Crowne Plaza Rocks!

[CornishPixie]

I just wanted to add this hotel to the list for consideration if you are staying offsite. We are actually switching over in the morning to PBR, but to save a little money we are spending our first night at Crowne Plaza.
Fantastic looking, high rise hotel with wonderful beds, fridges and microwaves! We got an awesome rate of $69 on Hotwire and for only $30 they let me upgrade to club level which includes evening cocktails and snacks, lite breakfast and free wifi. There are four of us so it is well worth the extra $.
Although it is not within walking distance to the parks, we have an awesome view of the Hulk and Hogwarts. They have a shuttle to the parks and a ticket desk and what looks like an awesome pool. Very friendly staff.
I know people are always looking for inexpensive alternatives to staying onsite and for a 4 star hotel this was an excellent deal!
(Very excited about PBH tomorrow though!)

 

[IdesOmarch]

I typically do the same thing (stay at a more budget hotel first night) since we typically get into town at least sometime late afternoon, so what's the point in spending the extra dollars for just a few hours. Then we switch over to the onsite hotel next day. Never stayed here so definitely put on the list for off site possibilities, would be interested in a full report on this hotel when you have the chance, (please include pool details,) thanks.

 

[CornishPixie]

I typically do the same thing (stay at a more budget hotel first night) since we typically get into town at least sometime late afternoon, so what's the point in spending the extra dollars for just a few hours. Then we switch over to the onsite hotel next day. Never stayed here so definitely put on the list for off site possibilities, would be interested in a full report on this hotel when you have the chance, (please include pool details,) thanks.

We have been back for a few days but I am just now getting some time to get on the computer. The Crowne Plaza had a nice pool but nothing extraordinary. Nice work out room and club floor reception area. It is a highrise at 15 stories so there are great views from the rooms but the best part was the staff. They really had a whatever-it-takes attitude that makes a stay go from good to great.
BTW, stayed at PBR for the rest of the trip and was blown away! It is now, by far, my family's favorite hotel!!