Considering a DVC stay

[Cdlam]

My husband and I are considering a DVC stay next summer. Since it is just us and we like a lot of resort time, this seems like a good choice with the extra recreation options which they offer.

We are leaning toward OKW since we really enjoy spending time at Disney Springs but the lack of quick service options is a big con for my husband since he likes a full breakfast every day. Olivia's looks great but does it require ADRs for breakfast? We've looked at Saratoga since it does have more dining options but really prefer the look of OKW.

We are also looking at BWV due to the activities at the Boardwalk. We have visited there during the day and have enjoyed it but haven't spent time there in the evening. We don't love its pool area and think we would much prefer Beach Club but know it could be really difficult to find availability there.

For a 40 something couple who are planning to spend a lot of resort time, which option would you consider?

 

[_auroraborealis_]

Olivia's looks great but does it require ADRs for breakfast?

You can generally walk up and be seated, but there's no guarantee.

Have you considered AKV at all? Mara has a good QS breakfast, with Boma for a day as a buffet-a-palooza. Good pool, nice spa, excellent lounges.

 

[Granny]

the lack of quick service options is a big con for my husband since he likes a full breakfast every day

We are also looking at BWV due to the activities at the Boardwalk.

Boardwalk does not have good counter service options either.

I think SSR would be your best bet....a good quick food service area, a nice restaurant and easy access to Disney Springs. With just the two of you, the studio should be plenty big enough. I know you said that you don't prefer "the look" of SSR, but if you can get past that, it probabaly checks the most of your boxes especially since you plan on a lot of resort time.

 

[CarolMN]

Boardwalk does not have good counter service options either.

I think SSR would be your best bet....a good quick food service area, a nice restaurant and easy access to Disney Springs. With just the two of you, the studio should be plenty big enough. I know you said that you don't prefer "the look" of SSR, but if you can get past that, it probabaly checks the most of your boxes especially since you plan on a lot of resort time.

Except SSR just began a rehab. They'll be in the middle of it next year and there's no way to now if they will get a rehabbed room or one that is seriously in need of rehab.

If they find Olivia's too long to wait when they walk up for breakfast (I doubt they will, though), they can also walk or boat to SSR and enjoy something there. Bet it wouldn't be that hard to get a breakfast ADR a day or two ahead of time, either.

 

[Deb & Bill]

Except SSR just began a rehab. They'll be in the middle of it next year and there's no way to now if they will get a rehabbed room or one that is seriously in need of rehab.

If they find Olivia's too long to wait when they walk up for breakfast (I doubt they will, though), they can also walk or boat to SSR and enjoy something there. Bet it wouldn't be that hard to get a breakfast ADR a day or two ahead of time, either.

We've gotten an ADR at Olivia's an hour ahead.

 

[Cdlam]

Have you considered AKV at all? Mara has a good QS breakfast, with Boma for a day as a buffet-a-palooza. Good pool, nice spa, excellent lounges.

We have visited the lodge and think it's beautiful! Since it is so remote I wasn't sure if there would be enough to do for a resort heavy trip. We don't mind the buses though so it is definitely something to consider.

 

[Cdlam]

If they find Olivia's too long to wait when they walk up for breakfast (I doubt they will, though), they can also walk or boat to SSR and enjoy something there.

How is the walk from OKW to SSR?

 

[Deb & Bill]

How is the walk from OKW to SSR?

It's about a mile and you can only do it during daylight. That path isn't lit at night. Now if you are located in the Paddock or Carousel, it may be a mile and a half.

 

[MICKIMINI]

Why not stay on the monorail or at BRV which is a boat ride to MK as you'll have all the resorts and restaurants on the monorail to choose from? It's like an adventure every morning and enjoy your resort in the afternoon.

 

[LSchrow]

-There is a gorgeous, serene pool on the BW Inn side - it is actually our favorite pool in all of WDW. Just note that it doesn't have a slide, loud music, or people running/yelling The BW itself has entertainment in the evenings.
-AKV is a fantastic resort for non-park stays. The culture is astounding, the resort fascinating, and it has some of the best restaurants on site.
-We love SSR for its serenity, beautiful landscaping, and easy access to Springs. I would just suggest booking a preferred room, and requesting Congress Park.

 

[ebenmax]

Saratoga Springs is always our go to on an “alone trip” for DH and me. We love either walking, if in Congress Park or riding the boat, if in any of the other sections to Disney Springs! It’s the park away from the parks! Tons of eateries, shopping and leisure time. Also, SSR has so many walking paths to enjoy!
Yes, SSR is under renovation and our room last time was in decent shape (very clean) but the sofa bed did look worn. Perhaps you can request a renovated room, but they are never guaranteed. Right now the construction is going on in Congress Park. I don’t know how disruptive it is because we stayed in the Grandstand this trip. It is considered “standard” but is only a 5 min walk to the main Carriage House. However, it is not renovated.
You have many options and all of them have their perks. Enjoy whichever one you chose!!