Help me pick a 2BR for First Time Family

[jackhex222]

The wife and I have decided to splurge a bit on our WDW vacation this year. We're terrible sleepers so we're in talks with David's Vacation Club rentals on finding a 2br or suite. We want the 2 kids to have their own beds in a different room. We've never been to WDW so wondering what's best for 2 adults and 2 boys (6,8). Here's the options we're looking at. Which would be best for eating and proximity/travel to Epcot and Hollywood Studios? We plan to fly in April 2 and fly out April 7/8.

• Riviera, 2-Bedroom - Preferred View
• Animal Kingdom, 2-Bedroom - Savanna View
• Carribean Beach Resort (not David's that's through WDW)

Edit: Took off Saratoga Springs, added CBR. Whether I book through Davids or Disney probably looking at these options now.

 

[Mle8308]

The wife and I have decided to splurge a bit on our WDW vacation this year. We're terrible sleepers so we're in talks with David's Vacation Club rentals on finding a 2br or suite. We want the 2 kids to have their own beds in a different room. We've never been to WDW so wondering what's best for 2 adults and 2 boys (6,8). Here's the options we're looking at. Which would be best for eating and proximity/travel to Epcot and Hollywood Studios? We plan to fly in April 2 and fly out April 7/8.

• Riviera, 2-Bedroom - Preferred View
• Saratoga Springs, 2-Bedroom - Preferred
• Saratoga Springs, Treehouse Villa
• Animal Kingdom, 2-Bedroom - Savanna View

At this point, you are probably going to have to take what they can get. Good luck! Check out a family suite at Art of Animation if David's doesn't come through.

 

[RoseGold]

You're too late to book that. Your best bet will be a confirmed reservation. They have them at several sites, but they are usually just studios (hotel rooms) because 2BR takes so many points. You might be able to do something like book two rooms at the Poly.

DVC is very strict on bookings and rules. It's hard to change reservations, and they are made many months out.

The AoA suite has a dedicated master and then two beds in the living space, they're kind of separated, you can look up a floorpan of something like the Cars suite. The Wyndham has large suites, and isn't far. You'd need a car to go that route.

 

[jackhex222]

You're too late to book that. Your best bet will be a confirmed reservation. They have them at several sites, but they are usually just studios (hotel rooms) because 2BR takes so many points. You might be able to do something like book two rooms at the Poly.

DVC is very strict on bookings and rules. It's hard to change reservations, and they are made many months out.

The AoA suite has a dedicated master and then two beds in the living space, they're kind of separated, you can look up a floorpan of something like the Cars suite. The Wyndham has large suites, and isn't far. You'd need a car to go that route.

Sorry when you say I'm too late to book that - I'm confused by what you mean. I'm a noob so forgive me.

 

[DCLCruiseFan09]

Out of all of the options provided if available, I would go with Riviera. It has the most central location, lots of transportation options and easy access to studios and Epcot. Usually its a King in the Master and then the second bedroom has two queens at each of the options provided above. Treehouse villa I only recommend if you are doing a resort heavy stay and have a car.

Best of luck on availability!

 

[Best Aunt]

OP, DVC members can make reservations at their home resort at 11 months out. You want to travel in April 2023. People started booking those rooms in May 2022.

David's might be able to get you a 2-bedroom DVC villa. A "suite" means hotel, not DVC.

When DVC rooms describe the number of people that they "sleep," that does not mean everybody gets their own sleeping surface. It doesn't even mean everybody gets their own bed. It might assume 2 people sharing a sofabed, for example. You need to make sure you know what the bed situation is before you book.

 

[DCLCruiseFan09]

Riviera, 2-Bedroom - Preferred View
Animal Kingdom, 2-Bedroom - Savanna View
Carribean Beach Resort (not David's that's through WDW)
Edit: Took off Saratoga Springs, added CBR. Whether I book through Davids or Disney probably looking at these options now.

I would still take Riviera. Just make sure to verify the bedding in the rooms.

 

[RoseGold]

Sorry when you say I'm too late to book that - I'm confused by what you mean. I'm a noob so forgive me.

There aren't many 2BR suites, and April is six months away. DVC is booked at either 11 months (home resort) or 7 months (any resort).

