Help me pick a resort!

[javail]

First of all, thank you to all for your helpful replies!

However, I'm just as indecisive now as I was before, now just with more options to be indecisive about!

I've absolutely ruled out AKL (as stated previously), GF (I just can't see myself enjoying myself there for some reason), YC and Boardwalk Inn.

Allow me to rationalize each of my short list choices, then all of you experts can again weigh in:

Poly

While this still remains my top choice, the threat of GCH, DVC, and pool closure would just be too disruptive for our enjoyment. Even if our longhouse wasn't affected, the GCH being torn up and/or the pool being unusable would be a real downer. Obviously, I will confirm the dates as they firm up, but with my luck, it just seems likely that something won't be as magical as I want. I know, on all other fronts, it meets my criteria, but my as much as my heart wants to say "yes" to the Poly, my head is telling me "no."

Wilderness Lodge

On paper, WL seems like a good next logical choice for us. It's close to MK, has more than one transportation option. However, the restaurants there don't seem too appealing (also no character dining), and the theming in the rooms makes my eyes sad. It also seems a little less "deluxe" than the others. Since we will be spending a fair amount of time at our resort and in our room (both for naptime and our "down" days that we have planned), having a visually appealing room is pretty important to me. So yeah, I've pretty much talked myself out of that option.

Contemporary

Transportation-wise, this seems the next best option to the Poly. I'm trading off the convenience to the TTC for the short walk to MK, which is a good trade. I LOVE the decor of the rooms, but I've read the rest of the resort feels a bit "sterile," and having a bit of theming is important to me. However, I do like the fact that there are some good dining options onsite (I know Chef Mickey's isn't "good" per se, but it is a character meal), and we can easily hop on the Monorail for dining visits to GF and Poly.

My main hesitation here is the pool. It just looks "blah," and we plan on visiting the pool likely once daily. What are everyone's thoughts on the CR pool?

Either way, CR is on the shortlist. Although Garden Wing is a definite "no."

Beach Club

So, while not a MK resort, we are planning on 2 days at Epcot and 1 day at HS. This seems like it could be pretty convenient for those 3 days, leaving only our 2 MK days as "bus" days.

Obviously, the pool there is amazing, and it's close to the fun stuff at Boardwalk, which is a big plus for my husband who gets really bored while the toddler and I are napping.

I do have a number of questions about BC, however.

How "easily walkable" is HS from BC? Or is the boat a better option? Multiple choices are so important to me

How far is it to walk to the Boardwalk area?

In additional to Cape May Cafe, I can find another character meal over at Swan, but I'm assuming that the DxDP isn't accepted there. Is this correct?

What is everyone's experience with the Sandcastle Club at BC?

I have read that the counter service restaurants at YC/BC get insanely busy. Is there overflow seating? I don't like carrying around trays of food in a futile effort to find a place to seat.

Is it possible to get the Monorail to MK from BC without passing through Epcot? We're not doing park hoppers. Or is the bus really our only option (we are not renting a car)?

So, I think that's it for now. Looks like a toss up between CR and BC.

Thanks again, everyone!

 

[AThrillingChase]

First of all, thank you to all for your helpful replies!

However, I'm just as indecisive now as I was before, now just with more options to be indecisive about!

I've absolutely ruled out AKL (as stated previously), GF (I just can't see myself enjoying myself there for some reason), YC and Boardwalk Inn.

Allow me to rationalize each of my short list choices, then all of you experts can again weigh in:

Poly

While this still remains my top choice, the threat of GCH, DVC, and pool closure would just be too disruptive for our enjoyment. Even if our longhouse wasn't affected, the GCH being torn up and/or the pool being unusable would be a real downer. Obviously, I will confirm the dates as they firm up, but with my luck, it just seems likely that something won't be as magical as I want. I know, on all other fronts, it meets my criteria, but my as much as my heart wants to say "yes" to the Poly, my head is telling me "no."

Wilderness Lodge

On paper, WL seems like a good next logical choice for us. It's close to MK, has more than one transportation option. However, the restaurants there don't seem too appealing (also no character dining), and the theming in the rooms makes my eyes sad. It also seems a little less "deluxe" than the others. Since we will be spending a fair amount of time at our resort and in our room (both for naptime and our "down" days that we have planned), having a visually appealing room is pretty important to me. So yeah, I've pretty much talked myself out of that option.

