(CLOSED) Disney's WILDERNESS LODGE and VILLAS INFORMATION THREAD ~11/13 - 6/14~

[Scarlett81]

I hope you don't mind that before I get around to multi-quoting, I'd like to share a few thoughts I have about the pool closure. I want to preface my thoughts by saying that I fully understand and appreciate how the closure of the feature pool could have a negative impact and I'm not trying to downplay anyone's concern or disappointment. Having said that, I want to offer another perspective.

I've been fortunate to stay at Wilderness Lodge many times and each stay I never leave dissatisfied and each time I book a stay, I eagerly anticipate arriving, that's why I keep returning. It isn't just one thing that keeps me coming back. It's the totality of all Walt Disney World, Wilderness Lodge and the Bay Lake area has to offer.

Sometimes I meet a Cast Member who takes the time to make my interaction with him or her special and memorable. Sometimes it's the look I see on my family's face when they're happy and content. Sometimes it's the joyful look on a stranger's face as they're eating a Mickey Bar or holding hands with a loved one. My favorite look is the look of wonderment and amazement on someone's face when they enter the WL lobby for the first time and stop dead in their tracks and take it all in. It's the look on a child's face when they run up to a character and heartily embrace them. Is every part of every vacation like this? Of course not, but that's the part I like to remember and think about.

We all have moments of disappointment and frustration on vacation and we've all overheard (or been) the parent who has lost all patience or the child who has an inconsolable fit. This is the normal vacation evolution and it's bound to happen at some point, but despite those negatives, I bet most of us can't wait to return and after we get home, we think about how and when we can book our next trip.

What do you remember fondly from your last trip to WDW? No matter where you stayed, I bet your fondest memories of your Disney vacations involve things that made you smile and laugh, maybe even tear up. Something that surprised you, something unexpected, something magical. A new experience, an old favorite experience "re-imagined."

Maybe instead of focusing only on the possible pool closure during your stay, you could also consider a substitute activity such as going to a water park or the VWL pool or hanging out on the Bay Lake Beach (with a nice drink) while your kids play in the sand or on the playground. Maybe a nice bike ride or walk over to FW to see the stable and horses or maybe a pony ride. Maybe you could rent a boat or Sea Raycer so your child can feel the wind and spray in his face as you tour Bay Lake and Seven Seas Lagoon. And, maybe you'll even come face to face with the MK Ferry or the monorail will magically appear above you as you enter the No Wake Zone to cross over into Seven Seas Lagoon. Has it been a while since you've done some of those things or maybe you just never found the time?​

I hope you'll consider exploring the Bay Lake area...

​

You made me get teary eyed here! There are so many amazing memories we have on Bay Lake...my crazy 6 yo swinging around the pole in the center of the monorail cabins late at night on a sugar high, on the way back to our rooms, making us all laugh. Watching Wishes from Bay Lake Beach..sitting on the balcony of our room and starting to hear the Water Pageant music slowly stream in. The kids frantically searching for a sign of MK and then they finally see just the top of the castle, one of Space Mountain's spires..and scream!..it really is an awesome place to be.

 

[4disneygenerations]

WDWKOOK, those are lovely thoughts and pictures. I have so many wonderful memories of past vacations in WDW.

But, when I send an email to WDW asking questins on the rehab and then told no rehabs ae scheduled for the WL in the near future. Then I send another email stating there is a rehab in progress at this time and then get an email stating there is an extensive rahab scheduled for after labor day, late Sept and I'm told I should be happy that the mail pool at the WL is scheduled to be opened every day in August from 9am to 11 pm. Then get my response back from the IPO at the WL stating rehab at the end of August but there is the hidden pond pool. Well this is very fustrating. Can't we get an honest answer from WDW resorts?

So many diser's are real planners, so am I. And now not just our ADR's have to be done far in advance but so do our FP+ we count on our down time and the enjoyment of the resort we pick.

I know of the Hidden Pond pool, it is less than half the size of the main pool and with much less seating areas. It is the hotest time of the year that pool can't handle the kids let alone adding in the adults who will want pool time. I know this because for the past 6 years we have no choice but to travel at the end of August. We are planners and we spen alot of money to have a magical vacation. It is fustrating not to get a honest answer.

 

[4disneygenerations]

Sorry for the mis spelling I was rushing because my previous post knocked me out before I could complete it.
But also again thank you for all you information.

 

[XtraEdGe]

Been following this pool situation closely. I'm relieved that it's late August/after Labor day closure (we'll be there Aug 9-14), but feel bad for the ones that are being affected. Very glad that we have mods (especially WDWKOOK) in this thread that are giving us all these updates. Thank you, thank you, thank you…

 

[allboyhouse]

I can't understand changing resorts over a pool. Am I the only one that spends the majority of the time at the parks?? I don't get it. There is another pool available. There are two water parks. I think everybody needs to just relax. Obviously there is different info being given but is the status of the pool going to ruin your vacation?? I really hope not. I mean I have a photo shoot scheduled so I hope that whatever they're doing is over but if not we will figure it out.

