Help me pick a resort, Contemporary, GF, WL for this time next year

[VeronicaZS]

Hi all! I would love your feedback for the following scenario.
I will be traveling for 6-7 nights in exactly 1 year to see Disney with Christmas decorations and do the MVMCP. I will be traveling with my DH and 3 boys, 8, 6, 6 and we will need a room with a bedroom that has a door so we need a suite. I am leaning toward renting a DVC room. I was thinking the Contemporary would be most convenient, my kids get tired early and I want to maximize our time at the MVMCP.
On the other hand, should I really plan my whole trip around 1 event? I heard the decorations at WL are awesome and my sister and her family and my parents will likely travel with us and they may be able to find a more economical studio there than at the Contemporary. Price isn't a major consideration but I don't want to pay a premium for a monorail resort if it is only slightly more convenient. I do like the idea of easily trying different restaurants at the monorail resorts which brings me to the GF.
The reason I am leaning towards Contemporary vs GF is the walking distance to MK but the GF looks so gorgeous and is totally my style. I would hope that with discounts my extended family could get a decent rate for a studio, they won't need a suite.

Thoughts??

PS: we did consider a 2 BR suite to share with my sister but DH thinks having all the cousins in one room, especially at bedtime, will be too insane. He is probably right.

 

[_auroraborealis_]

First note: December is the single highest month for DVC booking demand, and renting can be a challenge at that season. You'll need a 1BR, which may help you as they're generally the last units booked, but expect to pay premium for the points and be ready to book at 11 months. Finding a private owner may be your best opportunity to book what you want.

Studios WILL book fastest at all three resorts you list, which is a huge if for your sister and parents, meaning I wouldn't make your decision around them if they aren't going to be ready to commit by January. Studios are the hardest to book at VGF in December, as well. Your extended family would need to stay on the hotel side, rather than on the DVC villa side, especially given the likelihood they need two units. WL also books up quickly after the 11 month window opens for December dates. Bay Lake Tower is the easiest booking for the DVC 1BR, but studios will also go somewhat quickly.

VGF is most convenient to get TO Magic Kingdom. Coming back is a bit more of a nuisance, as you either have to go through 3 monorail stops, or take the boat. WL is a bus or a boat. For maximum ease, Contemporary really does win -- the walk from Bay Lake Tower to MK is 10 minutes, and it's one stop and a short walk via monorail to return. You could easily make an ADR at Whispering Canyon to see the decor at Wilderness Lodge.