Contemporary

Transportation-wise, this seems the next best option to the Poly. I'm trading off the convenience to the TTC for the short walk to MK, which is a good trade. I LOVE the decor of the rooms, but I've read the rest of the resort feels a bit "sterile," and having a bit of theming is important to me. However, I do like the fact that there are some good dining options onsite (I know Chef Mickey's isn't "good" per se, but it is a character meal), and we can easily hop on the Monorail for dining visits to GF and Poly.

My main hesitation here is the pool. It just looks "blah," and we plan on visiting the pool likely once daily. What are everyone's thoughts on the CR pool?

Either way, CR is on the shortlist. Although Garden Wing is a definite "no."

Beach Club

So, while not a MK resort, we are planning on 2 days at Epcot and 1 day at HS. This seems like it could be pretty convenient for those 3 days, leaving only our 2 MK days as "bus" days.

Obviously, the pool there is amazing, and it's close to the fun stuff at Boardwalk, which is a big plus for my husband who gets really bored while the toddler and I are napping.

I do have a number of questions about BC, however.

How "easily walkable" is HS from BC? Or is the boat a better option? Multiple choices are so important to me

How far is it to walk to the Boardwalk area?

In additional to Cape May Cafe, I can find another character meal over at Swan, but I'm assuming that the DxDP isn't accepted there. Is this correct?

What is everyone's experience with the Sandcastle Club at BC?

I have read that the counter service restaurants at YC/BC get insanely busy. Is there overflow seating? I don't like carrying around trays of food in a futile effort to find a place to seat.

Is it possible to get the Monorail to MK from BC without passing through Epcot? We're not doing park hoppers. Or is the bus really our only option (we are not renting a car)?

So, I think that's it for now. Looks like a toss up between CR and BC.

Thanks again, everyone!

I can't comment on all of these, but, you mentioned some things to do for DH. I fear the CR would not have many onsite. It is fairly compact. The pool is pretty at night because it lights up...but that wont help during the day.

For BC, you are pretty much ON the boardwalk. There are also beachy areas. HS is probably a 15-20 min very pretty walk, EP 5. And you are close to Akershus! Not sure about the dining plan concerns. But, no monorail unless you go through EP. Also, both the BC and YC are stunning in person. Until an ADR at captains grille, I never would have chosen either over Poly. Now I am in love with YC

Also for what its worth, I am not a GF fan either. But, I really enjoyed the BWI. I would consider it more like a fancier version of BC.

 

[DznyCrzy11]

First of all, thank you to all for your helpful replies!

However, I'm just as indecisive now as I was before, now just with more options to be indecisive about!

I've absolutely ruled out AKL (as stated previously), GF (I just can't see myself enjoying myself there for some reason), YC and Boardwalk Inn.

Allow me to rationalize each of my short list choices, then all of you experts can again weigh in:

Poly

While this still remains my top choice, the threat of GCH, DVC, and pool closure would just be too disruptive for our enjoyment. Even if our longhouse wasn't affected, the GCH being torn up and/or the pool being unusable would be a real downer. Obviously, I will confirm the dates as they firm up, but with my luck, it just seems likely that something won't be as magical as I want. I know, on all other fronts, it meets my criteria, but my as much as my heart wants to say "yes" to the Poly, my head is telling me "no."

Wilderness Lodge

On paper, WL seems like a good next logical choice for us. It's close to MK, has more than one transportation option. However, the restaurants there don't seem too appealing (also no character dining), and the theming in the rooms makes my eyes sad. It also seems a little less "deluxe" than the others. Since we will be spending a fair amount of time at our resort and in our room (both for naptime and our "down" days that we have planned), having a visually appealing room is pretty important to me. So yeah, I've pretty much talked myself out of that option.

Contemporary

Transportation-wise, this seems the next best option to the Poly. I'm trading off the convenience to the TTC for the short walk to MK, which is a good trade. I LOVE the decor of the rooms, but I've read the rest of the resort feels a bit "sterile," and having a bit of theming is important to me. However, I do like the fact that there are some good dining options onsite (I know Chef Mickey's isn't "good" per se, but it is a character meal), and we can easily hop on the Monorail for dining visits to GF and Poly.

My main hesitation here is the pool. It just looks "blah," and we plan on visiting the pool likely once daily. What are everyone's thoughts on the CR pool?

Either way, CR is on the shortlist. Although Garden Wing is a definite "no."

Beach Club

So, while not a MK resort, we are planning on 2 days at Epcot and 1 day at HS. This seems like it could be pretty convenient for those 3 days, leaving only our 2 MK days as "bus" days.

Obviously, the pool there is amazing, and it's close to the fun stuff at Boardwalk, which is a big plus for my husband who gets really bored while the toddler and I are napping.

I do have a number of questions about BC, however.

