CR or AKL

[Mickey'sfriend]

We are looking to spend a few days at WDW after our Disney cruise next summer. We plan to spend the day we disimbark just lounging around the resort, swimming, etc. Would you recommend the Contemporary or AKL for their pool and resort environment? We have 3 kids ranging from 9-15. Thanks for your input!

 

[mickeys friend]

We have stayed at both resorts. Convenience wise - the Contemporary is probably best and there is a lot to do there - swimming or riding the boats. But, the Animal Kingdom Lodge is so nice and relaxing and you can spend an entire day just relaxing by the pool or watching the animals. Either way I think you will be happy.

 

[CR Resort Fan 4 Life]

With 3 kids I would suggest the Contemporary. Besides being so close to the Magic Kingdom, you're also on the Resort Monorail line where you can visit the Polynesian and Grand Floridian. Plus there is the boat ride that will take you to the Wilderness Lodge. While the Animal Kingdom Loge is a great Resort they are located away from everything, so wouldn't you like to stay somehwere with a lot of action always going on?

 

[skipperkim]

We are looking to spend a few days at WDW after our Disney cruise next summer. We plan to spend the day we disimbark just lounging around the resort, swimming, etc. Would you recommend the Contemporary or AKL for their pool and resort environment? We have 3 kids ranging from 9-15. Thanks for your input!

If I read your post right, you don't plan to go to the parks. Staying at CR and having MK that close might be difficult. There are a number of special programs offered throughout the day at AKL. Be sure to ask for a list when you check-in to the hotel. A sampling of the recent programs offered at the resort (all programs subject to change without notice):

--flamingo feedings at the Flamingo Pond
--animal tracking at Arusha Rock
--Music of the Savanna in the Sunset Lounge
--wildlife games in the Sunset Lounge
--African games and crafts on the Uzima Pool Deck
--cultural safari in the Sunset Lounge
--animal viewing with Night Vision
--Adventure Camp for children 6-14 that includes ostrich egg painting, private lodge tour and lunch overlooking the savanna.
--Cookie decorating at Boma

Outside, at the Arusha Rock, there is nightly African storytelling next to Ogun's Firepit. (Storytelling is held indoors in the event of inclement weather.) If you have the opportunity, take the time to speak with the storytellers.


There's also night time vision goggles to view the animals.

 

[DisneyNotes]

AKL is very well themed. There is so much to see and it just feels nice there. I would chose that.

 

[SharonLowe]

Definitely AKL if you aren't doing the parks. Great programs, beautiful pool area, the animals, the great food. Can't be beat for atmosphere. Choose CR only if you want to go to the parks. Their theming is not the best and the pool area leaves a lot to be desired, especially with the North Wing work going on, whatever it is.

 

[thptrek]

I would agree with the other posters in that CR is great for parks. As for theming, what more says WDW then the monorail going through the Grand Concourse?

 

[Mickey'sfriend]

If I read your post right, you don't plan to go to the parks. Staying at CR and having MK that close might be difficult. There are a number of special programs offered throughout the day at AKL. Be sure to ask for a list when you check-in to the hotel. A sampling of the recent programs offered at the resort (all programs subject to change without notice):


You are correct. We don't plan to do the parks this trip. Probably a water park and a themed dinner. We have always stayed in the value or moderate resorts or even off-site, but since this is only 2 nights I wanted to splurge on someplace special. I have always wanted to stay in the CR, but without heading to the MK, not sure it will have the same special appeal. The AKL looks so cool........ still on the fence what we should do. Thanks so much for everyone's input!