Can't decide between Pop Century and Animal Kingdom Lodge

[Catcleves]

My mother, 3-year-old son, and I are going to WDW November 19-24. I am debating between staying at Pop Century vs. Animal Kingdom Lodge.

This is not my son's first trip to WDW. He went in Sept 2012 and was a trooper: up early, going hard all day long, and then staying up late. We stayed at Coronado Springs, but were really only there to sleep although he did swim and play in the playground twice.

My husband and I have stayed at Pop Century more than once and liked it, but I've never stayed at AKL. Is it worth the price difference ($625 difference total)? I just think of all the things we could do with the money instead (more character meals, MVMCP, souvenirs, etc.).

On the other hand, this might be my only chance to stay at a Deluxe Resort since we are getting a great discount.

I'm so torn. Please help!

Sara
Visited 1980, 1990, 1998, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2011, 2012

 

[Jennasis]

The easy answer is to do a split stay. Then you can try AKL and still save some money. FWIW we love both resorts! They will move your luggage and everything. We do it all the time.

 

[BuzzLiteyear]

I am biased, I love AKL. We stayed at one of the AS resorts and I'm not a fan. The rest of the family was fine with it, I wasn't. That being said, AKL feels like home. If money isn't an object...AKL

 

[Pizzalover46]

I've never been to Pop century but nothing comes near AKL. It's worth the price.

 

[CuteAndFluffy]

I have stayed at both and would choose AKL. The combination of animals and atmosphere are amazing

I liked POP--it was a very fun place with cool decorations and nice pools. I also really liked the Food Court when we were there with a then 3 year old (I found Mara at AKL to be lacking in variety).

But the queen size beds are a priority for us. I just sleep better when I don't have preschooler elbows in my spine.

 

[Catcleves]

Thanks everyone! AKL it is!

 

[CNYDisneyFan]

Enjoy .

 

[mevelandry]

I wouldn't be torn at all: AKL all the way!

 

[mickeynut1]

Thanks everyone! AKL it is!

I think you made a great choice. AKL is an awesome resort....you won't regret it .

I wouldn't be torn at all: AKL all the way!

Same here .

 

[Babsy]

Good choice!! Pop is great in its own way, but AKL is simply awesome!! You will have a wonderful time!!!

 

[Reighngold]

Great choice! If you want a cheaper visit at AKL you could always try renting points at the DVC resorts. We are DVC members but don't always have enough points and the point rentals really help us enjoy the magic at our favorite resorts a bit cheaper

However you stay, I am sure that the look on your little ones face when he sees the animals will be worth much more than the cost difference

 

[Babsy]

Definitely the right decision!!!!

You will LOVE AKL!!!!

Congratulations on getting a good discount!! You will love deluxe.

 

[chocovrdmicears]

Another *You made the right choice!* vote!!!

 

[BuzzLiteyear]

Thanks everyone! AKL it is!

The only problem I can foresee with your decision is that you won't want to go home

Great choice!

 

[mevelandry]

The only problem I can foresee with your decision is that you won't want to go home

Great choice!

Couldn't agree more. I cried when I left. For real.

 

[Sparkly]

AKL or Pop?? AKL, every time! I want to stay there again <3

 

[sjs314]

While I have never stayed at POP I would definitely choose AKL before POP unless I really needed to do a budget trip. AKL is a stunning resort!

 

[DisneyDmbNut]

I think its Apples and Oranges.. I LOVE AKL and would totally spend the $600 if it wasn't going to be a huge burden...there is so much to do AT the resort...we spent a week there in June and actually hung at the hotel a lot.