Resort Help?

[merry_nbright]

Alright, guys! I need your almighty advice once again! In November, we went and enjoyed the Coronado Springs. It was so nice, we HIGHLY recommend it. The question is, how does it stack up against Wilderness Lodge or Animal Kingdom Lodge? Poly and Grand might be just out of our budget, but we were wondering what the Lodges, or any deluxe, might have that Coronado doesn't offer? Basically, is a deluxe worth the $400 more? Thanks in advance, guys! You all rock!

 

[Minsc]

My wife and I stay at CS a lot when we don't bring the kids. In my opinion, it's a great moderate resort. It looks like you've been a few times, so you certainly understand the various levels of decor and amenities that come with each level of resort. The way I always look at is what am I willing to pay, and how does that outlay of expense increase my enjoyment? We are a family of 6, so we are generally limited to ASMu, AoA, or Deluxe Villas. ASMu is okay, but I feel we get the best bang for our buck at AoA when it's the whole family. Occasionally, we will splurge and rent DVC points if we can find what we want. The kids mostly enjoy the parks, but my wife and I enjoy other aspects just as much, so if we go solo, we will typically do Moderate or Deluxe, again, depending on the budget.

TL;DR Version: I think it really comes down to how you want to spend your money, and what you expect to get for it as to whether it's worth it. I don't think the answer is the same for everyone.

 

[cassie58]

We love CSR, but AKL is amazing, especially for animal lovers like us! Cost wise, we have only done it through a friend's DVC pts, so it was definitely worth it, but I can't justify regular rates until I win the lottery!. Of course it offers animal viewing, and Boma, Jiko, and Saana on site for meals, and the Lounge overlooking the lobby. It probably depends how much time you will spend at resort vs. parks as well, for seeing if it is worth it to pay more for amenities.

 

[buzznina]

We have stayed at all 3 levels multiple times and we do not just spend all our time at the parks and always spend time at the resort. Other then SAB, I think the pools are equal and some Mod pools are better then a couple of the deluxe resorts. We mainly stay at the Mod resorts now and we will occasionally stay at a deluxe but have a VERY hard time justifying the $$$ difference. Truthfully, when we do stay deluxe it's not because we think it's worth it, it's just that we want to splurge and stay there. I have read posts where posters say its worth it just to have a balcony, indoor hallway, location and more transportation options etc. So, worth is different for everyone.

 

[maxiesmom]

Mostly what the deluxe resorts have over the moderates is proximity to a park or two. And the pools are more intensely themed, but truly that is about it.

 

[DisneyWishes14]

The theming is more detailed at WL and AKL. You will be closer to MK at WL and closer to AK at AKL. The rooms are in the same building as the lobby, restaurants, etc. You will have more and better dining options (at AKL at least.) and better pools IMHO.

 

[DaisyDuck001]

WL also has boat transportation to/from MK, Ft. Wilderness, and the Contemporary. You can boat to MK or CR and then transfer to the monorail.