Wilderness Lodge: Club Level Review with Photos

[chimo2u]

Thank you and what a nice memory! It was our first Deluxe Resort. I remember DH saw an ad in Architectural Digest back when it first opened and he showed it to me and said that was where he dreamed of staying. He still loves it.

That's how I chose AKL for our first trip! I remember seeing a ad for AKL with giraffes coming up to your window ( or so it seemed in the add!) then. I remember one of those travel show plugs showing AKL and I though it seemed so magical to have your own savahnna out your balcony! When we stayed, it didn't disappoint AKL CL is still our "home" our whole family adores it there! I am venturing out the last two trips because I don't know how many times I'll have to try something new.....WDW is extremely expensive for me....averaging at least 7k min per trip and up to 10K if all four of us go with airfare from Edmonton, AB Canada. ..... I want to experience as many new experiences as I can! The POLY has always looked so charming and beautiful, so many people love it, and the club level looks amazing with a great location for the longhouse....it might be closest I ever get to Hawaii!! I truly hope I love it!!!

 

[twinkles]

Thank you WDWKOOK for the phone number I will call tomorrow and see if they can help me out with some surprises for my grandsons!

 

[mickeynut1]

You are not threadjacking AT ALL. In fact, I encourage posters to venture beyond my threads' titles. As long as it has to do with WDW - no problem with me. You know how I love talking about all WDW Resorts, so I hope that everyone, on any thread that bears my name, will feel comfortable enough to bring up other WDW Resorts and compare/contrast/complain/compliment!

BTW, do you have APs? Is there any chance you'll be able to apply a discount? hope you can get some sort of discount so you don't have to pay rack rate

Great points! I think you're so right that CM interaction (good, bad or non-existant) can make a big difference in your CL or non-CL experience.

I remember DH saw an ad in Architectural Digest back when it first opened and he showed it to me and said that was where he dreamed of staying. He still loves it.

Thanks....you are so sweet . I just didn't want to go off topic since this is about the WL .

We don't have APs, but we are getting them for our next trip. I already have it booked as a package and was planning on upgrading to APs once we get there. But, depending on whether or not any GP discounts come out, I may cancel the package and book it as room only so if a good AP rate comes out for our dates, it can easily be modified (pending availabiliy, of course ). I'm thinking I'll have to tweak our dates and arrive a little later than planned since discounts aren't usually offered between Christmas and New Years .

I agree about the interaction with CMs making a difference in your stay. We have been lucky as we've never encountered any CM that made us say we would never return to a resort, but I can see how that could effect a future stay.

I think it's neat how you came to stay at the WL for the first time. The BC was our first deluxe stay just because we ate at Cape May our first trip and decided next time we'd stay at the BC. While we had a great stay, we then stayed at the WL the next 2 trips......there's just something about the lodge that gets us .

 

[MartyM]

Thank you for the great report, WDWKOOK. Very much appreciate you taking the time to do this.

I'm now considering WL for at least a portion of my Oct 28 trip (7 nights, First 2 w/DM, Last 3 with DBF, BWICL). Coupled with your lackluster experience at BW, WL sounds so nice. WL was our first choice back in January when when I booked the BB, but prolific excellent reviews of the BW around that time period swayed me to try that resort. Since it's also our second F&W Trip, I thought that BW made sense.

Now I'm in a state of not knowing what to do. Time to investigate WL CL room types.....

 

[PamelaKay]

Thanks for the great review WDWKook. It makes me so anxious for my October trip.

Quick question - Do you have any suggestion for a thank you gift for the concierge staff?

Thanks,
Pam

 

[Spoisal]

I have stayed at WL 2 times, but it has been a long time.....and I have never stayed there in a CL room. We got spoiled on our last trip & stayed BC CL and it was so much fun!

Where on the 7th floor is the lounge?

Is it true that ALL of the CL rooms all have the closed in balconies? Or is it just certain secrions?

