Poll: Best Themed Resort

[ChrisnKim913]

Doing a little research here and would like some input. Which resort would you say is themed the best? Think about everything from the rooms, to the pool, to the lobby, to the front of the resort. Even the small details.

 

[Stitch2244314]

Out of the resorts I've stayed at, I'd definitely have to say AKL. The theme is so incredibly detailed and completely immerses the guests. Plus the live animals certainly make it a standout in the theme category!

 

[GrandCalifornian]

Interesting topic. I agree that AKL ties the theme together very well, and the animals are amazing. WL does it very well too, with a woodsy lodge feel.

Just because a resort is the "best themed" though doesn't make that theme appeal to everyone. Some might not care for the animals and African theme and would much prefer the Hawaiian theme of Poly or the classic Disney "theme" of the CR. Then there's other factors like location and transportation to really make it complex... At least Disney offers a lot of different flavors so there's something for everybody.

 

[Missytara]

POR has become my home away from home.

Being a southern girl, I like the theming of the mansions. I love the amentities from the marina to the lounge to the quiet pools and the landscaping.

I love the layout of the resort.

I like the fact that when using the main depot, you are always walking in some kind of shade through most of the walk back to the room. Same as the perimeter bus stops, once you get to the buildings, the corridor above provides shade for your walk back to the room.

I love, love, love the water taxi to and from DTD. I often end my day at a resort, especially on solo trips, and it is a great extra added feature to be able to use the DTD buses from the resort and never waiting long for the next water taxi to go back.

I love the staff; especially Todd and John in the lounge; as well as Yee-hah Bob as the greatest entertainer.

 

[Mousemommy1]

I would have to say WL. I mean, you don't even feel like you are in Florida anymore. The theme is carried out so well throughout the entire resort inside and out. So peaceful, and relaxing...

 

[A_Princess'_Daddy]

It's not our favorite resort (although it's probably a close second to Boardwalk), but I think the best and most comprehensive theming is easily AKV. We absolutely feel immersed in a whole new place when we stay there.

 

[elaw]

Interesting topic. I agree that AKL ties the theme together very well, and the animals are amazing. WL does it very well too, with a woodsy lodge feel.

Just because a resort is the "best themed" though doesn't make that theme appeal to everyone. Some might not care for the animals and African theme and would much prefer the Hawaiian theme of Poly or the classic Disney "theme" of the CR. Then there's other factors like location and transportation to really make it complex... At least Disney offers a lot of different flavors so there's something for everybody.

I couldn't have said it better myself.

 

[mickeynut1]

I think the Poly is the best themed. We love the tropical atmosphere as it's very relaxing and we always feel like we are away from it all when we're there .

 

[Turbanator]

Animal Kingdom Lodge

 

[wiigirl]

My heart belongs to the Poly.

 

[tinkermommyof3]

I think all of the resorts have neat themes. I would have to say Polynesian and Animal Kingdom feel like you have gone on an exotic vacation in addition to WDW. I have stayed at the Polynesian and I have dined and walked the grounds of AKL. Will be staying at AKV this Summer. Can't wait.

 

[ChrisnKim913]

Very interesting to see Coronado Springs with more votes than the Boardwalk (with 0 which is shocking), Grand Floridian, and Contemporary. Grand Floridian doesnt surprise me as much but still, very interesting.

 

[Yellosno]

I was close between WL and AKL. I choose WL simply because the resort would be great if you threw it out into one of the national parks out west. It has a very authentic feel to it. AKL has very immersive theming too. I know both were designed by the same guy and I must say he did a great job on both. I could have gone either way.

 

[ChrisnKim913]

I agree, both lodges are stellar. i also find it interesting that Art of Animation has recieved a few votes. I believe that is one of the top 4 best themed resorts.

 

[plutospalforever]

My top 3 are AoA (maybe not getting a lot of votes because too new, not enough have seen it?), Poly and AKL. In that order. : )

 

[2manypets]

WL, to me, is the best themed. The grounds are just beautiful, down to the correct type of trees from the pacific northwest! The lobby is wonderful with all the architectural details.

AKL is a close second, but the grounds just don't do it for me. A little barren for a savannah.

 

[Sue M]

I'd have to say Poly is the best themed. Love the tropical feel, beautiful lush landscaping and the tiki torches at night.
Also love POR, beautiful grounds, mansion section is my fav.
Also WL & AKL are wonderfully themed too!

 

[mmmears]

AKL

From the exterior, the lobby design and music and smells, the animals, the pool area and plants, even the menus at the restaurants -- we like many WDW resorts, but none have the comprehensive theming that they put into making AKL.

 

[johnsonet]

I've stayed at every Deluxe, plus BLT, and loved them all.

AKL gets my vote

edited to add: Hi mmmears

 

[Sparkly]

AKL/AKV. Kidani was our very first resort stay, even if for 1 night and I really felt like I was in an African lodge.

CBR looks really well themed too. Disney is amazing at immersive theming in resorts and parks!