Viewing resort decorations, strategies

[Dawnlight]

I'd like to be able to see some of the decorations that are up for the holidays and there are two evening where I see it may be possible.

1) Arrival Day 12/22: DTD, ADR for Raglan Rd at 6:45
Will there be enough time to resort hop after finishing dinner (estimating 8:30 or so)

What resorts are easy to get to from here with Disney transportation that are worthwhile seeing?

2) AK Day 12/25: ADR at Boma for 7:20
We intend to see the AKL decorations while here.

Which of these two options would be best for evening viewing of resorts?

Should I try to do a little each night instead of focusing on one?

We'll be staying at All-Star Movies, if that makes any difference.

Thanks for any tips!!

 

[wdwrich]

Either of the nights in question will have you touring resorts at about the same time in the evening, so the timing/day is a toss-up. Consensus around here indicates that WL and GF are very worthwhile, with BWI very good too. Whether you do them all in one evening or break them up will depend on transportation and how much running around you want to do after dinner.
In any case, have fun!

 

[DisneyKidds]

Use both nights.

The first night you will have a little bit longer so I'd suggest a holiday tour of the MK resorts. Must see's include the Wilderness Lodge and Grand Floridian, with a full loop around the resort monorail thrown in. Check the MK fireworks schedule so you can be sure to catch the show from one of the monorail resorts, preferably from the dock at the GF. If you can make the timing work I'd suggest the following. With Main Street Electrical Parade at 10:15 and 12:15 on 12/22 the fireworks will be around 11:00, so I think it will work. Get from DTD to WL. See the decorations at the WL. Grab a drink at the Territory Lounge. Make sure you head over to the Villas lobby, and find the hidden Mickey in the timbers (seating area to right of fireplace). Next take a small resort launch from the WL to the Contemporary. See the lobby there as you make your way to the monorail platform. Hop on the monorail, taking note of the tall tree outside to the Contemporary. Not sure if the Poly is worth stopping at, but feel free to jump off if you have time. Next stop on the loop is the GF. Hop off here and explore the decorations and see the gingerbread house. Make sure to make your way to the dock for the start of Wishes. Either before or after the fireworks (maybe even both) grab a drink at Mizner's Lounge. If you have kids with you let them walk around the resort while you relax with a drink. Look for the Teddy Bear lady known to frequent the GF lobby. From the GF you can hop the monorail to the MK, where you can catch a bus back to the All-Stars. It will be a great night.

As for your second opportunity, your 7:20 dinner won't be done till 9:00 or so. Head from the AKL to the Boardwalk area. Not sure of the best way to do that, or if there is direct bus service between the two. If there isn't, consider a cab. Tour the Epcot resorts including the Boardwalk, Yacht Club, and Beach Club. All three are must see, and it's a pleasant stroll around the lake. Illuminations will be around 10:00, so catch some of the fireworks from the bridge that leads from the BW to the Epcot entry area. The Belle Vue Lounge at the BW is a great place to grab a drink, or stop in ESPN for a drink if not too crowded and that's your thing. Ale and Compass (YC) and Martha's Vinyard (BC) Lounges are also nice. Another great night.

Have fun!