Is CL just 7th floor....plus some scattered deluxe rooms (is this the old "Junior Suite")? And one last question.....where are these deluxe rooms located??

Is there a WL CL FAQ page?

That should do it for now....I will take a break and reload with some new questions! LOL!

 

[WDWKOOK]

Thank you for the great report, WDWKOOK. Very much appreciate you taking the time to do this.

I'm now considering WL for at least a portion of my Oct 28 trip (7 nights, First 2 w/DM, Last 3 with DBF, BWICL). Coupled with your lackluster experience at BW, WL sounds so nice. WL was our first choice back in January when when I booked the BB, but prolific excellent reviews of the BW around that time period swayed me to try that resort. Since it's also our second F&W Trip, I thought that BW made sense.

Now I'm in a state of not knowing what to do. Time to investigate WL CL room types.....

You're welcome, Marty. It's so convenient being in an Epcot resort for F&W or F&G. I will say that I've been pleasantly surprised by the excellent bus service from WL to Epcot, and this is coming from a former anti-bus, pro-monorail person. The monorail is becoming less and less reliable and convenient and the bus to Epcot from WL has be frequent and reliable. But, you just can't beat walking, so I understand your dilemma. Maybe a split stay?

Thanks for the great review WDWKook. It makes me so anxious for my October trip.

Quick question - Do you have any suggestion for a thank you gift for the concierge staff?

Thanks,
Pam

You're welcome, Pamela. I believe the CM's gift limit is supposed to be under $75. This visit, I made an Easter basket with some individually wrapped chocolates and candy and small bottles of various hot sauces. I thought they could each take what they liked that way since they usually put the gifts back in the kitchen for all to share. I also did the same for BWI. Last summer I gave them large bags of individually wrapped Ghirardelli chocolates from DTD.

I, like you, am never sure what to give them. I know some guests bring items that represent the state they're from. I wouldn't worry too much about it though. I think the fact that you thought enough to provide a small "thank-you" will let them feel remembered and appreciated. It isn't a requirement that you give them gifts, but it is a nice gesture.

I have stayed at WL 2 times, but it has been a long time.....and I have never stayed there in a CL room. We got spoiled on our last trip & stayed BC CL and it was so much fun!

Where on the 7th floor is the lounge?

Is it true that ALL of the CL rooms all have the closed in balconies? Or is it just certain secrions?

Is CL just 7th floor....plus some scattered deluxe rooms (is this the old "Junior Suite")? And one last question.....where are these deluxe rooms located??

Is there a WL CL FAQ page?

That should do it for now....I will take a break and reload with some new questions! LOL!

Howdy! The entire 7th floor are club level rooms and the lounge is located to the left as you exit the main WL elevators. It is directly above the front desk check-in in the lobby.

Unfortunately, all 7th floor rooms, including the Yellowstone Suite's four balconies, are enclosed. Part of the 6th floor also have enclosed balconies. This was done to be architecturally pleasing to the eye when viewed from outside.

There are 25 Deluxe CL rooms (yes, formerly Jr. Suites) located on floors 1-6. On the first page of the WL thread that I link to below, I have a map showing where all of the Deluxe rooms are located.

The WL/VWL Information thread is here:

http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2778033

On the first page, I have lots of info. on the Old Faithful Club with many photos. I've also just finished an AllEars review of the Old Faithful Club (no photos), but they haven't posted it yet. When it's posted, I'll post the link to it here.

 

[Macavity]

Are you staying CL? Only the 7th floor of the South Wing might be done when you check-in. If it is, please post some photos for everyone to the WL thread!

Yes, I am staying CL on both trips, and I am *really* hoping a few of those rooms will be ready and being given to guests... 18 more days...

 

[Macavity]

(I'll drop your name )

Haha... I have been thinking Exactly the same thing!!!

 

[Spoisal]

WDWKOOK - Thanks so much for all of the great information! Howdy back at ya! Time to start planning - this is the best part!

 

[baler31]

We have not stayed CL at WL in years. Do they still lock the lounge between service or is it open ?

