Which moderate w/ small kids?

[caroline1851]

so if the free dining is offered in 2008, but not for value, it's a tad bit cheaper to stay at a moderate hotel w/ free dining than a value hotel and pay for dining.
Dd will be just shy of 3 and ds will be 6. Which moderate hotel is the best for that age? (i've only stayed at Coronado). or........is it worth it to spend $400 more and stay at the Animal Lodge?

For cost it looks like:
Value : appx. $1960 (paying for dining)
Moderate: appx $1921 w/ free dining
Animal : $2393 w/ free dining.

Which would you choose??

 

[Gretchen]

We stayed at CBR when my DD was 3. We were in Aruba (If I remember correctly), one of the buildings across the bridge from the pool/dinning area. We could hear the fireworks from Illuminations every night and the dining area was a hike, you could ask for a closer room. Nice beach, play area etc. My pick would have to be WL, though. Loved that hotel with little kids. My DD was 6 and my DS was 8 mos. Boat to the MK was great. Could you switch from the AKL to WL? We're staying at POR this time, I'll let you know...Oh, I would take a stroller with you, it helps at the resorts and to/from the bus area in the parks.
G

 

[carmiedog]

for little ones I'd say POFQ no question. Small size = not much walking to bus/room/pool/food court. Pool slide is perfect for younger kids.

 

[Lucky'sMom]

I agree, I think POFQ is best for families with young children.

 

[Cindie-rella]

IMHO with such a small price difference for a deluxe I'd have to say AKL . It is one great resort. The kids will love the animals ! The pool is really great too. And the food...yummo ! I really thought by staying at AKL it was like getting 2 vacations in 1 ! When you get back from the parks you have the animals to look forward to, It's great to walk all around inside the resort and look for all different animals from all the different viewing areas. We love animals so naturally we would love a resort of this kind. Most kids I know love to see animals so I can't imagine your children wouldn't absolutely love this place too! I don't know any where else in America where a resort like this can be found but at Disney World. I say try it at least this once...but be very careful...it could be addicting !
We'll be heading back there in April with our grand-daughter for her 1st visit, and I truly can't wait ! Enjoy where ever you decide.

 

[alldiz]

I would choose POFQ....it's compact size and whimsical
theming is perfect for kids...

All rooms are close to everything...
Great pool for young kids.....small slide....fountains on side of pool...

1st on and off the bus

AKL will have construction for DVC.....not sure if you
should chance it..
kerri

 

[dvcnewgirl]

I agree, I think POFQ is best for families with young children.

Ditto!

 

[Buzz2001]

CSR!! Check out my CSR website below for pics and info. Best pool, slide and transportation of all the mods.

Here is a poll asking the same question as you.
http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1541206

 

[Andrea from PA]

Due to our family size we need to stay at POR, but POFQ is close enough to take advantage of the POR amenities:

Relaxing Boat Ride to DTD (no charge)

Cane Pole Fishing for a small fee at POR (catch & release 7 am - 3 pm)

Carriage Rides ($35)

Family Bike Rentals ($16)

HIGHLY ENCOURAGE YOU TO TAKE PO -- As you can see, there are many activites to keep kids busy, yet it is very relaxing change from the parks!

IMO with the exception of the Campground, this is the most relaxing & "sprwaling" hotel on WDW. Traveling with kids is exhausting. You will WANT this relaxing place!

 

[karylrocks]

Another vote for POFQ. While AKL is our favorite resort, the beauty of the decor might be lost on younger children. The theming at POFQ is very appealing for younger ones, it is small and easy to get around, cute little playground, and great pool slide for children.

 

[kate&sarahsdad]

One vote for CSR! My two DD's love the pool and slide. The playground by the pool is a major plus too.