Wondering about the Contemporary...

[Ihave3daughters]

Hey there.

Long time reader, first time poster. My family of 5 (as my user name would suggest) wants to go to WDW next year. (Ages 8-11-13). Our options for a resort are somewhat limited due to the number of people in the family. I see that CR has a standard room capacity of 5, and we would love to stay there- what's the lowdown on the construction there? Will they be finished by next summer?

What are some other good options for a family of 5?

I know there's probably been a lot of discussion about the subject, but any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks!

-Eric

 

[TLinden16]

Welcome to the DIS, Eric!

I stayed at the Contemporary a number of years ago, and it's a nice resort. Being able to walk to the Magic Kingdom is a big plus.

I wouldn't count on the construction to be finished at the Contemporary by next year, as they are building an entire 15 story building if you believe the rumors.

There are quite a few options for families of five. Most of the deluxe resorts have two queen beds and a day bed in the rooms. The Polynesian is another great option for a family of five if it fits into your price range.

There are also the Wilderness Cabins at Fort Wilderness, which sleep six. There is a double bed and bunk beds in the bedroom, and a murphy bed in the living room. You also get a full kitchen, and you'll be in a free standing building, so it's quite peaceful. If you do that option, I think you need a car.

They also have family suites at the all star music. I don't know much about them, but I'm sure someone will pipe in on them.

 

[spiceycat]

2 rooms at a value resort (cheapest)
All Star Music Suites
FW cabins
2-bedroom at a DVC resort
CSR suites
deluxe resorts
suites at deluxe resorts

since no one is screaming about the current noise at CR - I don't think it will bother you. It is only during the day time - when most guests are in the parks.

 

[lovesdumbo]

Your cheapest option would actually be a room at POR with a trundle bed.

I did enjoy the CR when I was there in Dec. The newly decorated rooms are really nice. It was great to be able to walk to MK but I actually prefered the Polynesian. I liked being able to walk to the TTC to take the direct monorail to Epcot. I also liked the rooms at the Poly better. There is very little storage (drawers) at the CR if you like to unpack during your visit.

The BC, YC, BWI and GF also all sleep 5 in their cheapest rooms. At AKL & WL you need to get a deluxe room to sleep 5.

Welcome to the Dis!

Have a great trip!

 

[nbodyhome]

I have current Contemporary Construction photos here: http://www.mousesteps.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=blogcategory&id=34&Itemid=65

You'll notice that the construction is out the side. However, I guess they'll be working on the lobby as well in the near future, and other areas inside. But the rooms are lovely, and it's a quick walk to the Magic Kingdom. I plan to put 100 or so pics of the resort up this week.

 

[spiceycat]

Your cheapest option would actually be a room at POR with a trundle bed.

boy sometimes I definitely forget the best option!!

 

[crazy4wdw]

Most of the construction in the Tower should be close to being completed by next summer. Chef Mickey's Express, the new counter location, is scheduled to be completed by August 2008. The construction of the DVC (or suite) Tower may be in full swing by next summer. Here's the rehab schedule at the CR Resort:

August 2007 - Newly renovated Fantasia Shop will re-open.

June 11, 2007 through November 2007 - The Lobby will undergo partitioned refurbishments to update the area's image and decor.

July 2007 through October 2007 - The resort's grounds will undergo partitioned refurbishments to install new landscaping and re-route existing guests paths.

July 30, 2007 through April 2008 - The Food & Fun Center will be closed for major renovations. The location will re-open as a new table service option, "The Wave". During this time a temporary counter service location will be operating on the Grand Concourse level near the Outer Rim Lounge.

April 2008 through August 14, 2008 -The Concourse Steak house will be closed for major renovations. The location will re-open as the new Counter Service location for the resort. During this time a temporary counter service location will be operating on the Grand Concourse level near the Outer Rim Lounge.

 

[deej696]

I say book it and have them alternate sleeping on the floor! Come on its the Contemporary! We are talking views of the Magic Kingdom here

 

[CR Resort Fan 4 Life]

Most of the construction in the Tower should be close to being completed by next summer. Chef Mickey's Express, the new counter location, is scheduled to be completed by August 2008. The construction of the DVC (or suite) Tower may be in full swing by next summer. Here's the rehab schedule at the CR Resort:

It should also be noted that the area where the DVC building is to be built is covered by a huge fence, so no one is forced to see the construction unless they wanted to while on the Monorail or by looking from the windows of the 4th floor.

Also since this is happening outside it does not effect any guests staying in the Tower or South Garden Wing and I should know because my family and I stayed at the Contemporary last December when this construction was going on in that area.

 

[brergnat]

The CR is an okay HOTEL, but I have stayed there twice and really feel that there is a lack of things to do there in general, as compared to the other Deluxe resorts. Its main draw is the proximity to the MK.

I think, with 3 girls, especially, you should consider the GF. The rooms all sleep 5 and it's a very nice resort. The Polynesian is also a wonderful option.

If you like Epcot, the Yacht and Beach Club are awesome as well, and they sleep 5.

Talk it over with the girls. Ask them which park they want to visit the MOST, and base your decision on that.

I would definitely NOT recommend one room at the POR, even with a trundle bed. The beds are DOUBLES, not queens, and the difference is enough to make things uncomfortable if you are used to sleeping in a Queen at home.

Stick with one of the deluxes, both for a larger room in general and larger beds!

 

[spiceycat]

The CR is an okay HOTEL, but I have stayed there twice and really feel that there is a lack of things to do there in general, as compared to the other Deluxe resorts. Its main draw is the proximity to the MK.

this will change if the new construction at CR is a DVC resort. all the dvc resorts definitely have activties that the hotel CR would also be able to participate with their guests.

 

[Alicnwondrln]

we are a family of 4 and we are bringing my MIL with us in July
we are staying at the GF
its a lovely resort I agree ask your girls about it.
show them some pics of all the resorts that hold 5 in a room and then where you will go the most and go from there