 

[williamscm3]

I hope you don't mind that before I get around to multi-quoting, I'd like to share a few thoughts I have about the pool closure. I want to preface my thoughts by saying that I fully understand and appreciate how the closure of the feature pool could have a negative impact and I'm not trying to downplay anyone's concern or disappointment. Having said that, I want to offer another perspective. I've been fortunate to stay at Wilderness Lodge many times and each stay I never leave dissatisfied and each time I book a stay, I eagerly anticipate arriving, that's why I keep returning. It isn't just one thing that keeps me coming back. It's the totality of all Walt Disney World, Wilderness Lodge and the Bay Lake area has to offer. Sometimes I meet a Cast Member who takes the time to make my interaction with him or her special and memorable. Sometimes it's the look I see on my family's face when they're happy and content. Sometimes it's the joyful look on a stranger's face as they're eating a Mickey Bar or holding hands with a loved one. My favorite look is the look of wonderment and amazement on someone's face when they enter the WL lobby for the first time and stop dead in their tracks and take it all in. It's the look on a child's face when they run up to a character and heartily embrace them. Is every part of every vacation like this? Of course not, but that's the part I like to remember and think about. We all have moments of disappointment and frustration on vacation and we've all overheard (or been) the parent who has lost all patience or the child who has an inconsolable fit. This is the normal vacation evolution and it's bound to happen at some point, but despite those negatives, I bet most of us can't wait to return and after we get home, we think about how and when we can book our next trip. What do you remember fondly from your last trip to WDW? No matter where you stayed, I bet your fondest memories of your Disney vacations involve things that made you smile and laugh, maybe even tear up. Something that surprised you, something unexpected, something magical. A new experience, an old favorite experience "re-imagined." Maybe instead of focusing only on the possible pool closure during your stay, you could also consider a substitute activity such as going to a water park or the VWL pool or hanging out on the Bay Lake Beach (with a nice drink) while your kids play in the sand or on the playground. Maybe a nice bike ride or walk over to FW to see the stable and horses or maybe a pony ride. Maybe you could rent a boat or Sea Raycer so your child can feel the wind and spray in his face as you tour Bay Lake and Seven Seas Lagoon. And, maybe you'll even come face to face with the MK Ferry or the monorail will magically appear above you as you enter the No Wake Zone to cross over into Seven Seas Lagoon. Has it been a while since you've done some of those things or maybe you just never found the time? I hope you'll consider exploring the Bay Lake area...








This has me really excited about our upcoming trip in November! We tend to spend much more time in the parks so I'm not too worried about the pool. I really want the feel of the lodge though b/c I'm trying to hook my skeptical husband into loving it so he agrees to stay there often lol I feel confident that we will have a great time despite the pool refurb. You can't beat staying so close to MK...to me that's much more enticing than a pool!! I can't wait!

 

[CuteAsMinnie]

I hope you don't mind that before I get around to multi-quoting, I'd like to share a few thoughts I have about the pool closure. I want to preface my thoughts by saying that I fully understand and appreciate how the closure of the feature pool could have a negative impact and I'm not trying to downplay anyone's concern or disappointment. Having said that, I want to offer another perspective.

I've been fortunate to stay at Wilderness Lodge many times and each stay I never leave dissatisfied and each time I book a stay, I eagerly anticipate arriving, that's why I keep returning. It isn't just one thing that keeps me coming back. It's the totality of all Walt Disney World, Wilderness Lodge and the Bay Lake area has to offer.

Sometimes I meet a Cast Member who takes the time to make my interaction with him or her special and memorable. Sometimes it's the look I see on my family's face when they're happy and content. Sometimes it's the joyful look on a stranger's face as they're eating a Mickey Bar or holding hands with a loved one. My favorite look is the look of wonderment and amazement on someone's face when they enter the WL lobby for the first time and stop dead in their tracks and take it all in. It's the look on a child's face when they run up to a character and heartily embrace them. Is every part of every vacation like this? Of course not, but that's the part I like to remember and think about.

We all have moments of disappointment and frustration on vacation and we've all overheard (or been) the parent who has lost all patience or the child who has an inconsolable fit. This is the normal vacation evolution and it's bound to happen at some point, but despite those negatives, I bet most of us can't wait to return and after we get home, we think about how and when we can book our next trip.

What do you remember fondly from your last trip to WDW? No matter where you stayed, I bet your fondest memories of your Disney vacations involve things that made you smile and laugh, maybe even tear up. Something that surprised you, something unexpected, something magical. A new experience, an old favorite experience "re-imagined."

Maybe instead of focusing only on the possible pool closure during your stay, you could also consider a substitute activity such as going to a water park or the VWL pool or hanging out on the Bay Lake Beach (with a nice drink) while your kids play in the sand or on the playground. Maybe a nice bike ride or walk over to FW to see the stable and horses or maybe a pony ride. Maybe you could rent a boat or Sea Raycer so your child can feel the wind and spray in his face as you tour Bay Lake and Seven Seas Lagoon. And, maybe you'll even come face to face with the MK Ferry or the monorail will magically appear above you as you enter the No Wake Zone to cross over into Seven Seas Lagoon. Has it been a while since you've done some of those things or maybe you just never found the time?​

[/CENTER]

Kook, note ticker below...

