(CLOSED) Disney's BOARDWALK INN and VILLAS INFORMATION THREAD

[Deb & Bill]

My family will be staying at the BWI Villas in November. We're very excited, but I have heard that the rooms are not in the best condition. Can anyone share any information on this? We're staying in a studio. Any recommended requests before online check-in? Thanks!

All the villas at BWV were renovated in about 2009. They are in good shape. If you have a preferred/pool/garden view, you might want to request the Village Green. You can get a peek of the BW this way. It looks out over the lawn area by the boat dock. Or you can request higher floor, Luna Park (themed pool) or the leisure pool area.

 

[Deb & Bill]

Thank you WDWKOOK for maintaining this tread.
So much useful information!
We are stepping out of our BLT comfort zone, and have managed to get a 2 bed Villa at BWV for our upcoming stay(s) in February.
We will be at BWV from 7-9 February 2015 and then 2 more weeks from 13-27
February 2015, before and after cruise.
We have never stayed here or in the EPCOT area, but are exited to try something new.

It makes sense to stay this long when traveling from so far away.
But having put all the eggs in one basket (so to say), hopefully we will love it. The better half decided a split stay was out of the question
If not, we will make new memories anyhow.
From this tread at least, people seem to really love this resort.

Looking forward to winter now and seeing more of Epcot and HS.

Be aware that all two bedroom villas at BWV are lockoffs (meaning a combination of a studio and a one bedroom). So you'll have one king bed, one queen sleeper sofa, one queen bed and one double sleeper sofa. Plus a kitchen and a kitchenette. Enjoy your stay.

 

[smidgy]

All the villas at BWV were renovated in about 2009. They are in good shape. If you have a preferred/pool/garden view, you might want to request the Village Green. You can get a peek of the BW this way. It looks out over the lawn area by the boat dock. Or you can request higher floor, Luna Park (themed pool) or the leisure pool area.

we requested village green on our last stay.. we LOVED it!!! we could see the tops of Illuminations, and it was so convenient to the elevators/stairs. and we had a nice view of cresecent lake and the comings and goings of people to'from the lobby.

 

[Bolebrothers]

Where is the nearest liquor store to BWI? Not beer and wine, real liquor? I know the Screen Door has small bottles but I mean off property.

Someone with local knowledge will chime in, but the closest one that is a proper liquor store I believe is:

ABC Fine Wine & Spirits - Lake Buena Vista
11951 S. Apopka-Vineland Rd.
Orlando, FL 32836

There might be a service station near by that has some, again someone with more local knowledge will point you in the right direction.

 

[Bolebrothers]

Be aware that all two bedroom villas at BWV are lockoffs (meaning a combination of a studio and a one bedroom). So you'll have one king bed, one queen sleeper sofa, one queen bed and one double sleeper sofa. Plus a kitchen and a kitchenette. Enjoy your stay.

Thank you Deb, yes we know, but we are only 4 people, me, DW,adult DS and 12 Y DD so I think that setup will do.
Although we would prefer 2 Queens in the 2nd bedroom, we will make do
And getting a bit "antsy" now and looking forward to our winter break.

 

[AGoofykindagirl]

Where is the nearest liquor store to BWI? Not beer and wine, real liquor? I know the Screen Door has small bottles but I mean off property.

I don't know if there are others closer, but there is this one:



ABC Fine Wine & Spirits - Lake Buena Vista

11951 S. Apopka-Vineland Rd.
Orlando, FL 32836
407-239-0775
Hours:
Sunday 10 am - 10 pm Monday 9 am - 10 pm Tuesday 9 am - 10 pm Wednesday 9 am - 10 pm Thursday 9 am - 10 pm Friday 9 am - 11 pm Saturday 9 am - 11 pm

From BW you would have to go past Downtown Disney to get to Apopka-Vineland rd (Google maps can show you). Haven't been to this store but since it is near a lot of hotels it should be well stocked. Hope this helps.
Sarah

 

[mum of two pirates]

we requested village green on our last stay.. we LOVED it!!! we could see the tops of Illuminations, and it was so convenient to the elevators/stairs. and we had a nice view of cresecent lake and the comings and goings of people to'from the lobby.

Do the village green rooms have a balcony. I read somewhere that someone in a standard view room requested a room and they got no balcony. This sounds perfect. If I request village green do I need to request high floor also? Anyone with pictures from there balcony? have read a few times to request the rose garden. So who has stayed in both and can tell me which is better. Thanks a gain. Making my final payment this week. So excited

 

[pixarmom]

I know you asked about CS, but Club Level is also a GREAT way to grab a quick breakfast. That's my #1 suggestion for a nice, convenient breakfast just steps from your room. You could even consider swapping the DDP for CL someday. CL would provide endless amounts of food and beverages for your party of hungry guys.

