7 Best Coasters at Disney World! A thrill seekers dream!

Posted on May 30, 2023 by Jose Velazquez

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When it comes to theme park thrills, few places can match the magic and excitement of Walt Disney World. Nestled in Orlando, Florida, Disney World is home to an array of captivating attractions. Among the most adrenaline-pumping experiences are its remarkable roller coasters. From high-speed launches to gravity-defying twists and turns, these rides offer something for everyone. In this article, we’ll explore the best roller coasters at Disney World that are sure to provide an unforgettable adventure, bringing out the inner child in visitors of all ages.

7. Space Mountain

This indoor roller coaster in Tomorrowland at Magic Kingdom combines darkness, special effects, and high-speed excitement. Board your sleek spacecraft and zoom through the cosmos, zipping past sparkling stars and encountering surprises. As a bigger rider, I was a little worried about this one. But I had no issues fitting on the ride. However, I am 5’10” and still felt slightly cramped on my knees. The twists, turns, and drops happen very suddenly and surprise you because you don’t see them coming. Overall it was one the the most thrilling coasters at Disney World Magic Kingdom.

6. Big Thunder Mountain Railroad

In Frontierland at Magic Kingdom, an old mining town comes to life on Big Thunder Mountain Railroad. This classic roller coaster offers a wild ride through a runaway mine train. Hold on tight as you navigate sharp turns, sudden drops, and dark tunnels while the train speeds through the scenic desert landscape. The immersive theming and clever storytelling make Big Thunder Mountain Railroad an exciting adventure that captures the spirit of the Wild West. As the voice over actor on the ride says, “This here is the wildest ride in the wilderness”. Although I wouldn’t consider it too scary for younger riders, it is of the the bumpier roller coasters at Disney World. I still recommend this ride for those guests that are looking for a little thrill.

Quincy, from All Ears, tours Frontierland including taking a ride on Big Thunder Mountain

5. Expedition Everest – Legend of the Forbidden Mountain

Journey to Disney’s Animal Kingdom for an expedition like no other. Expedition Everest takes you to the snowy peaks of the Himalayas, where you’ll encounter the mythical Yeti. Board a tea train and brace yourself for an exhilarating adventure filled with twists, turns, and a thrilling encounter with the fearsome guardian of the mountain. From the queue, you can’t help but notice how much thought went into the theming of this ride. From educationalarticless hung up on the walls to unique artifacts on display. This attraction is impressive from start to finish. For ourthrill-seekingg friends, I would consider this one to be the most thrilling of all the outdoor coasters. I had an absolute blast!

4. Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith

Calling all music lovers! Head over to Disney’s Hollywood Studios for a rockin’ experience on the Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster. Partnering with the legendary band Aerosmith, this indoor coaster offers a high-speed journey through Los Angeles. As you step into a super-stretch limo, the exhilarating launch catapults you into a world of neon lights, loops, corkscrews, and inversions, all synchronized to Aerosmith’s greatest hits. This was another one that I was nervous about fitting on because of my size. Not only did I have no problem fitting, but it was actually one of the most comfortable seats of any coaster at Disney. It has a over the should restraint that doesn’t need to come down too far to lock. Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster is does have two inversions and is probably the most thrilling of the indoor coasters at Disney World.

3. Slinky Dog Dash

This ride is one of the most popular rides at Hollywood Studios. If you purchase Genie Plus the Disney Experience App, this should be your first lightning lane selection. The ride offers a gentle coaster experience with mild twists and turns, making it suitable for younger riders or those who prefer a milder thrill. It was just a fun ride that the whole family can enjoy. If you have a nervous rider who doesn’t like thrill rides, this is best of the beginner coasters at Disney World to start with.

