Disney's CONTEMPORARY RESORT Information & Questions

[dansdad]

First of all- I LOVE your picture!!
As for the EWP- I'm confused. The main reason I booked a TPV was so we can order room service one night and watch the water pageant and fireworks in our pjs. But at CR we would have to go to the beach to watch it, and then back up to room for Wishes?

If I remember correctly, you will be able to see it while it's in the Seven Seas Lagoon from your TPV Room.

 

[4Ds4Diz]

This is correct, the EWP does both Bay Lake and Seven Seas Lagoon. If you are TPV in BLT or CR, you can see both Wishes and EWP. Enjoy your stay, there is nothing like watching Wishes from your room in your PJs. Also loved looking at the Castle and it's colors changing all night long, even after the parks have closed and everyone has gone to bed. Love the view.

 

[WDWKOOK]

We recently got back from our stay at BLT (2/23 - 3/1) and were very impressed with the resort (very impressed with my experience with David's DVC as well). Previously, I had stayed at Riverside (last two years), so this was my first experience with a deluxe. I'm not saying anything new, but the location was just beyond great. As we parked our car that first night, the Magic Kingdom fireworks began to go off. I'm walking toward the lobby and watching fireworks reflect off the building -- just beautiful. Our lake view room included a great view of the theme park (if you stood from the balcony).

The refurbishment that is forthcoming should make BLT that much better as the only real complaint would be the condition of some of the carpets. We will be returning.

Thanks for your little TR and I hope you get to book another stay soon

My trip is no longer a surprise to DS. He has autism and after showing him videos of places and rides to get a feel of what he would like to do and what to avoid, it was evident that he was getting anxious about whether or not we would be able to go and he was starting to just not want to go at all. So...he now knows. We have a countdown calendar (30 days...woohoo!) and I have made him some social story books which are just adding to his excitement. I have a few surprises still planned like a personalized card that he will receive in the mail and I have ordered some gifts to have in the room upon our arrival!

Keeping the surprises to a minimum sounds like a good idea and now he can anticipate the trip right along with you

Ok, so we're at the World now, staying at the Poly, but we made a visit to CR tonight for California Grill. I know @WDWKOOK has had some varied experiences there, as have we. We've had some really good meals there and some terrible meals as well.

Tonight, OMG, it was fantastic. My wife had the Bell and Evans chicken, with puréed squash and bread pudding (that was really fancy stuffing), and I think it was the single best dish we've ever eaten in Disney World. Yes, Chicken. I had the Filet with tomato risotto, which was a really good dish, but thankfully the chicken was enough for me to have some, too. The apps were excellent as well. I had the Tuna Three Ways (I remember it being Four ways in the past... Cost cutting I suppose), but that was a winner, and DW had the romaine salad, and she loved it. We shared the banana fritters for dessert (even though we were stuffed), and those were great as well.

As you can tell, we really liked it. it'll be at the top of the list for our next monorail stay for sure.

I'm late with this, but I hope you're having a fabulous vacation. Last August, DD and I also had a great experience at CA Grill. The meal and our server, Dale, was perfect. Too bad it hasn't been consistent over the past few years. Good to hear you had a tasty meal, too and it sounds like we can all go back…but, I'm asking for Dale

Speaking of CA Grill, this is kind of old news now (2/26), but Chef Brian P. is leaving CA Grill. He will be the new Executive Chef for WDW Resorts/DVC. There are some other WDW chef changes reported HERE.

So we haven't stayed at the CR since 2012 when we were in a Bay Lake view room. Now we are booked for 10 nights in a Garden Wing, garden view room for mid-September. Have all of the rooms been refurbed since 2012? Are the Garden Wing rooms identical to the ones in the tower?

Congratulations on returning to CR! The last CR room rehab (soft goods) was completed in July 2013.

I didn't see anything about fishing on the Sammy Duvall website. Is that arranged thru the resort?

Guided Bass fishing excursions are booked directly through the resort at the marina:

Hi all! Just decided to rent points for a 3-night stay in BLT (12/16-12-19) prior to our first ever DCL cruise.

Have never stayed at BLT, but stayed at CR in Dec and was surprised how much I loved it! We had LV in CR, which was beautiful. Booked BLT TPV (1 BR) for our upcoming trip to have views of Wishes, but now second-guessing TPV vs LV. I know it's totally subjective, but would love opinions on LV vs TPV from those who've stayed at BLT. For reference, it will be me, DH, DD (8), and my mom and adult sister. Thanks!

I'll add your dates to the log. I would stick with the LV because it costs less. Our favorite Disney view is of Bay Lake. We prefer a view of water without a parking lot below. We prefer the outer villas that don't overlook the BLT pool area because it's more peaceful and serene. There are a few LV outer villas on the north side that have a partial Wishes view off to the left of the balcony

STaying here in June...so excited!

YIPPEE and welcome to the thread!

 

[Cluelyss]

First of all- I LOVE your picture!!
As for the EWP- I'm confused. The main reason I booked a TPV was so we can order room service one night and watch the water pageant and fireworks in our pjs. But at CR we would have to go to the beach to watch it, and then back up to room for Wishes?

