Saratoga Springs first-timer

[MadJae]

Anyone have any opinions on Saratoga Springs? I normally try to stay close to one of the parks...I also don't know of anyone that has stayed there. Let me know if there is anything I should know in advance to my stay next month?

Thanks for the thoughts!

 

[daannzzz]

I generally prefer the regular hotels over the DVC. There is something different about them and I had not stayed at any of them until last year. I have viside them all though. I was not impressed, from afar, with Saratoga Springs. I married into DVC and the only place available was Saratoga Springs. We requested and received the Grandstand section. It was nice and quiet over there and we had a nice view down the fairway of Lake Buena Vista golf course.
The resort is nicer when you are close up and wandering around than viewed from Downtown Disney. The interior decor of our Studio, while nice is not my style but it was very comfortable. We spent some time at the Grandstand pool and I loved it there. It has a very old fashioned feeling and there were a couple of water play spots that were fun. The walk to the central area for food was about 7 minutes and pleasant. We had a car so I can not really tell how Disney transportation is but we saw loads of buses around the resort. I liked it much better than I expected. Being a bit farther from the parks it felt more like a moderate in that respect but I always have a car so that was not an issue. I definatly does not feel like being in the Polynesian, Contemporary of GF or the Epcot resorts so be prepared for that but it was very nice.

 

[Pakey]

I have done 6 vacations at SSR. Although not my favorite WDW resort, it's very nice.

For 2 people to a room, I prefer a DVC villa over any of the hotel rooms. The sleeper sofa adds so much more space to the room. On the other hand, I'd never stay in a studio with more than 2 people because all of that lovely space is gone once you open the sofa. The rooms are tastefully furnished, nothing over the top themed.

The resort appears to be very spread out but in reality, it's not a bad walk from anywhere. I've stayed in all sections except Carousel and I've never thought it was a "hike" to get to a bus stop, the themed pool, the restaurant, etc. I have walked to DTD from every section also.

We always use the bus transportation and except for one long wait for a bus to Typhoon Lagoon once, all other times it's been fine. If you go when it's busy, the Springs bus stop (which is last on the loop) will be crowded. The other stops are fine.

The CS choices here are unusual and very limited but good. The TS is one of the better 1 TS credit restaurants at WDW IMO. The store could use some work both in layout and limited offerings.

The spa here is the nicest one on property and for me, the best reason to stay at this resort. I also enjoy the quiet pool in Congress Park for some quiet down time.

 

[LuvLuvLuv]

was wondering this too... just hopping in and subscribing

we're staying in a studio may 5 and 6 prior to our 7 night stay at Kidani in a 1-Bedroom there wasn't many options last minute when we added our days! i hope we like it!!

 

[Sammie]

We love SSR and our favorite area is Congress Park. Nice views, walking distance to Downtown Disney and a really good quiet pool with playground and hot tub.

 

[MadJae]

Thanks for all the input!

I am going to call and request Grandstand since we will be travelling with my in-laws and 2 young kids. I don't mind walking but when you have two little ones, the less travel time to and from your room is best.

Thanks again!

 

[daannzzz]

Here are photos of and from our room in the Grandstand and the pool area.