 

[gschon]

The people at WDW travel are convinced that there would have been an official notice by now, One of them said "they usually wouldn't start a pool rehab until November"....But the Itinerary people say something is happening, but not being specific.......I think I love the Lodge enough to go anyway(if the pool is closed)...But, what if the whole pool area is boarded off, trout pass and all??? I don't think I can get an Ultimate long island tea at the Roaring Fork

 

[annaaidan99]

I will concur with WDWKOOK.... I also stressed over the construction on the stream and waterfall before my trip. It was upsetting because it was such a rare trip, and we all know it's not cheap. I decided to make the best of it and it was best trip I've ever had. The whole hotel is amazing...from the grounds to the staff (CL staff and the rest of hotel). If I had the chance to go back during pool construction I would not hesitate.

 

[ToddyLu]

I hope you don't mind that before I get around to multi-quoting, I'd like to share a few thoughts I have about the pool closure. I want to preface my thoughts by saying that I fully understand and appreciate how the closure of the feature pool could have a negative impact and I'm not trying to downplay anyone's concern or disappointment. Having said that, I want to offer another perspective. I've been fortunate to stay at Wilderness Lodge many times and each stay I never leave dissatisfied and each time I book a stay, I eagerly anticipate arriving, that's why I keep returning. It isn't just one thing that keeps me coming back. It's the totality of all Walt Disney World, Wilderness Lodge and the Bay Lake area has to offer. Sometimes I meet a Cast Member who takes the time to make my interaction with him or her special and memorable. Sometimes it's the look I see on my family's face when they're happy and content. Sometimes it's the joyful look on a stranger's face as they're eating a Mickey Bar or holding hands with a loved one. My favorite look is the look of wonderment and amazement on someone's face when they enter the WL lobby for the first time and stop dead in their tracks and take it all in. It's the look on a child's face when they run up to a character and heartily embrace them. Is every part of every vacation like this? Of course not, but that's the part I like to remember and think about. We all have moments of disappointment and frustration on vacation and we've all overheard (or been) the parent who has lost all patience or the child who has an inconsolable fit. This is the normal vacation evolution and it's bound to happen at some point, but despite those negatives, I bet most of us can't wait to return and after we get home, we think about how and when we can book our next trip. What do you remember fondly from your last trip to WDW? No matter where you stayed, I bet your fondest memories of your Disney vacations involve things that made you smile and laugh, maybe even tear up. Something that surprised you, something unexpected, something magical. A new experience, an old favorite experience "re-imagined." Maybe instead of focusing only on the possible pool closure during your stay, you could also consider a substitute activity such as going to a water park or the VWL pool or hanging out on the Bay Lake Beach (with a nice drink) while your kids play in the sand or on the playground. Maybe a nice bike ride or walk over to FW to see the stable and horses or maybe a pony ride. Maybe you could rent a boat or Sea Raycer so your child can feel the wind and spray in his face as you tour Bay Lake and Seven Seas Lagoon. And, maybe you'll even come face to face with the MK Ferry or the monorail will magically appear above you as you enter the No Wake Zone to cross over into Seven Seas Lagoon. Has it been a while since you've done some of those things or maybe you just never found the time? I hope you'll consider exploring the Bay Lake area...

With out a doubt this is one of the best paragraphs and posts I have ever read on the DIS...you need to put a trip to Disney into words, this is it!!! Thanks for that!!

 

[BlueFairy]

This IS the best thread on the DIS, IMHO. It satisfies the WL fix nicely. Kook does a pretty good job oc keeping us in line.

DH took a walk down each floor last trip and your living room on the 4th was pretty perfect!

Here's hoping you 're back soon!

Where is this living room? I am aware of everything in the atrium overlooking the lobby. Are there others?

And in the vein of KOOK's warm fuzzies, my favorite WL memories are sitting by an upstairs fireplace every morning in December with my coffee (do this if the A/C is on and you'll forget it's summer). And choosing pins and a Koda bear from the mercantile for my sick-as-a-dog little girl asleep upstairs. She still thinks that bear has magical powers. Koda and WL saved our vacation.

Hello,

I had posted about the Snack Pail Surprise. All it says is that it is "a sand pail full of treats. $15.00

Maybe someone who is there can give private dining a call and find out what "treats" they are.

And if it is still on the menu as this was from February.

I'd love to hear more about this. Also, is there any WL specific plush or toy available in the mercantile right now?

From everything I'm reading here, no one knows. The start date is maybe after Labor Day. The end date is ??? No one knows (except WDW) what the rehab entails.

Well, I was going to say that the closure is only to replace the kiddie pool with a splash pad, but the reported inconsistencies are making me wonder.

I wonder if the boat ride to MK will be affected?

The walkway to the boat docks is entirely separate from the pool deck. It should be fine. The boats are at a distance from the pool, on the lake.

