(CLOSED) Disney's WILDERNESS LODGE and VILLAS INFORMATION THREAD ~2014~

[scullyh]

Are the pools and hot tubs all up and running now?

 

[Kona65]

35% bounce back. Yea!!!!!!!!

 

[WDWKOOK]

Back from vacation and so glad the thread didn't get dangerously close to 250 pages

I hope everyone had a joyous Christmas/Hanukah and if you haven't already done so, it's time to start planning your 2015 trips to WDW

Now that the pool, splash pad and at least one WL hot tub has re-opened, prospective guests should know that for the next 14 months scaffolding will be visible at WL in various locations. Paint and repair is needed so you may see the scaffolding if you're staying at WL in the next 14 months. At this time, I'm not aware of any other long-term projects, other than the WCC closure from 15 May to 26 June, but I'll post within the thread and in the NEWS section of the thread if I hear about anything else.

​

Don't know how to post a photo but the times guide for the holidays is:
Holiday performers: dec 18,21,22 6:30 & 7:30 pm
Disney characters: dec 20,21,22 4:30-8:15 pm
Dec 24 & 251:30 arts and crafts
2:30 pool deck party
3:30 what's in your stocking
4:00 pass the parcel
4:30 dance party (dec 24)
4:30 games (dec 25)
Dec 24:5-9 meet Santa claus
Dec 25:
5:30 marshmallow roasting at the beach
7 pm movie Disneys A Christmas Carol
Dec 31: cast recycled art contest @ roaring fork

Thank you for posting this

Driving down 95 on our way! One night in the road and we'll check into the Lodge tomorrow morning!

I hope you had an easy drive and a great vacation!

Bumping with a photo. Hope everyone who is there is loving the decorations, and those of us who are not there...photos and shared love of the lodge!

How sweet

I stayed at the WL for the first time from 12/13 to 12/17. It has always been a dream of mine to stay at the Lodge around the holidays and I was not disappointed.

We had a first floor room with a view of the path that separates the Lodge from the Villas. The first floor balcony/patio felt huge in comparison to upper floor balconies I've had at other resorts.

Our room (1142, I think) was clean and in great shape.

The walls on the beach were coming down on 12/17, our checkout day. The pool looked to be open the whole time we were there but we never used it - it was too chilly for swimming for us.

All the CMs we encountered were wonderful and we had no issues with bus or boat service.

We had a nice surprise on our first night when a local choir was scheduled to perform in the lobby - it was a great way to kick off our trip.

My only disappointment was our lunch at Whispering Canyon Cafe. We ordered the skillet and it didn't come with any pulled pork. When we finally flagged our server down, he said they had just run out of pulled pork - it would have been nice if he had mentioned it before dumping our skillet and running. We also didn't get any extra of anything else to replace the pulled pork at first. We did ask for more chicken and potatoes later as there wasn't enough on the first platter for all 4 of us to eat with a whole protein missing. I understand that places run out of certain items and am not upset about that but it would have been nice if it had been acknowledged and replaced with something else without us having to call attention to it ourselves.

We also never got any cornbread but I honestly didn't realize that until after we left and I don't even know if they serve cornbread anymore. The WCC has always been a favorite of mine though I haven't eaten there in a few years so I was really looking forward to this lunch but it was a bit of a bust. The service overall was poor - I wasn't looking for any funny antics as we were a group of adults, but our server barely paid us any attention at all, nevermind all of the goofy stuff you often see at the WCC. We did have some good appetizers in the Territory Lounge one of our other nights and the service there was great.

Thank you for posting your TR. Aren't the choirs magical? We've seen them at CR and it was such a treat to catch them on the 4th floor near the Christmas tree.

We've found that WCC's food selection and quality have been slipping over the years. I'm hoping that with the upcoming closure, they'll maybe revamp their menu and go back to the hearty, tasty skillet they used to offer.

Hello everyone, and for all those here, Merry Christmas!! We are now here in Pensacola to spend the holiday with my daughter, Sarah. We had an absolutely grand time at Disney for the past week and made some memories that will last us a lifetime- despite the fact I picked up a terrible cold and that I have been sick as a dog the last few days. I am really hoping this sickness leaves so I can enjoy the last few days I have till I start work again next week.

