(CLOSED) Disney's WILDERNESS LODGE and VILLAS Information Thread

[WDWKOOK]

Kook, the deluxe room will have to do. Don't want to stay in the villas again (just didn't seem "Disney" enough), don't want to pay for a 2-bedroom, and am hopelessly addicted to club level. Plans are that we will move from WL to my all time fave, BWI deluxe club level. The girls will have to deal with all of us sharing one bathroom. I think they will handle it, and just be thrilled to be there.

Of course, cannot plan dates because of my mother's health. I have been caring for her at home through the Alzheimer's. For the last 3 weeks she has been in a "rehab" place for her broken hip. Because she is so confused and just plain lost, we alternate staying with her during most of the day. Plans are for her to heal enough to come home, where I will take care of her as long as I can. Wouldn't work for everyone, but I want whatever is going to happen to her to happen at home, if at all possible.

I last took her to Disney in November of 2010. Somehow, we managed to have a nice trip, which was to be her last one. She has no memory of it, but I always will.

You are are the daughter that everyone parent dreams of having. Your post made me teary-eyed and though your mom does not recognize your sacrifice and kindness, I hope you take comfort in knowing that you have taken a very difficult situation and turned it into a 24-hour act of kindness and selfless sacrifice that does not go unnoticed, I'm sure, but those around you.

Hi - we'll be at WL in late August for our annual Disney trip (with free dining). This is our first stay at WL - we've just been to WL for dining at WCC, and Fell.In.Love with the place!

Since we have a standard room, do we have any options for room requests, i.e. higher floor, near elevator, Wishes view, etc. or do the standard rooms pretty much overlook the service entrances, etc? Not that there's anything bad about that - after all, we'll be gazing upon Disney garbage trucks at DisneyWorld!

Also, we are dining at Artist Point during our trip. I am planning to bring the standard LBD (lightweight material with no sleeves and can be dressed up or down). In your experience, what is the unofficial dress code at Artist Point? Not that we are planning to show up in a tee-shirt and sloppy shorts - just want to make sure we are hitting about the mid-range of the "code". Thanks!

Congratulations on booking your first stay at WL! Soon, you'll know first-hand why we all the Lodge.

Actually, some of the higher Standard Rooms have a view of Wishes in the north Wing. So you might want to request a "high North Wing room" or a "room with a Wishes view." The service area as pictured on the first page, will be below you, but at night you won't really notice it and you'll be able to watch Wishes.

Artist Point is 'resort casual' so you will be perfectly attired. Let us know if you have any other questions before your trip.

So, now that I am back to the planning for a future trip phase instead of preparing for a trip this summer, I am beginning to think about what we may want for next summer. I asked my DH about a split stay because I know he just loves settling into one place for an entire week and, not surprisingly, he said he had really liked the idea of the 2 BR villa. So, now I am wondering if a split stay between an Epcot 2 BR villa and VWL might be a good idea. I noticed on allears that the prices for BCV and BWV 2 bedrooms are about the same as VWL. As much as I love, love, love the WL, there is something tempting about strolling over to WS in the evening and also being able to walk back to our hotel when we go to Epcot. So, does anyone have any opinions about BCV v. BWV? And why is the price for the BCV a little less than VWL and BWV? It's a good thing I enjoy planning so that I can recover from my disappointment over our canceled trip by planning for the next one! By the way, I haven't canceled yet, so if anyone is interested in a 2 BR at VWL I can post here when I've canceled so you can know it is available. (8/2-8/10)
Also, KOOK, turns out my DD has lots of work due for a summer class that week anyhow, so it is better that we are not going. (this is so like her, not realizing this until the last minute) So even if she could go without me, which I know she wouldn't want to do, it's better that she wait until next year too! (and I am planning for a week later, just in case!) And I will add my thanks to the wonderful (and not in the least confusing!) way you have organized this thread and take care to respond to everyone in a respectful and friendly manner. For people who take the time to actually read what is here, it is so very helpful and a wonderful place to visit. p.s. I haven't the heart to remove my ticker yet...will do it when I have next year's trip booked. (from 1 month to 12!)

