Help Going Back to Disney from Universal

[superwy]

My family and I are Universal converts. We've spent the last four trips to Florida at Universal, but my 10 year old wants to end this visit to Grandma with a trip back to Disney. The problem is that we've become spoiled by the nice hotels, easy walk to the parks and relaxing feel. Now, I am looking for a hotel outside of Disney that will offer us the same feel. Upscale, full of entertainment for kids around pool and bar for us! We've stayed at many Disney hotels from the Grand Floridian and Beach Club to the moderates, and they don't compare to the Hard Rock or Portofino. So, I am seeking guidance from those who know. Any thoughts? We looked at Gaylord Palms, Caribe Royale, and Bonnett Creak? Love the Hyatt Grand Cypress, so that is an option. Thanks for any help you can offer.

 

[PantherPete]

I'm kind of surprised by this. I love the HRH, but the Yacht & Beach Club are just as good, maybe even a little better (if you get a balcony room). And you can walk to Epcot and DHS. I will admit that the HRH does have better poolside entertainment (DJ, Movies, Bands) and better pool waitstaff than the Y&BC and that Universal in general has a more relaxing vibe than Disney (no fast pass scheduling, no 6 month dining reservations, etc). I've never stayed at Bonnet Creek, but friends stayed there in November and loved it. And my in-laws stayed at the Orange Lake Resort (Holiday Inn vacation club property) and said they preferred it to staying on-property.

 

[macraven]

i'm never surprised that one person likes some hotel that i don't.
we all see and find things at a place differently.

some like the ambiance of the hotel plus perks while others just want a place to put their suitcases and spend all their time at the parks.

op, Bonnett Creek has been getting high marks from other posters lately.
they have a shuttle to the parks and a decent pool.

check their site and see if that place appeals to you.

i usually go to trip advisor when i can't make up my mind for which hotel would meet my needs best.
i don't use trip advisor for orlando as i stay on site at the resorts for both disney and universal stays.
i like ta for places i am not as familiar with.

 

[SA mom]

We started staying at the Swan several years ago because we could stay on points. While on property, the Swan is managed by Starwood (Sheraton, Westin, etc.) and you can accumulate points using their AmEx. The Swan is a Westin. Personally, I think Royal Pacific is nicer, but I haven't been to either hotel since they both have been rehabbed. You can walk to Epcot and DHS (though we always the boat to DHS) and the Boardwalk area is a lot fun. There are tons of great restaurants in the area and the Swan and Dolphin share a nice pool complex. I really enjoy that pool bar. It has surprisingly good food. You get Extra Magic Hours and you share transportation with some of the other Epcot area resorts (usually Boardwalk). You do not have access to Magical Express, Magic Bands do not come with your reservation and you cannot charge park purchases to your room.