We stayed at the Nick a few years back when it had just opened. Drove up from Naples for a few days of fun before the holidays. Did not go to any parks during the day, as we were there just for the Nick's pool and have been to all the parks many times. But we did do Dowtown disney at night to get our "Disney fix" in. DD's were around 8 yrs. old and loved it. It was a few days before Christmas and cold 60 degrees but they loved the pools anyway. The entire pool area had Christmas-y music being played which made it more festive. Ask for the bldg. near the "Mall" to be closer to the food court. The rooms have a fridge and microwave (some even have a kitchen). We went to the Publix and bought lunch food so we didn't have to leave the pool area for lunch. Made the sandwiches in the room and ate at the poolside tables. We brought with us little packets of mayo, mustard, etc. that I've collected - makes it easier than buying condiments just to make a quick sandwich! Brought microwave popcorn from home too.
The hotel has great themes and is best for the under 12 age group. Shows and activities are fun but the pool and slide area is best. DD had her hair braided and they were both in a pool slime show.
We had 3 room suite, one king bedroom w/tv, 2nd bedroom with bunk beds and tv, living rom wtv/ and kitchennete. The rooms are designed after a Nick character and it's fun to be surprised when you open the door to see what character your room is. The rom was perfect for 4 of us, but could squeeze in 2 more, although only 1 bathroom. It's close to everything and has a shuttle to the parks.
The food in the mall was ok, typical for the area. If you have litle ones, this place is awesome, but beware of the December weather. When will someone build a hotel with an "Indoor water park"???
Have fun.