Thank you!

And sorry, didn't mean to confuse. Was just confirming PP's question on being able to see it from the CR beach, didn't mean to imply you could ONLY see it from the beach!

 

[psac]

Thanks for your little TR and I hope you get to book another stay soon



Keeping the surprises to a minimum sounds like a good idea and now he can anticipate the trip right along with you



I'm late with this, but I hope you're having a fabulous vacation. Last August, DD and I also had a great experience at CA Grill. The meal and our server, Dale, was perfect. Too bad it hasn't been consistent over the past few years. Good to hear you had a tasty meal, too and it sounds like we can all go back…but, I'm asking for Dale

Speaking of CA Grill, this is kind of old news now (2/26), but Chef Brian P. is leaving CA Grill. He will be the new Executive Chef for WDW Resorts/DVC. There are some other WDW chef changes reported HERE.



Congratulations on returning to CR! The last CR room rehab (soft goods) was completed in July 2013.



Guided Bass fishing excursions are booked directly through the resort at the marina:

View attachment 155806



I'll add your dates to the log. I would stick with the LV because it costs less. Our favorite Disney view is of Bay Lake. We prefer a view of water without a parking lot below. We prefer the outer villas that don't overlook the BLT pool area because it's more peaceful and serene. There are a few LV outer villas on the north side that have a partial Wishes view off to the left of the balcony




YIPPEE and welcome to the thread!

Interesting news about all the chef changes. Hopefully things work out. I remember last time they did that, it led to the head sous chef at Cali Grill getting the Exec Chef position at Yachtsman's, and we know how that turned out... Extremely well!! Hopefully there's some good culinary talent to go around this time, too.

 

[WDWKOOK]

Courtesy DIS Updates​

 

[MinMou]

Has anyone found a way to get packages delivered on weekends without having to go through the convention business center? We are still in the planning stages and it looks like the best time to arrive is on a Saturday. Having to wait until Monday for supplies would be awkward, but taking an extra suitcase to hold us over would probably mean we would just not bother having things sent ahead. I'm wondering if staying in the Atrium level would mean we could have things sent to the concierge in advance??

Also, do Greengrocer deliveries have to go through the business center?

 

[Cluelyss]

Has anyone found a way to get packages delivered on weekends without having to go through the convention business center? We are still in the planning stages and it looks like the best time to arrive is on a Saturday. Having to wait until Monday for supplies would be awkward, but taking an extra suitcase to hold us over would probably mean we would just not bother having things sent ahead. I'm wondering if staying in the Atrium level would mean we could have things sent to the concierge in advance??

Also, do Greengrocer deliveries have to go through the business center?

We sent a package to ourselves via USPS and it went right to the front desk as opposed to the Business Center. We also had it delivered a few days in advance of our arrival. Garden Grocer deliveries go right to the front desk.

 

[MinMou]

We sent a package to ourselves via USPS and it went right to the front desk as opposed to the Business Center. We also had it delivered a few days in advance of our arrival. Garden Grocer deliveries go right to the front desk.

Thanks! That's good news And btw, I love your family picture in your avatar!

 

[Grand Admiral]

We didn't notice the parking lot at all
The placement of MK makes it so you look right over the parking lot, not at the parking lot. I'm sure that sounds confusing but it really isn't one you see it

I have a photo that sort of illustrates what you're saying. Even if you were sitting out on the balcony, the parking lot is below and not really in your sight-line unless you make a point to look down at it.

 

[AngiTN]

Yes, exactly! TFS

 

[Cluelyss]

Thanks! That's good news And btw, I love your family picture in your avatar!

Thank you!

 

[JenK0108]

I have a photo that sort of illustrates what you're saying. Even if you were sitting out on the balcony, the parking lot is below and not really in your sight-line unless you make a point to look down at it.

Thanks, this is really helpful! We've decided to stick with TPV! I'm thinking we'll mostly be in the room at night, when we'll notice the parking even less and will really appreciate the castle and the lights at MK (plus Wishes of course)!

Thanks to all who chimed in!

 

[Quellman]

Hi all! Just decided to rent points for a 3-night stay in BLT (12/16-12-19) prior to our first ever DCL cruise.

Have never stayed at BLT, but stayed at CR in Dec and was surprised how much I loved it! We had LV in CR, which was beautiful. Booked BLT TPV (1 BR) for our upcoming trip to have views of Wishes, but now second-guessing TPV vs LV. I know it's totally subjective, but would love opinions on LV vs TPV from those who've stayed at BLT. For reference, it will be me, DH, DD (8), and my mom and adult sister. Thanks!

I see you booked and stayed with the the TPV. It's all we book at Bay Lake. We find it to be the best for our family, especially for fireworks in the room. Don't have to go anywhere, they play the music on the tv. It's a great choice.

First of all- I LOVE your picture!!
As for the EWP- I'm confused. The main reason I booked a TPV was so we can order room service one night and watch the water pageant and fireworks in our pjs. But at CR we would have to go to the beach to watch it, and then back up to room for Wishes?