It's possible something is available, sure, but you missed the window. DVC runs at full occupancy. Rooms book up. Renting DVC requires planning.

The RIV room is going to be ridiculously expensive, because RIV is so point heavy. Also maybe why it's still available.

If 2BRs are a priority, I would go Wyndham Bonnet Creek and get a car.

If you're willing to make a 1BR suite work, there are a lot more options. That is actually easy to book in DVC, and other hotels have similar rooms, like Art of Animation or the marriott properties.

Edit: just saw that is Easter. You better act now if you want to get anything at all.

 

[sponica]

I'd find whatever you can paying cash through Disney. But oh boy, that's one of the most expensive weeks on the calendar. I think I saw a one BR at Riv, I'd put the kids on the pullouts in the living room, if I was desperate for separation.

 

[jackhex222]

I'd find whatever you can paying cash through Disney. But oh boy, that's one of the most expensive weeks on the calendar. I think I saw a one BR at Riv, I'd put the kids on the pullouts in the living room, if I was desperate for separation.

Ha thanks - first time - learning a lot here.

 

[TheSouthernBelle]

The wife and I have decided to splurge a bit on our WDW vacation this year. We're terrible sleepers so we're in talks with David's Vacation Club rentals on finding a 2br or suite. We want the 2 kids to have their own beds in a different room. We've never been to WDW so wondering what's best for 2 adults and 2 boys (6,8). Here's the options we're looking at. Which would be best for eating and proximity/travel to Epcot and Hollywood Studios? We plan to fly in April 2 and fly out April 7/8.

• Riviera, 2-Bedroom - Preferred View
• Animal Kingdom, 2-Bedroom - Savanna View
• Carribean Beach Resort (not David's that's through WDW)

Edit: Took off Saratoga Springs, added CBR. Whether I book through Davids or Disney probably looking at these options now.

Carribean Beach resort does not have two bedroom villas, it's a regular hotel room. Riviera could be a good choice for space and convenience with the skyliner so good access to DHS/Epcot. CBR is also good access to DHS/Epcot with the skyliner but you'd be in a traditional hotel room, not a two bedroom nor is it a suite. It's just a room.

Art of Animation and All Star Music, while they're values, have family suites that have a dedicated bedroom with a door and two bathrooms. And room for your kids to each have their own beds. They can be pricey but still likely a lot less money than 2 bed villas.

Another convenient option would be boardwalk or beach club since you can walk/boat to DHS/Epcot. I'm sure also very pricey but all of these resorts are probably hard to come by for DVC rentals. We've looked to rent before numerous times and dates never line up. Just make sure whatever you do you know the change/cancellation policy if you rent points.

 

[Her Dotness]

I'd find whatever you can paying cash through Disney. But oh boy, that's one of the most expensive weeks on the calendar.

Yup, next year, that week is in the topmost tier on the points chart. You'll be paying bunches of bucks IF you could even get rental points for that week. Unlikely, since DVCers who book Easter or Christmas generally do that for their own family.

Particularly so when 2brs are points-pricey any time of year.

For perspective, next week in a Riviera 2br, standard view costs 375pts, the week you want will be 565pts.

Also, will your family be happy without daily housekeeping? You'll get only towels changed on the 4th day of your stay in DVC. Trash is generally taken on the safety inspection that occurs daily. All other cleaning and tidying is a DIY in DVC.

 

[IndyToThere]

Just checking around, it looks like 2BR is available in general for Kidani at AKL (I can't see Riveria), but I'd highly suggest you move fast as the rooms book fast. Also, you might consider 1BR rooms as well (to save money and also if 2BR isn't available). The kids can sleep on the pulllout couch, and you still have your privacy.

 

[gottalovepluto]

I'd find whatever you can paying cash through Disney. But oh boy, that's one of the most expensive weeks on the calendar. I think I saw a one BR at Riv, I'd put the kids on the pullouts in the living room, if I was desperate for separation.

The one bedroom at Riv sounds like it would meet OP’s requirements- if they could get hold of one. The bedroom has a King and then the living room area has the drop down queen and a drop down twin under the tv. The drop down queen is far nicer than the “pullout” beds I encountered at CCV, it was basically like a normal bed.

Swan/Dolphin might be worth checking as well OP.

