Wilderness Lodge lovers - help!!

[julia & nicks mom]

I am a DVC member and WL is my home resort

we have never stayed there - truthfully - because it just doesn't appeal to me

I have read all the books, threads, watched the tv shows and I just can't get excited about staying there - I am trying to have an open mind but I saw a picture of Boardwalk today and got so sad - that is where we usually stay and I just LOVE it -

I was excited about being close to the MK but then I read a thread where someone said the boat is worse than the bus and you are better off hopping on a bus to get to the MK!

so here is your chance - tell me what you LOVE about WL and help me get excited about staying there!!!

 

[disneyobessed]

we found the boat much better than the bus. we loved it and i swear i think i have adult adh b/c where i cant sit still for long periods! it probablly depends what time of the year you go but we never had to wait more than 10 minutes for a boat. I absolutley loved this resort. I live in MA. where i see pine trees all the time so i wasnt sure how id feel about this place. its so awsome and I feel it has the most creative landscaping/architecture between the stream and the gyser and the lobby. its so peaceful. I cant wait to go back. you will love it. words and pictures just dont give this place any justification!

 

[crazyforpooh]

Funny you should say you can't get excited I am trying to plan a trip and I'm upset cause we won't be able to afford staying at the WL this time. I think it is the most incredible resort from the 80ft high fireplace to the great decor everywhere.

If you do stay see if you can be the Flagg Family one morning this will definately change your mind about this resort.

I love the WL and so does my family.

 

[julia & nicks mom]

Thank you!!

That's what I want to know all the little ins and outs that I will love!!

I am sure when I get home I will feel differently - I just need help getting excited!!

 

[MomOf2DisneyKids]

ok, I am probably THE least outdoor-sy, camping, wilderness type person....and I L O V E the WL! When you walk in the lobby, it will probably take your breath away. I think you will be more than pleasantly surprised!!!!!
(ps--the bus to MK was fine last month!)

HAVE FUN!

 

[kdtwiss]

Just wait till you walk in the door! The place is absolutely breathtaking! If I could choose any resort for looks - that would be it! Add the monorail and it would be the best!

 

[SeaSpray]

ok, I am probably THE least outdoor-sy, camping, wilderness type person....and I L O V E the WL! When you walk in the lobby, it will probably take your breath away. I think you will be more than pleasantly surprised!!!!!
(ps--the bus to MK was fine last month!)

HAVE FUN!

Ditto! We stayed at the Wilderness Lodge for half of our trip last month mainly because DH always wanted to try it. Well, we BOTH fell in love with the resort! We loved the feeling in the lobby. Late at night before bed, we'd go and sit down there to relax, unwind, and enjoy the ambiance of the lobby The sound of that bubble brook...ahh..wish we were there now.

And we loved the bus to the MK

Go to my web site and see my pictures of the Wilderness Lodge The pictures don't do the resort justice though. Enjoy!

 

[SomePixiedust]

We too love the WL. We took Ranger Stan's tour of the lodge and found it very interesting. We had no problems with the boat to the MK, we never waited more than 5 minutes and it was a pleasant ride right to the front of the gates. And yes, as others have said, the lobby takes your breath away. Give it a try!

 

[MAGICinMYHEART]

julia & nicks mom

I am so sorry you feel this way, I also own at The Villas @ Wilderness Lodge. The Villas and the Lodge are my favorite Resorts. If you have never stayed at either the Lodge or the Villas the following information is from my post over on the Wilderness Lodge FAQ Thread it has all the little ins and outs, enjoy getting to know the Lodge. If you have any questions please just post it on the FAQ Thread and someone will be able to assist you.

I know its alot but it will help
Beckie

WELCOME HOME

Disney's Wilderness Lodge and Villas Resort

The Wilderness Lodge and Villas are nestled in a dense forest of pines on Bay Lake, accessible by waterway from the Magic Kingdom. The Lodge and Villas were inspired by the U.S. National Park lodges built in the 1900s.
Wilderness Lodge and the Villas offer varying accommodations, ranging from 350-1072 sq. feet. The Lodge houses 728 guest rooms and suites, with some encircling the cavernous lobby but most in the two wings. The cozy Lodge rooms are outfitted with pine furniture and quilted bedspreads. Most Lodge rooms have two queen beds, but some offer a bunk bed in place of the second bed. The Villas feature 136 studios, one-and two-bedroom suites, each with a kitchenette or full kitchen, VCR, and washer and dryer.