I think that Linda, Grumpy Grandma, might be able to help with your DVC question. And, I'm with you - don't remove your ticker until you book for next year

I really appreciate your kind remarks, bluecastle - thank you

Me too. My Mom took care of her mom at home. Though it wasn't always the safest situation for my Mom and Grandpa, it was best for Mammaw.

Hello,
I am considering staying at the Wilderness Lodge and would like to know about Mosquitos since my daughter is highly allergic to them.

Thank you,

Ah, mosquitoes... Well, Disney is great about spraying everywhere - except off the concrete trails and sidewalks near WL and FW. Your DD should be prepared though, wherever you are at WDW, if she does get bit. But, in general, as long as she doesn't go into the wooded areas, she should be less vulnerable.

I just had to quote and bold this because it is so very true - thank you so much, KOOK!

Awwww, you're so sweet - thank you

 

[Grumpy Grandma]

So, now that I am back to the planning for a future trip phase instead of preparing for a trip this summer, I am beginning to think about what we may want for next summer. I asked my DH about a split stay because I know he just loves settling into one place for an entire week and, not surprisingly, he said he had really liked the idea of the 2 BR villa. So, now I am wondering if a split stay between an Epcot 2 BR villa and VWL might be a good idea. I noticed on allears that the prices for BCV and BWV 2 bedrooms are about the same as VWL. As much as I love, love, love the WL, there is something tempting about strolling over to WS in the evening and also being able to walk back to our hotel when we go to Epcot. So, does anyone have any opinions about BCV v. BWV? And why is the price for the BCV a little less than VWL and BWV? It's a good thing I enjoy planning so that I can recover from my disappointment over our canceled trip by planning for the next one! By the way, I haven't canceled yet, so if anyone is interested in a 2 BR at VWL I can post here when I've canceled so you can know it is available. (8/2-8/10)
Also, KOOK, turns out my DD has lots of work due for a summer class that week anyhow, so it is better that we are not going. (this is so like her, not realizing this until the last minute) So even if she could go without me, which I know she wouldn't want to do, it's better that she wait until next year too! (and I am planning for a week later, just in case!) And I will add my thanks to the wonderful (and not in the least confusing!) way you have organized this thread and take care to respond to everyone in a respectful and friendly manner. For people who take the time to actually read what is here, it is so very helpful and a wonderful place to visit. p.s. I haven't the heart to remove my ticker yet...will do it when I have next year's trip booked. (from 1 month to 12!)

I see that kook thought I might be able to help you. I had seen your post but didn't think I could be much help so I didn't respond. I have stayed at both BWV and BCV but not in quite awhile and then only in a studio on points. So I have no idea why BCV would cost less than BWV or VWL? I will be staying at BWV in a studio garden or pool view this October. If I remember I wasn't crazy about the view at BCV. See I'm really no help at all! Have you tried asking questions on BWI and/or BCV threads????

 

[WDWKOOK]

I see that kook thought I might be able to help you. I had seen your post but didn't think I could be much help so I didn't respond. I have stayed at both BWV and BCV but not in quite awhile and then only in a studio on points. So I have no idea why BCV would cost less than BWV or VWL? I will be staying at BWV in a studio garden or pool view this October. If I remember I wasn't crazy about the view at BCV. See I'm really no help at all! Have you tried asking questions on BWI and/or BCV threads????

You helped - you sent her to my other thread where I will post that you should be able to help her. JK, that was a good idea - there are some very knowledgable DVCers over on the BWI thread who might help you, bluecastle.

Saintstickets just stayed in a VWL 2-bedroom and his photos from his TR are linked in the DVC section on the first page.

 

[Grumpy Grandma]

You helped - you sent her to my other thread where I will post that you should be able to help her. JK, that was a good idea - there are some very knowledgable DVCers over on the BWI thread who might help you, bluecastle.