Just wanted to second this! I listed some CS places above, but my favorite way to handle breakfast is CL. We have three boys (four if you count my husband) and now that two of them are teens, we book CL whenever we stay deluxe at WDW. Much more relaxing than buying food constantly!

 

[rea59]

Just wanted to second this! I listed some CS places above, but my favorite way to handle breakfast is CL. We have three boys (four if you count my husband) and now that two of them are teens, we book CL whenever we stay deluxe at WDW. Much more relaxing than buying food constantly!

I agree with the club level suggestion. One of the biggest reasons we go club level is so we don't have to rush out to breakfast. I have two 17 year old boys and I get up much earlier than they do. It's so nice to go to the lounge and have a relaxing cup coffee and a quick breakfast. By the time I get back to the room the boys are usually awake and ready for their breakfast. It makes the morning so much more relaxing.

 

[Deb & Bill]

Do the village green rooms have a balcony. I read somewhere that someone in a standard view room requested a room and they got no balcony. This sounds perfect. If I request village green do I need to request high floor also? Anyone with pictures from there balcony? have read a few times to request the rose garden. So who has stayed in both and can tell me which is better. Thanks a gain. Making my final payment this week. So excited

Yes, the Viilage Green Studios have balconies. We were in a Village Green studio on the second floor right around the corner from the elevator (first one on the right as you go down the hallway). We had a large balcony, but it was directly next to the balcony where guests sit in chairs waiting for their room to come open or just sit and look out on the Boardwalk. It wasn't the least bit private. And we had a jerk in the studio above us who kept dumping his watered down drink on the patio floor where it ran down through the floor drain right on top of me where I had put one of the chairs.

 

[Ashby04]

Hi! We are taking our first family trip to Disney in almost 2 weeks! We are staying at the Boardwalk Inn 9/29 - 10/3. I went to Disney when I was 7, but I am so excited to be bringing my daughter, son, and husband on their very first trip! It has been so long since I was there, it feels like my first trip also. I have spent the last few months slowly reading this whole thread and trying to remember it all. THANK YOU for keeping this thread together WDWKOOK and having all this information in an easy-to-find place!

I have learned to not rely on just online check-in and am planning on calling to put in our room requests (high floor, epcot view). But what number is best to call for that? Thanks!

 

[WDWKOOK]

Hi WDW, you should someday visit, everyone should once in their life see Norway from a ship. It is the only way to truly experience Norway (as i see it). We are a grand total of 5 million people here so there is ample room.
The west coast (where Bergen is) is the most spectacular, but also where it rains most, so one have to be prepared for rain and wind, but when the sun breaks out it is beautiful.
Btw, your parents are in luck as the weather tomorrow looks to be on its best side, sunny and 18 degrees Celsius,very nice for this time of year. The view from the top is spectacular.
This is the webcam, who knows you might spot them
http://www.floibanen.no/webkamera/

As for Laila, Geir Ness is of course know here, although it is available it is rare to find. And definitely not something I smell often.

I hope your parents have a wonderful experience, and Lofthus of all places i guess family is involved... It is only 45 minutes from where we live.

Thank you for the link. It is dark there now, but I'm going to take a look in the daylight. Though we've been on NCL, our cruise wasn't in Norway, but it's a must-do someday. By the way, your English is excellent, as was the officer's English aboard our NCL cruise

Very interesting about Laila, which is good for you when you get off Maelstrom, you aren't already tired of the smell in the gift shop. Speaking of Maelstrom, I read today that it's officially being changed to a Frozen-themed ride. This makes me

My in-laws are on a tour so they didn't choose the locations. They are only scheduled to go to Lofthus because of the tour itinerary. I can't believe how close it is to you - it's a small world. And, when you're in Orlando, they will be just 3.5 hours from you.

Just wanted to second this! I listed some CS places above, but my favorite way to handle breakfast is CL. We have three boys (four if you count my husband) and now that two of them are teens, we book CL whenever we stay deluxe at WDW. Much more relaxing than buying food constantly!

You mean FIVE if we count your husband - husbands count as two boys.

I agree with the club level suggestion. One of the biggest reasons we go club level is so we don't have to rush out to breakfast. I have two 17 year old boys and I get up much earlier than they do. It's so nice to go to the lounge and have a relaxing cup coffee and a quick breakfast. By the time I get back to the room the boys are usually awake and ready for their breakfast. It makes the morning so much more relaxing.

Are they both seniors? Do you think they'll want to go to the same college? I'm only asking because I've heard that some twins like to stay close to each other throughout their lives

Hi! We are taking our first family trip to Disney in almost 2 weeks! We are staying at the Boardwalk Inn 9/29 - 10/3. I went to Disney when I was 7, but I am so excited to be bringing my daughter, son, and husband on their very first trip! It has been so long since I was there, it feels like my first trip also. I have spent the last few months slowly reading this whole thread and trying to remember it all. THANK YOU for keeping this thread together WDWKOOK and having all this information in an easy-to-find place!