Greetings to everyone!

We are 32 days out from out 2nd trip to Disney and the OFC at Wilderness Lodge! I've been busying setting and changing ADRs and Fastpass+ reservations and I finally think I have things just exactly like I want them.....besides adding about two extra weeks on to the trip!

We are thinking about getting a pizza one night. I know that there is a pizza delivery service at WL but that it is expensive. Are there any other options that would deliver to the Lodge? Is that even allowed? Thanks!

Do a search for pizza delivery. There are one or 2 local pizza joints that specialize in good pizza and deliver to WDW resorts. I can't recall since we haven't used them.
Ditto on the flyer under the door. DO NOT call an unsolicited "pizza" seller.

Hi all - I've been lurking in these boards and obsessively planning my family's first trip for Nov 1-8. I have 5 and 8 yr old kids so this news about the pool is disappointing, this is our "big Disney trip." Even if we come back we would probably stay moderate or off site so we are sort of splurging on WL (we are pretty frugal ) although we are getting free dining.

Part of the reason to splurge us to enjoy the resort but if the big pool is closed and the view is of construction (courtyard view)...not that we won't have a good trip, but is it worth it? Trying to decide if I should switch to AKL while rooms for the promotion are still available. Advice?

Your trip is in November. The Villas pool is heated and should not be mobbed at that time of year. It looked very inviting to me and really isn't more of a walk.

I would not pay for CV during courtyard construction, but CV is a splurge for us. If I was stuck because of a discount, I would request a villas courtyard view (outside courtyard) or a lake view (toward the end of the wings). I think anyone could easily get around the view issues by asking the staff nicely to move you to a room comparable to the view you paid for and expected.

I would consider AKL if I could accept the differences in transportation (all buses there). It is VERY nice and has a feel similar to WL (same architect). The price point should be similar. The food options are wonderful, and the original pool and CL are also wonderful.

I hope you don't mind that before I get around to multi-quoting, I'd like to share a few thoughts I have about the pool closure. I want to preface my thoughts by saying that I fully understand and appreciate how the closure of the feature pool could have a negative impact and I'm not trying to downplay anyone's concern or disappointment. Having said that, I want to offer another perspective.

I've been fortunate to stay at Wilderness Lodge many times and each stay I never leave dissatisfied and each time I book a stay, I eagerly anticipate arriving, that's why I keep returning. It isn't just one thing that keeps me coming back. It's the totality of all Walt Disney World, Wilderness Lodge and the Bay Lake area has to offer.

Sometimes I meet a Cast Member who takes the time to make my interaction with him or her special and memorable. Sometimes it's the look I see on my family's face when they're happy and content. Sometimes it's the joyful look on a stranger's face as they're eating a Mickey Bar or holding hands with a loved one. My favorite look is the look of wonderment and amazement on someone's face when they enter the WL lobby for the first time and stop dead in their tracks and take it all in. It's the look on a child's face when they run up to a character and heartily embrace them. Is every part of every vacation like this? Of course not, but that's the part I like to remember and think about.

We all have moments of disappointment and frustration on vacation and we've all overheard (or been) the parent who has lost all patience or the child who has an inconsolable fit. This is the normal vacation evolution and it's bound to happen at some point, but despite those negatives, I bet most of us can't wait to return and after we get home, we think about how and when we can book our next trip.

What do you remember fondly from your last trip to WDW? No matter where you stayed, I bet your fondest memories of your Disney vacations involve things that made you smile and laugh, maybe even tear up. Something that surprised you, something unexpected, something magical. A new experience, an old favorite experience "re-imagined."

Maybe instead of focusing only on the possible pool closure during your stay, you could also consider a substitute activity such as going to a water park or the VWL pool or hanging out on the Bay Lake Beach (with a nice drink) while your kids play in the sand or on the playground. Maybe a nice bike ride or walk over to FW to see the stable and horses or maybe a pony ride. Maybe you could rent a boat or Sea Raycer so your child can feel the wind and spray in his face as you tour Bay Lake and Seven Seas Lagoon. And, maybe you'll even come face to face with the MK Ferry or the monorail will magically appear above you as you enter the No Wake Zone to cross over into Seven Seas Lagoon. Has it been a while since you've done some of those things or maybe you just never found the time?​

Thank you KOOK for the reminder that we scheduled our "resort only" trip precisely so that we could take advantage of all of these extras that we normally rush right past. We will take the time to explore!

 

[dpswift]

I'm getting so aggravated to think that the WL could be under construction during our stay Aug 18-27! This is our first time staying in a deluxe resort & heard so many great things about WL! My DH is already telling me to switch hotels but want to wait for accurate information! I don't want to regret a switch & hope for the best! To spend all this money, we should be told upfront about any possible rehabs!

I agree. My kids 3 in their early 20s and a 12year old are scheduled for the end of Sept. They are paying for it on their own and goodness knows how soon any of them will be able to go again. When DH and I have taken them we have always stayed value.