Back then even WL had the little tubs with ice, as did most of the lounges at one time. The fridges are so much better. We are pretty stuck on GF RPC for our stays but are taking a Christmas trip this year and considering WL. Thanks for all the info, I could not find the answer about the lounge although I am sure it is there.

 

[baler31]

Double post, sorry

 

[calismic]

TY WDWKOOK for the fantastic review. You have made my upcoming trip even more exciting! Do you know offhand if you were able to knock on the door to get drinks when the lounge was closed? I've heard mixed reports so I'm curious. My last CL stay was in Sugarloaf which is open 24/7. I got a bit spoiled with being able to grab something at 2am.

 

[pas130]

Haha... I have been thinking Exactly the same thing!!!

It's hard choosing since there are so many great choices. We love the Poly, but we also like trying different resorts......but with that said, we will be back at the Poly next summer after our cruise . I am looking forward to trying the CR. The theme/decor doesn't appeal to me at all, but I think it will be fun to try.....and who knows, I may end up loving it . I understand about RPC and the cost......but it really is an awesome place to stay and since you like SL, I think you'll love staying in the main building. I can't say enough good things about it. I think you will love WL too. It's hard to compare the GF to the WL since they are totally different, but I rank the Poly, GF, and WL right up there together. Out of all of the resorts we've tried, if I had to pick my 3 favorite, those would be my 3. All of them are unique in their own way and there are things I love about each of them .

The WL will be an excellent fit this trip. CL fo DH, MIL, kiddos to chill out....snacks, beer, wine, a relaxing atmosphere...and beautiful grounds for us to hang when we are not at the parks...we spend more time at the resort than the parks lately..and I really can't beat the price...as for RPC....we will be there soon

I know your home is at the GF/CL and you'll be there for your secret trip soon! CR pops into my head, too. I think about the great Tower room/BLV and dining and that walkway to the MK. But, then I remind myself that a Tower BLV NON-CL room is the same price as a WL/CL room and I dislike their claustrophobic gym, the outdoor jogging can't compare with FW, and if we're at WL, it's so easy to boat over to eat at the CR. There, I'm over it.

Yes my home is GF, but I am one of 8...HRH being the true RC princess, was swayed by your pics!!! I have to say I was too...I feel blessed to be able to stay in the MK area, AND CL, and not totally break the bank

 

[mickeynut1]

The WL will be an excellent fit this trip. CL fo DH, MIL, kiddos to chill out....snacks, beer, wine, a relaxing atmosphere...and beautiful grounds for us to hang when we are not at the parks...we spend more time at the resort than the parks lately..and I really can't beat the price...as for RPC....we will be there soon

Yes my home is GF, but I am one of 8...HRH being the true RC princess, was swayed by your pics!!! I have to say I was too...I feel blessed to be able to stay in the MK area, AND CL, and not totally break the bank

I'm glad you are looking forward to the WL....it really is an awesoime resort . WL CL was our first CL stay and we were blown away. The CMs were great and the atmosphere can't be beat . Also, congrats on your RPC stay......I've already mentioned to you how great that is as well .

I agree with you about staying WL CL and still being in the MK area without breaking the bank.....that's one of the (many) things I love about the WL.....not only is it a gorgeous resort, but the cost is very doable, with or without a discount .

 

[nolanboys]

Thanks for the great review and pictures. We will be staying there for the first time this November and can't wait. We like to run as well, so we may have to try your run over to FW out.

 

[WDWKOOK]

My WL-CL review was posted to AllEars yesterday:


http://land.allears.net/reviewpost/showproduct.php?product=36&cat=31

WDWKOOK - Thanks so much for all of the great information! Howdy back at ya! Time to start planning - this is the best part!

Yep, I think planning is half the fun, too.

We have not stayed CL at WL in years. Do they still lock the lounge between service or is it open ?

Back then even WL had the little tubs with ice, as did most of the lounges at one time. The fridges are so much better. We are pretty stuck on GF RPC for our stays but are taking a Christmas trip this year and considering WL. Thanks for all the info, I could not find the answer about the lounge although I am sure it is there.