Questions Asked at Wilderness Lodge:
What are the advantages to staying at the WL?
Located in the Magic Kingdom Resort area, the WL is a themed resort unto itself. Many folks feel they could stay at the Lodge their entire trip and still have had relaxing vacation with their money well spent.
Is there a Wall Safe located in the rooms?
The rooms do have a small safe in the closet to store valuables. It's big enough for your plane tickets, cash/travelers checks and maybe some jewelry, but not much more. For storing larger valuables inquire at the front
What time does the geyser erupt?
The geyser erupts every hour on the hour from 7:00a.m. until 10:00p.m.
Are there towels available at the pool?
Towels are available at the pool by the pool bar. They are also located by Hidden Springs Pool at the Villas
What time is the Electrical Water Pageant?
The Electrical Water Pageant is nightly at 9:35p.m. on Bay Lake. (Note: May be canceled due to inclement weather.)
What about shopping?
The large Wilderness Lodge Mercantile in the Lodge carries Disney themed clothing, sundries, camera supplies, postage stamps, beer & wine, foodstuffs, newspapers, and souvenirs.
Are tours of Disney's Wilderness Lodge available?
A unique tour, called the "Wonders of the Lodge," is offered to guest on various days beginning at 9:00a.m. This guided tour provides an informative look at the history of Disney's Wilderness Lodge, including its distinctive construction, theming and artwork. Please call the Front Desk for the schedule of the tour days and availability. (Guest should meet in the Lobby of Wilderness Lodge.)
Where can I find a Map of Wilderness Lodge?
Wilderness Lodge area Map

What activities are available at WL for children?
On select days Wilderness lodge has programs for children: Duck Races on Upper Silver Creek, Pool Games, Fireside Storytelling, (Meet in your pajamas at the Mercantile Fireplace) Beach Games, Penny Toss & Duck Rings.
(Daily 3-4 p.m. @ pool)
Daily Activities: Open Crafts and Games in Cub's Den (free)
Children must be accompanied by an adult.
*For good rainy day activities, ask for a Kid's activity/coloring book at the bell station or a list of Hidden Mickeys at Guest services. You can also get a list of the resort's music at the Mercantile shop.
Explore the resort:
Indian artifacts, historic paintings, and survey maps are displayed. Follow Silver Creek from it's indoor origin as a Hot Spring and onward outside as a bubbling brook and waterfall, eventually making it's way to Bay Lake.
Flag family:
Ask about becoming a Flag family. Each morning a family is selected to go on the Lodge roof to help raise the flag! This is popular, so inquire at check-in for a better chance.

Cub's Den:
Children's Entertainment Center
4:30p.m.-Midnight
Ages 4-12
$10.00 per hour
(Meal included)
Call WDW-DINE for reservations.

TRANSPORTATION
You can take a direct boat to the Magic Kingdom. Boats also ferry you to Ft Wilderness and the Contemporary. Buses take you directly to EPCOT, Disney-MGM Studios, Disney's Animal Kingdom, Downtown Disney, and the water parks.* To reach other resorts, go to the Magic Kingdom (daytime) or Downtown Disney (evening), and then transfer to a resort bus. Fort Wilderness and Wilderness Lodge share many of their bus routes, so travel to and from Fort Wilderness is quite convenient.*

News Flash...Please Read
This information was post by Tyler our Man in the purple pants (Cast Member that works for Disney Transportation)
Originally posted by Chip 'n Dale Express
Disney Transport will be testing out a new route for the Wilderness Lodge and Fort Wilderness. There will be DIRECT BUS SERVICE from Wilderness Lodge to the Magic Kingdom.
The Fort Wilderness "Orange" bus that would previously head to Wilderness Lodge and onto the Transportation & Ticket Center will now only head to the Wilderness Lodge. After the Magic Kingdom clears for the night, the original route that use to go to TTC will resume.
BOAT SERVICE WILL NOT CHANGE.