I talked DD out of the Poly because of the construction. What bothers me the most is that it is coming out now when they cannot afford to switch.

Will they have a great? I am sure they will. However the pool was important to DD 21 who has been the big planner of this trip. They did add water park option. It is just a downer for them.

 

[Fracfam4]

Thanks Kook! Good reminder. We're telling the kids this weekend that we are going back to the World in November. I lost my Disney vacation mojo with all the pool drama. A little perspective helps.

 

[TheLodgeLady]

I'd love to hear more about this. Also, is there any WL specific plush or toy available in the mercantile right now?

I'm not sure about the specifics of the pail. I will try and get some for you.

I think that the plush you are talking about is the little bear that is like a hand puppet. They created a plush from the sculpture that is by the fire place. It 's the little bear that is hanging on the top. I love that little bear. Wish I had a photo but maybe someone does.

Kook - maybe you can get one next week please?

 

[kastoney]

Do you guys ever watch vloggers? I do on a variety of subjects including some who have done vlogs from WDW. While watching one vlogger I saw a link to Seeyareelsoon. A very cute couple who visit WDW a lot. I've been watching them for about a year. Any way their latest vlog may be interesting to the Lodgers. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b-9CRAxMagI

This is so cute. Thanks for the post, can't wait to catch up and follow along.

 

[WildMouser]

We are staying club level the week of August 10th. My DH called the concierge today (club level) and they said that pool refurbishments could happen between July and September. Seriously, no definite date?

So I call the WL directly tonight and I spoke to a gentleman who says there is no pool refurbishment scheduled for the week we are planning. He also said that guests should be notified 60 days out of resort refurbishments. Is that even true?

I am not feeling confident and ready to cancel my reservation as pool time is an important part of our trip.

 

[dpswift]

We are staying club level the week of August 10th. My DH called the concierge today (club level) and they said that pool refurbishments could happen between July and September. Seriously, no definite date?

So I call the WL directly tonight and I spoke to a gentleman who says there is no pool refurbishment scheduled for the week we are planning. He also said that guests should be notified 60 days out of resort refurbishments. Is that even true?

I am not feeling confident and ready to cancel my reservation as pool time is an important part of our trip.

Several years ago DS and I stayed at POP and they had a pool refurbishment that started the day after we got there. I received a letter at least 60 days out. It did not bother me since there were 2 other pools at the resort and POPs feature pool is nothing special. However at a deluxe the feature pool is special enough that it can make a difference in someones enjoyment of their stay.

Yes there are many other things to do at the resort. However frequent visitors need to think also about the perspective of those who may never go back to WDW. For them it is a big deal.

 

[WDWKOOK]

I booked a garden view room at GF.

k&a&c'smom, who hosts the GF thread, is wonderful. Please say hello "from WL and WDWKOOK" to her for me.

Wow, this is all so frustrating. But so typical of Disney unfortunately.

I don't think I ever introduced myself on this thread. Dh and I are booked for 8/28 - 9/1 at WL, first time to WL. It will be our second (hopefully annual) kid-free trip. We went last August because well, August is my b-day and that's what I want to do for my b-day, be in WDW without the kids. It's also our chance to try out the Deluxes b/c staying at a Deluxe when we go wtih the kids is just way too expensive - more nights, more tickets, the dining plan, etc. With just the 2 of us for only 4 nights and a good discount, it's not so bad.
Anywho, we probably will not reschedule even if the pool is closed since it's just the 2 of us and we wouldn't be swimming much anyways.

Welcome to the thread and congratulations on booking your (hopefully) annual Kid's-Free Trip! What will you do with all your free time...

Well in addition to working towards my goal of staying at every Disney resort, I am working towards eating at every Disney restaurant, so no repeat restaurants for us, lol.

So I have booked:

MK - Liberty Tree Tavern for dinner
EP - Teppan Edo for dinner
HS - 50s Prime Time for dinner
WL - Whispering Canyon for dinner
POLY - Kona Cafe for breakfast

No other special plans. last year we did the Keys to the Kingdom tour at MK and loved it and were hoping to do another tour this year. We were interested in the Backstage Magic one (all parks) but after reading up on it, decided to skip it. It's a lot of $$ and I was disappointed to find they don't even include any rides. We loved getting to sneak on HM last year and for a full day tour, I expected we'd get to ride at least 1 or 2 attractions. So, no tour for us this time as there really isn't anything else that interested us that much. What about you?

DD turns 16 in October and we can't wait for the first opportunity to take the KttKT…hopefully at Christmas

We are headed home. We loved the WL, dry stream and all.

Thank you for posting your photos! Your DDs are so cute, but I noticed your signature and wondered where DS was? Let me guess, back in the room on his phone or computer?

Heading to the WL for the first time for our 1 year anniversary in October (we honeymooned at BWI last year.) We will be there from October 25th until Nov 2nd!!

Happy Anniversary and welcome to the thread. I'll log your dates.