How "easily walkable" is HS from BC? Or is the boat a better option? Multiple choices are so important to me

How far is it to walk to the Boardwalk area?

In additional to Cape May Cafe, I can find another character meal over at Swan, but I'm assuming that the DxDP isn't accepted there. Is this correct?

What is everyone's experience with the Sandcastle Club at BC?

I have read that the counter service restaurants at YC/BC get insanely busy. Is there overflow seating? I don't like carrying around trays of food in a futile effort to find a place to seat.

Is it possible to get the Monorail to MK from BC without passing through Epcot? We're not doing park hoppers. Or is the bus really our only option (we are not renting a car)?

So, I think that's it for now. Looks like a toss up between CR and BC.

Thanks again, everyone!

With the choice of CR or BC, if you plan on spending more time at MK then CR is the way to go. You can walk to MK or you can take the resort monorail all the way around back to the MK. The resort monorail goes from MK, to CR, to TTC, to Poly, to GF, and back to MK. If you stay at CR you can also just hop on the monorail if you have a breakfast reservation at Poly or GF. If you stay at BC, to get to MK you will always have to use the buses since you do not have PH.

I think for now, if you are really set on the Poly, I would book the Poly. There are no definite dates yet. If it gets closer and you find out that construction is well under way then you can change. Or, wait until you get there and if the GCH seems to be really impacted then you can request to be moved to another resort. If they are just working on the DVC, those are two buildings in one area of the resort so nothing else would be effected. It's when they start tearing out the pool area and renovating the GCH when you have to decide what works best for your family. Hope that helps!

 

[Robbi]

First of all, thank you to all for your helpful replies!

However, I'm just as indecisive now as I was before, now just with more options to be indecisive about!

I've absolutely ruled out AKL (as stated previously), GF (I just can't see myself enjoying myself there for some reason), YC and Boardwalk Inn.

Allow me to rationalize each of my short list choices, then all of you experts can again weigh in:

Poly

While this still remains my top choice, the threat of GCH, DVC, and pool closure would just be too disruptive for our enjoyment. Even if our longhouse wasn't affected, the GCH being torn up and/or the pool being unusable would be a real downer. Obviously, I will confirm the dates as they firm up, but with my luck, it just seems likely that something won't be as magical as I want. I know, on all other fronts, it meets my criteria, but my as much as my heart wants to say "yes" to the Poly, my head is telling me "no."

Wilderness Lodge

On paper, WL seems like a good next logical choice for us. It's close to MK, has more than one transportation option. However, the restaurants there don't seem too appealing (also no character dining), and the theming in the rooms makes my eyes sad. It also seems a little less "deluxe" than the others. Since we will be spending a fair amount of time at our resort and in our room (both for naptime and our "down" days that we have planned), having a visually appealing room is pretty important to me. So yeah, I've pretty much talked myself out of that option.

Contemporary

Transportation-wise, this seems the next best option to the Poly. I'm trading off the convenience to the TTC for the short walk to MK, which is a good trade. I LOVE the decor of the rooms, but I've read the rest of the resort feels a bit "sterile," and having a bit of theming is important to me. However, I do like the fact that there are some good dining options onsite (I know Chef Mickey's isn't "good" per se, but it is a character meal), and we can easily hop on the Monorail for dining visits to GF and Poly.

My main hesitation here is the pool. It just looks "blah," and we plan on visiting the pool likely once daily. What are everyone's thoughts on the CR pool?

Either way, CR is on the shortlist. Although Garden Wing is a definite "no."

Beach Club

So, while not a MK resort, we are planning on 2 days at Epcot and 1 day at HS. This seems like it could be pretty convenient for those 3 days, leaving only our 2 MK days as "bus" days.

Obviously, the pool there is amazing, and it's close to the fun stuff at Boardwalk, which is a big plus for my husband who gets really bored while the toddler and I are napping.

I do have a number of questions about BC, however.

How "easily walkable" is HS from BC? Or is the boat a better option? Multiple choices are so important to me

How far is it to walk to the Boardwalk area?

In additional to Cape May Cafe, I can find another character meal over at Swan, but I'm assuming that the DxDP isn't accepted there. Is this correct?

What is everyone's experience with the Sandcastle Club at BC?

I have read that the counter service restaurants at YC/BC get insanely busy. Is there overflow seating? I don't like carrying around trays of food in a futile effort to find a place to seat.

Is it possible to get the Monorail to MK from BC without passing through Epcot? We're not doing park hoppers. Or is the bus really our only option (we are not renting a car)?