RECREATION
Pools:
All pools are outdoor and heated
One Main feature pool with a slide (Silver Creek Springs Pool)
Silver Creek Pool Hours Lifeguard/Slide
9:00a.m.-10:00p.m.
(you may swim earlier or until 12:00am No Lifeguard on duty and slide is closed if there is no lifeguard)
One quiet pool located at Villas, Hidden Springs Pool (No lifeguard on duty)
Kiddie pool
Three Jacuzzis (Two next to Silver Creek Springs Pool one at Villas next to Hidden Springs Pool)
For your safety and enjoyment, diaper-age children are required to wear swim piapers or rubber pants when using and pool at the WALT DISNEY WORLD Resort. Swim diapers are available at the Mercantile for your conveience.
Health Club:
Sturdy Branches Health Club:
Full range of cardio and strength equipment, free weights
Massage Treatments offered. In room massage by appointment.
Sauna room:
Personal Training by appointment
Located in The Villas at Wilderness Lodge (next door)
Bay Lake Beach:
For sunbathing
Arcade:
Buttons and Bells Games Arcade available for the kids
Playground:
Playground available
Watercraft Rentals: (See below for rates)
Water mice, sailboats, pontoon boats, canopy boats and water-skiing
**Bike Rentals:
Bikes are available to rent (See below for rates)
Fishing:
Hook a fun-filled fishing trip for the entire family. Bass Fishing Excursions and Children's Fishing Excursions for bluegill (ages 6-12 years) are available on Bay Lake and Seven seas Lagoon. Trips are two hours long and depart from Wilderness Lodge Marina. Fishing guide and equipment provided for up to 5 guest per boat. (Catch-and-release basis only) (See below for rates)
Jogging:
Jogging path extends about a mile to Ft. Wilderness.
WL & Ft. Wilderness Campground Trails
Kids Activities:
Game room, kiddie pool, and Cub's Den themed baby-sitting service for kids ages 4-12.

***Teton Boat & Bike Rental***
Explore the Seven Seas lagoon, Bay Lake and the Wilderness Trails.
Bike Rental 9:00a.m.-5:00p.m. (Bikes must be turned in by 5PM)
Boat Rental 10:00a.m.-5:00p.m. (Last boat rental at 4:45PM)
Bay Lake and Seven Seas Lagoon close at 5:00PM

Speciality Cruises:
Celebrate special occasions such as birthdays, anniversaries, or group outings by watching the Magic Kingdoms Firework.
Price starts @ $150.00
Maximum 12 people per boat;
Food and drink available upon request (additional charge)
Call WDW-PLAY (407-939-7529) for reservations

Motorized Boats:
Sea Raycer $24.00 per 1/2 hour, $38.00 per hour
2 passenger (320 lb. max)
*Driver must be 12 years of age and be 5 ft. tall: also must be accompanied by an adult with a valid driver's license.
**Single drivers of the boats must be over 16 years old and have a valid Drivers Licensed No age restrictions for passengers.

Montauk: $33.00 per 1/2 hour
6 passengers
*Diver must be 18 years of age

Pontoon Boat: $42.00 per 1/2 hour
10 passengers
*Diver must be 18 years of age

Bicycles
Mongoose bikes of various sizes
$4.02 1/2 hour or $8.00 a hour, $22.10 a day.
Surrey Bikes
$18.00 1/2 hour-2 Seater
$22.00 1/2 hour-4 Seater
*Helmets must be worn by those 16 years old or younger

Attention: the family plans are back:
**Recreation Family Plans:
Plan includes the Water Mouse, Pontoon Boats, Canopy Boats, Sailboats and Bicycles, (Cruises and Surry Biles NOT included)
Captain Plan: 4 hours of rental per Group $138.45
Family Plan: Length of Stay Plan (10 Day Rate for Unlimited use of Equipment Listed Above) $265.19 (Up to 5 Guests per Plan)

