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

[Sue M]

WL villas studios only have 1 queen and a pull out sofa. So depends on if your boys are ok with sleeping on a pull out for the trip. They also don't have a full kitchen, just fridge & microwave. No stove.

WL is a great resort, one of our favs. we love renting SeaRaycers, and watching the electric Water Parade from the beach or balcony. Last Jan, we enjoyed the walking path to FW, and the Segway tour. These segways go off road On the way back we stopped into the Villas lobby to check out the Carolwood Room which is dedicated to Walt's love of trains. We lucked out, because the CM was there giving a presentation. Only once a month, so it was just dumb luck we walked in! Not very well advertised.

 

[WDWKOOK]

Thank you for all of the information that has been provided here. We are staying on the CL in November and I was writing to see if anyone has a room number suggestion that I could request. We are traveling for our family's first trip with our DD5 and DD7 and would like a room with bunk beds. We would also like to request a room that is facing MK in order to watch the fireworks from our balcony in case the girls "crash" before we can stay and watch the fireworks. Any room advice would be greatly appreciated from you veterans with your wealth of knowledge. My DH and I can not wait for our surprise trip for our girls! Again, thank you for any help you can give us!

You're welcome, JennCabello and to the DIS and the WL/VWL thread!

What a wonderful surprise for your DDs. Make sure that you have in your reservation that you would like a room with bunk beds. Woods View rooms that are in the North Wing have a partial view of Wishes. But, you won't be able to see the nightly Electric Water Pageant from a Woods View room nor will you see the geyser. You can make room requests simply be emailing the WL IPO. They will gladly add your request to your reservation. No need to request a room number, just "Bunk beds and Wishes View, please" will suffice. The room assignor knows just where these rooms are located and will try to fulfill your request, but there's no guarantee.

You're going to love CL at WL! Let us know if you have any other questions.

 

[Minnie]

I had no idea that I should bring a gift for the CL concierges. I knew about tipping, that's normal. I'm from CA and absolutely love See's chocolate and I understand it's not available in the east coast. However we are going on a Fantasy cruise just before our stay at WL so I'm not sure how to pack/bring a box or gift basket. Any ideas?

This is not something you need to do. Nice gesture but I'd venture to guess not the norm. We read crazy wonderful things that the CMs can do and think it happens all the time when in fact it's the opposite. We just returned from YC club and while it was a wonderful vacation because of what we did not by something extra or special by a CM.

We are booked non club at the WL this fall and are considering upgrading because we like certain aspects not because we think the CMs will be more helpful than the CMs downstairs.

 

[Sue M]

This is not something you need to do. Nice gesture but I'd venture to guess not the norm. We read crazy wonderful things that the CMs can do and think it happens all the time when in fact it's the opposite. We just returned from YC club and while it was a wonderful vacation because of what we did not by something extra or special by a CM.

We are booked non club at the WL this fall and are considering upgrading because we like certain aspects not because we think the CMs will be more helpful than the CMs downstairs.

Good to know. We've only stayed CL once last Aug at BC, and staying CL again this Aug at AKL. I have never heard of bringing gifts and was confused about that comment.

We had wonderful CMs in the BC CL last stay, and so far the IPO at AKL has been wonderful. It's been my (limited) experience that they do extra that the Lobby Concierge doesn't do- The web site was glitchy and I couldn't cancel an ADR, so it was nice just to sent IPO an email request, and it was done. I got help with some other things, and all before our vacay in Aug.
Add to the fact that sometimes the lobby concierge lines can be quite long, so not having to wait is sure a bonus. We are very excited about our AKL stay :good vibes Esp since it was booked with a 35% off BB offer from our Jan WL stay. Sadly there were no rooms with that discount at WL except for bunk beds

 

[WDWKOOK]

Exactly one week until our first visit to WL. TA mentioned nothing about online check in. We aren't staying CL. From the brief research I have done it didn't appear necessary. Any advantage to online check in?

By the way the first page of this thread is far from confusing. This has been one of the most pleasant and informative threads I have posted in. Here is hoping it is treated with the respect it deserves.

I hope you have a great vacation and thank you for your kind words

At this time I can only find the tiny layout on the first page. I know I've seen a readable room location layout within the past few weeks but I can't find it now. Kook is on here just about every day and she does an excellent job of answering questions. I'm sure she'll be able to help us by providing the link for that again. And this time I'll know to both copy the link and print out a hard copy of the room #s layout for myself. There is information on page one that gives you a good idea of what the 4 numbers represent. I believe that each of the floors has the same layout of rooms with the exception of the CL on 7th floor which does not have as many rooms since they don't extend out as far on the wings.

