AK vs. CBR

[bmdq89]

We are a family of five, including a toddler, going to Disney in February. We booked for CBR, hoping the Skyliner would be nice for our two days to HS. But it seems AK Lodge now has rooms that aren't that much more expensive. So it really just comes down to travel. How long will it take us to get from CBR to the parks? How long will it take from AK?

One of the big things is that my wife and our toddler will probably have to go back mid-day for naps and then come back to the park. So I want it to be as easy as can be for them. Thanks!

 

[GBRforWDW]

We've stayed in both and really liked them both for different reasons. However both have a great laid back feel to them and we really enjoy that on vacation.

How long is your trip? Are you planning a resort day in the middle? If more than 5 nights, would you be interested in a split stay? In January, we stayed at Art of Animation for 4 nights. We went to HS, Epcot and HS, then on our room switch day, went to Animal Kingdom and Magic Kingdom the following day. It was a great experience and having the skyliner for the mid day break was excellent. However, end of night isn't always that great, but the line moves faster than you'd think.

If I had to do only 1 though and the price was close enough, I'd probably go with Animal Kingdom. Having the deck to go sit outside and watch the wildlife is really cool and a nice way to start the day.

 

[Cheburashka]

I recommend AKL. It's beautiful and peaceful, and when I've been there bus waits have been the same as at any other resort.

With a toddler, I don't recommend a split stay. Just too much hassle imo. Find somewhere you want to stay & settle in.

 

[Navychica]

Recently had the same conundrum, and opted for CBR. Epcot is our favorite park, and easy transportation there is key. They’re one of the few resorts that has a playground to let the kids burn off steam and run wild. And my 4 year old is currently terrified of animals (a petting zoo had her in tears!) and I figure an expensive trip is not the time to worry about easing her out of that!

 

[Sue M]

With a family of 5 I wouldn’t do split stay. CBR is more centrally located and just takes minutes to Epcot and HS. But it’s a big resort with many separate buildings.
The bigger advantage IMO is that AK is under one roof. You don’t have to go walk outside 15 min to get to food court. Everything is just an elevator ride away. Great food options. Big food court. And 2 full service restaurants, plus Saana on the DVC side. A balcony to sit and relax while the kids are getting to sleep.
I‘m not a park commando and most of the time enjoy an afternoon break back at the resort then return to the parks refreshed later. And everyone feels better! I had no problem doing that at AK.