2. Tron Lightcycle Run

This cutting-edge roller coaster will transport you into the high-speed universe of the Tron film franchise. Inspired by the iconic lightcycles, riders will board their very own sleek motorcycle-like vehicles and race through a futuristic grid. With exhilarating speeds, neon-lit environments, and immersive storytelling, Tron Lightcycle Run promises to be an unforgettable thrill ride that merges technology and imagination in true Disney fashion. I could not fit on the Lightcycle. Luckily, they have a coaster cart with a standard roller coaster seat. I was still able to enjoy this awesome new attraction. It’s fast, thrilling, and just an overall beautiful experience. Guests can experience this attraction only by joining a virtual queue or purchasing an individual lightning lane on the My Disney Experience App. This is an absolute must-do for coaster lovers.

1. Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind

Lastly, we have wheat I consider the best. Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind is the best and most innovative roller coasters at Disney World. This thrilling attraction combines storytelling, technology, and the beloved characters from the Guardians of the Galaxy films. First, you enter the gorgues queue and then hilarious pre-shows, this ride is a magical experience from beginning to end. This twists, turns, and thrilling encounters with cosmic creatures are thrilling and aestetically pleasing. And if that wasn’t enough, they play one of six different mega-hits from the 80’s while the ride is in full force. This just might be the best ride in all of Disney world. If you are in Epcot, Do Not Miss this one.

Disney World’s roller coasters are a testament to the park’s dedication to creating magical and unforgettable experiences. From the thrilling darkness of Space Mountain to the immersive adventure of Expedition Everest, each coaster offers a unique and exhilarating journey. Whether you prefer high-speed launches, unexpected drops, or immersive theming, Disney World has a roller coaster that will satisfy your craving for excitement. So, grab your Mickey ears, fasten your seatbelt, and prepare for an adventure like no other as you explore the best roller coasters at Disney World, where dreams really do come true.

Author: Jose Velazquez

Jose is the founder and writer at amusementparkdad.com. He Lives in Lakeland, FL, with his wife, two sons, and two dogs. Jose’s favorite hobby is spending time with his family at all the Theme parks in Orlando. They recently became annual pass holders at Disney and have absolutely fallen in love with the Magic. They look forward to exploring everything Disney offers in the years to come.

Whether you’re traveling with young children, teens, or adults, we’ve got you covered. From the whimsical fun of Disney’s Art of Animation Resort to the luxurious elegance of Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, we’ve got something for everyone. So look at our resort reviews and start planning your dream Disney vacation today!

Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort: Affordable WDW Magic

Posted on March 26, 2023 by JT Timbs

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Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort is one of the most affordable options for people planning a Disney World vacation. This hotel is perfect for families who love classic Disney films. Although the rooms used to feel dated and of lower quality compared to other Disney resorts, they have recently been renovated! In 2021, the hotel reopened with newly designed rooms.

Despite the changes to the interiors of the rooms, guests can still expect the classic outdoor decor that the All-Star Resorts are known for. The All-Star Movies Resort has 10 buildings of hotel rooms, all themed around 5 different Disney movies: 101 Dalmatians, Toy Story, The Mighty Ducks, Love Bug, and Fantasia.

All of these buildings are surrounded by larger-than-life statues of the characters and props inspired by their respective films. These make for excellent photo ops and serve as a constant reminder that you’re on vacation in the most magical place on Earth!

All-Star MoviesTypes of Rooms

Guests have the option of a standard room or a preferred room. The design of the rooms is the same, but the preferred rooms are slightly more expensive. This higher price will guarantee your room is closer to the front lobby, pools, and transportation. This can be a lifesaver when you return from a long day in the parks and want to walk only a little to get to your room.

Preferred room sleeps up to 4 adults.

Standard room sleeps up to 4 adults.

For parties of 1-2 people, you can get a room with one king-sized bed.

For parties of 2-4 people, you can get a room with two queen-sized beds: one regular and one Murphy bed that also serves as a table.

Amenities

Guests staying at All-Star Movies can enjoy complimentary wifi, housekeeping, and overnight parking.