Fishing Excursion
7am & 10am 2 hours
$225.00
1:30pm Excursion Daily 2hr
$200.00 ($395.00 4hr)
*Call WDW-PLAY (407-939-7529)

RESTAURANTS:
Artist Point:
Dinner Menu
Children's Dinner Menu
Whispering Canyon Cafe:
Breakfast Menu
Lunch Menu
Dinner Menu
Children's Breakfast Menu
Children's Lunch Menu
Children's Dinner Menu
Roaring Fork Snacks:
Menu
Territory Lounge:
Menu
Miss Jenny's In Room Dining:
Menu
Trout Pass Pool Bar

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WILDERNESS LODGE-ROOM RATES & GUEST ROOMS

Disney's Wilderness Lodge is a majestic reflection of the famous National Park lodges of America's Great Northwest. This Deluxe Resort features a spectacular pool area with water slide, white-sand beach, and a complete array of dining and recreational options.
Check In/Out: 3:00 PM / 11:00 AM
For room rates visit: Disney on line
About 37 Lodge rooms with King beds double as the barrier-free (handicap-accessible) rooms and have a large shower with no tub.
* Note there are more then 37 rooms with King size beds, So yes there are regular King size bed rooms with full baths.
Smoking rooms are 6th floor, Building "B", North Wing. This would be Woodsview and inner Courtyard.[/b]

STANDARD-TWO QUEEN BEDS (sleeps 4) Guest Room amenities include in-room wall safe, voice mail, and hair dryer, iron and ironing board. Coffeemaker and refrigerator are available upon request

DELUXE-TWO QUEEN BEDS & ONE SOFA BED (sleeps 6) The Deluxe Guest Room has a sitting area separated from the bedroom by french doors, additional television, refrigerator with ice machine, coffeemaker, and wet bar. All Deluxe Guest Rooms feature woodland views.
Guest suites (not shown) are also available

I found the following information posted by a Wilderness Lodge expert (trust me this poster knows The Wilderness Lodge and the Villas) adding it to our information as it's very informative.

orignally posted by HumphreytheBearThere are actually 25 "Deluxe Rooms" (Junior Suites) They are 1000, 1003, 1166, 1169, 2000, 2003, 2123, 2166, 2169, 3000, 3003, 3123, 3166, 3169, 4000, 4003, 4123, 4166, 4169, 5000, 5003, 5123, 5166, 5169 and 6123.

All of these rooms do offer a connecting option that would be a room with 2 queen beds or a room with one king bed that is either woods or courtyard view. Rooms X000 are the rooms in the North wing that are at the very end of the hall on the left corner, Contemporary side they are Lake/tree view, X003 are the 2 doors down on the right corner with a pool/lake/tree view rooms X123 are halfway down the south wing in the left corner overlooking the pool/lake/geyser. Room X166 is the room at the far end of the south wing on the left corner with a lake view and rooms X169 are 2 doors down on the right corner also with a lake view. Rooms 2123, 3123, 1166, 1169, 2166, and 2169 have "doormer balconies, due to the design of the building these rooms have brick on the balcony railing so you can not see out unless you are standing up (if you sit you see brick), just FYI.

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VILLAS at WILDERNESS LODGE-STUDIO & VILLA RATES-GUEST VILLAS & STUIDO
For a room lay-outs for the Villas click on link below.
Villas @ Wilderness Lodge

