**Which Do You Prefer: AKL or Wilderness Lodge?

[DisneyaHolic23]

We get a castmember discount, and so are going to Disney World for 18 days in July!! So far we have booked our first three nights in the Beach Club, concierge. Then, I think we will do 11 nights in a moderate resort. So, I would like to end our trip (probably the last we will get to do for a couple of years!) in a special place - maybe concierge. We are choosing between Animal Kingdom Lodge and Wilderness Lodge. Remember that we will have been there for 14 nights by the time we get to this final portion of our trip, so nearness to parks is not a huge consideration. We will probably try to really enjoy whichever resort we choose. Can anyone share some wisdom on our decision???? Thanks, in advance!!

 

[MKingdom]

We stayed at the WL for the first time in September. We had a fabulous time and would savor extra time there! We were even the flag family.

FYI, there are a lot of romantic spots hidden around the lodge. We didn't really have time to enjoy them because we spent very little time sitting around...most of our time was spent at the parks. Be sure to check out the fireplace on the second floor, over the main entrance to the lodge. It has a sofa and is a great quiet spot to enjoy a hot chocolate at the end of the day.

 

[CM Tinkerbell]

That is a tough decision. They are both wonderful resorts and perfect if you plan on spending a lot of time at the resort. Our family loves them both. I'm afraid I don't think I'll be much help to you. I would say, put the names in a hat and stay at which ever you pick out. LOL The only plus for the Wilderness Lodge is the marina and the walk to Fort Wilderness where there there are also some fun things to do. But Animal Kingdom lodge has lots to offer as well. I'm sure will enjoy which ever one you decide to stay at.

 

[Nolcrest]

Although AKL is beautiful, personally I would choose WL. I just like being near the water. And as previous stated you could walk to Fort Wilderness. I would feel a bit secluded at the AKL.

 

[Swan]

I would choose the WL. I like being able to take a boat ride to other resorts.

 

[miko]

I have a hard time choosing between the WL and AKL. The WL has always been a favourite near Christmas, but we stayed at AKL early last Decmber (Walt's Birthday) and it was also wonderful. I would suggest 7 days at each. Both have a great theme, AKL may win out on "other" things to do!
Have a great time.

 

[JennSaint]

I think by the end of your trip you'll be ready for relaxation! So my vote goes to AKL! Very relaxing feel to this resort and there's so much to see right at the resort!

 

[DisneyaHolic23]

Does Wilderness Lodge have anything like the Sunrise Safari at Animal Kingdom Lodge? That sounds like it MIGHT be a reason to try AKL....

I crazily thought once I posted this strand that my decision would be clear. I am sooooo torn!! Wish I had enough money to go again, and then the decision would be much easier - I'd do one now, and one in a short while...

 

[SilverCrab]

DisneyaHolic23 ,do I have the answer for you ! We did a 5/5
split last June with WL & AKL. My biggest mistake was staying at
the WL first. Had I known how wonderful ,relaxing the AKL was,
I would have booked all 10 days at the AKL. We even stayed one day at the lodge and never went to the parks. Comparing the two, IMHO, the AKL is by far the best.


Ronnie from Va