Coronado Springs Resort -- New Unofficial FAQ Thread -- October 2010

[lovethattink]

Is this by the main/big pool?

I did online check-in today, which means I'm finally in the zone where my husband will stop laughing at me for being giddy about going - we're down to just 10 days (9 days til we leave since we drive and break out stay in Savannah, so as far as I'm concerned, we're in single digits now, baby!)

Pool-related question: since we will be arriving mid to late morning and I don't expect our room to be ready, I am thinking I will pack a bag with bathing suits and sunscreen and we can check-in then head for the pool for a few hours rather than go to the MK. Are there places to change, and if so, where?

The refills and food are at the theme pool. You have to give the mug to them to refill.

There are changing rooms at the pools. The theme pool has several bathroom stalls and showers. The quiet pools have less, but you can definately change there. The Casitas changing area and restrooms are inside the spa area.

 

[lovethattink]

I know it's probably mentioned show where in the 120 pages, but I don't have the time to go back. What is considered preferred rooms? Is it worth it to pay extra for preferred? We are a family of 4 that will use the pool a fair bit and also eat the occasional meal at the resort. What area should I request?

Casitas 1, 2, 3 are the preferred buildings, they are far away from the Theme Pool, but very close to the Pepper Market, Cafe Rix, Rix Lounge, Maya Grill and check in

 

[jhalpin]

Hi! Just a few quick questions - is the cabanas quiet pool closed for renovation? If so, will it look like construction everywhere in that area?

Does anyone know of a laundry service in Orlando that will pick up and drop off laundry if you pay by the pound?

Can you bring your own life vest to the pool? Our baby has his own tube/vest thing, can we use that?

Do they sell sand toys at the gift shop?

Is the playground shaded or does the equip
ent get crazy hot?

 

[Cafeen]

Hi! Just a few quick questions - is the cabanas quiet pool closed for renovation? If so, will it look like construction everywhere in that area?

According to Stitch Kingdom (Refurb List), the Cabanas quiet pool is currently under renovation and should reopen 5/19. As far as the construction goes, I'll defer to someone else who's recently been there.

Does anyone know of a laundry service in Orlando that will pick up and drop off laundry if you pay by the pound?

Can you bring your own life vest to the pool? Our baby has his own tube/vest thing, can we use that?

I don't know about laundry, but I'm sure you can bring your own life vest to the pool.

Do they sell sand toys at the gift shop?

Is the playground shaded or does the equip
ent get crazy hot?

Not sure about either of these as well. The one time we went to the playground, it was very shaded... then again, it was at about 8:30 at night . No idea how it'd be during the day (that was also 2 years ago)

 

[lovethattink]

Can you bring your own life vest to the pool? Our baby has his own tube/vest thing, can we use that?

It depnds what the tube/vest thing looks like. If it is one of those innertube type things where the child sits inside and may come with a sunshade, I don't think they will be allowed in the theme pool, unless Disney has changed their policy. I saw lots of children with arm rings. We always use to bring our own lifejacket for our son, and never had a problem at any of the water parks or resort pools.

There are no lifeguards at the quiet pools. So an innertube might be ok there.

Do they sell sand toys at the gift shop?

Is the playground shaded or does the equip
ent get crazy hot?

There were buckets and shovels at the dig site already. Neither my husband or myself remember sand toys at the gift shop, but my little guy says there was buckets, shovels, and an octopus thing at the shop.

My son says the play ground equipment does get hot, but not if you are wet. But he says if you are wet you go down the sliding board super fast!

 

[danceteachermom]

We just got back from a five night stay at the Coronado...it was heaven.

A few Coronado things for those who may be interested....

We had our first meal at the Mayan Grill and it was wonderful. They had live music, the maragarhitas (SP?) were delicious and strong. I had the shrimp tacos and they were delicious. We have stayed at the Coronado 7 times yet this was our first time eating here.

