Non-Disney Resorts with Theme Park Views

[coopersmom]

I'm wanting to know about non-Disney owned resorts that have theme park views and how they compare to Disney resort views/service.

We stayed at the Polynesian and, while I can't fault the location, we didn't like the resort at all. Not even close to the money. Hampton Inn-quality accommodations and service for Ritz Carlton prices. (Nothing wrong with a Hampton Inn for a basic place to sleep, but not where I want to spend my vacation, and the Polynesian was definitely not value for money paid, or even anything close.)

Anywho, we looked at the Hilton and Waldorf-Astoria and were impressed with what we saw, and it seemed really close. Do they have theme park views? And, if so, what are they like?

And is there any place else of that hotel caliber with a similar or better location that I should also be looking at?

For a little background ... I'm planning a return trip with my best friend and her kids (a mommy trip) who always stays on site and she'll need some convincing to deviate. I just wasn't impressed with the Disney offerings, so we are currently torn between Bay Lake Tower in a villa or a suite at the Waldorf or Hilton. There are two adults and three kids total and two of the kids are small (4 or under) and one is a pre-teen, if that helps anyone giving advice/suggestions.

 

[Monorail Bob's dd]

If you check the Wyndham Bonnet Creek thread, there are several pictures of what the theme park views look like, there are some really good views shown of Epcot in particular. You can get a 2 bedroom suite which sleeps up to 8 between $100-200 a night depending on when you are going and who you book from. We are staying there for the first time this summer after being blown away by the cost of Disney deluxe hotels and we wanted the extra space. Loction-wise, it is on Disney property right next to Carribean Beach Resort.