At this time, the floor plans that I have from Thor Construction (they are doing the rehab) are not showing the room numbers clearly when I convert the PDFs to JPGs and the link to their PDF files is no longer active. We do have a very clear floor plan of the 7th floor (CL) which was made by TheLodgeLady and it appears on the first page in the CL section. BTW, thank you for your kind comment

Thanks nyrebecca for the pics of the refurbished rooms. We will be returning to WL for the 5th time in about 3 weeks and this will be our first time in CL. We are super excited and we're staying in the honeymoon suite to celebrate our 16th anniversary. We absolutely LOVE WL! It is the best resort IMO. We tried GF last time. It's a beautiful resort but just didn't fit us like WL does. Plus I like the different options for transportation to MK: bus or boat or monorail if you stop at CR from the boat.

I'm so glad I read this thread. I had no idea that I should bring a gift for the CL concierges. I knew about tipping, that's normal. I'm from CA and absolutely love See's chocolate and I understand it's not available in the east coast. However we are going on a Fantasy cruise just before our stay at WL so I'm not sure how to pack/bring a box or gift basket. Any ideas?

Yes, thank you nyrebecca! I put a link on the first page to your photos.

GEK209, I'm sorry I left you out of my multi-quote earlier today. If you already love WL, you're going to love it even more staying CL. Which view did you request? There are 4 HSs: Two face toward the MK/CR and two face toward VWL. Happy 16th Anniversary

Here is what I posted here earlier today in reference to CL/CM gifts:

There is no requirement that you present anything to the CMs, it's just a gesture of appreciation that some guests choose to do. I once put together a basket after arriving by just going to DTD and buying a basket of Ghirradelli chocolates. I've also purchased boxed chocolates, etc... on Main Street and in the Mercantile for some CMs who went above and beyond for us. Again, this is optional, but can be arranged after arrival by purchasing items on-property.

 

[Grumpy Grandma]

kook I think it's time for me to tell you once again what a wonderful job you do on this thread!!! And as you know I share your love of all things WL.

What upcoming trips do you have planned? Anything not showing on your ticker????

 

[Minnie]

We had wonderful CMs in the BC CL last stay, and so far the IPO at AKL has been wonderful. It's been my (limited) experience that they do extra that the Lobby Concierge doesn't do- The web site was glitchy and I couldn't cancel an ADR, so it was nice just to sent IPO an email request, and it was done. I got help with some other things, and all before our vacay in Aug.
Add to the fact that sometimes the lobby concierge lines can be quite long, so not having to wait is sure a bonus. We are very excited about our AKL stay :good vibes Esp since it was booked with a 35% off BB offer from our Jan WL stay. Sadly there were no rooms with that discount at WL except for bunk beds

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.

 

[Minnie]

Here is what I posted here earlier today in reference to CL/CM gifts:

There is no requirement that you present anything to the CMs, it's just a gesture of appreciation that some guests choose to do. I once put together a basket after arriving by just going to DTD and buying a basket of Ghirradelli chocolates. I've also purchased boxed chocolates, etc... on Main Street and in the Mercantile for some CMs who went above and beyond for us. Again, this is optional, but can be arranged after arrival by purchasing items on-property.

This is great advise

Another suggestion is to jot down the name of that CM that went the extra mile and let management know - everyone needs to be acknowledged when they do a great job

 

[GEK209]

Thanks WDWKOOK. We asked for a MK view. We're hoping to catch the fireworks show from the balcony. We usually stay in a Courtyard view room and get to watch the light parade and geyser, but wanted something different this time

 

[GarakDS9]

Yes they do! We will be there only 4 days: 7/21 - 7/25 so we'll be there the same as you. Going on the Fantasy Eastern Caribbean cruise first from 7/14 - 7/21! Very exciting!

We are going to be WL bookends. Our stay is prior to the same exact cruise. By the way there is another family in our DIS meet staying in WL post cruise.

 

[ajj221]

You're welcome, JennCabello and to the DIS and the WL/VWL thread!

What a wonderful surprise for your DDs. Make sure that you have in your reservation that you would like a room with bunk beds. Woods View rooms that are in the North Wing have a partial view of Wishes. But, you won't be able to see the nightly Electric Water Pageant from a Woods View room nor will you see the geyser. You can make room requests simply be emailing the WL IPO. They will gladly add your request to your reservation. No need to request a room number, just "Bunk beds and Wishes View, please" will suffice. The room assignor knows just where these rooms are located and will try to fulfill your request, but there's no guarantee.

