Best Resort hopping tips

[nab486]

Hi all,

We are going to be in "the world" next week for a quickly planned trip. We are not doing any of the parks, just a resort and water park trip. I have reservations at Boma, we're doing the Polynesian Luau, and Mickeys Back Yard Bar B Q...... OH and the Wishes cruise.. ( I can't believe I was able to book all of those this close)

Anyway, any other resort touring ideas? things that are fun to do to see the different resorts? We've thought about bike rentals.... which hotel has the best options for that? Also what is there to do at Fort Wilderness that is fun..... since we are going for the Bar B Q maybe we should do some of their fun things while we are over there.

Also, what are your thoughts on driving to the resorts vs. doing disney transportation? We are staying at the Swan. thanks

 

[RumpleMom]

We always consider not having to drive on vacation a bonus. We enjoy using WDW transportation and think of getting between places as part of the adventure. The kids have always enjoyed riding the monorail and playing at the Lego store at DTD.

 

[madalex]

Since you will be at the Swan, surrey bike rentals on the Boardwalk and/or water mice rentals from the YC marina would be both fun and very convenient to where you are staying.

 

[katiemegcz]

We always make sure to schedule at least 3 days before we get our park passes to resort hop. Since you are at the Swan, definitely do the surrey bikes at the Boardwalk. We have done the Boardwalk bikes, and POR bikes, and the Boardwalk wins hands-down. We ahve always had a great time just peeking into the shops along the Boardwalk, and watching Illuminations from a table by the lake. The Backyard Barbecue was by far the best character meet and greet we've done with our kids. They had lots of time, and entertainment too.

We always like to go to the Poly to watch the fireworks from beach hammocks (some Pina Coladas don't hurt either). If you aren't doing the Luau, O'Hana is a great dining experience, and we have never had trouble getting a seat. Eat, then relax on the beach for awhile.

We also like to take the boats from one resort to another...you can go to the Wilderness Lodge to see Old Faithful erupt. If you want a fun-filled dinner, Whispering Canyon is a favorite of our kids, even though there are no characters. The boats from POR to Downtown Disney are nice too.

As for Disney Transportation vs. drive, I would definitely say drive. Take Disney transportation (Monorail and boats) between the Magic Kingdom Resorts. Take a car for the rest. The buses are nightmares, especially with small children. We've done both, and never regretted the extra cost of a rental car once we tried the hot, overcrowded buses after a long day in the sun.

Have a great trip!!

 

[Dana49]

Try the "Monorail Lounge Tour" for a nice evening experience.

"The Outer Rim" – 4th floor Concourse - try the baked Brie platter (cooked at the nearby Concourse Steakhouse) and the chicken wings.

"Tambu Lounge" - there isn't a huge selection of appetizers, but they do have sticky wings, spring rolls, and mango salsa with chips. Try a “Lapu-Lapu.”

"Mizner's" - One of the most beautiful lounges at Walt Disney World. It's on the second floor, overlooking the common areas, and is bordered by bay windows. It has a great wine list, and you can listen to the Grand Floridian Orchestra playing just a few feet away.

 

[uncle al]

I didn't see if you hve children with you - but we always enjoy the karoke bar in the swan (or maybe it's the Dolphin). We don't sing - usually - we have on one ocassion (under great pressure and under protest) - the place always seems to be full of folks who are signing though and it is FUNNY!

Also, you might try a cruise on Breathless at the Yacht Club marina - it is alot of fun.

Have fun!!!!

 

[johnsonet]

Originally posted by Dana49
Try the "Monorail Lounge Tour" for a nice evening experience.

"The Outer Rim" – 4th floor Concourse - try the baked Brie platter (cooked at the nearby Concourse Steakhouse) and the chicken wings.

"Tambu Lounge" - there isn't a huge selection of appetizers, but they do have sticky wings, spring rolls, and mango salsa with chips. Try a “Lapu-Lapu.”

"Mizner's" - One of the most beautiful lounges at Walt Disney World. It's on the second floor, overlooking the common areas, and is bordered by bay windows. It has a great wine list, and you can listen to the Grand Floridian Orchestra playing just a few feet away.

DSIL and I are taking our girls to the Mouseketeer Club at the GF one night and doing the "Monorail Lounge 'Crawl'" We CANNOT wait! It's been 10 years since I've had an adult night-out in the World

 

[nab486]

WOW what great replies..... thanks for the ideas....

We do have kids with us, but they aren't small (10,15, and 17) but I think the boardwalk bikes sound awesome... I didn't realize they did bikes there!

We leave in one week, I am getting excited! This is going to be a resort/eating trp much less ..... activity .... than the parks but I am really in the mood for a relaxing trip so it should be great. woo hoo

 

[Mr.Peanut]

your not alowed to pool hop! don't do that or theyll kick you out! i'm warning you!

 

[ellie&mattys mom]

yep us too...we are going to use up our plussess and go to some great restaurants....and downtown disney...

please let me know what else you decide to do!!

 

[Dana49]

johnsonet:
Have a great time on the "Crawl Tour." Tell them that I'll be there in December! Enjoy!

 

[nab486]

Thanks for all the ideas! I am really psyched about going this time, it should be sooo relaxing. I can't believe how hot it is here in SC .... I am kind've glad to not be in the parks in this heat.

I will let you guys know how a non-park trip hits me.... we have never done it this way before.