(CLOSED) Disney's CONTEMPORARY RESORT and BAY LAKE TOWER INFORMATION THREAD

[DisneyBelle99]

Got California Grill for our day of arrival!

 

[Happyjen27]

So happy for all of your CG reservations!! Yay everyone!

My coworker secured hers this AM as well.

I'm skipping CG this time through, just can't figure out how to work it into the schedule. I can't wait to read the reviews on the new menu!!

 

[Disney Obsession]

I see conflicting information on the DisBoards, so I thought I would try and post something here. We are staying at BLT staring 9/23, and did not book through DVC points. I am trying to see if we are going to be eligible for Magic Bands. On MDE, I have the option to Manage the Magic Bands, but when I click on it, it notes that I have to link my Magic Bands or cards. However, I don't have any Magic Bands yet. I have not received an e-mail to be a tester, but I also see that a lot of other people have not either and will be getting bands at the resort.

So, my question is, is there anyone else staying at BLT around 9/23 that has Magic Bands or has been able to customize them? If so, please help!!!

 

[WisconsinDad]

Just returned from our trip to CR-GW Standard View and the whole family loved it! We were excited to get a ground floor room with a patio but we ended up never using it (being from WI the heat was a little much for us). Here are some of my thoughts/comments on our stay:

- We were MB testers and for the most part we really enjoyed it. However, if we weren't able to pull regular FP along with the FP+, the 3 allotted/day and one park/day would be VERY limiting. I expressed this concern (as I'm sure many have) to a CM when asked about what we thought of the MB's.

- We never felt like we weren't a part of everything being in the GW (haven't stayed in the tower though so I have no basis of comparison). Our last stay was at CSR though so even if we were at the furthest edge of the GW we would have still felt close to everything.

- We did have a working fridge in our room. I noticed by the dumpster area there were dozens of fridges piled up so I'm guessing they're making good progress on this.

- Both DS12 and DD9 found the Daybed to be comfortable; they actually argued about who would get to sleep in it

- We were on the DDP so we all received mugs. Unfortunately, CR is on the "Rapid Fill" program yet so we were stuck with the limited colors of black, blue, and pink. I asked about when they would get that and they didn't know.

- Not necessarily related to CR but we did the FP for BOG lunch and that was one of the highlights of our trip (especially DD9). If you get the chance and are planning an upcoming trip, I would highly recommend it. Just in case you're wondering, we were never really invited to participate in it. I just read about it here and signed up using this link. Also, this FP doesn't go against the FP+ allotted for rides:

https://beourguestlunch.disney.go.com/Login.aspx


All in all, we had a great trip and I wouldn't hesitate to stay there again (although we'll probably try a new resort on our next trip because we're like that). Thanks to everyone in this forum for all of the info you've provided.

 

[princessap]

Wisconsin dad...thanks for the review...we are debating GW for our next trip and I have been putting it to the bottom of the list from everyone complaining about how they didnt feel part of the action in the garden wing?!?!

Was it still convenient for refillable mugs and dining??

How long did it take to walk to MK??

thanks

 

[disneynanacat]

Yes, the other hot choices are hot chocolate and tea bags with hot water.

That's good to hear! Just need to remember to put the mug with my clothes the night before for when I'm dressing in the dark. I also see they can add a shot of Kahlua to your coffee for ya!

 

[trishadono]

wdwkook, where in your opinion is the best Mk view in the tower? I see two CL areas? is there a difference? Thx!

Looks like KOOK is busy so here it goes:

Atrium club is on the 12th floor. There are only regular rooms on this floor. 2 q's with a daybed or a king with a daybed. King only available upon request(not bookable).

Bookable views are standard , which is bay lake side or MKV which of course is side with view of castle.

The lounge is on side of MKV so if have lake view you can still enjoy the view of MK and fireworks etc from lounge.

14th floor is where the one and two bedroom suites are. There are some regular rooms on this floor but they are used mostly for connecting with suites with large groups. You can request to be up on this level but hard to get. (People like the big balcony on this level)


I have stayed MkV atrium club and loved it. I would recommend to anyone

Also we were on end closer to convention center and I liked this spot because good view of poly and GF!

 

[WDWKOOK]

wdwkook, where in your opinion is the best Mk view in the tower? I see two CL areas? is there a difference? Thx!

Just adding that all the Tower TPV rooms have great views of the MK. Also, the Tower Club level which is on the 14th floor, does not have a view to the 4th floor Concourse below, but the 12th floor does.

I see conflicting information on the DisBoards, so I thought I would try and post something here. We are staying at BLT staring 9/23, and did not book through DVC points. I am trying to see if we are going to be eligible for Magic Bands. On MDE, I have the option to Manage the Magic Bands, but when I click on it, it notes that I have to link my Magic Bands or cards. However, I don't have any Magic Bands yet. I have not received an e-mail to be a tester, but I also see that a lot of other people have not either and will be getting bands at the resort.