I have learned to not rely on just online check-in and am planning on calling to put in our room requests (high floor, epcot view). But what number is best to call for that? Thanks!

Welcome and I'll add your dates to the log. I'm so glad you've found the thread helpful. The best way to add any request to your reservation is to call the WDTC: 407-939-1926. Make sure you add your request about a week prior to arrival.

 

[Squirlz]

Someone with local knowledge will chime in, but the closest one that is a proper liquor store I believe is:

ABC Fine Wine & Spirits - Lake Buena Vista
11951 S. Apopka-Vineland Rd.
Orlando, FL 32836

There might be a service station near by that has some, again someone with more local knowledge will point you in the right direction.

I don't know if there are others closer, but there is this one:



ABC Fine Wine & Spirits - Lake Buena Vista

11951 S. Apopka-Vineland Rd.
Orlando, FL 32836
407-239-0775
Hours:
Sunday 10 am - 10 pm Monday 9 am - 10 pm Tuesday 9 am - 10 pm Wednesday 9 am - 10 pm Thursday 9 am - 10 pm Friday 9 am - 11 pm Saturday 9 am - 11 pm

From BW you would have to go past Downtown Disney to get to Apopka-Vineland rd (Google maps can show you). Haven't been to this store but since it is near a lot of hotels it should be well stocked. Hope this helps.
Sarah

Thanks to you both!

 

[psac]

Yes, the Viilage Green Studios have balconies. We were in a Village Green studio on the second floor right around the corner from the elevator (first one on the right as you go down the hallway). We had a large balcony, but it was directly next to the balcony where guests sit in chairs waiting for their room to come open or just sit and look out on the Boardwalk. It wasn't the least bit private. And we had a jerk in the studio above us who kept dumping his watered down drink on the patio floor where it ran down through the floor drain right on top of me where I had put one of the chairs.

That's awful. To make light of a terrible situation, how could you tell the drinks were watered down? Could you taste them?

Seriously though, did you complain? Did they do anything?

 

[AirGoofy]

Very interesting about Laila, which is good for you when you get off Maelstrom, you aren't already tired of the smell in the gift shop. Speaking of Maelstrom, I read today that it's officially being changed to a Frozen-themed ride. This makes me.

I'm worried about the change, because wait times will go up. I enjoy the boat rides, and I liked the video story of Norway at the end. It won't be as easy to find a seat to rest there anymore.

You mean FIVE if we count your husband - husbands count as two boys.
.

Speak for yourself. I'm an

That's awful. To make light of a terrible situation, how could you tell the drinks were watered down? Could you taste them?

Seriously though, did you complain? Did they do anything?

News flash: WDW creates magic wand potion to cure from jerk-itis

I guess that is my biggest complaint about going on Disney trips; the jerks who act like since they paid the $ for this vacation, they are the only people at WDW and are entitled to act that way. We've all seen them - yelling, smoking, littering, line-cutting, chair holding, whining, etc - and there is no chance of it changing as it is a character/ morals issue.

 

[WDWKOOK]

Maelstrom Update: Maelstrom to be replaced by FROZEN attraction. The last day for Maelstrom will be October 5 and the new attraction will open in early 2016.

​

Thanks to you both!

Isn't it great that they both agreed

That's awful. To make light of a terrible situation, how could you tell the drinks were watered down? Could you taste them?

Seriously though, did you complain? Did they do anything?

I wondered the same thing and thought that perhaps it could have been a full-strength cocktail, à la Disney, that she could smell was weak

I'm worried about the change, because wait times will go up. I enjoy the boat rides, and I liked the video story of Norway at the end. It won't be as easy to find a seat to rest there anymore.

News flash: WDW creates magic wand potion to cure from jerk-itis

I guess that is my biggest complaint about going on Disney trips; the jerks who act like since they paid the $ for this vacation, they are the only people at WDW and are entitled to act that way. We've all seen them - yelling, smoking, littering, line-cutting, chair holding, whining, etc - and there is no chance of it changing as it is a character/ morals issue.

The replacement of Maelstrom by the Frozen attraction bothers me on different levels. Nostalgia is one of them and setting. Arendale isn't a real country and Frozen is an animated work of fiction and belongs in DHS or MK, IMHO. This summer I was surprised when they had the Frozen display in the Stave Church of all places. I guess they were easing us all into the idea of a Frozen-themed Norway. They removed the Frozen character meet in Norway to MK, which is where I feel all of the Frozen attractions should be or DHS, since it's an animated film. I found some work permits for the Norway gift shop and that is also being "re-imagined." I guess Helly Hansen and Laila won't be the main attraction anymore if they can make more money with Frozen-themed merchandise.

