We stayed at the Doubletree Suites on Hotel Plaza Blvd. near Downtown
Disney, last May. We really liked the hotel and our suite was very spacious. Everyting in our room looked to be brand new. (Carpeting, curtains, spreads,etc.)
Like you I had heard some unflattering reviews and was somewhat hesitant about booking there. There is bus service to the Disney parks that runs about every 30-45 minutes. Depends on how busy the parks are!! We only used the bus on our 1st day, after that we just drove to the parks. Not positive about the distance to the parks. Just follow the signs for your destination and you should have no problems.
The pool is very large, but nothing spectacular. (No slides, etc.) My then 5-year old son loved the kiddie pool, there is a little fountain in the middle. (Kind of cute) Also, a play area and gameroom are located close to the pool.
Our family ate at the breakfast buffet one time. Great selections, but it is a nice sit-down restaurant and this may take some time if you want to be at the parks early!! The frig, coffeemaker and microwave in the room should certainly help you with getting a fast breakfast in the morning.
If you have any further questions, please feel free to ask!!
