Best lobby/public spaces between these resorts. . .

[gzmtlock]

Quick, 2-night solo trip next June, following a convention in Orlando. We own at AKL and love, love, love the lobby, pool and public spaces at Jambo, the pool at Kidani, and restaurants at both. The Jambo lobby is for more than simply holding people while they wait for a room. Other areas at Jambo are made for relaxing. The restaurants are creative and provide a lot of options. And both pools have sunny and shady areas and are wonderfully themed.

I'm looking to try something new. I travel a lot for business, really don't like spending extended time in the hotel room. This will be a resort-only stay, and likely without a car. I won't be eating in the room except for breakfast, and I love all kinds of cuisines.

I'm considering Riviera, Copper Creek, Beach Club, and Poly. Of the four, have only stayed at Wilderness Lodge, pre-DVC, 10+ years ago and club level. My 7-month window opens soon. Given my interests, what would you suggest, and why?

TIA!

 

[CarolynFH]

If you love the Jambo lobby, you’ll probably enjoy the lobby at Wilderness Lodge (CCV). OTOH BC’s lobby is very nice, and you’d be walking distance to all the restaurants at Yacht & Beach, Swan & Dolphin, and the Boardwalk.

 

[Sandisw]

RiVs lobby is small and not a place to hang out. They di have the really cute library room off the lobby but it’s not going to hold a candle to Jambo.

Now, as long as it isn’t raining, we love sitting out at the waters edge with coffee in the mornings or drinks ar night.

And the pool areas have some nice outdoor furniture to hang out on

But, Grand, Poly and Wilderness Lodge are going to be much more appealing.

 

[crvetter]

No question I’d say CCV. It has probably has the most chill resort activity and spaces to hang out. Of the lobby there are so many nooks to sit, the others you suggested just don’t have that. It also won’t be fun with the day guests at VGF or PVB to hang out in public spaces.

Also CCV has a direct bus to FW and the boat to FW, MK, and CR all as great options for exploring/eating. Plus PVB and VGF isn’t too bad to get to.

 

[Maistre Gracey]

Without question Wilderness Lodge. It’s stunning.

Several years back, before the major downgrade, Poly would also have had an honorable mention…. But no longer.

 

[Hubalorian]

CCV given your preferences

 

[gzmtlock]

Great info, thanks everyone! I thought I really wanted to try RIV, but I don't like FL summer heat, and at the end of June, that's likely what I'll have. So the appeal of their outdoor spaces is risky for this trip.

Looks like it's CCV! Haven't stayed there in over 15 years - it's exciting to be returning!!

 

[muppets3d]

Beach Club's lobby is small (not as small as Riviera's) but it has a lot of nice places to hang out inside, like the drawing room. When we stay there that's where we wait for our transportation if we are hiring a Uber or something.

Since you're staying at Copper Creek, make sure to walk over to Boulder Ridge and check out the train room!

 

[zackiedawg]

While the lobby may not be large and soaring, I'd personally consider Beach Club for a resort only stay, if part of your mission is to have a lot of access to restaurants, bars, and other resorts.

The Epcot resort area is great for options - you have the restaurants, bars, lobbies, and lounges of Beach Club, Yacht Club, Boardwalk, Swan, Swan Reserve, and Dolphin all walkable, plus Riviera and Caribbean Beach via Skyliner.

Copper Creek and Poly have some access to other restaurants and resorts, though not easily walkable (GF would be easy) unless you're really into walking...but you have boats and monorails you can use to get to the other MK resorts.