So, my question is, is there anyone else staying at BLT around 9/23 that has Magic Bands or has been able to customize them? If so, please help!!!

I posted MB testing information here last week and as of then, BLT isn't included in the beta testing phase. However, the testing schedule for next month and beyond hasn't been released yet so there's still a chance you might get one.

Just returned from our trip to CR-GW Standard View and the whole family loved it! We were excited to get a ground floor room with a patio but we ended up never using it (being from WI the heat was a little much for us). Here are some of my thoughts/comments on our stay:

- We were MB testers and for the most part we really enjoyed it. However, if we weren't able to pull regular FP along with the FP+, the 3 allotted/day and one park/day would be VERY limiting. I expressed this concern (as I'm sure many have) to a CM when asked about what we thought of the MB's.

- We never felt like we weren't a part of everything being in the GW (haven't stayed in the tower though so I have no basis of comparison). Our last stay was at CSR though so even if we were at the furthest edge of the GW we would have still felt close to everything.

- We did have a working fridge in our room. I noticed by the dumpster area there were dozens of fridges piled up so I'm guessing they're making good progress on this.

- Both DS12 and DD9 found the Daybed to be comfortable; they actually argued about who would get to sleep in it

- We were on the DDP so we all received mugs. Unfortunately, CR is on the "Rapid Fill" program yet so we were stuck with the limited colors of black, blue, and pink. I asked about when they would get that and they didn't know.

- Not necessarily related to CR but we did the FP for BOG lunch and that was one of the highlights of our trip (especially DD9). If you get the chance and are planning an upcoming trip, I would highly recommend it. Just in case you're wondering, we were never really invited to participate in it. I just read about it here and signed up using this link. Also, this FP doesn't go against the FP+ allotted for rides:

https://beourguestlunch.disney.go.com/Login.aspx


All in all, we had a great trip and I wouldn't hesitate to stay there again (although we'll probably try a new resort on our next trip because we're like that). Thanks to everyone in this forum for all of the info you've provided.

Great information for everyone and thank you for posting your thoughts. We did the BoG FP and couldn't believe that the wait would have been over 40 minutes without it. We did find the entry/order/seating process a bit confusing though.

Looks like KOOK is busy so here it goes:

Atrium club is on the 12th floor. There are only regular rooms on this floor. 2 q's with a daybed or a king with a daybed. King only available upon request(not bookable).

Bookable views are standard , which is bay lake side or MKV which of course is side with view of castle.

The lounge is on side of MKV so if have lake view you can still enjoy the view of MK and fireworks etc from lounge.

14th floor is where the one and two bedroom suites are. There are some regular rooms on this floor but they are used mostly for connecting with suites with large groups. You can request to be up on this level but hard to get. (People like the big balcony on this level)


I have stayed MkV atrium club and loved it. I would recommend to anyone

Also we were on end closer to convention center and I liked this spot because good view of poly and GF!

KOOK was busy so thank you!!

 

[CaliforniaDreaming]

CA Grill ADRs are in fact up and running as of about 0555 today! I Was able to get several ADRs (which I will, of course, cancel the excess as soon as the family decide on THE one). Got Christmas Day and Christmas Eve - no glitches, no error messages, no delays - this is so not like Disney​

Congrats on getting the reservations! We were online at the same time, I got a 7pm for next month. I'm very much looking forward to returning to my favorite WDW restaurant! We are at BWV this time; I'm sure it'll be tough looking over at BLT with such fond memories of our June trip!​

 

[trishadono]

Just adding that all the Tower TPV rooms have great views of the MK. Also, the Tower Club level which is on the 14th floor, does not have a view to the 4th floor Concourse below, but the 12th floor does.


I posted MB testing information here last week and as of then, BLT isn't included in the beta testing phase. However, the testing schedule for next month and beyond hasn't been released yet so there's still a chance you might get one.


Great information for everyone and thank you for posting your thoughts. We did the BoG FP and couldn't believe that the wait would have been over 40 minutes without it. We did find the entry/order/seating process a bit confusing though.


KOOK was busy so thank you!!

Always have my fav dis'ers backs !

 

[heathere3]

Just returned from our trip to CR-GW Standard View and the whole family loved it! We were excited to get a ground floor room with a patio but we ended up never using it (being from WI the heat was a little much for us). Here are some of my thoughts/comments on our stay:

- We were MB testers and for the most part we really enjoyed it. However, if we weren't able to pull regular FP along with the FP+, the 3 allotted/day and one park/day would be VERY limiting. I expressed this concern (as I'm sure many have) to a CM when asked about what we thought of the MB's.

- We never felt like we weren't a part of everything being in the GW (haven't stayed in the tower though so I have no basis of comparison). Our last stay was at CSR though so even if we were at the furthest edge of the GW we would have still felt close to everything.

- We did have a working fridge in our room. I noticed by the dumpster area there were dozens of fridges piled up so I'm guessing they're making good progress on this.

