OKW or Dolphin?

[holidaybarb]

I'm planning a June visit taking along DH, our three adult children, their significant others, and even the grandchildren ages 2-12. Our children went when they were young on three family trips, but this is the first trip for grandchildren.

At first I thought a 2 bdrm at OKW and a couple studios would be the best way to go for convenience. Now I'm thinking location, location, location and wondering if the reasonably priced Dolphin (teacher rates) might be a better choice. $$ wise they're comparable if we rent points to get into OKW.

We're planning a 5-night stay and would have to work around the prohibitive points required for OKW on a Sat. night. We'll have rental cars but not one per family. Based on past experience I'm thinking we all should stay in the same resort.

Any advice from you veterans? Thanks.

 

[Mouseteacher]

I can't answer regarding OKW and points since I have never done that.

I stayed at the Dolphin this past August using the teacher rate - a terrific deal, IMHO. We (my family) were going with DB and his wife and two teenagers. I booked 2 rooms with the teacher rate. We thoroughly enjoyed being in the same resort next door to each other. We had our privacy when we needed it and we could be together when necessary.

Three years ago, my family, 2 DB and their families and my parents all went for Thanksgiving (4 rooms). We stayed at BWI. That, too, was fine since all our rooms were in close proximity to one another (not necessarily on the same floors).

It seems you would be fine at either. It's a matter of personal preference.

Oh.... Dolphin location beats OKW IMO. You can easily access all activities and restaurants at Epcot WS, BW, BC/YC, and MGM in addition to S/D amenities and restaurants.

I believe you can only book up to 3 rooms at the teacher rate.

 

[Blondie]

If you're looking for location, then the Swan or Dolphin would be your better choice!

I think you can reserve up to three rooms under the Teacher's discount.

 

[DeeP]

OKW will give you much nicer rooms but the Dolphin will give you a much, much better location. With all the people in your party, only a few rental cars and only 5 days you need convenience and location---go with the Dolphin!

 

[Pig Pen]

I agree with Dolphin - nothing beats the location except for maybe the Boardwalk Villas - did you consider renting points there?

But the Dolphin is great. We walked to both MGM and Epcot and the Boardwalk area is a great place to catch a bite or just sit and look at the water.

I loved it...which is probably why they managed to talk me into buying DVC!

 

[simonmunro]

I would also choose the Dolphin. Do a search on the user name dreamflight99 and read everything you can by her. She is the Dolphin expert and "shoud be author". She knows EVERYTHING about the Dolphin. I've been going to the Dolphin for 10 years, sometimes a couple times a year. I have a perfect mental picture of east, west and tower. I can see all the resturants, elevators, shops and layout in my mind. YET, dreamflight99 STILL knows things I never suspected.

 

[Deb & Bill]

But with the OKW 2 bedroom unit, you will have a full kitchen with stove, refrigerator and microwave, plus a washer and dryer for your use. Also, you'll be able to park right outside your room instead of in the parking lot next door. Bldg 62, 63 and 64 also have elevators if you need them.

If you average out the points over the seven days, the weekend points don't seem so bad.

You'll be able to ride the boat over to Downtown Disney from OKW. You can rent the surrey bikes at OKW, too, and they are less expensive than over at the BW, plus you don't have to ride up hills.

 

[simonmunro]

Bump

 

[madcoco]

As you mentioned,it is a good idea to stay at the same resort especially if you all don't have a car.If you want space, cooking/laundry facilities, and peacfulness go with OKW.Dolphin for location to MGM,Epcot and it has a great pool,tennis,kids club,minigolf etc.The Dolphin can be noisy in spots when a large convention is there. Someone mentioned riding the boat(Trumbo Ferry) to DTD from OKW.One thing to remember is it is a Pontoon boat with max occupancy of 12.This could split up your family if there are people already in line.Whatever you decide enjoy your stay.

 

[holidaybarb]

You guys are great. Thanks for sharing your info and experiences. We will, I'm sure, have a great time wherever - but your help in making the decision is much appreciated.i