I just sent a message to "VEA Creative" and asked them for more info on the project.....Should I have mentioned that I am a City Plans Examiner/Building Inspector?? In a city 1000 miles away! haha

They are the contractor for some sort of Disney fishing excursion sign and not the pool contractor. A few days ago someone contacted by email the pool contractor who replied that they should "give Sally a call in the morning," but I don't think they were ever contacted by anyone here.

They are a manufacturer of signs.

Whew!!! Just spent the last few days reading all 209 pages of this thread. A little introduction. My name is Denise, and me and my family are huge WL fans! It's our favorite resort on site, and we've stayed there around 6-7 times now. We typically visit Disney once or twice a year, around once every 7-9 months. Our last visit was Thanksgiving of last year and we stayed at POR for that trip. Large family trip (25 of us) and $$ won out in the long run with most of our travel companions. Oh how I missed our WL that trip. Now we have no plans for a Disney trip in the near future and I am missing WL as much as I am missing Disney in general. This thread really gave me a good "fix".

A few things I read that I didn't know about. One of those things is this "pail surprise" you can get delivered to your room from room service? We've ordered room service at WL a few times, but I don't remember ever seeing that item listed. I would love to know what it is, what comes in it?

Also, Kook, where and when did you get that awesome red Mickey luggage? I absolutely LOVE it. And thanks for making this such an amazing and welcoming place to hang out. This has to be one of the friendliest groups of folks here on the Dis. I love how you guys almost seem more like family than message board acquaintances.

Here's hoping to planning a trip to WDW and my beloved WL in the near future. "My living room" on the fourth floor has been calling my name lately. Hope it's been well taken care of in my absence. LOL.

Welcome, Denise! 25 family members?! Wowza! How did you coordinate all your meals, etc?

All of my Mickey Mouse luggage is several years old and from the online Disney Store. They also sell the plastic ones (not the red ones any longer, I believe) at some of the stores at WDW, like in resort stores. They have some at The Mercantile, BVG at CR, etc… But, with the Disney Store, you can apply discount codes that are better than the onsite 10% off AP discount

I couldn't find a photo of the Snack Pail Surprise, but it's $45 through Private Dining.

This IS the best thread on the DIS, IMHO. It satisfies the WL fix nicely. Kook does a pretty good job oc keeping us in line.

A "pretty good job" is the best I can muster given current conditions beyond my control. And, it's a "top three thread." OK, you guys are the best

Hello,

I had posted about the Snack Pail Surprise. All it says is that it is "a sand pail full of treats. $15.00

Maybe someone who is there can give private dining a call and find out what "treats" they are.

And if it is still on the menu as this was from February.

I shall make an inquiry after 6/25. I think the pail is $45.

Greetings from NYC! I am so excited to be returning back to WDW for the 8th (?) time! been going since I was 3! This is the first time I'm staying at a deluxe hotel in over ten years and I'm so thrilled. My boyfriend is excited too.

We are staying at the Wilderness Lodge from 9/26-10/04. I have never visited so this is a big first for me

Do you think we'll hit bad luck with the pool? Should I call the resort and ask? What state will the hotel be in around that time? We don't have kids and we barely used the pool last year at Pop Century because we were too busy going to parks. It's not a HUGE loss, but a sad one because we were really excited about the stay during Halloween season.

We booked a courtyard view. Any tips or favorite spots that I can put in towards courtyard specific requests? Definitely let me know. I am going in kind of blindly, but I'm happy to follow along with this board to prep me just a little.

Thank you for all your help and i'm soooo excited

Welcome to the thread, NY! I'll add you to our Lodgers' Log. One of the coveted CV rooms are the Bear Face rooms that directly face the WL Courtyard. Some CV rooms face VWL, so if you want to face the WL courtyard, geyser and Bay Lake, request a WL CV and or a "off lobby" or "Bear Face" room.

Do you guys ever watch vloggers? I do on a variety of subjects including some who have done vlogs from WDW.

While watching one vlogger I saw a link to Seeyareelsoon. A very cute couple who visit WDW a lot. I've been watching them for about a year.

Any way their latest vlog may be interesting to the Lodgers.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b-9CRAxMagI

Thank you for posting the link to such a unique video. I really enjoyed how happy and surprised she was when she figured out they were staying at WL. I feel the same way as soon as I pass under the "Welcome to Walt Disney World" sign.

So the pool closure/rehab, seems to be between bad and real bad. Our trip is planned for Sept 21-28, anybody have any idea what shape the pool will be in around this time???

Welcome to the thread and should I add your dates? No one can make an accurate prediction about the pool status now.

hi everyone

in regards to the pool closing, i am staying wl club level aug 21-28. I took the liberty to email the cl staff & here's what i got:

Good Afternoon,

The pool at The Wilderness Lodge will be closing for construction in
late August. The exact dates have yet to be announced. The quiet pool
will still be available for use. If you would like to inquire about
other resorts, Disney Reservations (407-934-7639) would be happy to
assist.

Please let us know if you have any further questions.

Have a magical day!

