Where to stay w/kids for convenience

[wdwkids]

We are going in Jan 2006 and have already changed our reservation from POR to CSR based on pics we saw on line. Pre-kids we spoiled ourselves with delux resorts staying at the GF and Swan. Now we can better afford the value resorts, but we are not sure we'd be happy (??) We will be bringing 3 kids (1,3,4) and our sitter. We will need 2 rooms. Where should we stay for convenient transportation to parks and dining? - Moderate is the most we could spend.

 

[RCBlackburn]

Did you look at the Wilderness Lodge? Its really quite economical given the close proximity of the Poly, GF and Contemporary - and the perks of being right across from MK are the best!!!!

Great pool, sandy beaches, the water pageant at night - its just a great hotel!!!

 

[deejohn]

Either is a good choice. We (DH,DW,DD9,DD6,DS5) last stayed at POR and were planning to go back, but wanted a change, so we are going to CSR in Dec. I'll put out a trip report when we get back. Here are some advantages from our POR trip:
1. Large Rooms - perfect for 5
2. Double sinks for morning
3. Nice resort - not too big/not too small
4. Dinning good with lots of varity
5. Main pool was lots of fun for the kids (we are hoping CSR pool will WOW them!!)

Good luck and have fun.

 

[TJA]

The most convenient way to get to parks with small children is the monorail. You can just push strolllers right on the monorail, no unloading or folding up like you do with the buses or cars. That being said, Contemporary is the least expensive monorail resort. However, it is a deluxe and you are saying you want moderate. What is the max. cost you can spend? If you go during value season, you can normally get a good rate at Contemporary wing rooms. Dining is spectacular right at the Contemporary, including Chef Mickey's character breakfast and dinner which is very fun for the little ones. You can also walk right to MK from Contemporary. It is about a 10-minute walk.

However, if Contemporary is more than you'd prefer to pay, I agree with the above poster regarding WL. During value season, the rates are very fair at WL. You can boat over to MK, which is a good transportation option with strollers and small children. The rate at WL will be lower than Contemporary, most likely. There are also nice eating options at WL.

 

[swilphil]

You might check to see if the Swan/Dolphin has a special during that time. They often offer discounts that are about the same price as the moderates. Check at allearsnet.com or dreamsunlimitedtravel.com.

 

[speakupjc]

WL or look at the cabins at Fort Wilderness. If you did a cabin you would only need 1 instead of 2 rooms.

 

[Barb D]

The moderates are really no more convenient than the values as far as getting to the parks. It's a bus ride in either case. You can get a boat from PO to Downtown Disney, though, which is handy and fun if you want to shop or eat there.

The pools are more fun at the moderates, with slides etc. And the moderates have full service restaurants and food courts, but the values only have food courts.

 

[FayeW]

If convenience is truly what you seek, an offsite condo and a rental car would better suit your needs. You can easily come and go as your little ones require, and everybody will have the space they need. If this is you first trip back with the whole family, trust me, their is no magic to be had with everybody crammed into one (or two) hotel rooms, and little ones needing naps.