The WL was absolutely beautiful and we loved our stay!! Our room was 3028, and 3026- which faced the otter pond and we were able to see wishes each night outside our balcony-it was perfect location, close to elevator and short walk to lobby. We were also right near the Roaring fork which was perfect in the mornings to grab coffee and muffin on our way to parks- we were also close to boat docks- which we utilized quite a bit. The weather also was lovely mostly sun except for the last day which turned cloudy and rainy.

We enjoyed our time in the parks- I missed the AK due to being sick but this was the only day I missed. We had the deluxe dining plan for the 1st time, and while it is a good value it was just WAY too much food for us and we left with many unused credits- which is a real shame. Next time, we will just opt for the regular dining plan which is perfect for our family.

And the perfect ending to the trip was that my daughter Sarah's boyfriend proposed to her on last night in front of the MK- photo pass was there but she sent them away thinking he was just kidding but he was not at all and when he pulled out the ring she knew it was real and cried!! It was always her dream to get a Disney proposal but it sort of didn't end the way she hoped. Still it was pretty neat and I am so happy for both of them- they have been dating since 2010 so it is well time for this to happen.

Thanks to everyone here for all the great tips and advice- the pool and hot tubs we did use and enjoyed them immensely. We would love to stay here again but not at Christmas- we were fine till Sunday then the crowds were insane we have been at Christmas now the last 2 times so I would love to go back during the Spring and garden festival or at another low crowd time. Lastly, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all of you!!!

What a great TR, except for being sick, which is no fun at all on vacation. Your DD will never forget that proposal and sending away the photographer. Do you know yet if they'll have a Disney wedding or Disneymoon?

I wasn't sure if you could see some of Wishes from the 3rd floor in the North Wing so thank you for posting your room number so others will know.

Merry Christmas to all! Thanks for all the helpful advice, info, and sharing that happens on this most wonderful thread on the DIS!

Loved all your photos and your lovely sentiment

Please add us for 7/23 - 8/1/15. Thanks.

Welcome and congratulations on booking.

Late update...but we're still here at WL! As mentioned. ..this place really is beautiful. ..Walt would've been proud of this resort!
There have been some challenges, but they are doing their best to keep us here as long as possible. .. (long story...maybe later).
6 nights down...3...maybe 2...or maybe 5... (again, long story).
Happy Holidays to all!

I hope it all worked out for you.

...and I love a long story! Hope you'll share once you get back!

I have a dining question that I figured I would post here first since so many of you know so much more than I do about WL. We are staying 5/31-6/6 at WL. We had an ADR at Whispering Canyon on our "down day." Since Whispering Canyon will be closed for refurbishment we are looking for a nice place to dine for myself, DH, DD 4, and DM. We were looking forward to not leaving WL that day and we don't want to go too far away. DM was not so upset about having to switch ressies as she did not want the noise and shenanigans of Whispering Canyon. We already have a 1900 Park Fare and Chef Mickey res. we were looking at either California Grille or Artist Point. Any other suggestions or tips for us? We don't want to venture too far that day but we may consider Downtown Disney if all else fails. Thanks!!

Another option is ordering from Artist Point while dining at Territory Lounge and no ADR is needed. I don't have the current TL/AP menu (they make minor changes throughout the year), but here is the one from summer:

Can you please add us 10/31- 11/06/15 our first time at WL

You're going to love it! Welcome to the thread.

Well, we did it! My husband and I surprised our 3 kids Christmas morning with a trip to Disney. It was something I will never forget!!! We arrive on Jan. 1st and are staying 5 nights at the Wilderness Lodge! I am so excited to come back. We last stayed here in 2004.

I do have a quick question to all of you experts. Does the bathroom/sink area in the rooms have a magnifying mirror? I just need to know if I should pack mine if they don't. THANKS!!!

What a wonderful surprise and a long overdue trip. Make sure to pack a little magnifying mirror since there isn't one in the room. I've added your dates to the Log

I don't remember ever seeing a magnifying mirror.

Your memory is spot on.

Hey all! I have a 3 night CL stay coming up from the 13-16th with my grandmother. I have booked the fireworks dessert party as a surprise for her. Just looking for ideas of how to do the surprise? Just showing up seems kind of anticlimactic.

Also, first trip to WL, and first time CL! Anything I should know that wasn't in the first few pages? SO excited! Just got back from 3 nights offsite the 20-23 and ready for some lower crowds.

When you check-in at the CL desk upstairs, ask if there is any Flag Family availability and/or any Rooftop Wishes availability for you and your DGM.

