OKW First Time

[Festningdal]

Hi DVC folks:

My family will be going to WDW for the first time 11/30-12/5, staying in a studio at OKW. I've read lots of posts about the 1BR's and larger, but nothing about the studios. It's our son's 5th birthday as well and I wondered what sort of special stuff we can arrange for him, too. We picked OKW because I read one review where the "down" side was it was quiet and kind of secluded. Gosh, after spending a day at EPCOT or MK, that's what we wanted!

 

[Dancind]

Hi there, how exciting! I'm afraid the DVC resorts are not known for doing anything special to celebrate occasions, but it wouldn't hurt to mention it when you check in. You never know. There are plenty of other ways you can celebrate though. Make sure that it's noted on any Priority Seating reservations at restaurants that day, they usually make a fuss. And if you're at the Magic Kingdom, stop in City Hall first thing (it's on the far left of the plaza as you enter the park, just past the train station) and get him an "It's my birthday!" pin. The CM's are great about commenting on the birthday pin. Have a wonderful trip!

 

[PamOKW]

First WDW trip? You are going to have a wonderful time -- your son is just about perfect to enjoy the magic. You are also right that OKW will be a nice play to unwind.

I haven't got much to suggest birthday wise but things you might enjoy at OKW include the boat ride to DD and enjoying the wildlife that appears on the golf course -- this can include ibis, egrets, ducks, bunnies, etc. Kids (and adults) really enjoy this nature in WDW.

There are activities at the Community Hall for children if that's of interest.

 

[Festningdal]

Thanks! I was actually trying to figure out whether Magic or Animal Kingdom was the best spot for the actual birthday. A button from Town Hall sounds like a great start. We're all really looking forward to this; our son, Sandy, already wants to go "tomorrow". Maybe I let him know about it a little early? He doesn't see it yet, but I'm definitely the most geared up of the 3 of us.

 

[Simba's Mom]

As far as them doing anything for your son's B'day, we've taken at least 15 trips to WDW, Anniversaries, B'day's, etc. and this year, our second time at OKW, was the first time any resort ever acknowledged a special occassion for us. We didn't even ask, but at check-in, I mentioned to the CM that it was my son's college graduation and we needed the fax info there for a company interviewing him. Well, the next day we came back to a big bouquet of balloons for him with a signed card from Mickey congratulating him on his graduation. Since no resort had ever acknowledged a special occassion before, this gave OKW a little step up in our minds. Nice touch-and completely unexpected.

 

[AZKathy]

When you check in, tell them about DS's birthday and then call the front desk the day prior to DS's birthday and let them know it is his birthday and could they do something special. We have done three birthdays there now, and each time, OKW has come through by bringing a few birthday balloons with a character card autographed each time. I have read some people have not any acknowledgment with the resorts, but OKW has come through for us each time. I hope they will for you, also.

Have a character meal on DS's birthday. Remind the restaraunt about the birthday. A character has come out and brought a birthday cupcake for my children at their birthday meal and everyone sings "happy birthday".

Have a great and magical trip. I bet you will really enjoy your stay at OKW. Happy Birthday to your son, also!

 

[MiaSRN62]

Have a character meal on DS's birthday. Remind the restaraunt about the birthday. A character has come out and brought a birthday cupcake for my children at their birthday meal and everyone sings "happy birthday".

Yep...we've done this over the years. Crystal Palace and Chef Mickey's were great, as was Whispering Canyon Cafe at the WL. At each of the restaurants a cupcake was brought out and many of the guest sang "happy birthday" to my kids. At Chef Mickey, Minnie danced around our table waving a napkin in the air. Happy birthday to your son !

 

[jaysue]

Welcome to the DIS!

Looks like you may want some info on OKW Studios:

375 Sq ft (appx)
2 Queen beds
Always a lock off (i.e. there is an adjoining door to a 1BR)
Kitchenette
Microwave
Small Sink
Small but sufficient counter
Half dorm style fridge
Pack n Play (as at all DVC resorts)
Paper plates and bowls
Cutlery
Glasses
Good closet space by hotel standards
Nice sized bathroom but a regular tub size

Thanks
jaysue