Which resort for family of 5

[badger5]

Hi all,

We are planning a trip for March of 2005 and wonder which resort we should book for a family of 5. Not to worried about cost. We know it is over Spring break but that is the only time we can go. Some important factors for our decision:

1- the pool must be nice - we tend to do parks in am and night but sit by the pool in afternoon. Also, it is nice if Mom and Dad could imbibe in a frosty cocktail pool side.

2- ease of transportation

3- We like a good view - stayed at AKL 2 years ago and enjoyed the view of animals, but would like to try a different resort.

4- restaurants that are on property that are nice

We are looking at Swan, BC now but are not sure if other resorts accomodate 5 in a room. Your opinions are greatly appreciated.

 

[ILoveWDW2003]

How old are the kids?

 

[jl3614]

Given your selection criteria, I'd think one of the MK resorts (Poly, GF, CR) would be a good choice if your children are younger.

If they are older and would spend more time at EC and MGM, then the EPCOT resorts would be great.

Another thought, if your kids are old enough to want/need more privacy, two rooms at CSR may be a good choice. Two moderates may cost about the same as one deluxe room, and it would provide a second bath. You would give up a little transporation convenience, but the pool is very nice and the extra room would be useful.

You are very fortunate that money is not a concern - this gives you a lot of great options. Have a wonderful trip.

 

[KathyTX]

Most of the Deluxe Resorts will accommodate 5 in their standard rooms, with 2 queen beds plus a daybed:
Yacht Club
Beach Club
Boardwalk
Polynesian
Grand Floridian
Contemporary

At AKL, Wilderness Lodge or the Swan/Dolphin, the standard rooms accommodate 4. You'd have to get an upgraded room or suite (or two rooms) for 5 guests.

If the pool and ease of transportation are important considerations, I think you're right on the money with the Beach or Yacht Club! The Polynesian would also be right up there...

If the kids are younger, I'd lean toward the Poly and the Magic Kingdom. Teens and up, the Epcot area might have lots more variety to offer.

 

[Daisie]

I know you may be interested in in a deluxe, but on two occassions with my family of 5 we stayed at the Carribean Beach Resort and also at the All Star Movies. We found this worked better for us because we got two rooms instead of one. The bathroom time alone saved us. Two of my kids are older and one younger. You have to admit have 2 bathrooms with 5 people is a plus, also more room for "stuff" and 2 tv's!!. Just something else for you to consider!!

 

[soccer mom]

With your criteria I would vote for the Polynesian. It is very relaxing, transportation is great with boats, monorail, and buses to choose from. The rooms are HUGH...I think over 400 sq. ft. Also, love going for a walk (or looking out your window if you're lucky) and seeing the castle across the lake...nothing more magical than that!

The Epcot resorts are nice and the closeness to Epcot is great. We tend to eat most of our dinners at Epcot so its nice to be able to walk back to the resort. But in MHO the bus transportation stinks. BC, YC, BW and I think sometimes Dolphin and Swan all share buses so it is a long trip to get everyone to the parks and back.

Have a great time planning!