Enjoy spacious studios and one- and two-bedroom villas amidst the grandeur of the Rocky Mountains during the nostalgic railroad era of the 1800s. This Home Away From Home Resort, part of the Disney Vacation Club family of resorts, features a pool with a slide, health club, and a complete array of dining and recreational options.
Check In/Out: 4:00 PM / 11:00 AM
For room rates visit: Disney on line
Studios and One-Bedroom Villas have a maximum four-person occupancy per room, plus one child under the age of 3. Two-Bedroom Villas have a maximum eight-person occupancy per room, plus one child under the age of 3.

~~~~STUDIO ~~~~~ONE-BEDROOM VILLA~~~TWO-BEDROOM VILLA~~~~~
Amenities may vary, but most accommodations include the following:
Studios Rooms
Wet bar, mini-refrigerator, microwave oven, coffee maker, linens, and a start-up supply of bath soap, towels, shampoo, and coffee. Also included are tissues, paper towels, paper plates, plastic silverware, and dishwashing detergent.
One & Two-Bedroom Vacation Homes
Linens, towels, washer and dryer, master suite with a whirlpool tub, a full kitchen with major appliances, dishware, dishwashing supplies, and a start-up supply of bath soap, shampoo, laundry detergent, and coffee

Waterfalls @ WL.

View of Silver Creek Springs Pool & Bay Lake @ WL.

Silver Creek @ WL

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While staying at Wilderness Lodge many guest enjoy
Ft. Wilderness Resort and Campground
following are fun activities,and resturants, located just a quick boat ride from the Wilderness Lodge.
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Recreation:
Children's Playground:
Climb, slide and play to your heart's content at outdoor activity areas located at Pioneer Hall, the Meadow Recreation area.
Fishing:
Hook a fun-filled fishing trip for the entire family. (Catch and release only.)$165-$195
Horse-Drawn Excursions:
Take a relaxing, old-fashioned wagon or carriage ride through the Resort & Campground.
Horse Drawn Carriage Ride
Leaves from Crockett's Tavern
6:00-10:00p.m. $30.00
Horse Drawn Wagon Ride
Leaves from Pioneer hall @ Ft Wilderness.
7:00 & 9:30p.m. "Hayride"($8/adult and $4/children)
Horseback Riding:
Take a guided trail ride through the woods at the Resort & Campground. $32.00 at the livery (must be 9+yrs.,48"+)
Pony Rides:
Take a leisurely pony ride with an accompanying adult at the lead. (Ages 2 and older.) $3.00
Chip'n Dale's Campfire Sing-a-long:
Gather 'round the campfire with your nutty pals for songs and fun, then watch a classic Disney movie under the stars. 8:00p.m. *Note:Campfire starts at 7:00 PM during the Winter months.
Petting Farm:
Interact with lovable critters at the petting farm located between Pioneer Hall and the Tri-Circle D Ranch.(free)
Tennis:
Hit the hard courts for a set or two. (Bring your own equipment - rentals are not available.)

RESTAURANTS
Trail's End Buffet
Beamed ceiling and split rails give this Pioneer Hall buffet its frontier flavor.
Location: Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground
Specialties: All-you-care-to-eat home-style buffet
Breakfast: Breakfast meats, omelets, Mickey waffles, French toast
Lunch: Fried chicken, pizza, sandwiches, soup and salad
Dinner: Fried chicken, BBQ ribs, peel and eat shrimp and chefs specialities
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Service Type: Buffet
Menu
Hoop-Dee-Doo
Musical Revue @ Pioneer Hall:
The Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue is a hilarious vaudville-style entertainment plus all-you-can-eat vittles. Enjoy a special evening at Pioneer Hall. Casual dress. Price includes tax and gratuity.
Location: Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground
Specialties: All-You-Care-To-Eat fried chicken, smoked BBQ pork ribs, corn, baked beans, tossed green salad, fresh baked bread and strawberry shortcake. Unlimited draft beer, wine, sangria and soft drinks.
Meals: Dinner
Service Type: Dinner Show
Special Requirementsriority Seating Required.
Priority Seating:
Please call (407) WDW-DINE (939-3463)†
Menu
Mickey's Backyard BBQ
Come join a knee-slappin' good ol' time. You'll be thrown back to Huck Finn and Tom Sawyer's old stompin' grounds when you enter the outdoor pavilion just a stone's throw away from Pioneer Hall. This is an outdoor (under cover in a pavilion) picnic event, with Disney Characters, live Country Western music and an all you can eat BBQ Buffet. Open seasonally, on selected days. Price includes tax and gratuit
Location: Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground
Character Meals: Mickey and Friends
Specialties:
