooks and crannies to sit a spell.

Christmas is doable, but you have to be prepared for the highest prices of the year and large crowds. There are usually AP, FL Resident and some general public discounts up until about 12/22 or so. The military discount has been available through the 25th. I have never seen any discount from 12/26 - 1/1. The SoG overflow rate (if you are active or retired military) is the only discount I know of from 12/25 - 1/1. I can give you more info. if that would apply to you (or anyone else who wants to know).

In 2010, I was able to get an Expedia rate of 40% off WL for my entire stay from about 12/24 - 12/31. (We also stayed at CR using the AP 40% off rate prior to WL.) Expedia soon noticed their mistake and changed the offer to match the 40% off rate that WDW was offering through something like 12/22 or so. The offer was probably only up one day or less. I found out about it through a MouseSavers alert. So there are times when you can find some online discounts, but they seem to be rare.

WDWKOOK I was able to finish out my picture loading problem and have two days of our trip loaded on my trip report. Thanks.

Yippee! I'l be over to check it out soon

Transportation question... How long is the bus trip from WL to DtD?

I believe the route to DtD includes the stop at TL (someone please correct me if I'm confused). The bus usually stops at GF after WL and according to my note that I still have in my iPhone, it took 25 mins. from WL to TL. DtD is about 5 mins. away from TL so figure 30 mins. minimum of bus time.

The trip back from DtD is always much longer. The wait for the bus has always been very long for us, then the bus meanders through DtD stops and usually a bus driver change whenever we're on it. I think it took almost an hour for us to get back to WL the last time. I think I even said I wouldn't be doing it again - yes, I did! And forget about parking there. A WL CM told me that was not a good idea since it's packed with locals and those not staying onsite. Not trying to dissuade you, but it has always taken more time for us to get to DtD than to any other WDW attraction. I even tried to break up the excursion with a nice boat ride over to POFQ for a beignet and thought we'd take the bus from POFQ back to MK to get to WL. But it turned out we would have had something like a 45 min. wait for the next boat so we skipped it

 

[WDWKOOK]

For us it was one of the longer trips and took about 25 minutes. We picked up people at GF and also stopped at a water park.
Waiting for the bus to arrive was the worse part for us, as we ended up waiting over half an hour but that's just luck of timing.

I didn't see your post until after I posted - looks like we had the same bus!

 

[Zippa D Doodah]

For us it was one of the longer trips and took about 25 minutes. We picked up people at GF and also stopped at a water park.
Waiting for the bus to arrive was the worse part for us, as we ended up waiting over half an hour but that's just luck of timing.

Yup, my family calls those interminable waits "bus time warps". They can happen at any resort. Having stayed at a bunch of different ones through the years I know this is so. I guess we will just plan for 45 minutes or so for the trip. Any less will be bonus.

:


I believe the route to DtD includes the stop at TL (someone please correct me if I'm confused). The bus usually stops at GF after WL and according to my note that I still have in my iPhone, it took 25 mins. from WL to TL. DtD is about 5 mins. away from TL so figure 30 mins. minimum of bus time.

The trip back from DtD is always much longer. The wait for the bus has always been very long for us, then the bus meanders through DtD stops and usually a bus driver change whenever we're on it. I think it took almost an hour for us to get back to WL the last time. I think I even said I wouldn't be doing it again - yes, I did! And forget about parking there. A WL CM told me that was not a good idea since it's packed with locals and those not staying onsite. Not trying to dissuade you, but it has always taken more time for us to get to DtD than to any other WDW attraction. I even tried to break up the excursion with a nice boat ride over to POFQ for a beignet and thought we'd take the bus from POFQ back to MK to get to WL. But it turned out we would have had something like a 45 min. wait for the next boat so we skipped it

Are you hinting that I should not go DtD???? I now must reveal a not-so-proud truth about my family. We are addicted to Nob Hill Chills from Ghiradelli. This entire trip is planned in part because we are thirsty for them, and a trip to WDW is a bit cheaper than a trip to the Ghiradelli store in San Francisco. Sooooo... come heck or high water we will be spending an evening at DtD.

 

[MickeyEars]

Carla! WL is a great choice for a Christmas stay. The resort decorations really get you in the spirit of the season. The fireplaces are so cozy to sit near and there are lots of nooks and crannies to sit a spell.

Christmas is doable, but you have to be prepared for the highest prices of the year and large crowds. There are usually AP, FL Resident and some general public discounts up until about 12/22 or so. The military discount has been available through the 25th. I have never seen any discount from 12/26 - 1/1. The SoG overflow rate (if you are active or retired military) is the only discount I know of from 12/25 - 1/1. I can give you more info. if that would apply to you (or anyone else who wants to know).