24-hour laundry services are available near the Fantasia Pool and the Duck Pond Pool. You can bring your own detergent or purchase some from the vending machines in the laundry rooms. A text alert can be sent to your phone when your laundry is finished, which is handy if you want to spend your time by the pool or in the room instead of waiting for your clothes to finish.

Every room has a mini fridge to keep your leftovers and treats from the park. You’ll also have your own coffee maker. Unfortunately, there are no microwaves in the room, but you can go down to the food court, where you’ll have access to both a microwave and a toaster.

Quincy from All Ears reviews Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort

Activities and Recreation

This hotel offers two different pools for guests.

The Fantasia Pool is located near the front lobby and the Fantasia building. It features a large Sorcerer Mickey fountain that sprays into the swimming area. For young children, there is a kiddie pool and water play area available, as well.

For fans of The Mighty Ducks film trilogy, there is also a pool known as The Duck Pond Pool. This 105,438-gallon pool is designed to look similar to a hockey rink.

Like all Disney resort pools, complimentary towers can be found in any pool area.

Behind the Fantasia Pool, you can check out the nightly campfire. These campfires can be found at most Disney resorts and are a great way to end the night! You can roast free marshmallows under the stars as you reminisce about a fun day in the parks.

And it wouldn’t be right to go to the All-Star Movies Resort and not watch a movie under the stars. Every night, you can watch one of your favorite Disney movies at 8:30. Be sure to check with the front desk to find out what movies are showing during your stay.

Transportation to the Parks, Disney Springs

If visiting Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, Disney Springs, or the Disney water parks, guests can take a complimentary bus to and from the resorts.

One of the downsides of the All-Star resorts is that they often will share buses. This means that you’ll be sharing a bus with guests who are also staying at All-Star Music and All-Star Sports, so you may need to expect more bus stops than you would while staying at other Disney hotels. Fortunately, they try not to do this during peak park hours.

All-Star Movies Dining options

While this resort does not offer table service or fine dining experiences, they have a food court. This is a perfect dining option for those looking for convenience.

World Premiere Food Court

This cinema-themed food court is open from 6:30 am-11:00 pm, making it the perfect option for grabbing something to eat before or after your visit to the theme parks.

Each food court area is named after an iconic theatre, such as the Rialto and the Roxy. You can walk up to any of these areas to order a hot meal or head over to the Grand Theatre area for different sweet treats or prepared cold meals like deli sandwiches or salads.

World Premiere offers breakfast options such as Mickey-shaped waffles and various bagel sandwiches in the morning.

You can select from various burgers, pizzas, sandwiches, and entrees for lunch and dinner.

Silver Screen Spirits Pool Bar

This pool bar is located near the Fantasia Pool and is open from 12:00 pm – 11:00 pm. They offer small meals like deli sandwiches and salads. You can also order a Mickey pretzel here while enjoying the sights of the Mickey Mouse-inspired Fantasia Pool!

For those looking to relax with a refreshing beverage, this bar offers both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks.

Surrounding Hotel Dining Options

All-Star Music and All-Star Sports resorts are within walking distance of the All-Star Movies resort. Walking over may be worth it if you’re looking for a change of scenery. These resorts also have their own food courts. The menus are very similar, though. Just check out the menu to ensure they have something unique that your resort doesn’t have.

All-Star Movies Overall Thoughts

Even though it may not be as luxurious as the Deluxe Disney World resorts, All-Star Movies is perfect for those who plan to spend as much time in the parks as possible and need a place to sleep. This heavily-themed hotel will have you enjoying the magic of Disney, whether at the parks, in the pools, or grabbing a bite to eat.

Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort Review

Posted on November 28, 2022 by JT Timbs

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Disney’s Grand Floridian is on a lot of Disney fans’ bucket list for their Disney World Stay. Being a stop on the monorail as well as within a short walk to Magic Kingdom makes this resort very desirable.