All-You-Care-To-Eat Buffet featuring BBQ pork ribs, baked chicken, hot dogs with all the fixin's, corn-on-the-cob, baked beans, macaroni and cheese, potato salad, corn bread, watermelon, marble cake. Unlimited draft beer, wine, lemonade and iced tea.
Meals: Dinner
Service Type: Dinner Show and Character Dining
Special Requirements: Priority Seating Required.
Priority Seating:
Please call (407) WDW-DINE (939-3463)†
Menu
Crockett's Tavern Lounge
Blaze a trail to this refreshing outpost of flavor featuring pizza, appetizers, smoothies and full service bar. They pioneered great taste.
Chuck Wagon
(loacted near the campfire area)Open during the Campfire Program, serving hot dogs, pizza, popcorn, and marshmallows for roasting.
Location: Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground
Menu

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Y'all come on back and see us real soon!

"While at the Lodge, Pat Humphrey Bear’s nose so the magic can begin."

 

[caroline]

I totally agree with all of you!!!!!It is the happiest most exciting place in the UNIVERSE!!! We wanted to be Flag Family but we were to late. I would suggest that you ask when you arrive!!!
The boat is much better than the bus!!!

Have a nice time !!!

 

[tubachick]

DH and I just can't get enough of the WL!!!! We LOVE THE BOAT, it is nice and relaxing, only 2 times did we ever have to wait a LONG time, usually 5-7 minutes and the views of the CR and discovery island are great too!! We love the fact that if it is rainy or REALLY HOT almost everything is undercover and/or inside. The game room is awesome for the kids (and my DH) and just sitting in the lobby is a must!!! We hope you do give it a try, and let us know what you think.

 

[Luigi's Girl]

ok, I am probably THE least outdoor-sy, camping, wilderness type person....and I L O V E the WL.

NO, I AM absolutely THE least outdoor-sy, camping, wilderness type person who happens to own DVC and bought VWL points sight unseen! On our first trip HOME when my DD and I walked in the lobby ahead of DH and DS, we turned around and ran back out flabberghasted to walk back in with the boys! We ere absolutely floored at the beautiful sight. Then upon entering our room (1 bedroom) we hadn't even left the foyer and we just looked at each other and knew we had done something right.
We never had any problems with the boat service to MK or the smaller boat to the CR. We actually found them very relaxing and a nice part of the vacation experience. Make sure you have your camera you'll get some nice shots especially at night.
The entire atmosphere of the resort is so very refreshing after spending time in the parks. To me it's wildernesslike but with all the comforts of a very beautiful home.
We are actually staying at the BCV in November to be close to Epcot for the F&W Festival and my DH and kids are actually upset that we won't be at the VWL! So look at me worried that my family won't be happy at the beautiful BCV. So as you can see we LOVE the WL and I think you should go there with no worries and you'll be pleasantly surprised!

 

[julia & nicks mom]

You all are doing a great job!!!

I can't change my reservation - I am definately staying there - I just am not excited - you guys have inspired me to be excited and calmed my fears about the boat

and just so you know

I am the least outdorrsy type person in the world!!

 

[Troy08]

I am the least outdoorsy person you will ever meet. Camping? No WAY!!!!Yet I absalutely adore the Wl. It transports me to to another place in time. I feel like I could tag along with Lewis and Clark! Go hunting with Teddy Roosevelt or ride the great outdoors with the Magnificent Seven!

The entire resort is breathtaking. There is so much to see and do there. Get into the spirit, you'll love it.

 

[StrwLady]

I am the least outdorrsy type person in the world!!

I would like to challange you for that crown!

I think the pictures of the WL just doesn't do it justice. It never really appealed to me but I decided to give it a try in March of 2005. I loved it. The grounds are so relaxing. The staff there was great. I had such an enjoyable time I even called down to the front desk and asked for the manager. I told him how much I loved the resort and that we would be back.

I didn't find the boat to the MK to be a problem. It was always there promptly. I was only able to ride the ferry type boat because of using an ecv but if you are not using something like that you will have the option of one other boat. Which well make your wait time even shorter. The boat goes straight to the MK (with the exception of certain hours (can't remember what time period) where it goes to the FT Wilderness then to the MK. But even during those hours its a quick ride. At the end of the night I found the ride back to be very peaceful.