I had a yummy chocolate croisant every day for breakfast. One day when the Rix cafe was out...I just walked a few more feet down to the Pepper Market and they had plenty.

They had a DJ at the pool who also led kids activites and games one day. It was a lot of fun. The pool water does not seem very consistent. We went in every day but found it warm and walk-in comfortable two days and a bit chilly on the other two.

We made no room requests but got Cabanas 8B which is a GREAT location.

When we arrived it was after 2 am due to a flight delay. The store and restaurants were all closed but we asked if we could get milk for our son and the front desk cast member made one call and got us a pint in about 5 minutes. It was easily charged to our room.

I still think that Siesta's is one of the best meal deals. We had lunch by the pool a few times and all of the food was great. Drinks at Siesta's were expensive but delicious.

The playground at the dig site was nicer than we remembered but the uncovered slides were too hot for little bodies in the sun.

I still think that the Coronado is the best value at Disney. You get deluxe ammenities for mod. prices.

Everyone at CSR was super friendly and helpful with just one exception. One of the cashiers at the Rix left her register to chat socially with another worker and let a long line form with lots of people holding many items before she returned to her spot. Nothing major but annoying at the time.

I love the CSR!

 

[cajunbaby1]

OMG I am sooo excited about my trip to WDW at the end of May. I was originally booked at the POFQ for 7 nites; but I wanted to add an extra day, but no luck. I scored a very wonderful CM on the phone who took the time and serched my original res (back in 2010 lol) an checked with someone in guest relations and was able to move my whole trip over to CSR and add that extra day (along w/ and extra nite of DDP) for only a little over $100 to my total. Can you believe my luck?! Now this was for a King room; absolutely no standands avaible for my dates. I had wanted to change from a king to a std room-that's why I originally called. The Pixie Dust fairy was great today!! She even asked me where I stayed there back in 2005 and told her I like it back by the Dig site/pool and said she would put that in there for area G bldg 6 or 7.
Thank you for all the wonderful photos and updated info.
Maybe I'll see you guys on the 31st.

 

[MAMA GRAVE]

We just got back from a five night stay at the Coronado...it was heaven.

A few Coronado things for those who may be interested....

We had our first meal at the Mayan Grill and it was wonderful. They had live music, the maragarhitas (SP?) were delicious and strong. I had the shrimp tacos and they were delicious. We have stayed at the Coronado 7 times yet this was our first time eating here.

I had a yummy chocolate croisant every day for breakfast. One day when the Rix cafe was out...I just walked a few more feet down to the Pepper Market and they had plenty.

They had a DJ at the pool who also led kids activites and games one day. It was a lot of fun. The pool water does not seem very consistent. We went in every day but found it warm and walk-in comfortable two days and a bit chilly on the other two.

We made no room requests but got Cabanas 8B which is a GREAT location.

When we arrived it was after 2 am due to a flight delay. The store and restaurants were all closed but we asked if we could get milk for our son and the front desk cast member made one call and got us a pint in about 5 minutes. It was easily charged to our room.

I still think that Siesta's is one of the best meal deals. We had lunch by the pool a few times and all of the food was great. Drinks at Siesta's were expensive but delicious.

The playground at the dig site was nicer than we remembered but the uncovered slides were too hot for little bodies in the sun.

I still think that the Coronado is the best value at Disney. You get deluxe ammenities for mod. prices.

Everyone at CSR was super friendly and helpful with just one exception. One of the cashiers at the Rix left her register to chat socially with another worker and let a long line form with lots of people holding many items before she returned to her spot. Nothing major but annoying at the time.

I love the CSR![/QUOTE

I'm glad you enjoyed the Maya grill. We are going to CSR for the first time next month and we are thinking about eating dinner there for the night.

For those on this thread, please give me your opinions on the Maya good and bad.