How many of us have had the thought, while on the ferry to Magic Kingdom, How nice would it be to stay that close to Cinderella’s Castle? We stayed at the resort recently, and I don’t think I ever got used to seeing the castle each morning while eating breakfast at Gasparilla Grill.

Grand Floridian Resort Theme

From the moment you walk in the lobby, you’ll feel how different the Grand Floridian is from other resorts. The theme is Victorian Luxury and the resort continues that theme throughout every part of the resort. I’ve stayed at several of the Deluxe Resorts on property and the ones on Bay Lake seem to be the best at immersing you in the resort.

If you’re familiar with The Office, I felt like I should dress like Andy Bernard while being at the resort.

Cast Member Interactions

The Cast Members at Grand Floridian were also the nicest I’ve encountered at a resort. There were half a dozen cast members that asked to help us with our bags while going to our rooms. The Concierge outside our building was also helpful in pointing us in the right direction when we first arrived. Like any resort with outer buildings, it can take a little while to get the map of the resort inside your head. But after a few trips to the lobby and restaurants, the resort was pretty easy to navigate.

Pros and Cons of the Grand Floridian

Pros	Cons
On the Monorail Line	Pricey $$$
Six Restaurants on Property	Lots of Visitors to the Resort
Walkway to Magic Kingdom	Rooms are similar to most other resorts
2 Pools and Kids Splash Pad
Extended Evening Hours at Magic Kingdom / EPCOT

Deluxe Resort Perks

One of the best perks of staying at the Grand Floridian is Extended Evening Theme Park Hours at Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, and Hollywood Studios. On select nights each park is only available to Deluxe Resort guests for a few extra hours. The dates available for each park in December is outlined below:

Magic Kingdom Park
- Dec 7, 14, 21 & 28
EPCOT
- Dec 5, 12, 19 & 26
Disney’s Hollywood Studios
- Dec 15 & 22

All resort guests also have the opportunity to get Early Theme Park Entry. Each day at the 4 Theme Parks, Disney World resort guests get 30 minutes early entry. Even better is saying at the Grand Floridian and not having to rely on bus service to get you to the park that early. You can just use the walkway to get over to Magic Kingdom and really take advantage of the 30 minute early entry.

Another perk of staying on property is Early Access to Purchase Individual Lightning Lane Entry. Each morning at 7am you’ll have the opportunity to purchase 2 individual Lightning Lane passes. Anyone staying off property will only be able to purchase it at park opening. This gives you even better chances at riding Seven Dwarfs Mine Train or Rise of the Resistance.

Grand Floridian Room Types

There are a lot of different room types at the Grand Floridian that can accommodate groups up to 12 people. Even the studio rooms can fit 5 people with the trundle beds. We got a deluxe studio and it was plenty of room for the 4 of us.

Just be prepared that any of the regular rooms at Disney World aren’t large. They have all of the basics covered with TV, Fridge, and coffee maker but I wouldn’t describe any room that I’ve stayed in on property as spacious. The largest standard room we’ve stated in while visiting is actually at the Holiday Inn close to Disney Springs.

Room Views

There are 3 different types of views that you can select when making a reservation; Theme Park View, Lagoon View, and Garden View.

Theme Park view is exactly what you would think. You’ll be able to see the fireworks and Cinderella’s Castle from your room or balcony.

Lagoon View is what we had when we stayed. We had a really good view of the Monorail and Seven Seas Lagoon but couldn’t see much more than that.

Garden view will give you a view of the Pool, Marina, or Courtyard.

Room Types

There are quite a number of room configurations at the resort:

Standard Room or Studio: Sleeps 4 to 5 adults

1 Bedroom Suite: Sleeps 6 adults

2 Bedroom Suite: Sleeps 8 adults

1 Bedroom Villa: Sleeps 5 adults

2 Bedroom Villa: Sleeps 9 Adults

3 Bedroom Grand Villa: Sleeps 12 adults

The Grand Floridian is a DVC resort so that is why it offers so many room options. And it also has a lot of demand, so I would recommend booking the resort as soon as possible. It will regularly be filled months before you may be traveling, especially if you are looking for a specific room type.