Saintstickets just stayed in a VWL 2-bedroom and his photos from his TR are linked in the DVC section on the first page.

As I was sending her over to the BWI/V thread exactly what was going thru my mind was she's going to get kook again! But seriously the are some other folks on there who have a lot of knowledge. Also the BC thread has some great folks with a lot of experience .... Teena who happens to be a CM just seems to know everything and can answer most questions. Anyway we've got to stop following each other around these threads or really I guess it's me following you!!!

 

[WDWKOOK]

As I was sending her over to the BWI/V thread exactly what was going thru my mind was she's going to get kook again! But seriously the are some other folks on there who have a lot of knowledge. Also the BC thread has some great folks with a lot of experience .... Teena who happens to be a CM just seems to know everything and can answer most questions. Anyway we've got to stop following each other around these threads or really I guess it's me following you!!!

Stalking? Following? No - just great minds thinking alike

Bluecastle: Also, try the DVC forums - all DVC - all the time

 

[WDWKOOK]

Parking at Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground will be very limited through July 12, as the entire guest parking lot is being paved. If you'll be attending the Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue during this time, consider taking the boat from Magic Kingdom or a bus from another theme park instead of driving.

 

[Sue M]

That is one of the things we love about club level - being able to sit at the desk and make ADRs, check in is lovely, turn down service, lounge to grab a can of soda before heading out, etc, etc (all that you pay for with the increase room rate). My concern is that I really think that some assume that because someone get acknowledged for a special occassion that everyone will. Or that special assistance with dining, etc. I know it does happens and I love reading the stories of it happening but it is important to have some perspective on it as well.

Sadly I don't think IPOs have anymore special powers with getting a booked up TS. They used to, but I think with they new booking systems, that has gone away.

 

[Sammie]

So, now that I am back to the planning for a future trip phase instead of preparing for a trip this summer, I am beginning to think about what we may want for next summer. I asked my DH about a split stay because I know he just loves settling into one place for an entire week and, not surprisingly, he said he had really liked the idea of the 2 BR villa. So, now I am wondering if a split stay between an Epcot 2 BR villa and VWL might be a good idea. I noticed on allears that the prices for BCV and BWV 2 bedrooms are about the same as VWL. As much as I love, love, love the WL, there is something tempting about strolling over to WS in the evening and also being able to walk back to our hotel when we go to Epcot. So, does anyone have any opinions about BCV v. BWV? And why is the price for the BCV a little less than VWL and BWV? It's a good thing I enjoy planning so that I can recover from my disappointment over our canceled trip by planning for the next one! By the way, I haven't canceled yet, so if anyone is interested in a 2 BR at VWL I can post here when I've canceled so you can know it is available. (8/2-8/10)
Also, KOOK, turns out my DD has lots of work due for a summer class that week anyhow, so it is better that we are not going. (this is so like her, not realizing this until the last minute) So even if she could go without me, which I know she wouldn't want to do, it's better that she wait until next year too! (and I am planning for a week later, just in case!) And I will add my thanks to the wonderful (and not in the least confusing!) way you have organized this thread and take care to respond to everyone in a respectful and friendly manner. For people who take the time to actually read what is here, it is so very helpful and a wonderful place to visit. p.s. I haven't the heart to remove my ticker yet...will do it when I have next year's trip booked. (from 1 month to 12!)

Not sure where you checked cash prices but the VWL is a little less than BCV and BWV which are the same price.

As to BWV versus BCV, the Beach Club villas will offer you access to SAB. However the BWV have been recently rehabbed so you will have a newer, fresher room there.

