Pop to wilderness lodge?

[Mom of Jack 2009]

This is our second trip to walt disney world as a family. (We are a husband, wife and 6 year old son.) We have reservations at Pop which worked out great for us last time we vacationed which was in 2013. My son was happy with the pool, liked the vibrant decor, and didn't care for table service dining beyond character dining. What's different this time is my brother, who recently moved to CA and who we won't see more than a few times a year will also be vacationing at the same time with him girlfriend. They are staying at the Wilderness Lodge. There is definitely a benefit to us staying at the same resort to maximize time together. That said, is the upgrade to that hotel worth the price if you don't spend much time at you're hotel? Also, we got the free dining, which is counter service. I don't know what would happen if we upgraded to a hotel that would normally have a regular ddp. (We were only planning to do a few table service meals as we were paying out of pocket for those. I'm not sure my son would want to sit through many table service meals and their availability is limited at this point. ) any advice?

 

[dansdad]

Having traveled with extended family multiple times, we have found it much more enjoyable when everyone stays at the resort they want to. It is so easy to meet up with people these days with smart phones etc. You want to spend a lot of time together, and you can do that without feeling like your tied at the hip if you have a little bit of separation. If you're not going to be spending time enjoying the resort, I don't think the extra $$ to upgrade to WL and the TS Dining Plan would be worth it.

 

[baldy6060]

Under your circumstances, I wouldn't switch.