Question about SSR Pools

[4forMe]

I just changed our reservation to add 2 days at SSR at the end of our trip. We are first staying at BLT. We are thinking of buying into DVC, and I think DH will love SSR.

I know there are two main kid friendly pools at SSR. How are they different and what sections are they in? My kids swim like fish and love waterslides, if that helps.

Also, what section is the health club and spa located? DH will definitely want to use the health club. I am trying to figure out what section to request. Being near buses is not a priority as we will have a vehicle.

Thanks for the help!

 

[David Raguso]

If the waterslide is a must, the only pool at SSR that has it is the Rock Spring Pool in the main area of the resort by the carriage house, recreation area, spa, gym, restaurants, etc.

The only other pool that i can speak to is the grandstand pool which is a regular pool with a fountain, a water play area, and there is also a hottub at the grandstand. I liked the grandstand because it has its own pool but the section is close enought to the main area that you can always walk there and go to the rock spring pool if you want.

note that that the rock spring pool is closed for rehab work until the end of march.

 

[4forMe]

If the waterslide is a must, the only pool at SSR that has it is the Rock Spring Pool in the main area of the resort by the carriage house, recreation area, spa, gym, restaurants, etc.

What area would we request to be in this section? Is this the Springs section? We are traveling in August so I have more than enough time to put in my request.

Would you have an idea how far the walk is to DTD from the Springs section?

Also, do you know if there are bars at any of the pool areas?

Thanks for the help!

 

[SaratogaShan]

If you are going to be using the main pool and the spa, The Springs section is closest (right across the street). It takes our family about 10-15 minutes at my 3 year old's walking pace to get to the marketplace side of downtown disney from the springs. It is a very scenic walk, so it feels shorter than that to me.

 

[Dillon]

Let me first say that unlike many who believe there are "bad" places to stay at SSR, I have found each area to have its own delights. I have walked from all areas to the main lobby and have found none to be too far to enjoy my day.

As for the pools:

High Rock Springs - located at the main building, is surrounded by the Spa, arcade, Artist Palate, Turf Club, and main lobby. The pool has a great bar for snacks and libations. The pool has the only water slide at SSR. The pool has what is referred to as a zero entry area, which is similar to walking into the ocean or a lake, a nice gradual slope to ease yourself into the water. The pool has a cute Donald Duck water feature for little ones, and a large hot tub for all. Movies are shown in the evenings on a large inflated screen so you can swim and enjoy the movie - good family fun. This pool is always packed, but fun can indeed be found!


Grandstand Pool - located between two of the buildings in the Grand Stand area nearest the main building, if offers a race horse theme with water squirting horses for the kids, and features race track furlong markers as water fountains at the corners of the pool. The pool also offers a small full service bar with snacks and libations for adults, as well as a drink station for your refillable mugs. (I asked if my Long Island Ice Tea was refillable, but Disney magic had not spread that far, as of yet). A nice hot tub is also included in the family fun. Laundry facilities are locaed in the pool building. This pool is crouded in the late afternoon, but tends to be pretty well open with a small group in the morning and after dinner time.

Congress Park - The quiet pool at Congress Park is just that - Quiet! It has no bar, but has a great hot tub from which you can witness the hussle and bussle of Downtown Disney from afar (great place to be late in the evening). There is a play area for children, more of a "play ground" type place with a typical climb on me and slide down afaire going on. The laundry facilities are also located in the pool building. I love this pool, as it is quiet and usually with few people, if any at all at any time. Take your own snacks and libations. And a good cup of coffee and the hot tub go together very nicely at 6AM!

Paddock Pool - Pretty similar to the comments above for Congress Park, including the hot tub, kids area, etc. Again, take your own snack and libations. Coffee work well here in the AM also. I have found myself (and alone I might add) at 5AM in this hot tub. Great to get ready for the commando raid on any of the parks.

Hope this helps. Definately ask for the area you prefer, but don't let any worries of not getting your first choice ruin the trip to "the World", the happiest place on earth!