Here is a link to the cash prices for the villas. http://www.mousesavers.com/roomrates2012.html

 

[Cshel85]

Just got a call, during our trip CL WL is CLOSED and we can't have it. I posted another thread because they gave me some options and not sure what to do

Polynesian CL

Contemporary CL with 2 adjoining rooms

AK CL Savannah view

BC CL with lagoon view

UGH..this is starting vaction off well at all and it begins in 13 days my DS 10 and 14 were so looking forward to WL CL

 

[padawans]

Just got a call, during our trip CL WL is CLOSED and we can't have it. I posted another thread because they gave me some options and not sure what to do

Polynesian CL

Contemporary CL with 2 adjoining rooms

AK CL Savannah view

BC CL with lagoon view

UGH..this is starting vaction off well at all and it begins in 13 days my DS 10 and 14 were so looking forward to WL CL

Why are they closing the Cl. Did they say. I loved the Poly Cl. I'm not a big fan of Contemporary, but two rooms would be sweet. Why aren't they offering you 2 rooms at the other resorts. I would still go Poly Cl over the two rooms.

 

[Grumpy Grandma]

Just got a call, during our trip CL WL is CLOSED and we can't have it. I posted another thread because they gave me some options and not sure what to do

Polynesian CL

Contemporary CL with 2 adjoining rooms

AK CL Savannah view

BC CL with lagoon view

UGH..this is starting vaction off well at all and it begins in 13 days my DS10 and 14 were so looking forward to WL CL

Another vote for Poly CL.

 

[WDWKOOK]

Just got a call, during our trip CL WL is CLOSED and we can't have it. I posted another thread because they gave me some options and not sure what to do

Polynesian CL

Contemporary CL with 2 adjoining rooms

AK CL Savannah view

BC CL with lagoon view

UGH..this is starting vaction off well at all and it begins in 13 days my DS 10 and 14 were so looking forward to WL CL

I know that you were all looking forward to WL/CL so I'm sure this was an unwelcome surprise.

Back in April, I was told that the lounge would not be closing and that it possibly might be relocated to the Vice Presidential Suite in the North Wing. For some reason they must be unable to relocate the lounge or they determined that relocating it would not be a viable option for CL guests. The 7th floor of the South Wing was to be closed from July 7 - 27, these must be your dates?

This is how I would evaluate your options:

~I thought I read on your other thread that they offered you WL w/o CL and a $900 credit? While you wouldn't have CL, you would have everything else that WL has to offer PLUS $900 more in your pocket. The boys would still be able to easily do all those activities I posted for you a few pages back and you would still be at WL.

~They are offering you TWO rooms at the CR with CL? With the CR you would still have a resort on Bay Lake, you could walk to the MK and you could easily take the boat to WL or FW to eat or do any of the FW activities I mentioned in my PP. Plus, they're giving you two rooms?! Keep in mind that one NON-CL Bay Lake view room at the CR is the same price as one CL room at WL. Two CR/CL rooms seems beyond generous of Disney.

~An AKL/CL room automatically comes with a savannah view and is actually less money than a WL/CL room. The only transportation option out of AKL is a bus. Would you have a car? This would make it more convenient if you did, but I wouldn't replace WL with AKL.

~Only the third floor rooms have balconies in the Hawaii building at the Poly and the Garden View rooms have a view of the quiet pool and/or the pool service building and/or a large tree in front of your window. This would be an upgrade in price, however.

~Did you want to be in a MK resort or do you want to try an Epcot resort? BC/CL Lagoon (Lake) View rooms were recently reclassified as Water View and now can be a view of SAB, the quiet pool or Crescent Lake. This room would also be an upgrade in price from WL/CL.

Personally, I would either stay with WL since your family were all really looking forward to it and you'd also get a $900 credit or it's a no-brainer, IMHO, to take the two CR/CL rooms, Let us know what you decide to do.