In 2010, I was able to get an Expedia rate of 40% off WL for my entire stay from about 12/24 - 12/31. (We also stayed at CR using the AP 40% off rate prior to WL.) Expedia soon noticed their mistake and changed the offer to match the 40% off rate that WDW was offering through something like 12/22 or so. The offer was probably only up one day or less. I found out about it through a MouseSavers alert. So there are times when you can find some online discounts, but they seem to be rare.

Thanks so much for your reply!! We are not military so it looks like I'd better start saving. At least we have awhile to do so!!
Thanks again for all the info and I'll definitely be watching this thread.


Carla

 

[WDWKOOK]

Are you hinting that I should not go DtD???? I now must reveal a not-so-proud truth about my family. We are addicted to Nob Hill Chills from Ghiradelli. This entire trip is planned in part because we are thirsty for them, and a trip to WDW is a bit cheaper than a trip to the Ghiradelli store in San Francisco. Sooooo... come heck or high water we will be spending an evening at DtD.

It's up to you, but you may never get back to WL. It was nice having you on the thread and I wish you and your family well

Seriously though, what is this Nob Hill Chill you are willing to risk life and limb and spend 12 hours to get?

 

[Zippa D Doodah]

It's up to you, but you may never get back to WL. It was nice having you on the thread and I wish you and your family well

Seriously though, what is this Nob Hill Chill you are willing to risk life and limb and spend 12 hours to get?

Looks like I'll be on the thread another 97 days or so. If I fall in love with WL, who knows...

The Nob Hill Chill is to chocolate milkshakes what Lebron James is to basketball players. They put some chocolate in there, put some dark chocolate, then some more chocolate for good measure, and top it all off with some chocolate chips. BOOM! A party on your tastebuds! They serve it in a tall glass with a spoon, and the first sip/bite make my knees quiver just a tad.
If we don't make it back to WL from DtD. 'twill have been worth the adventure to partake of the NHC.

 

[mickeynut1]

DH mentioned this AM that he can't wait to pull up to the Lodge and see one of the Rangers/Greeters standing in the port cochere

That will be the beginning of a great vacation .

We just returned from 9 nights at Riverside which is where we have stayed the past 4 trips. We are seriously considering staying at the Lodge for Christmas in 2014.
The weather is so hot and humid in June that I am ready for something different and what could be than better Christmas time at the Lodge!!!
Now I am trying to learn all I can because this would be our first time staying at the beautiful Wilderness Lodge. Can't wait for 2014 dates and rates to be released.
Looks like I might need to brace myself for "sticker shock" also. The room prices look pretty expensive for the week around Christmas. Are there ever any discounts offered for that time of year?

Thanks!!

Carla

The WL is a great resort to stay at during the holidays . The fireplace surrounded by rocking chairs makes for a cozy atmosphere for relaxing while watching the hustle and bustle of the lodge . Rates are quite a bit higher than other times of year, but it's well worth it (IMO), especially if you can snag a decent discount .

 

[kabbie]

Do all of the 2 bedroom villas at VWL have 2 queen beds in the second bedroom? Do you have to request the dedicated 2 bedroom to get that?

Thanks!

 

[pas130]

A little orange bird brings me here.....July 20-25th WL CL...

FINAL CHANGE

 

[Deb & Bill]

Do all of the 2 bedroom villas at VWL have 2 queen beds in the second bedroom? Do you have to request the dedicated 2 bedroom to get that?

Thanks!

All dedicated two bedroom villas have two queen beds in the second bedroom. Your reservation should say if it is a dedicated or lockoff. When you make the reservation make sure you request the dedicated. They are huge! the second bedroom has enough space for a small sitting room in the bathroom area.

 

[scanne]

Been so busy that I haven't had any chance to think about my upcoming trip to WL. We are staying OFC and I was wondering if I can go through the club level IPO to have a treat in our room upon arrival or if I have to go through private dining.

Thanks.

 

[pas130]

Been so busy that I haven't had any chance to think about my upcoming trip to WL. We are staying OFC and I was wondering if I can go through the club level IPO to have a treat in our room upon arrival or if I have to go through private dining.

Thanks.

You ABSOLUTELY can!!

 

[momtoprincesses]

Hello! My family will be taking our first family vacation to DW December 4-9. It will be me (32), DH (turning 36 our first day!), DD#1 (turning five during our stay!), and DD#2 (almost 3). I have been planning this trip for almost a year already, as it is a surprise trip for our daughters (especially our oldest since she is celebrating her birthday). DH has only visited the parks once when he was a child, and I haven't been in nearly 15 years. Needless to say, we are so excited!