The "entitlement" or moral/character issue you mention is getting worse, I think. I feel like over the years I've noticed more and more of this decline every trip, especially when staying Club Level. You have a much closer, daily interaction with the same guests and it can almost ruin your stay. I'm sure these guests act the same way no matter where they are, but it's still disappointing to experience it on your vacation to WDW. This must be an even bigger challenge for the poor CMs. And, you're right that you can't change it, so you have to either adapt to it or avoid it, I'm not one who can ignore it. These incidences stick in my mind and have unfortunately made us less and less excited about returning as often.

 

[Deb & Bill]

That's awful. To make light of a terrible situation, how could you tell the drinks were watered down? Could you taste them?

Seriously though, did you complain? Did they do anything?

When I hollered at him to stop dumping his drink, he said it was just ice. But I could smell alcohol. And he was a jerk.

We were only there one night before the Tower of Terror 10 Miler and didn't get back from the race until about 4AM and we left about 8:30AM.

 

[AirGoofy]

The replacement of Maelstrom by the Frozen attraction bothers me on different levels. Nostalgia is one of them and setting. Arendale isn't a real country and Frozen is an animated work of fiction and belongs in DHS or MK, IMHO. This summer I was surprised when they had the Frozen display in the Stave Church of all places. I guess they were easing us all into the idea of a Frozen-themed Norway. They removed the Frozen character meet in Norway to MK, which is where I feel all of the Frozen attractions should be or DHS, since it's an animated film. I found some work permits for the Norway gift shop and that is also being "re-imagined." I guess Helly Hansen and Laila won't be the main attraction anymore if they can make more money with Frozen-themed merchandise.
.

I guess the whole nostalgia thing doesn't ring all that true for me. I remember when the dining plans included gratuity, and I wasn't happy about that change.

I think it is absolutely awesome that WDW does the exchange program with the countries of origin, and I have enjoyed numerous conversations with the CMs about it - great stories. But, as for authentic, Mexico includes Donald Duck in the three caballeros boat ride. Most of the food has bland flavors to accommodate the majority of taste buds. There are the Duffy the bear coloring stations and Spy game searches. So, while I am sad to see it go, I'll enjoy the refurb ride as well.

 

[smidgy]

Do the village green rooms have a balcony. I read somewhere that someone in a standard view room requested a room and they got no balcony. This sounds perfect. If I request village green do I need to request high floor also? Anyone with pictures from there balcony? have read a few times to request the rose garden. So who has stayed in both and can tell me which is better. Thanks a gain. Making my final payment this week. So excited

they all have balcnies (as deb said). it's on the Inn side that some don't. we were originally assigned one on the 2nd floor. (not sure exactly where yet) and went to look over the area the thing is, the 2nd floor balconies are kind of enclosed. like you would have to stand and lean on the rail to see anything.. and dark.. as my husband has very low vision. I went back in to request a higher floor and got 5th floor. (the problem with that was no over hang, so we coudldn't use it in the rain.. but we were thrilled with the room.

it also seemed like maybe you wouldn't be able to see the lak from an enclosed balcony? maybe deb could since she was so far "in" (just like at Vero beach, we had a pool view room, but it was so far back from the ocean that we had a great view of it)
deb, could you see the lake?

Yes, the Viilage Green Studios have balconies. We were in a Village Green studio on the second floor right around the corner from the elevator (first one on the right as you go down the hallway). We had a large balcony, but it was directly next to the balcony where guests sit in chairs waiting for their room to come open or just sit and look out on the Boardwalk. It wasn't the least bit private. And we had a jerk in the studio above us who kept dumping his watered down drink on the patio floor where it ran down through the floor drain right on top of me where I had put one of the chairs.

that is JUST HORRENDOUS!!! (maybe no overhang is good after all! lol
I would never dump anything out side like that, attracts bugs, etc. but to do it right over some one else's balcony? ok, a lot of people are just stupid (sorry, but they are. don't think about ramifications, etc.) but after telling him once you would think he would say to himself "oops, guess that was pretty dumb.. I won't be doing THAT anymore!
the 2nd time, I would report it.

 

[MollysWorld]

HELP! We are about to begin the early checkin for our trip Oct. 24-Nov. 1. We are staying on Club Level. When I made our reservations, I requested King Bed with BoardWalk water view.

As I look on the options in early check in, I'm really not sure which floor to request, or if it matters. This is our first time staying at BWI.

Any help on what to request to increase our chances of getting what we want? The main thing is King Bed, with the Boardwalk view/Water view being next.

Thanks in advance!