 

[aubriee]

I know it's probably mentioned show where in the 120 pages, but I don't have the time to go back. What is considered preferred rooms? Is it worth it to pay extra for preferred? We are a family of 4 that will use the pool a fair bit and also eat the occasional meal at the resort. What area should I request?

Casitas 1, 2, and 3 are the preferred buildings and as the other poster said are quite far from the pool. Cabanas 8A is a standard building and would be perfect for you. It's my favorite building--maybe 2 minutes to the main pool, about 2 minutes from the bus stop and less than 5 minutes to the main building, also very few parking lot views.

Here's a map. Click on it twice to enlarge it.
http://allears.net/acc/coronadomap.jpg

 

[Claire&TheBoys]

Hello Dis members. So excited, our next trip is coming up Sept 24-Oct 1. We've never stayed at Coronado before and are ecstatic, counting down each and every day.I have a question,Monday 9/26 we scheduled an 8:30am reservation at O Hana's for breakfast. The MK opens at 9 that morning. Do you guys think we will have enough time to take the bus from CS to the Poly? Secondly on Wednesday 9/28 (my birthday=) we have reservations for Tusker House at 9am. AK opens that 9 that morning. So same question will the buses be running long enough for us to get there on time? There is a group of 7 of us and even though my parents will have their car it still won't fit all 7of us and I'd rather NOT take a cab. Thanks for your help.

Yes, I think you'll be fine. I would try to get a MK bus by about 7:15 for the 8:30 'Ohana reservation. That should give you plenty of time to get to MK and take the boat or monorail to Poly. I would probably take the boat, myself.

For TH, get an AK bus by 8:00, get there and through bag check. One of the ticket turnstiles off to the side (on the right, IIRC) has a sign for early ADR entries. Go to the CM, give your name and they may ask for your ADR number, but they'll let you in there ahead of the crowds. It's nice to walk through without so many people and you'll get great pictures of the Tree of Life. The Photopass CMs may already be out, too, so you can get some family shots.

 

[Claire&TheBoys]

We just got back from a five night stay at the Coronado...it was heaven.

A few Coronado things for those who may be interested....

We had our first meal at the Mayan Grill and it was wonderful. They had live music, the maragarhitas (SP?) were delicious and strong. I had the shrimp tacos and they were delicious. We have stayed at the Coronado 7 times yet this was our first time eating here.

I had a yummy chocolate croisant every day for breakfast. One day when the Rix cafe was out...I just walked a few more feet down to the Pepper Market and they had plenty.

They had a DJ at the pool who also led kids activites and games one day. It was a lot of fun. The pool water does not seem very consistent. We went in every day but found it warm and walk-in comfortable two days and a bit chilly on the other two.

We made no room requests but got Cabanas 8B which is a GREAT location.

When we arrived it was after 2 am due to a flight delay. The store and restaurants were all closed but we asked if we could get milk for our son and the front desk cast member made one call and got us a pint in about 5 minutes. It was easily charged to our room.

I still think that Siesta's is one of the best meal deals. We had lunch by the pool a few times and all of the food was great. Drinks at Siesta's were expensive but delicious.

The playground at the dig site was nicer than we remembered but the uncovered slides were too hot for little bodies in the sun.

I still think that the Coronado is the best value at Disney. You get deluxe ammenities for mod. prices.

Everyone at CSR was super friendly and helpful with just one exception. One of the cashiers at the Rix left her register to chat socially with another worker and let a long line form with lots of people holding many items before she returned to her spot. Nothing major but annoying at the time.

I love the CSR!

You seriously just made my mouth water at the thought of a chocolate croissant! I can't wait to try one!

Thanks for the great review!

 

[POOHDRMR]

Hi everyone,I am currently booked at AKL for our Aug trip but I am thinking about switching to CSR if free dining is offered.We stayed at CSR right before they started the room rehab's so I haven't seen the rooms with the door by the sink area-do you think there is enough room to put a pack and play behind the divider? My ds would fall asleep better if he can't look at us sitting there.Also is there a chair and ottomen in hte standard rooms(the description on wdw's lists it in the description)I thought it was just a table with chairs and a dresser last time we were there.I have to admit that when we stayed last time it wasn't my favorite resort but I thought the grounds were beautiful.The room was a bit run down but now it looks like it is very nice.