Originally we were staying in CR, but when we had to shift our travel days back by two days, the only room left was Theme Park view. While that would be wonderful, we realized we could save over $1100 from that theme park view room to a woods view room at WL. I have read that WL is gorgeous during Christmas, so even though the rooms aren't necessarily our style, we are excited to make the switch.

I know I have a lot of research to do on WL (since I have spent the last year researching CR!), but could anyone please tell me what are the best rooms to request in the woods view category at WL? We would like to stay in a quieter section if that exists since my girls will probably nap in the afternoon. And a beautiful view wouldn't hurt either

Thanks and I look forward to getting to know all of you!

 

[CuteAsMinnie]

Don't mind me.... Just a page two rescue

 

[mickeynut1]

Hello! My family will be taking our first family vacation to DW December 4-9. It will be me (32), DH (turning 36 our first day!), DD#1 (turning five during our stay!), and DD#2 (almost 3). I have been planning this trip for almost a year already, as it is a surprise trip for our daughters (especially our oldest since she is celebrating her birthday). DH has only visited the parks once when he was a child, and I haven't been in nearly 15 years. Needless to say, we are so excited!

Originally we were staying in CR, but when we had to shift our travel days back by two days, the only room left was Theme Park view. While that would be wonderful, we realized we could save over $1100 from that theme park view room to a woods view room at WL. I have read that WL is gorgeous during Christmas, so even though the rooms aren't necessarily our style, we are excited to make the switch.

You are going to love the WL . We've never stayed at the CR, but have had 2 stays at the WL and it is an amazing resort. It is beautiful anytime of year, but especially so during the holidays . Happy planning.

 

[WDWKOOK]

Got bored waiting while picking up DD today so I looked at some recent Tripadvisor reviews and this one made me nod my head in agreement:

Our FAVOURITE Disney Hotel!!! Highly reccomend!!
Jun 1, 2013 John K

We stay at Wilderness Lodge as frequently as we can! The service is second to none! Everyone should experience the Club level floor at least once. The staff is top-notch! Randy, the Concierge Mgr, makes you feel like you are 'one of the family'. We will stay nowhere else!
SNIP...

 

[WDWKOOK]

A little orange bird brings me here.....July 20-25th WL CL...

FINAL CHANGE

I left the nest vacant for your return. Glad you were able to swing back full circle to WL

Hello! My family will be taking our first family vacation to DW December 4-9. It will be me (32), DH (turning 36 our first day!), DD#1 (turning five during our stay!), and DD#2 (almost 3). I have been planning this trip for almost a year already, as it is a surprise trip for our daughters (especially our oldest since she is celebrating her birthday). DH has only visited the parks once when he was a child, and I haven't been in nearly 15 years. Needless to say, we are so excited!

Originally we were staying in CR, but when we had to shift our travel days back by two days, the only room left was Theme Park view. While that would be wonderful, we realized we could save over $1100 from that theme park view room to a woods view room at WL. I have read that WL is gorgeous during Christmas, so even though the rooms aren't necessarily our style, we are excited to make the switch.

I know I have a lot of research to do on WL (since I have spent the last year researching CR!), but could anyone please tell me what are the best rooms to request in the woods view category at WL? We would like to stay in a quieter section if that exists since my girls will probably nap in the afternoon. And a beautiful view wouldn't hurt either

Thanks and I look forward to getting to know all of you!

momtoprincesses! Woods View is a great choice for a quieter location than Courtyard View. A CV is the best view, IMHO, however, you will hear a bit of the afternoon pool party PA and music from the inner CV rooms. You can even see some of Wishes, CR and Castle from higher WV floors. These rooms are in the North Wing. Some of the 6th floor rooms have solid balcony railings that you need to stand to look out over. The 5th floor and lower do not have solid railings.

Let us know if you have any other questions. I think you'll love WL and you might even love the rooms. They were all rehabbed less than one year ago. And, although you won't have the walkway to the MK, you will have both a boat and a non-stop bus

ETA: Don't forget to have your birthdays noted in your reservation.

Don't mind me.... Just a page two rescue

You win our Thread-Saver of the Day award

 

[pas130]

I left the nest vacant for your return. Glad you were able to swing back full circle to WL

DH keeps saying we don't need CL....uhhh yeah we do Happy to be back, and SO excited!!!!!!!!!!

 

[vinotinto]

I'm just popping in to say that I am patiently waiting to book WL for our January trip since Disney has not yet released it's official prices. Hoping they release 2014 rates soon!