Yes, the lounge doors are closed between service for one hour. However, if there is a beverage you need, a CM can get it for you - just ask.

I've heard wonderful reviews of RPC, but we've yet to try it and now the construction has me scared. But, I think WL is perfect for Christmas, especially with all the cozy fireplaces, plus, it's a good value, especially with those crazy holiday rates and lack of discounts after Christmas.

TY WDWKOOK for the fantastic review. You have made my upcoming trip even more exciting! Do you know offhand if you were able to knock on the door to get drinks when the lounge was closed? I've heard mixed reports so I'm curious. My last CL stay was in Sugarloaf which is open 24/7. I got a bit spoiled with being able to grab something at 2am.

You sure are a night owl!

It would be nice if beverages were available 24/7, but they do close the doors at WL.

Thanks for the great review and pictures. We will be staying there for the first time this November and can't wait. We like to run as well, so we may have to try your run over to FW out.

November will be perfect outdoor running weather at WDW. I hope you have a great vacation!

 

[66Tink]

Thank you so much for your detailed review We are so excited to be staying at WL for the first time in December and were lucky enough to get CL Can't wait....

 

[jacksgirl]

I read on another page in this thread that you didn't mind if someone asked a question kind of off-topic, WDWKOOK, so here goes. I am planning our first trip staying at a deluxe resort next year. We will be celebrating DH and my 20th anniversary, DS9's bday, DS16s graduation, and most importantly, completion of treatment and my CANCER-FREE status (I refuse to accept anything less than CANCER-FREE!), so we are pulling out all the stops - tours we always wanted to do, DDP, etc. The problem is I'm having a really hard time choosing between WL CL and AKL CL. I love the location and theming of WL and I really think we will like the food offerings there better. I also love the theming of AKL and think the Sunset Safari would be fun. Of course, we could stay at WL and do the Wild Africa Trek anyway and book a dinner at Jiko, and that might be just as good. Any thoughts and comparisons?

 

[WDWKOOK]

Thank you so much for your detailed review We are so excited to be staying at WL for the first time in December and were lucky enough to get CL Can't wait....

You're welcome. You're going to love WL CL and it's especially cozy at Christmas. On the WL thread that's hyperlinked in my signature, there are Christmas CL photos waiting for you!

I read on another page in this thread that you didn't mind if someone asked a question kind of off-topic, WDWKOOK, so here goes. I am planning our first trip staying at a deluxe resort next year. We will be celebrating DH and my 20th anniversary, DS9's bday, DS16s graduation, and most importantly, completion of treatment and my CANCER-FREE status (I refuse to accept anything less than CANCER-FREE!), so we are pulling out all the stops - tours we always wanted to do, DDP, etc. The problem is I'm having a really hard time choosing between WL CL and AKL CL. I love the location and theming of WL and I really think we will like the food offerings there better. I also love the theming of AKL and think the Sunset Safari would be fun. Of course, we could stay at WL and do the Wild Africa Trek anyway and book a dinner at Jiko, and that might be just as good. Any thoughts and comparisons?

What a wonderful celebration your vacation will be! First, congratulations to you on being deemed cancer-free - what wonderful news. Second, congratulations on almost 20 years of marriage! Finally, congratulations on booking your first Deluxe.

I will admit that I'm pretty much in a perpetual state of WDW resort confusion most of the time. WL CL is a no-brainer booking for us, but we usually have one longer trip each year when we do a split stay and that "other" resort booking always gets me flustered. I don't know how long your vacation is, but I would recommend a split stay with both AKL and WL! Is that doable for you time wise? If not, I would definitely choose WL/CL.

Our 25th anniversary is this summer and I've booked the Wild Africa Trek, too. I think that will be very memorable and it comes with the photo CD.

Feel free to stop by the WL thread anytime and keep us posted on what you end up doing and keep that positive attitude