 

[lovethattink]

Hi everyone,I am currently booked at AKL for our Aug trip but I am thinking about switching to CSR if free dining is offered.We stayed at CSR right before they started the room rehab's so I haven't seen the rooms with the door by the sink area-do you think there is enough room to put a pack and play behind the divider? My ds would fall asleep better if he can't look at us sitting there.Also is there a chair and ottomen in hte standard rooms(the description on wdw's lists it in the description)I thought it was just a table with chairs and a dresser last time we were there.I have to admit that when we stayed last time it wasn't my favorite resort but I thought the grounds were beautiful.The room was a bit run down but now it looks like it is very nice.

The only chair is a swivel desk chair on wheels, and 2 small ottomans. There is enough room back there for the pack and play, but not sure if there is enough room to shut the wooden door.

 

[CalRhyne]

Anyone give me an idea what to expect for a check in-line?

We arrive Saturday (day after tomorrow) at about 3pm.

We thought my dad was going to go early and stand in line for our "keys" so when everyone arrived we would already have them.....but I learned that because we have 2 different rooms...even though under same reservation...I have to be there or someone from our room I should say to get the names listed n that room.

Now hoping the line isnt just horrendous!

 

[Desi_001]

Yes, I think you'll be fine. I would try to get a MK bus by about 7:15 for the 8:30 'Ohana reservation. That should give you plenty of time to get to MK and take the boat or monorail to Poly. I would probably take the boat, myself.

For TH, get an AK bus by 8:00, get there and through bag check. One of the ticket turnstiles off to the side (on the right, IIRC) has a sign for early ADR entries. Go to the CM, give your name and they may ask for your ADR number, but they'll let you in there ahead of the crowds. It's nice to walk through without so many people and you'll get great pictures of the Tree of Life. The Photopass CMs may already be out, too, so you can get some family shots.

Good deal. Thank-you. Last time we went to WDW we stayed at CBR and had an early morning reservation at Ohana's and got there just fine. I just could not for the life of me remember what time our reservation was.I know that we were lucky to catch an early bus with no one else on it, that took us right to the Poly. We showed up early are were seating with in 10mins of arriving. It was fantastic. I don't have the same expectations this time around, but it would be nice.

 

[danceteachermom]

Anyone give me an idea what to expect for a check in-line?

We arrive Saturday (day after tomorrow) at about 3pm.

We thought my dad was going to go early and stand in line for our "keys" so when everyone arrived we would already have them.....but I learned that because we have 2 different rooms...even though under same reservation...I have to be there or someone from our room I should say to get the names listed n that room.

Now hoping the line isnt just horrendous!

If you can check in online (up to 10 days before) I would do that. Then you just show your ID and your folder and keys are already there. There is a separate line for this.

Otherwise...unless a big convention comes in at the time you arrive you should be fine. We were just there and it seemed most crowded in the AM until about 2. But we say no huge lines.

Have fun!

 

[kleigh1969]

We just got back from our first stay at Coronado. We stayed for 5 nights and were on the 3rd floor of the Ranchos 7A. I asked for top floor in a quiet area. I said I didn't care if it was a long walk to the main building. We did have a car, so if we needed to get up there quickly, we could just drive; walking at a medium pace it was probably just under 10 minutes each way.

I thought the grounds were beautiful. It is a very peaceful and relaxing place. Also, for the first time I can remember, we were not bothered by noisy neighbors and were able to get a good night's sleep. We felt like these rooms may be better sound-proofed than other hotels we have stayed in. For that reason alone, I would go back.