 

[Cshel85]

Thank you for all the feedback..we have decided on the two connecting rooms CL/CR with MK Fireworks view, I just calleld WL CL back now. Andrew said there were no rooms on CL available so he is requesting for us to have a higher floor than CL and that we will have access to CL. We let the boys make the decision and they loved the thought of having their own room along with Monorail access and this is probably something we could never do without this happening. Our stay at WL CL was July 13th through 22nd and they said CL will be completely shutdown

I hope we are happy with CR, the modern look isn't really my thing, but the two rooms sound great

 

[WDWKOOK]

Thank you for all the feedback..we have decided on the two connecting rooms CL/CR with MK Fireworks view, I just calleld WL CL back now. Andrew said there were no rooms on CL available so he is requesting for us to have a higher floor than CL and that we will have access to CL. We let the boys make the decision and they loved the thought of having their own room along with Monorail access and this is probably something we could never do without this happening. Our stay at WL CL was July 13th through 22nd and they said CL will be completely shutdown

I hope we are happy with CR, the modern look isn't really my thing, but the two rooms sound great

You've hit the jackpot! The only floor above the 12th floor Atrium Club is the 14th floor Tower Club which are all suites and a few regular rooms. They actually have their own lounge on the 14th floor. When you stay in the Tower Club, you actually have access to both lounges, so that must be what Andrew meant? The Tower Club rooms are the only rooms that are actually styled differently than all the other rooms at the CR. We have photos on the CR thread.

Enjoy your amazing upgrade and start making your plans for a future WL/CL visit

 

[TheLodgeLady]

I know that you were all looking forward to WL/CL so I'm sure this was an unwelcome surprise.

Back in April, I was told that the lounge would not be closing and that it possibly might be relocated to the Vice Presidential Suite in the North Wing. For some reason they must be unable to relocate the lounge or they determined that relocating it would not be a viable option for CL guests. The 7th floor of the South Wing was to be closed from July 7 - 27, these must be your dates?

This is how I would evaluate your options:

~I thought I read on your other thread that they offered you WL w/o CL and a $900 credit? While you wouldn't have CL, you would have everything else that WL has to offer PLUS $900 more in your pocket. The boys would still be able to easily do all those activities I posted for you a few pages back and you would still be at WL.

~They are offering you TWO rooms at the CR with CL? With the CR you would still have a resort on Bay Lake, you could walk to the MK and you could easily take the boat to WL or FW to eat or do any of the FW activities I mentioned in my PP. Plus, they're giving you two rooms?! Keep in mind that one NON-CL Bay Lake view room at the CR is the same price as one CL room at WL. Two CR/CL rooms seems beyond generous of Disney.

~An AKL/CL room automatically comes with a savannah view and is actually less money than a WL/CL room. The only transportation option out of AKL is a bus. Would you have a car? This would make it more convenient if you did, but I wouldn't replace WL with AKL.

~Only the third floor rooms have balconies in the Hawaii building at the Poly and the Garden View rooms have a view of the quiet pool and/or the pool service building and/or a large tree in front of your window. This would be an upgrade in price, however.

~Did you want to be in a MK resort or do you want to try an Epcot resort? BC/CL Lagoon (Lake) View rooms were recently reclassified as Water View and now can be a view of SAB, the quiet pool or Crescent Lake. This room would also be an upgrade in price from WL/CL.

Personally, I would either stay with WL since your family were all really looking forward to it and you'd also get a $900 credit or it's a no-brainer, IMHO, to take the two CR/CL rooms, Let us know what you decide to do.

Good morning!

KOOK, I have to say that you continue to impress me with your knowledge and your wonderful helpfullness!!!!

 

[WDWKOOK]

Good morning!

KOOK, I have to say that you continue to impress me with your knowledge and your wonderful helpfullness!!!!

Good morning!

Thank you so much. Your comments mean a lot to me considering they come from the queen of all things WL/CL. BTW, why do you think they were unable to relocate the lounge?

I just realized that Mousemommy1, who is on vacation in MD with her kids right now, is booked CL around the same time as Cshel. I'm certain many others are affected, but I can only recall that Candace was also going at the same time as Cshel.

Has anyone else gotten the call about the closure?

 

[GEK209]

Good morning!

Thank you so much. Your comments mean a lot to me considering they come from the queen of all things WL/CL. BTW, why do you think they were unable to relocate the lounge?

