Grand Floridian vs. Wilderness Lodge in December - Holiday Music, Trains, Decorations

[DisneyFamily123]

Please tell me more about Wilderness Lodge in December. We saw the Christmas tree and lobby decorations in 2008 but would like to know more. Is there any lobby music - singers, orchestra, piano, etc.? What are the trains like? What special activities are there?

Thinking about a switch to WL.... would save $730 for our 10 day trip and might like the theme better... but I was looking forward to the orchestra and piano player at Grand Floridian (we would still visit for 2 dinners at the GF).

Thank you!
DH, DW, DS4

[ciera321]

Keep in mind the GF will be jammed with visitors there to look around and see the decorations and gingerbread house, at least it was when we were there. It might be a little too busy to really enjoy listening to the music. As for extra activities, the only one I'm aware of is a sleigh ride from Ft. Wilderness, which is a short walk.

[CR Resort Fan 4 Life]

Also keep in mind that the Grand Floridian has access to the Resort Monorail and I am not sure that's something I would want to give up. As for the extra visitors to the Grand Floridian during that time of year, they usually come during the evening and they might have ADR's scheduled. However which resort during the holiday season doesn't have more visitors to come and look around at the decorations and etc.

[Disbug1]

I actually have The Grand Floridan booked for 2 weeks over Christmas & Newyear but i have concerns about how busy the resort will be with visitor's coming to view the decorations & i am seriously considering switching to WL or AKL..I stay at The GF twice a year but have never stayed for Christmas,,But it is becoming less appealing to me to be staying there over the holidays,,I don't mind not being on the monorail,Just feel that either WL or AKL will be more relaxing & yes have stayed at them both multiple times too..

Good Luck with your decison

[Bride In The Attic]

I think the GF and WL are two totally different Christmas experiences. The GF has a beautiful, Victorian Christmas feel...very elegant with beautiful music...just magical. Equally as magical but in a different way is the WL....more of a rustic, charming Christmas. They do play Christmas music in the lobby (although no live singers that I've seen) and have a roaring fire going in their fireplace. It's a wonderful place to spend an evening, rocking in the rocking chairs.

I think both are equally "Disneyized" at Christmas....it really just depends on what you are looking for and how much being in the monorail means to you. Also, as I'm sure you know, the GF is a more upscale resort overall with larger rooms.

I don't think you can go wrong with either!