Also, when driving, the location was great. Just a few minutes to drive to AK, DHS, and Epcot. Driving to the TTC parking lot was just under 10 minutes for us. We like to take a mid-day break, so that was good.

The room was pretty. I liked the large counter area by the sink. We would, and probably will, stay there again!

 

[lovethattink]

We just got back from our first stay at Coronado. We stayed for 5 nights and were on the 3rd floor of the Ranchos 7A. I asked for top floor in a quiet area. I said I didn't care if it was a long walk to the main building. We did have a car, so if we needed to get up there quickly, we could just drive; walking at a medium pace it was probably just under 10 minutes each way.

I thought the grounds were beautiful. It is a very peaceful and relaxing place. Also, for the first time I can remember, we were not bothered by noisy neighbors and were able to get a good night's sleep. We felt like these rooms may be better sound-proofed than other hotels we have stayed in. For that reason alone, I would go back.

Also, when driving, the location was great. Just a few minutes to drive to AK, DHS, and Epcot. Driving to the TTC parking lot was just under 10 minutes for us. We like to take a mid-day break, so that was good.

The room was pretty. I liked the large counter area by the sink. We would, and probably will, stay there again!

Glad you had a great experience at CSR. I noticed too, that the room was quieter. I wonder if that wooden door closed makes a difference. I remember in the past hearing other people's toilets flush and showers run. I didn't hear any of that on our stay in March.

We just got back from a five night stay at the Coronado...it was heaven.

A few Coronado things for those who may be interested....

We had our first meal at the Mayan Grill and it was wonderful. They had live music, the maragarhitas (SP?) were delicious and strong. I had the shrimp tacos and they were delicious. We have stayed at the Coronado 7 times yet this was our first time eating here.

I had a yummy chocolate croisant every day for breakfast. One day when the Rix cafe was out...I just walked a few more feet down to the Pepper Market and they had plenty.

They had a DJ at the pool who also led kids activites and games one day. It was a lot of fun. The pool water does not seem very consistent. We went in every day but found it warm and walk-in comfortable two days and a bit chilly on the other two.

We made no room requests but got Cabanas 8B which is a GREAT location.

When we arrived it was after 2 am due to a flight delay. The store and restaurants were all closed but we asked if we could get milk for our son and the front desk cast member made one call and got us a pint in about 5 minutes. It was easily charged to our room.

I still think that Siesta's is one of the best meal deals. We had lunch by the pool a few times and all of the food was great. Drinks at Siesta's were expensive but delicious.

The playground at the dig site was nicer than we remembered but the uncovered slides were too hot for little bodies in the sun.

I still think that the Coronado is the best value at Disney. You get deluxe ammenities for mod. prices.

Everyone at CSR was super friendly and helpful with just one exception. One of the cashiers at the Rix left her register to chat socially with another worker and let a long line form with lots of people holding many items before she returned to her spot. Nothing major but annoying at the time.

I love the CSR!

Always great to hear postitive experiences! Glad everyone was friendly and helpful, that really makes a stay so much more enjoyable.

 

[bucci818]

Back from our week stay at CSR! We where there from March 31 to April 7. We stayed in Ranchos 7B. Loved the area. We where close to the Ranchos pool and right by the Dig Site pool. The only down to the location was that Bus Stop 4 was still closed. Funny thing about that is that we came and went during different times of the day, and NEVER saw any work being done to it! We ate at the Pepper Market and Maya Grill two times each. Food was good for both places. I loved the new dark furniture and sliding doors for the bathroom area! Mousekeeping was very good. Our room was always clean and neat when we returned mid-day for a rest. All in all, it was a great trip, and my kids can't wait to go back again!

 

[diskids2]

Hi everybody,

Please forgive me ahead of time because my mind is a mess of facts right now. Can you tell me which building is best suited for: close to a bus stop, close to dig site pool, not too far from main building...in that order and yes, I'd pay for preferred.

Sorry, I just can't even think right now!