- Both DS12 and DD9 found the Daybed to be comfortable; they actually argued about who would get to sleep in it

- We were on the DDP so we all received mugs. Unfortunately, CR is on the "Rapid Fill" program yet so we were stuck with the limited colors of black, blue, and pink. I asked about when they would get that and they didn't know.

- Not necessarily related to CR but we did the FP for BOG lunch and that was one of the highlights of our trip (especially DD9). If you get the chance and are planning an upcoming trip, I would highly recommend it. Just in case you're wondering, we were never really invited to participate in it. I just read about it here and signed up using this link. Also, this FP doesn't go against the FP+ allotted for rides:

https://beourguestlunch.disney.go.com/Login.aspx

All in all, we had a great trip and I wouldn't hesitate to stay there again (although we'll probably try a new resort on our next trip because we're like that). Thanks to everyone in this forum for all of the info you've provided.

Out of curiosity: how did you manage to sign in? I sign in and it then asks for my reservation number, but won't allow letters, then says my reservation number isn't valid without them

 

[WisconsinDad]

Out of curiosity: how did you manage to sign in? I sign in and it then asks for my reservation number, but won't allow letters, then says my reservation number isn't valid without them

I was able to sign on using my DME confirmation number (we initially had the same issue as you). Not sure what you could use if you're not using DME.

 

[Dancegrl624]

Out of curiosity: how did you manage to sign in? I sign in and it then asks for my reservation number, but won't allow letters, then says my reservation number isn't valid without them

Did you sign up for Magic Bands? If you look up your Magic Bands, there is a 12 digit confirmation number. That is what I used for the BOG fast pass.

 

[heathere3]

I was able to sign on using my DME confirmation number (we initially had the same issue as you). Not sure what you could use if you're not using DME.

WOHOOOOOOO! Thank you so much! That worked
BOG on Sept 25th, here we come!

 

[WisconsinDad]

Wisconsin dad...thanks for the review...we are debating GW for our next trip and I have been putting it to the bottom of the list from everyone complaining about how they didnt feel part of the action in the garden wing?!?!

Was it still convenient for refillable mugs and dining??

How long did it take to walk to MK??

thanks

I still found it convenient for the mugs and dining. Like I said though my only basis of comparison is CSR which is very spread out. If you look at other Disney resorts (including other deluxes) the CR is pretty compact even if you're in the GW. One thing I should point out is that the walkway from the GW to the tower is completely covered so rain was never an issue.

As far as being part of the action, we spent so much time in the tower (for dining, watching Wishes on the observation deck, people watching, etc.) we still felt like we were a part of everything. Of course we've never stayed in the tower before so we didn't really know what we were missing.

As far as the walk to MK, we weren't close to the tower and it took us about ten minutes at a relatively slow pace. I'm guessing it is about 1/2 mile. With the exception of the night we stayed in MK to watch Wishes, we always took the monorail back.

 

[WisconsinDad]

WOHOOOOOOO! Thank you so much! That worked
BOG on Sept 25th, here we come!

Glad to hear it worked for you! Did you order your food already? Someone recommended we do it and we are so glad we did. It allows you to bypass the ordering lines and go straight to you table once you check in. I almost felt bad walking past everyone standing in line.

 

[Irishlisa]

I was able to sign on using my DME confirmation number (we initially had the same issue as you). Not sure what you could use if you're not using DME.

It won't work for me

 

[Dancegrl624]

It won't work for me

Try your Magic Band number. I don't have a DME number, but my Magic Band number worked.

 

[princessap]

I still found it convenient for the mugs and dining. Like I said though my only basis of comparison is CSR which is very spread out. If you look at other Disney resorts (including other deluxes) the CR is pretty compact even if you're in the GW. One thing I should point out is that the walkway from the GW to the tower is completely covered so rain was never an issue.

As far as being part of the action, we spent so much time in the tower (for dining, watching Wishes on the observation deck, people watching, etc.) we still felt like we were a part of everything. Of course we've never stayed in the tower before so we didn't really know what we were missing.

As far as the walk to MK, we weren't close to the tower and it took us about ten minutes at a relatively slow pace. I'm guessing it is about 1/2 mile. With the exception of the night we stayed in MK to watch Wishes, we always took the monorail back.

Thank you for answering my questions! I like the price and convenience of the GW rooms but the lack of theming and not an exciting pool area for my kids keeps me from booking there?!

It is between GF and CR (if poly didnt have construction planned my plan was a split stay with poly first and tpv at CR to end the trip!)

 

[heathere3]

Glad to hear it worked for you! Did you order your food already? Someone recommended we do it and we are so glad we did. It allows you to bypass the ordering lines and go straight to you table once you check in. I almost felt bad walking past everyone standing in line.

I'd love to, but I have food allergies. So it'll have to be decided much closer to, and based on updated ingredient lists . I'm actually tempted not to do that at all and see how they are handling the food allergies in this situation. WDW in general are fabulous about it!