If I remember correctly, you will be able to see it while it's in the Seven Seas Lagoon from your TPV Room.

You can certainly see the parade from the westward facing rooms in Bay Lake. The music isn't particularly loud so you will want to be on your balcony. I have been known to walk down the hall to the end stair cases and watch the parade from their, where it is much louder and closer.

 

[Gryhndmom]

Kook...please add DH and I to the log-o-rail for oct 16-22. Peeked at the list and looks like Melanie415 and I will be there at the same time....maybe others will be there too and we can have DIS thread meet up!

 

[WDWKOOK]

Kook...please add DH and I to the log-o-rail for oct 16-22. Peeked at the list and looks like Melanie415 and I will be there at the same time....maybe others will be there too and we can have DIS thread meet up!

It's great you have another trip booked and you'll get to meet some fellow DISers! Don't forget your new ticker

 

[Kiren]

7 days and I get to book my Fastpasses! So excited!

 

[momof2halls]

7 days and I get to book my Fastpasses! So excited!

8 for us!! Cant wait!

 

[Melanie415]

Hi you all! My family, including an 8 year old and 5 year old, 1st trip for a 12 night split stay at WDW ( plus an additional 6 nights at Universal b4 we get to WDW, including one evening at Disney Springs).

We will be at BLT TPV October 16-23, for 7 nights, attending 2 MNSSHP and one MK early close day from opening until 6pm. Do you think it is necessary to see Wishes in the park since we can see it (hopefully) from our room and being in the park for Hallowishes 2 nights? So, that means we will have 1 MK day(until 6, attending Hoop Dee Doo that evening) and 2 MK MNSSHP days 4- close. (Also, do you know if there is a Kiss Good Night on party nights)?

Split stay / BLT
2 MNSSHP & 1 MK DAY
1 EPCOT DAY
1 AK Day
1 Waterpark day
1 Disvovery Cove day


Do you think we should attend an additional EMH from 8-10 AM (very tempting since we are right there and have park hoppers!) on our EPCOT day, getting to EPCOT late to take advantage of Extra Magic Hours at MK first? We will be moving to BCV October 23-28, for 5 nights and have at least 1 full day and a couple of evenings at EPCOT for F&W and another full day at MK.

Split stay/BCV 5 nights
1 evening,1 morning at HS
1 EPCOT full day (plan on F&W for 4 evenings)
1 Any park day we choose, probably AK
1 day MK, last day

I guess I'm just wanting to take advantage of MK EMH since we are so close. Is it worth a late start to EPCOT our first week, knowing that we will spend more time there our last 5 nights being close to EPCOT with park hoppers?

Also, is the MSEP worth seeing on our day off? Our day off is Discovery Cove followed by movie by the pool, Disney Springs or BOG and MSEP.

 

[Gryhndmom]

Hi you all! My family, including an 8 year old and 5 year old, 1st trip for a 12 night split stay at WDW ( plus an additional 6 nights at Universal b4 we get to WDW, including one evening at Disney Springs).

We will be at BLT TPV October 16-23, for 7 nights, attending 2 MNSSHP and one MK early close day from opening until 6pm. Do you think it is necessary to see Wishes in the park since we can see it (hopefully) from our room and being in the park for Hallowishes 2 nights? So, that means we will have 1 MK day(until 6, attending Hoop Dee Doo that evening) and 2 MK MNSSHP days 4- close. (Also, do you know if there is a Kiss Good Night on party nights)?

Split stay / BLT
2 MNSSHP & 1 MK DAY
1 EPCOT DAY
1 AK Day
1 Waterpark day
1 Disvovery Cove day


Do you think we should attend an additional EMH from 8-10 AM (very tempting since we are right there and have park hoppers!) on our EPCOT day, getting to EPCOT late to take advantage of Extra Magic Hours at MK first? We will be moving to BCV October 23-28, for 5 nights and have at least 1 full day and a couple of evenings at EPCOT for F&W and another full day at MK.

Split stay/BCV 5 nights
1 evening,1 morning at HS
1 EPCOT full day (plan on F&W for 4 evenings)
1 Any park day we choose, probably AK
1 day MK, last day

I guess I'm just wanting to take advantage of MK EMH since we are so close. Is it worth a late start to EPCOT our first week, knowing that we will spend more time there our last 5 nights being close to EPCOT with park hoppers?

Also, is the MSEP worth seeing on our day off? Our day off is Discovery Cove followed by movie by the pool, Disney Springs or BOG and MSEP.

We will be at BLT at the same time! DH and I LOVE EMH and fully take advantage of each of them especially the morning ones. We find we can do at Epcot, soarin, test track space ship earth before the park opens to general public thus leaving FP's for another park ( we take full advantage of the park hopper!)

As far as wishes fireworks ..we like watching from the balcony of BLT BUT you do miss seeing some of what I call the preshow of the castle and tinker bell flying down a wire (it may have changed by now.)

If you have kids all the above may not work for you and your family.