You're going to love CL at WL! Let us know if you have any other questions.

I just upgraded my Woods Room reservation to Club Level! I'm already having buyers remores a little though. (that is just how I am) I know we will like having the lounge available for drinks and breakfast, but I wonder if it is worth the money. When I asked my husband if he wanted to do it he said yes, due to not liking Roaring forks breakfast and wanting to make this trip different than last years trip.

Will the CL CMs help us with storing our carry-ons if our room isn't ready? What about retrieving our rented stroller from downstairs? Is there a bathroom in/near the lounge that we will be able to change in if our room isn't ready when we arrive?

I have a question about location as well. Is it correct that they are all Courtyard or Woods View? From the map it looks like some of the rooms are above rooms classified as Standard view. I was thinking of requesting Woods view near an elevator? Does anyone have any other ideas? What do you request to kind of see fireworks?

 

[jackemail]

Kook.....never got around to thanking you for the response to a question I asked days ago, about the "junior suites" (which I now know are deluxe rooms with club level). Mom has Alzheimer's, which is bad enough, but she also fell and broke her hip.so- belatedly, thanks for the response.

Have stayed at WL in standard rooms, and once at VWL, but next trip (whenever that may be) , I am planning on taking 4 Grandkids (and 3 of them are teen girls). Thought the deluxe room would be nice to try for a couple of days because the teens will be able to kind of have their own room, with the French doors separating the rooms.

Thanks again for quick response.

 

[WDWKOOK]

kook I think it's time for me to tell you once again what a wonderful job you do on this thread!!! And as you know I share your love of all things WL.

What upcoming trips do you have planned? Anything not showing on your ticker????

Awww, thank you, Linda

Unlike you, all my booked stays have been tickered. You, however, are going to need another username so you can put more tickers in your signature

Thanks WDWKOOK. We asked for a MK view. We're hoping to catch the fireworks show from the balcony. We usually stay in a Courtyard view room and get to watch the light parade and geyser, but wanted something different this time

I understand and that sounds great!

I just upgraded my Woods Room reservation to Club Level! I'm already having buyers remores a little though. (that is just how I am) I know we will like having the lounge available for drinks and breakfast, but I wonder if it is worth the money. When I asked my husband if he wanted to do it he said yes, due to not liking Roaring forks breakfast and wanting to make this trip different than last years trip.

Will the CL CMs help us with storing our carry-ons if our room isn't ready? What about retrieving our rented stroller from downstairs? Is there a bathroom in/near the lounge that we will be able to change in if our room isn't ready when we arrive?

I have a question about location as well. Is it correct that they are all Courtyard or Woods View? From the map it looks like some of the rooms are above rooms classified as Standard view. I was thinking of requesting Woods view near an elevator? Does anyone have any other ideas? What do you request to kind of see fireworks?

What a wonderful upgrade! I think you'll love it!

The bellman will store your luggage and bring it up when you need it. They can store the stroller, too. There is no public bathroom on the 7th floor, but there is a public restroom that is very nice to the left of WCC, near the resort entrance.

If you want to be able to see Wishes, just request a room with a Wishes view and near an elevator. Some of the North Wing Woods View rooms and the South Wing Inner Courtyard View rooms have a partial Wishes view. You can email the IPO your request and they will add it to your reservation. Just include your confirmation number in your email to them.

Kook.....never got around to thanking you for the response to a question I asked days ago, about the "junior suites" (which I now know are deluxe rooms with club level). Mom has Alzheimer's, which is bad enough, but she also fell and broke her hip.so- belatedly, thanks for the response.

Have stayed at WL in standard rooms, and once at VWL, but next trip (whenever that may be) , I am planning on taking 4 Grandkids (and 3 of them are teen girls). Thought the deluxe room would be nice to try for a couple of days because the teens will be able to kind of have their own room, with the French doors separating the rooms.

Thanks again for quick response.

This must be an especially hard time for you and your mom. Do you take care of her or is she in a specialized care setting?

Your next trip sounds so nice for the DGCs. But, will one bathroom (or mirror, more importantly) be enough for 3 teen girls?

Keep us posted on your trip plans as they evolve and I hope your mom is more comfortable now.

 

[jackemail]

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.

 

[CrabbyPatty]

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!

 

[TheLodgeLady]

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.

I just wanted to say thank you.

 

[bluecastle]

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!)

 

[MartyM]

I just wanted to say 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.

 

[yolie912]

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,

 

[tarak]

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.

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