Split stay - help choosing resorts

[sleepymouse]

It is our first time visiting Disney World. We will have 8 nights total, and I plan to split them evenly between 2 resorts. We are going in August, and I currently have YC and WL booked. I am debating switching to Poly and AKL (hotel or DVC Kidani). I know I want one resort to be near MK but am not sure about the other. YC would be great for Epcot and HS but not sure how great the bus system is from there to other destinations. AKL is obviously good for AK, and I have heard that the AKL bus system is good. Also, just want to mention that we are vegan/vegetarian family, if that matters. Any thoughts/suggestions would be appreciated.

 

[craigkerstiens]

It really depends on your preference of what time you want to spend at what parks. We personally love the walk-ability from the Epcot area resorts (BW being our preference). The YC is probably a 15 minute walk to both HS and Epcot give or take a few minutes on each side, so it's obviously great for those. Beyond that their buses are okay, but shared among a few others. If you plan to spend a lot of time at AK then AKL may be good, but for us with a 1 week visit 1 day at AK is usually enough, where as Epcot and HS we hit at least twice if not more.

 

[Babsy]

I would keep the WL and YC. The WL is great for the MK and you will have 4 days in the MK area. The YC is good for both Epcot and DHS (boat or walk). The only other major theme park is AK and you will have to bus there from wherever you stay. For convenience you have picked great resorts in the two best areas to stay in WDW.

Another small factor, the WL and AKL are very similar, so I would be inclined to go to the YC for a change of vacation style, as well.

Finally, the YC is next to Epcot's World Showcase and in the midst of 5 luxury resorts. That will make it much easier to find yummy vegetarian/vegan dining options. Check out the Dolphin's "Fresh' for the continental buffet breakfast. They have oatmeal with trimmings and great smoothies for breakfast. Very yummy!

I found lots of vegetarian meals with just a little research before I went. Spice road table had a great Mediterranean Vegetable platter! Enjoy!

 

[sleepymouse]

Thanks! I think I will leave it as is. I haven't checked out the food offerings at the Dolphin or Swan yet, so thanks for that recommendation. I have already been through most Disney menus and recommendations on this board.

 

[southjerseymom]

We just booked split stay. 4 nights at Beach Club because we adore the location then 3 night POR because it is our favorite moderate.
WL was our very first Disney hotel and my son still calls it "my hotel." We love that one too! Poly is my fave but really want to wait until all the construction is done.

 

[sleepymouse]

We are DLR vets, and my husband loves the Grand Californian. WL is for him. Love the look/theme of the Poly, but the good price I found slipped through my fingers. Oh well.

 

[Julylady]

We always split stays between an Epcot hotel and a Magic Kingdom hotel during visits where we plan to spend a lot of time in the parks. You just can't beat the convenience. However, our favorite places for just relaxing and hanging out at the resort and pool is Animal Kingdom Lodge and the cabins at Fort Wilderness. We have a 10 night stay planned in July split between three resorts: Grand Floridian, Yacht Club, and Fort Wilderness.

 

[sleepymouse]

Thinking of tinkering with my plans still. I have 4 nights booked at YC followed by 4 nights at WL. Would it be too crazy to change resorts twice? Thinking 4 nights YC, 2 nights AKL and 2 nights WL. We would focus on park/parks close to each hotel that we are staying at. We would have to pack up an extra time but think the trade off of less time on buses would be worth it.