I loved how big the lobby was. Even when there was a lot of people in it I never felt crowded. The counter service Roaring Fork Snacks is set up nicely for crowd flow. The food is good too especially one of the nightly specials I had. The open face turkey sandwich. Oh my it was soooo good! The gift shop is a good size too. With a nice supply of resort specific items.

I'm sure you will enjoy your stay!

Take Care
Jamie

 

[DznyLvr2005]

WILDERNESS LODGE IS MY FAVORITE RESORT!! 10 Times better than Poly and cheaper! We stayed at the poly one year and it was so old looking and 80's we moved to WL and LOVED IT!!!

 

[Pig Pen]

I didn't read all the replies, so forgive me if I repeat anything said here...but these are all the reasons I love WL. I am also a DVC member, but love WL so much, we have stayed in the regular rooms when we were low on points!

1. ATMOSPHERE - being from the Vermont mountains, I was afraid the WL would remind me too much of home, but it didn't. I felt like I was out west. The lobby is wonderful. DH and I would sit for hours in rockers with our hot chocolate (even in 90 degree weather) and soak up the sights, people-watch, and listen to the fabulous music. There is something to capture your attention at every turn.

2. ACTIVITIES - There are tons of activities at the lodge - you don't have to go to the parks at all! We have rented watermice, bikes, walked the trails over to FW, bird-watched, sunbathed on the sandy beach. Take the lodge tour...you will hear how they built the lodge and some neat history.

3. VIEWS - We have had a view of the bay, a woods view, and a room overlooking the lobby. All had their charms. We could see the castle through the trees once... and could watch WISHES from our balcony. We loved the room overlooking the lobby. There happened to be two rockers right outside our door and we commandeered them every night.

4. RELAXING - I think the WL is the most relaxing of all the resorts we have stayed at. We have given up touring the parks commando-style, so we find the boat ride and general atmosphere very relaxing.

Well, that's why I love WL. But I have enjoyed every resort I have stayed at...although I favor some over others. To each his own I guess.

 

[Karalynn]

You are all exciting me!!!!! We are going in January and staying in a studio villa for the first time. I was a bit disappointed when I discovered that the villas are in a different area and also the rooms look a little different,(we are renting pts) but I've since come around and am sure we will love it! I CAN'T WAIT!!!

 

[henrylovespooh]

I agree with the others who said that once you walk into the lobby, you will be blown away. I loved it there. It's so relaxing. And the food at Whispering Canyon is great too. There is a nice beach area and you should definitely walk or take the boat to the campground if you have kids that would like the petting zoo, pony rides and the restaurant there, which is cheap and very good.

I know you're thinking that you're going to Florida and that a Yellowstone-like lodge will feel strange, but it is wonderful.

We also never had a problem with the boat to MK - it was such a nice treat to have a boat ride, and if you leave the park right before the fireworks, you can see them on your ride back.

We were upgraded to a Woods View room on the 5th floor, and we watched the fireworks at MK every night they had them. We had a 2 year old and a 10 month old and they couldn't stay up to see them in the parks. Try to ask for an upgrade when you check in - we didn't pay any more for it.

I also really liked having the snack bar right at the bottom of the elevator and near where we entered the hotel from the boat. It was so easy to get there and refill our mugs and get a late night snack or early breakfast.

The pool is nice and there's a bar alongside that is great.

 

[cdrn1]

The Lodge is sooo beautiful. The lobby is breathtaking. The fireplace and the sound of the water...so relaxing. And sooooo much to do there! The boat to the MK is like riding a ride before you even get to MK. We never had to wait more than ten minutes (May). We rode the surrey bikes to FW. We walked the trail. We pontooned on the lake. We played on the beach. We watched Wishes and the Electrical Water Pageant every night. We were always excited to be leaving the parks to go back to our awesome hotel! I have stayed in five WDW hotels now and so far it's my favorite. You will love it. (And I didn't think that I would like it that well either..only chose it because we figured it would be easier than AKL with a baby).