 

[disney dumbo]

Savanna view is so much fun. The theming of the resort is great! Jambo house lobby is incredible. Kidani lobby seems like miniature version. Each resort has it's own flare. Two bedrooms villas are a real treat! So... if any of them are available, you'll love it! With old key west, you may have to deal with stairs and no elevator, but should be cheaper. I think David's is a good way to go. Don't pay the Disney price! But go! and stay in 2 bedroom... or even 1 bedroom. Your boys may have to share a bed with each parent... but go! They are at a great age! Plan for a day off to enjoy the pools or just other activities... sleep late, etc. You'll enjoy your park days more!

 

[matt and beth]

Based off your ideas I’d stress BWV, BCV, or Riveria. AKL is great but doesn’t meet the requirements of close to Epcot/HS. OKW would have you within the general area.

 

[Marthasor]

The one bedroom at Riv sounds like it would meet OP’s requirements- if they could get hold of one. The bedroom has a King and then the living room area has the drop down queen and a drop down twin under the tv. The drop down queen is far nicer than the “pullout” beds I encountered at CCV, it was basically like a normal bed.

Swan/Dolphin might be worth checking as well OP.

I completely agree with this. We are a family of 3 that loves to book 2-bedroom villas, but took a chance on a RIV 1-bedroom the first year it opened and it was great. OP, you will get the separate space you are looking for (bedroom and living room), plus your kids will have their own, comfortable beds - the pull-down beds are SO much more comfortable than the sofa beds in some of the other DVC 1-bedrooms. I would book a 1-bedroom at RIV, either preferred or standard (we love standard, high floor, facing Epcot - great view, IMHO). You will save a lot of money doing the 1-bedroom over the 2-bedroom and will still have the kitchen and W/D.

I also agree with the Swan/Dolphin recommendation - i would call the resort directly and price out a 2-bedroom suite, if it is available - they typically price out around the price of one, deluxe room on the monorail. We prefer the Swan over the Dolphin. You could even just book connecting rooms at the Swan - definitely call directly for availability.

 

[polynor]

If you're trying to be convenient to Epcot/HS area -- of the ones you originally listed - Riviera. However...
The 2BR Riviera if you book through David's -- make sure you're not going to change things -- it will be hard to make modifications as the DVC owner has to lock it in. You could go through Disney and pay cash for more flexibility (but more $$$). This is going to be your most expensive option.
You will have the full kitchen and W/D -- but you need to consider if you're going use all that space. The Riv 2 bdrm is big! With the 1BR - each kid willl still have their own space. Biggest issue with the 1BR -- you don't have two true bathrooms.

Your CBR option will really just be two hotel rooms you request for connecting. Considering the size of the resort -- the food options aren't the most convenient. It's potentially the most convenient for the parks depending on which village you get because it's the hub for the skyliner (no transfer needed).
Since you want Epcot/HS area - don't pick AKL. That won't be convenient at all.

The other option others have mentioned -- Art of Animation. Also on the skyliner, high on Disney theming -- my boys all loved it. With two kids, they will each have a separate bed PLUS you get two full bathroom (two toilets, one shower, one shower/tub) and a kitchenette and door between where you sleep vs the kids. Kitchenette works for eating breakfast at the resort but not for cooking anything. The most annoying thing with the resort was that our kid that liked to sleep in late also wanted the murphy bed that hid the table. It will also be your "loudest" resort.

 

[Sammie]

I disagree about AKL, we love the Savannah view so much we don't care about transportation which we never thought was bad at all. My next choice would be Riviera.

 

[NVDISFamily]

I hope I'm not breaking any rules here. I've had others help me in the past with questions like this. I love 2BR units. But seeing as you are paying cash to rent points I'd strongly recommend you consider downsizing and also going for the standard view 1BR unit and not the 2BR if you want to stay at Riviera. In many ways the standard view has some benefits as you get views of EPCOT and the fireworks and that will save you a ton of points. The kids will have their own bed but it will be in the living room adjacent and one will be on a smaller flip down twin and the other will be a flip down queen. Both are nice and should be okay for your kids.

It looks like a Riviera 1BR standard view is open for the time you want to go.

The 2BR at AVK is less points than the 2BR Riviera Preferred view and would be awesome but much further away from the theme parks you want to visit.