Happy Trails,
Lina

So, there you go. Not sure how accurate this is, but, it's from cl staff

How helpful that they're letting guests know how they can "inquire" about other WDW resorts. That sounds so reassuring to the guest

Interesting, and still frustrating

We will be there as well from August 20th through the 29th on a free dining bounce back. I really wish someone knew what late August meant. This is a big trip for us; 25th wedding anniversary, 10th trip with kids, and the pool area\courtyard is a huge reason I booked at the lodge again. Too arrive and find that area closed would be bad. We spend a lot of time at the pool, and of course, it's one of the reasons we prefer the deluxe resorts.

I'm so tempted to book somewhere else, but the costs go up quick at any other deluxe. The cabins at Ft. Wilderness are a though, but the transportation thing there kind of annoying.

Ugh. Praying for some good info on dates before nothing else is available.

Not that this matters much, but my onsite sources reported an after Labor Day start.

Hi everybody. We will be visiting the Lodge 8/5-13. All of this pool stuff has me very nervous. We spend a lot of time at the pool and planned to spend even more time since my husband had a bad accident last November and is still having a difficult time walking. We toyed with switching resorts but decided to stay at the Lodge and hope for the best. Hoping we don't regret that decision.

Welcome and I'll add your dates to the LL. I hope your DH's positive recovery continues.

Hi all - I've been lurking in these boards and obsessively planning my family's first trip for Nov 1-8. I have 5 and 8 yr old kids so this news about the pool is disappointing, this is our "big Disney trip." Even if we come back we would probably stay moderate or off site so we are sort of splurging on WL (we are pretty frugal ) although we are getting free dining.

Part of the reason to splurge us to enjoy the resort but if the big pool is closed and the view is of construction (courtyard view)...not that we won't have a good trip, but is it worth it? Trying to decide if I should switch to AKL while rooms for the promotion are still available. Advice?

to the DIS and the WL/VWL thread! I might consider a downgraded view at WL, but AKL is quite different from WL. The transportation is limited only to buses at AKL. At WL, you have the option of boats to MK and FW/CR, walking paths to FW and buses. There is also water recreation available at WL and bike rentals. AKL doesn't have any boat or bike rentals nor a marina. There also isn't a beach or playground. But, if a feature pool is of primary importance, then that might be a good option for you since it's at a similar price point.

I'm getting so aggravated to think that the WL could be under construction during our stay Aug 18-27! This is our first time staying in a deluxe resort & heard so many great things about WL! My DH is already telling me to switch hotels but want to wait for accurate information! I don't want to regret a switch & hope for the best! To spend all this money, we should be told upfront about any possible rehabs!

I understand your worry. Until a firm date is set with the contractor and then confirmed with Disney, I suspect it makes it difficult to officially notify guests. I understand that as soon as the closure dates are set, guests will be notified by mail. I don't have any control over Disney, but knowing sooner rather than later about any potential major rehab that might disrupt a vacation is always preferable.

You made me get teary eyed here! There are so many amazing memories we have on Bay Lake...my crazy 6 yo swinging around the pole in the center of the monorail cabins late at night on a sugar high, on the way back to our rooms, making us all laugh. Watching Wishes from Bay Lake Beach..sitting on the balcony of our room and starting to hear the Water Pageant music slowly stream in. The kids frantically searching for a sign of MK and then they finally see just the top of the castle, one of Space Mountain's spires..and scream!..it really is an awesome place to be.

Isn't it great when you get the entire monorail car to yourself? That's cause for celebration! I cheer when we see the first WDW signs on i4 and once we get on-property, I'm so giddy, just like your kids, but I'm 46

WDWKOOK, those are lovely thoughts and pictures. I have so many wonderful memories of past vacations in WDW.

But, when I send an email to WDW asking questins on the rehab and then told no rehabs ae scheduled for the WL in the near future. Then I send another email stating there is a rehab in progress at this time and then get an email stating there is an extensive rahab scheduled for after labor day, late Sept and I'm told I should be happy that the mail pool at the WL is scheduled to be opened every day in August from 9am to 11 pm. Then get my response back from the IPO at the WL stating rehab at the end of August but there is the hidden pond pool. Well this is very fustrating. Can't we get an honest answer from WDW resorts?

So many diser's are real planners, so am I. And now not just our ADR's have to be done far in advance but so do our FP+ we count on our down time and the enjoyment of the resort we pick.

I know of the Hidden Pond pool, it is less than half the size of the main pool and with much less seating areas. It is the hotest time of the year that pool can't handle the kids let alone adding in the adults who will want pool time. I know this because for the past 6 years we have no choice but to travel at the end of August. We are planners and we spen alot of money to have a magical vacation. It is fustrating not to get a honest answer.

I hear your frustration and usually end of August is a great time to go. We used to always go then, too because everyone in the south is back in school and my DD's school doesn't start till after Labor Day. Now you have FD then and there are more crowds and potentially a pool closure. Yep, we're all big planners here so I guess that's one reason we're all here. Many of us are seeking out information from multiple sources on an issue that is still evolving.

