IMHO AKL is totally worth the upgrade!!!

It is a very unique and beautiful resort! I didn't think it was any farther than any other resort that uses bus transportation and I thought the location made it feel like an oasis unto itself - very relaxing. Enjoy!
Resorts with monorail access are Grand Floridian, Contemporary and the Polynesian. The Wilderness Lodge and Fort Wilderness don't have direct access but are a boat ride away from the monorail - boat to Contemporary then access to the monorail from there.