So, I think that's it for now. Looks like a toss up between CR and BC.

Thanks again, everyone!

How "easily walkable" is HS from BC? Or is the boat a better option? Multiple choices are so important to me It's about a 20 minute walk. The boats are convenient if you don't like the walk.

How far is it to walk to the Boardwalk area?
The Boardwalk is right across the lake-1 minute walk from the BC.

In additional to Cape May Cafe, I can find another character meal over at Swan, but I'm assuming that the DxDP isn't accepted there. Is this correct?
The Swan will not accept the dining plan.

What is everyone's experience with the Sandcastle Club at BC?

Sorry, I have no expereince with this.

I have read that the counter service restaurants at YC/BC get insanely busy. Is there overflow seating? I don't like carrying around trays of food in a futile effort to find a place to seat.

BC Market Place is more of a grab n go but there are tables outside. We'd usually grab something quick for breakfast or pick up somethiing to take back to the room.

Is it possible to get the Monorail to MK from BC without passing through Epcot? We're not doing park hoppers. Or is the bus really our only option (we are not renting a car)?

No, it isn't.
We usually take a taxi to and from the BC to MK and AK. Sometimes, we take the bus back to the resort.

 

[hedberg1661]

As a BC frequent flier...I really love the character breakfast at Cape May Cafe. Good food plus the characters for children.

As far as transportation...take the boat to DHS. No need to walk..especially with a child. If you want to walk wait till later in the evening and walk over to the boardwalk for some treats.

Pool: The BC pool is the best pool on property hands down.

Location: This should be the deciding factor. If you plan on spending most of your time in MK than the Contemporary is your best choice (non garden wing). I just stayed there in July and the proximity to MK was great. You could monorail it over if you want a ride and have time to kill or you could take a short 5 minute walk and you are there. Also, if you plan on going to EC you can take the monorail there with a transfer at the TTC. However, in choosing CR you are stuck with buses to AK and DHS. 6 one way 1/2 dozen another. I personally would stay away from the Poly due to construction. I wouldn't want to risk it.

Hope this helps.

 

[hedberg1661]

One more thing...

If you decide on the BC you should consider upgrading to a Park Hopper.

Example: you spend your day at MK...decide you want to go eat somewhere for dinner once you return to the resort to freshen up...you can take the 2 minute walk to EC and walk around the world showcase...eat...relax and enjoy fireworks. Walk back to your room anytime you like. That flexibility is a wonderful thing. You could also do this from CR via Monorail so again if the numbers can align for you and you plan on eating well at some EC restaurants this is a value upgrade.

 

[Robbi]

If you decide on the CR, you won't be sorry as far as the rooms go, they're beautiful! Be careful with the bathroom lavatory though. Love the design but the shallow bowl leads to splashing-ask me how i know this!

 

[javail]

The more I read about Beach Club, the more I think it's the solution to my Poly conundrum.

However, that throws renting points for BCV into the mix to get a nice 1-bedroom.

Decisions, decisions!

 

[AThrillingChase]

The more I read about Beach Club, the more I think it's the solution to my Poly conundrum.

However, that throws renting points for BCV into the mix to get a nice 1-bedroom.

Decisions, decisions!

I actually think the villas look a bit dated . But the regular BC rooms look very comfy! I may just have a weird thing with comforters though...

 

[MARDUN]

BWV is our favorite. Love the BW area and the variety of activity. If you are going to spend most of your time at MK I would pick the Poly or possibly the new villas at the GF.

 

[Princess Katherine]

It sounds like Poly fits all of your criteria. If the construction is near you when your LO needs a nap, you can always request a different room/location. I've heard of people doing that.

If our little princess is still in nap zone when we go on our first trip with her, I definitely plan on staying at Poly. MK is the most magical park IMO especially for little kids. My friends 5-7 year olds were kind of bored at Epcot which convnived me that a monorail location is most ideal.

Another vote for Poly!

Katie

 

[herb102211]

I would go with the Beach Club! We’ve stayed there several times and it’s our favorite resort.

You can either walk or take the boat to Epcot and Hollywood Studios and if you have park hoppers , you can also take the monorail to MK from Epcot.

The Beach Club has a character breakfast at Cape May Café and we’ve always had great experiences there. In terms of other dining, there are a variety of restaurants within walking (or boat) distance at the Yacht Club, Boardwalk, or Swan & Dolphin if you didn’t want to venture over to Epcot or HS.

Also, Stormalong Bay, is one of the best pools at all of the WDW resorts. There is also a beach area with beach chairs that you can lounge on. I find the Beach Club to be a very family friendly resort.