Been following this pool situation closely. I'm relieved that it's late August/after Labor day closure (we'll be there Aug 9-14), but feel bad for the ones that are being affected. Very glad that we have mods (especially WDWKOOK) in this thread that are giving us all these updates. Thank you, thank you, thank you…

Aww, thank YOU.

I can't understand changing resorts over a pool. Am I the only one that spends the majority of the time at the parks?? I don't get it. There is another pool available. There are two water parks. I think everybody needs to just relax. Obviously there is different info being given but is the status of the pool going to ruin your vacation?? I really hope not. I mean I have a photo shoot scheduled so I hope that whatever they're doing is over but if not we will figure it out.

It would be kind of funny if the photographer chose a construction area as your backdrop - well, at least one photo like that might be amusing.

This has me really excited about our upcoming trip in November! We tend to spend much more time in the parks so I'm not too worried about the pool. I really want the feel of the lodge though b/c I'm trying to hook my skeptical husband into loving it so he agrees to stay there often lol I feel confident that we will have a great time despite the pool refurb. You can't beat staying so close to MK...to me that's much more enticing than a pool!! I can't wait!

Guys love WL. You've got bear-theming and lots of wood EVERYWHERE and Territory Lounge has a BEAR and then there's the buffalo meat at AP and TL. You've got fishing and boating and FW right next door. The FREE Lodge tour (guys love FREE and LODGE!) Your DH is going to love it.

Kook, note ticker below...

OMG! I can't believe what I see before my bleary eyes. Behold! THE TICKER! Is this a CL ticker perchance? What are your dates?!

The people at WDW travel are convinced that there would have been an official notice by now, One of them said "they usually wouldn't start a pool rehab until November"....But the Itinerary people say something is happening, but not being specific.......I think I love the Lodge enough to go anyway(if the pool is closed)...But, what if the whole pool area is boarded off, trout pass and all??? I don't think I can get an Ultimate long island tea at the Roaring Fork

I can't imagine the only pool bar being closed. Alcohol brings in too much revenue to shut it down, right? TL opens at 4 so you could always get an ULIIT there

I will concur with WDWKOOK.... I also stressed over the construction on the stream and waterfall before my trip. It was upsetting because it was such a rare trip, and we all know it's not cheap. I decided to make the best of it and it was best trip I've ever had. The whole hotel is amazing...from the grounds to the staff (CL staff and the rest of hotel). If I had the chance to go back during pool construction I would not hesitate.

Words of wisdom from she who knows

With out a doubt this is one of the best paragraphs and posts I have ever read on the DIS...you need to put a trip to Disney into words, this is it!!! Thanks for that!!

It was all from the heart and I thank you so much for your extra kind words. I almost regretted posting because I didn't want anyone to think I was being unsympathetic, but you've made me feel better. I don't have any control over how Disney handles these things, but I just didn't want anyone to lose sight of the bigger (resort) picture.

And in the vein of KOOK's warm fuzzies, my favorite WL memories are sitting by an upstairs fireplace every morning in December with my coffee (do this if the A/C is on and you'll forget it's summer). And choosing pins and a Koda bear from the mercantile for my sick-as-a-dog little girl asleep upstairs. She still thinks that bear has magical powers. Koda and WL saved our vacation.

I'd love to hear more about this. Also, is there any WL specific plush or toy available in the mercantile right now?

Thank you KOOK for the reminder that we scheduled our "resort only" trip precisely so that we could take advantage of all of these extras that we normally rush right past. We will take the time to explore!

I will check after 6/25 and post plush photos. I remember you asked about Koda a while back and that's such a sweet story about your sick DD. I hope she's fully recovered by now.

 

[WDWKOOK]

We are staying club level the week of August 10th. My DH called the concierge today (club level) and they said that pool refurbishments could happen between July and September. Seriously, no definite date?

So I call the WL directly tonight and I spoke to a gentleman who says there is no pool refurbishment scheduled for the week we are planning. He also said that guests should be notified 60 days out of resort refurbishments. Is that even true?

I am not feeling confident and ready to cancel my reservation as pool time is an important part of our trip.

My onsite source told me that letters will go out to guests. If the after Labor Day start date is still accurate, then guest letters should begin to be sent in 2-3 weeks, but this is only a guess.

 

[WDWKOOK]

Thanks Kook! Good reminder. We're telling the kids this weekend that we are going back to the World in November. I lost my Disney vacation mojo with all the pool drama. A little perspective helps.

They are going to be so excited. Hope they can wait till November. I understand how the news came as a surprise. I was surprised when TheLodgeLady mentioned it. I also thought it might be more of a January/February timeframe for pool rehabs.

I'm not sure about the specifics of the pail. I will try and get some for you.

I think that the plush you are talking about is the little bear that is like a hand puppet. They created a plush from the sculpture that is by the fire place. It 's the little bear that is hanging on the top. I love that little bear. Wish I had a photo but maybe someone does.

Kook - maybe you can get one next week please?

Please remind me of everything I'm supposed to check on if I forget. I need to make a list or else I'll be standing in the middle of the Lodge looking confused about what I was supposed to check on