I just realized that Mousemommy1, who is on vacation in MD with her kids right now, is booked CL around the same time as Cshel. I'm certain many others are affected, but I can only recall that Candace was also going at the same time as Cshel.

Has anyone else gotten the call about the closure?

This is disheartening as we are scheduled to stay at WL CL from July 21 - July 25. I haven't received a call yet though so maybe they think it will be done by then? I don't know which way I'd go if I did get the call. Poly? CR or one of the Epcot resorts. We love YC but have never stayed there...

 

[Mousemommy1]

Good morning!

Thank you so much. Your comments mean a lot to me considering they come from the queen of all things WL/CL. BTW, why do you think they were unable to relocate the lounge?

I just realized that Mousemommy1, who is on vacation in MD with her kids right now, is booked CL around the same time as Cshel. I'm certain many others are affected, but I can only recall that Candace was also going at the same time as Cshel.

Has anyone else gotten the call about the closure?

Hey Kook!!

Yes, we are in MD right now, and was off the grid yesterday because of that darned storm...only to get back on line last night and find this out. I have been in contact with IPO though, and they said that as of right now, my dates (7/15-7/25) are not affected. Cshel is arriving 2 days before me...so I am deducing that maybe they are a couple of days behind on the refurb, and the lounge reno (just doing the carpets, right?) will run over into her dates...but will hopefully be all good for mine??

Of course, the IPO said that we would be contacted immediately if our dates will be affected, so I guess we will wait and see. It would really be a pain in the you know what to get moved...it would not make me happy.

 

[TheLodgeLady]

Good morning!

Thank you so much. Your comments mean a lot to me considering they come from the queen of all things WL/CL. BTW, why do you think they were unable to relocate the lounge?

I just realized that Mousemommy1, who is on vacation in MD with her kids right now, is booked CL around the same time as Cshel. I'm certain many others are affected, but I can only recall that Candace was also going at the same time as Cshel.

Has anyone else gotten the call about the closure?

I think the reason might be food safety regulations. I bet the VP wouldn't be set up for that.
I also know that they said that not all rooms on the North Wing were completed due to backordered items so maybe with the floor closing, they will get to complete the renovation.

 

[WDWKOOK]

This is disheartening as we are scheduled to stay at WL CL from July 21 - July 25. I haven't received a call yet though so maybe they think it will be done by then? I don't know which way I'd go if I did get the call. Poly? CR or one of the Epcot resorts. We love YC but have never stayed there...

After reading MM1's post, I think your dates don't overlap with the lounge closure or you would have heard from WL by now.

Hey Kook!!

Yes, we are in MD right now, and was off the grid yesterday because of that darned storm...only to get back on line last night and find this out. I have been in contact with IPO though, and they said that as of right now, my dates (7/15-7/25) are not affected. Cshel is arriving 2 days before me...so I am deducing that maybe they are a couple of days behind on the refurb, and the lounge reno (just doing the carpets, right?) will run over into her dates...but will hopefully be all good for mine??

Of course, the IPO said that we would be contacted immediately if our dates will be affected, so I guess we will wait and see. It would really be a pain in the you know what to get moved...it would not make me happy.

Hey, neighbor! Actually, I wonder if the rehab might be ahead of schedule since the South Wing's 7th floor was due to be rehabbed from July 7 - 27 which is during your stay, but you haven't been contacted about a closure, but Cshel, who is arriving a couple of days before you has. I think the last rehab updates I noted from guests indicated that the rehab was actually slightly ahead of schedule.

Yes, they're just replacing all the carpeting near the elevators/hallways/lounge seating area - no lounge rehab as this was done fairly recently.

We were w/o power only for 5 hours and consider ourselves very lucky and have no damage to our property. I hope you are having a fun time and keeping cool!

I think the reason might be food safety regulations. I bet the VP wouldn't be set up for that.
I also know that they said that not all rooms on the North Wing were completed due to backordered items so maybe with the floor closing, they will get to complete the renovation.

I knew the queen of the OFC would know. I didn't know they had backordered items and couldn't complete some rooms.