Now that the holidays are winding down, I'm getting excited for our trip to the DW in March. Please add us to the us to the list - staying for the first time at WL March 21-28, 2015. I'm traveling with my 18 year old DS for a special trip to the world. (first long trip without my DH - who traveled to the World for Off Kilter's last shows in September - I'm so sad they won't be performing at Epcot in March).

We have stayed offsite many times (at timeshares - love the space and resort feel - especially the Vistana Resort), Coronado Springs, Saratoga Springs, BWV (a few times) - one of my favorite resorts!. We are looking forward to our first MK area resort stay.

As time goes along, I am seriously thinking of taking at least 2 whole non park days (in addition to arrival/departure days) to enjoy the resort and also travel to Fort Wilderness. Top on my list (as long as weather cooperates) is to rent the sea racers and zip around the bay.

Thanks to everyone that have posted about their trips to the WL. I've been reading the posts the last couple of months, and it's been extremely helpful!!

Your trip is coming up soon and how nice that you can spend it with DS. You're going to love being in the MK Resorts area. It's so much fun walking over to FW and looking at the horses and ponies. We love the Sea Raycers and you can even take them over to Seven Seas Lagoon. You'll have to check-out the new Canadian show and report back to us and DH. Happy planning!

Are the pools and hot tubs all up and running now?

As of Christmas Day, one hot tub was still closed. Hours of operation are now posted and I believe they are 10-10.

35% bounce back. Yea!!!!!!!!

Very nice! Did you book for 2015? Do you happen to have a photo of the 2015 BB?

 

[Lzylitnin]

35% bounce back. Yea!!!!!!!!

I'm excited about that, too! We're booked for Food & Wine, next fall. I couldn't resist the discount and it certainly helped my DDD (Disney Departure Depression)!

 

[WDWKOOK]

The last two paragraphs of this Orlando Sentinel article only add to the speculation/confusion about the rumor that WL might convert some Deluxe Rooms to DVC villa inventory.

 

[BlueFairy]

Spring discounts out for room only and packages . . . Oh so tempting!!!!

 

[IceSkatingPrincess]

When you check-in at the CL desk upstairs, ask if there is any Flag Family availability and/or any Rooftop Wishes availability for you and your DGM.
​

I have heard about the flag family, but can you tell me about rooftop wishes?​

 

[dkrauss]

Spring discounts out for room only and packages . . . Oh so tempting!!!!

Oh.........I am so with you

I've looked at the numbers and it just can't be done in 2015 with my sweeties son's wedding. Oh but I looked

We'll live until Jan 2016

Doug

 

[2Tinkmom]

Just booked for May 2015 Hoping for Flag Family

 

[blackdogg]

Hey all! I have a 3 night CL stay coming up from the 13-16th with my grandmother. I have booked the fireworks dessert party as a surprise for her. Just looking for ideas of how to do the surprise? Just showing up seems kind of anticlimactic.

Maybe order a small dessert cake? The individual small ones are awesome for special occasions and usual $35 (so cute two tier mini lovelies!) - I believe the # to call is 407-824-2090 for WL or I'm certain CL could help you out with it if need be... just have a little note added to it letting her in on the upcoming event. Or... a smaller idea just grab a card or small momento from gift shop & secretly ask CL staff if they can place it in your room so it's there as as surprise upon return from parks/dining/what have you I'm all about adding my own extra magic on our trips for our fam- my FAVORITE part

 

[IceSkatingPrincess]

Maybe order a small dessert cake? The individual small ones are awesome for special occasions and usual $35 (so cute two tier mini lovelies!) - I believe the # to call is 407-824-2090 for WL or I'm certain CL could help you out with it if need be... just have a little note added to it letting her in on the upcoming event. Or... a smaller idea just grab a card or small momento from gift shop & secretly ask CL staff if they can place it in your room so it's there as as surprise upon return from parks/dining/what have you I'm all about adding my own extra magic on our trips for our fam- my FAVORITE part

I like the Having the CL staff place something in the room. Maybe a big Mickey? Holding a card? Liking this idea! They have my CC info, I wonder if they would be able to go purchase the mickey for me if I did that so it'd be there when we arrive. It's arrival night so I'm limited on what I can do.

