Just got back from my trip. First one in a while, and thought I should share some of my thoughts:
Pros:
Overall, it was a good, short trip. It's definitely not what it used to be, and I honestly enjoyed the resorts more than the parks. Whenever the next trip is, we'll probably be better prepared and have adjusted expectations. I'm probably not the only one who feels this way, but I just miss the "old days" of not everything being dictated by pre-scheduling everything, from dinning to rides to transportation. That is my main criticism of modern day Disney World, but at the resorts, everything was fantastic and is what really made the trip.
Pros:
- LOVED Coronado Springs. I got a relatively good discount for a Tower room that faced the front parking lot, with views of Tower of Terror, Spaceship Earth, and Blizzard Beach. It was one of the cleanest hotel rooms I've ever stayed in and the beds were good. I loved the vibe of the resort and the food was solid. Rix was nothing special but still very tasty, loved Three Bridges, and the quick service was great for breakfast.
- I didn't miss having a non-bus option like I thought I would. Coronado was super close to everything both by car/Uber and with Disney transportation. I loved the locations as it felt almost dead center to all the parks.
- I also did some resort hopping at MK. GF was my favorite, then Contemporary, then Polynesian. Maybe it was the time of day, but the Poly was just a madhouse and we didn't find it very relaxing. I loved my cocktail from the lobby bar, and then Steakhouse 71 and GF Cafe were both excellent. The fireworks from the GF were cool to see, though I actually would have preferred to not have the music blaring. If I want the music, I'll go to the parks, but I understand I'm probably the minority.
- I almost hate to say it, but Epcot was extremely disappointing. Massive crowds, super hot, not a ton of rides, and the parks now feel like everything has to planned out to a tee. Bad planning on our part? Perhaps, but didn't like having to on a schedule for nearly everything, all while navigating crowds and long lines.
- While the food was good, the service was usually pretty slow. Nit picky, but again going back to the planning things to death note, it doesn't make it easier.
Overall, it was a good, short trip. It's definitely not what it used to be, and I honestly enjoyed the resorts more than the parks. Whenever the next trip is, we'll probably be better prepared and have adjusted expectations. I'm probably not the only one who feels this way, but I just miss the "old days" of not everything being dictated by pre-scheduling everything, from dinning to rides to transportation. That is my main criticism of modern day Disney World, but at the resorts, everything was fantastic and is what really made the trip.
