WL vs. Swan

[thinkerbell]

We are going to WDW in July. It will be me, DH, and DS(17). We can stay at the Swan for $129-teacher rate or at the WL for $149. Once they add on the $10 fee at the Swan, the rates aren't really far apart. We have never stayed at either of these. Which should we choose? Or, should we stay part of the time at one and part at the other. If we did that, we would have to stay at WL first because the rate(code) that we can get there ends on July 3 which is actually the day we will check in. Would we be disappointed with the Swan after staying at the WL first? We have a total of 9 nights. Thanks for your help.

 

[WDW2000]

I would definitely split the stay between those 2 resorts. I always split my stays if staying more than 5 nights. If you had to choose just one, however, my vote would go to the Wilderness Lodge. The themeing is the best, great pool, and the boat ride to Magic Kingdom is a lot of fun.

If you split your stay you would have an ideal location to Magic Kingdom for part of your stay with the WL, and an ideal location to Epcot & MGM with the Swan. Transferring hotels is a breeze with Disney and I think you would get the most of your trip.

 

[Blondie]

When we stayed at the WL, I really felt like I was staying with "Disney."

When I stayed at the Swan, I really felt like I was on "vacation!"

It's hard to describe, at the WL, you are totally removed from anything that resembles Florida. There are no palm trees at the resort, and it succeeds in transporting you to the pacific northwest, Yosemite or Yellowstone. Very warm and welcoming! The theming is amazing!

At the Swan, I get a tropical beachy feeling! With palm trees galore, and that gorgeous Grotto Pool, you can't help but feel like you are on a wonderful tropical vacation Disney style!

I agree, if you can....split your stay! I can never convince my DH to try the "split stay" thing....but maybe one of these days!



**edited for typos!**

 

[2belles'mom]

I have stayed at both of those resorts. I don't think you could go wrong with either. I don't think you would be disappointed with the Swan after WL, especially since you do not have small kids. You are so close to Epcot/MGM and the Boardwalk--there is MUCH more to do within walking distance at the Swan than at WL for an older crowd. I love WL and being close to MK, but I have a 6 yo and a 3yo. My husband and I stayed at the Dolphin--NO KIDS!--and it was perfect! Our room had a view of Spaceship Earth and the Illumination fireworks, and we walked everywhere we wanted to go.

 

[NHAnn]

I would split too! I have stayed at the WL and at S/D. The Lodge IS magnificent, but with a nine-day stay, you will really appreciate the location of the Swan (with walking or boating to Epcot AND MGM, the Boadwalk area right next door) for that part of your trip!
Enjoy the magic

 

[Disney Doll]

Definitely split. That way you get the best of both worlds. You get the relaxation/serenity of the WL early in your trip, when you are unwinding from your "real life" into your "Disney life". Then you get the location of the Swan for later on.

We jsut stayed at The Swan in January using the nurse/teacher/govt. employee rate. It is a great hotel, great location, the staff was very nice and friendly, good service, nice restaurants, the room was beautiful. We had a 3rd floor room with a view of the waterway to MGM. Make sure you ask for a Heavenly Bed. They are heavenly!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

 

[blanq]

I agree with the others...split your stay. I also have been to both of these resorts. They are both wonderful, but are very different in their feel. Both have much to offer and a split stay will allow you to take advantage of each resort.

 

[thinkerbell]

Thanks guys! You gave me such nice, well thought out answers. We will definitely split our stay. Ohhhhh!!! I can't wait. I just wish now that it was closer to time to go. We really appreciate your help.