Animal Kingdom vs Wilderness Lodge for Toddlers?

[LilGMom]

We've stayed at both and our family prefers WL. The last time we stayed at one of the other resorts my five yr. old said "Why didn't we stay at the log place?". They both have their pros and cons.

AKL
Pros: If you get a Savannah view room you have the possibility of seeing animals
Beautiful resort
Love the music that you can hear while sitting on the balcony

Cons: You have to rely on the buses 100% if you don't have a car
If you buy a balloon you may be asked to leave it at the front desk (can't have straws or balloons due to the animals)

WL:
Whispering Canyon is a great place to eat and fun
Can take a boat to MK
Hop from said boat to Epcot
Beautiful resort
Did I mention WC?

Cons:
Roaring Forks isn't the biggest, even after the rehab, but it does flow better now

Good luck deciding. You really can't go wrong with either one.

 

[kaysmommie]

We stayed at the AK in 2002 with a 3 year old and 10 year old. It was beautiful, peaceful, and we loved it...However my husband just reminded me that the pool is not very toddler friendly, if that is an issue for you.

I also think the pool is very toddler friendly, as it's zero entry and has a kiddie pool too. WL is not zero entry but they also have a kiddie. WL pool area is also more crowded. I think since you seem to think you will like AKL then stay there. My brother and his family are staying there for thier first family trip. I have stayed at WL twice and it is nice being close to MK but the boat is not very fast and usually you have to pick up and drop off at FT. wilderness too. For everything else you take a bus. I would not make my decision based on transportation.

We went to AKL to eat last trip and it is incredible! I have only stayed at MK resorts but would not hesitate to stay here. The pool area is nice and the restaurants are good too. The lobby is gorgeous and they have kids activities everyday. My DH is not into animals or we would be staying here next trip with my brothers family. He would rather stay at the hotel then go to AK at all . I don't get it because me and the kids love animals.

 

[IWISHFORDISNEY]

We stayed at AKL twice with our son at 18mo and 23mo. Both trips were wonderful and the pool is great for toddlers. Zero entry and right next to the playground so mom and dad could enjoy the hot tub while he played. They had alot of cool ativites for the kids and "big" kids alike. The bus service was excellent. Never had to wait more than 10min for a bus and no other stops because here is the biggie....they dont share a bus with other resorts. AKL is a great choice IMO

 

[castleeto]

My 2 1/2 yr old LOVED the pool at AKL. The kiddie pool was great, and although there aren't any steps, the zero depth entry was perfect because she could wade in just as far as she felt comfortable. It's also fun to have the animals nearby.