First trip to VWL, what not to miss?

[Donna M]

In 14 days we head to our first extended family trip to VWL. We've been to WDW many times but would like advise on things to do around VWL We will be a family with two teenage boys, parents in their 80's and other adults.

Golf trips and one or two days in parks are planned. I'm thinking of trying the Segways at Fort Wilderness.

What do you like to do?

 

[bobbiwoz]

The Segway tour at FW is wonderful and fun, I did it with some friends in June. We like to rent bikes at VWL at ride over to and around FW. The little boats to rent at at WL are fun.

I've not done it yet, but on certain days, there's a tour of the lobby of WL in the morning. Be sure to get to the beach area for the Electrical parade on the water around 9:30PM.

Bobbi

 

[jlovesee]

Tour is definitely fun, and informative. When I checked the guide this last trip ( about 2 weeks ago) it was wen-Sun at 9AM. Also remember to ask to be flag family when you check in, we didn't get it but it never hurts to ask. That means on one morning a WL ranger takes you up to the very top of WL to raise the flags. From what I have heard its a great experience. I keep trying to get it but you can only sign up for it when you check in.

I also 2nd the water pageant parade. Its kind of hooky but its fun. 9:35PM every night on bay lake.

Jennifer

 

[deide71]

We just got back from a great trip to VWL. It was pretty cold though (and this coming from a Minnesotan)! I really enjoyed the lobby of the villa building. The rocking chairs in front of the fireplace were a perfect place to unwind during the cold snap! We met so many other nice DVC families just hanging out at the villas. Definately take time to engage others in conversation.

The Territory Lounge is a lovely place to enjoy a quiet drink if you are so inclined. The lighting and decor are just great.

The outdoor seating at the Roaring Fork counter service location is also very pretty.

And of course the main lobby of the Wilderness Lodge is a wonder to behold!

As for golf, DH and his friend played 3 rounds this trip, and enjoyed all of the courses, but mentioned Osprey Ridge as a favorite.

Despite the weather, there were folks swimming every day of our trip, including the days with a high of 50! I may be a hearty midwesterner, but I am not that hearty. I skipped the pool, but both the main pool with the slide and the Villa pool with the bubbles look like fun.

Don't forget to visit the beach at least one night for the Electrical Water Pagent at 9:30. We could see it from our balcony.

Have a great trip!

 

[ccigliano]

You will have a wonderful time. I like to walk on the nature trail over to Fort Wildeness and then take the boat back to the lodge. I've seen deer, rabbits (little babies) and even turkeys along the path. We've also rented a large pontoon boat and rode around the lake for a couple of hours - with the size of your crew that might be a nice idea. We dine a WCC for a real hoot and Artist Point point for a more quiet dinner. I always take time to relax in front of the fireplaces, sip hot cocoa and chat with other vacationers who share a passion for the lodge and Disney like we do. Have a wonderful vacation.

 

[Donna M]

I like the idea of the pontoon boat.

Any more ideas????