BWI or CSR

[TheSouthernBelle]

So with the Visa FD offer, we're looking at either BWI or CSR; never stayed at BWI and haven't stayed at CSR since the renovations. We're leaning towards BWI as it's been on our bucket list for a while. Both resorts are standard rooms, no tower room for CSR for the free dining promo. We are eaters so we know we'd benefit from the DDP that comes w/ the stay at BWI as opposed to the QS plan for CSR but would be interested to hear others views and feedback on what you'd choose. Trip is 5 day/4nights, we are a family of 4, our girls are 12 and 10 and we've been to WDW a bunch just never stayed at either of these resorts as a family. We plan to visit all the parks but may skip DHS as we were just there but we'll have hoppers so not really sure. Price difference is roughly $1K. Few questions-

How are the buses from these resorts?
How is the boat/walk from BWI to Epcot?
Only other deluxe we've stayed at is AKL, how does BWI compare to AKL from a deluxe vs deluxe perspective?
Any tips on room requests for standards at either resort? TIA

 

[nkereina]

This is for August, right? I briefly saw something about a Visa FD offer but haven't been paying attention.

Anyway, assuming August is correct, my vote would go to BWI. August will be shortly after the new tower and restaurant opens at CSR, and it remains to be seen how the additional occupancy will impact the resort. I suspect there will still be kinks to work out during that time.

The ability to walk or boat to two of four parks from BWI is a huge benefit, IMO. You'll want that convenience for mid-day breaks in the August heat and rain storms. CSR is centrally located and we've had good bus experiences there, but nothing compares to the close proximity of BWI.

Compared to AKL, we think BWI is the same in terms of beauty and detail. But location is far superior at BWI.

 

[TheSouthernBelle]

This is for August, right? I briefly saw something about a Visa FD offer but haven't been paying attention.

Anyway, assuming August is correct, my vote would go to BWI. August will be shortly after the new tower and restaurant opens at CSR, and it remains to be seen how the additional occupancy will impact the resort. I suspect there will still be kinks to work out during that time.

The ability to walk or boat to two of four parks from BWI is a huge benefit, IMO. You'll want that convenience for mid-day breaks in the August heat and rain storms. CSR is centrally located and we've had good bus experiences there, but nothing compares to the close proximity of BWI.

Compared to AKL, we think BWI is the same in terms of beauty and detail. But location is far superior at BWI.

Yes, trip is in August. I was thinking the location would be the deciding factor for us as well. Thank you!

 

[mickeynut1]

So with the Visa FD offer, we're looking at either BWI or CSR; never stayed at BWI and haven't stayed at CSR since the renovations. We're leaning towards BWI as it's been on our bucket list for a while. Both resorts are standard rooms, no tower room for CSR for the free dining promo. We are eaters so we know we'd benefit from the DDP that comes w/ the stay at BWI as opposed to the QS plan for CSR but would be interested to hear others views and feedback on what you'd choose. Trip is 5 day/4nights, we are a family of 4, our girls are 12 and 10 and we've been to WDW a bunch just never stayed at either of these resorts as a family. We plan to visit all the parks but may skip DHS as we were just there but we'll have hoppers so not really sure. Price difference is roughly $1K. Few questions-

How are the buses from these resorts?
How is the boat/walk from BWI to Epcot?
Only other deluxe we've stayed at is AKL, how does BWI compare to AKL from a deluxe vs deluxe perspective?
Any tips on room requests for standards at either resort? TIA

We've never stayed at CSR, but I love BWI. As the pp mentioned, BWI is great for going to Epcot and DHS as you have the option of walking or taking the boat. The resort and grounds are beautiful and the boardwalk is great for just walking around and/or watching the nightly entertainment. If the extra cost is doable, I'd go with BWI .

 

[TOBS2010]

With your kids at the ages they are I would choose BWI. They would be up for the walking as an additional method of transportation--plus you have the friendship boats too. Lots of different dining options between Epcot, the Boardwalk and surrounding hotels all at your fingertips!

 

[MDIME]

Another vote for BWI. Once SWGE opens, we *most likely* will no longer see free dining offers for that resort. Until the Star Wars themed hotel opens, it will be the closest hotel to DHS. Just a guess but I believe this is your chance for a good deal at a great (& convenient!) resort. Have fun regardless of where you stay

 

[hedberg1661]

I would go with BWI. Get the better dining plan and enjoy the boat to and from two parks. I find the bus system to work just fine. I think you will really like BWI location and proximity to some fantastic dining options.

 

[Moliphino]

BWI is my favorite resort, but when the difference is about $250/night I'd be at CSR.

 

[TheSouthernBelle]

Thanks everyone for your feedback. Since I was concerned that the room options and resort choices would be slim with the offer and with DH and I both at work, nailing down an answer from him was hard. Glad we had already discussed going prior to free dining. After a few texts I decided on BWI and figured if we needed to change dates we’d work around it. Glad I did that yesterday since I can’t seem to find any rooms at resorts we were considering available for the FD offer. I know they go fast but that’s REALLY FAST! we’re looking forward to Boardwalk and “free” food! Thanks again!! °o°

 

[Shellyred8]

I think you made a great choice! I love the boardwalk area, especially at night with all of the lights reflecting off the lake. It's just a great atmosphere.

Have a great trip!

 

[FSU Girl]

You’re going to love the Boardwalk, I really liked my stay there. The pool wasn’t too crowded, the slide was a lot of fun. You’ll be closer to Hollywood Studios, it’s usually quicker to walk instead of waiting for a boat. Not a bad distance to Epcot either. I only take the boats if one is there when we arrive so no waiting around or my feet hurt. The walks are nice. The Boardwalk area has fun performers and the ice cream at Ample Hills is really good!

 

[SarahC97]

I've stayed at both and I can tell you that BWI is much more convenient. I love CSR, but being that close to Epcot and HS can't be beat. Plus, the walk is very easy to go from BWI to the international gateway. We had a great room where we saw the fireworks every night and the nightlife on the Boardwalk is really fun.

Have a great time at the Boardwalk -- it's so lovely.