 

[bushdianee]

With the Spring Special out I just upgraded from POF to WL for June 2-10, Woods view. I just made reservations for WCC for the 9th then read on here that they will be closed from May-?. Are they supposed to be open by the 9th? This will be our 2nd time at WL.

 

[bluecastle]

With the Spring Special out I just upgraded from POF to WL for June 2-10, Woods view. I just made reservations for WCC for the 9th then read on here that they will be closed from May-?. Are they supposed to be open by the 9th? This will be our 2nd time at WL.

According to what KOOK wrote on p. 227 in this thread, they will be closed until the 26th of June. I wish Disney's reservation system would block out dates when restaurants are going to be closed for refurbs. I can't even imagine planning a trip without using the DIS to avoid the problems caused by WDW's reluctance to announce closures and adjust their reservation systems at 180 days out, as well as informing the cast members who answer the phones.
Pull up a chair and hang out here! There are so many helpful people.

 

[DisneyDmbNut]

Hola Lodgers!

Just booked my May trip to see my cousins march in the parade and went with the WL.

How does the pool look after the renovations? Last trip I stayed here in May, the stream was dry and closed

 

[Susiec]

I have reservations at WCC when it is said to be closed. So what happens now?
I called disney they say they have no record of it closing. Where did the closing info come from?

 

[KimP5]

Hola Lodgers!

Just booked my May trip to see my cousins march in the parade and went with the WL.

How does the pool look after the renovations? Last trip I stayed here in May, the stream was dry and closed

We just got back from our Christmas stay on Sunday. Pool was good to go! Splash pad open for little ones, big pool open and warm. Stream flowing nicely. There was still some scaffolding on that side of the building so looking out from the lobby was blocked, but not that big a deal. Only thing was, I never saw the geyser go off. Not sure if it was shut down, or I just didn't notice it. Last time I stayed there was maybe 7 years ago, and I swear it was closer to the building, like right in front of the windows, but DH says I'm mistaken. Anyway, things look to be pretty much up and running.

 

[KimP5]

Trying to plan a return trip already, though just got back a couple days ago! My parents want to come next time, and they're both living on SSA. I'm looking to pay the room and let them get any park tickets they want and/or dining. I need an opinion... I really loved CL, and I'd love to be able to do that again... For those of you with experience, would it be less expensive to get an AP, then look for room only discounts for two CL rooms, or would it be less $ to book a 2BR villa instead? (which wouldn't get us CL, but we could bring our own food, I guess, though that's just not as good. LOL!) I think WL is really the only resort I'd consider for this trip... they may not be able to go again, and I'd love them to be able to experience it.

Also, we stayed on one of the lower floor, Deluxe CL rooms (family of 5), and I noticed there was a door to an adjoining room, I do believe. Anyone know if we could book this deluxe CL room again and attempt to get the room next door so we could be all together? Anyone done this? Was I mistaken?

Thanks for your advice!

 

[MrsDef]

Spring discounts out for room only and packages . . . Oh so tempting!!!!

This saved me a ton on my club level ressie. 5/29-6/4

 

[MrsDef]

I have reservations at WCC when it is said to be closed. So what happens now?
I called disney they say they have no record of it closing. Where did the closing info come from?

I emailed the IPO office and they didn't know. I will be so mad. I cancelled Ohana for WC.

 

[IceSkatingPrincess]

Trying to plan a return trip already, though just got back a couple days ago! My parents want to come next time, and they're both living on SSA. I'm looking to pay the room and let them get any park tickets they want and/or dining. I need an opinion... I really loved CL, and I'd love to be able to do that again... For those of you with experience, would it be less expensive to get an AP, then look for room only discounts for two CL rooms, or would it be less $ to book a 2BR villa instead? (which wouldn't get us CL, but we could bring our own food, I guess, though that's just not as good. LOL!) I think WL is really the only resort I'd consider for this trip... they may not be able to go again, and I'd love them to be able to experience it.

Also, we stayed on one of the lower floor, Deluxe CL rooms (family of 5), and I noticed there was a door to an adjoining room, I do believe. Anyone know if we could book this deluxe CL room again and attempt to get the room next door so we could be all together? Anyone done this? Was I mistaken?

Thanks for your advice!

I'd say an AP and go in January (lowest resort rates).

With my Ap discount for January 13 at WL
standard room woods: $217.75
standard room CL: $321.75
deluxe room CL: $425.10
1 bedroom villa: $332.80
2 bedroom villa: 522.60

Hope that helps!