Some example rates based on May 2023 travel.

Standard Room – sleeps 5, $792 per night

1 Bedroom Suite / Club Level / Outer Building – sleeps 6, $1,846 per night

Restaurants

The Grand Floridian offers a lot of dining options at every price point. You’ll have the traditional quick service that is easier on the budget, or you could go all out at one of the upscale restaurants.

Quick Service

Gasparilla Island Grill

This is where we ate most of our meals while at the resort. It has a good selection for everyone. We have 2 kids that can be picky and it was nice to have a place to cater to them as well as us. It’s also a great place to grab some Mickey Waffles then grab a seat outside to look at Cinderella’s Castle.

Beaches Pool Bar & Grill

Beaches Pool Bar & Grill is in the perfect spot for a pool day with the kids. It’s located in between the kids splash pad and the zero entry pool. So you can get a snack or drinks and never have to leave the pool area.

Courtyard Pool Bar

Another perfectly placed bar right next to the other pool on property. There is a good selection of drinks and snacks.

Table Service

Grand Floridian Cafe

The Grand Floridian Cafe is a great spot to sit down and enjoy breakfast, lunch, or dinner with a casual American menu. I highly recommend grabbing a reservation for this spot, the walk up list fills up fast.

Signature Dining

Cítricos

The setting of Citricos was inspired by Mary Poppins returns. This is a fine dining location and has a dress code that must be followed. The food is based on Florida cuisine with a Mediterranean flare.

Victoria & Albert’s

Victoria and Albert’s is the signature dining experience at the Grand Floridian. This is an upscale restaurant with only one seating a night. Prices for dinner start at $295 with additional add ons available, such as wine pairings.

The menu changes regularly based on seasonal ingredients and is curated by the chef. This is one of the most desired reservations in Disney World, so be sure to grab a spot early.

Bars

Enchanted Rose

Enchanted Rose is inspired by the live action Beauty and the Beast. There is a small selection of snacks and appetizers. The real focus is on the wide selection of cocktails, martinis, wine, beer, and non-alcoholic beverages. It’s worth a visit just for the ambiance.

Cítricos Lounge

This is a great place to stop before dinner at Citricos. The lounge also has a menu that you can order from that includes kids meals.

Pools

The resort has two pools and a splash area for all kinds of water-loving guests. The resort also has private cabanas that can be rented out for the day.

Both pools are heated, but be warned, we went in October and it took a while to get used to the water temperature. After about 5 minutes it wasn’t too bad though. The pools and surrounding areas are large enough that it never felt crowded.

Spa Services

The spa at the Grand Floridian has a variety of treatments to offer to guests. Guests can enjoy massages, facials, body wraps, manicures and pedicures, as well as more specialized treatments such as couples massage therapy.

Recreation Activities

The resort has lots of amenities outside of the great restaurants, pools, and spa. This is what will really make you want to stick around the resort on non park days.

Campfire Activities
Movies Under the Stars
Arcade Games
Basketball Courts
Health Club

Marina

Ever dream of piloting one of the ferries across Seven Seas Lagoon? Well, from the Grand Floridian Marina you can do the next best thing. Suntracker Pontoon boats are available to rent for $45 per half hour. 10 guests can fit on the pontoon so it’s a perfect outing for the entire family.

Want an even more exciting adventure from the marina? You can also take guided fishing tours. This is your chance to catch largemouth bass from Seven Seas Lagoon. Both 2 and 4 hour fishing trips with an experienced guide are offered. Please call (407) 939-FISH to make a reservation.

Grand Floridian Shopping

There is a good selection of shopping available at the resort and can meet your needs while staying on property.

Sandy Cove Gifts and Sundries – Everyday needs while at the resort. Also has DVC merchandise.
M. Mouse Mercantile – Has a little of everything! Apparel, Magic Bands, Toys, etc.
Basin White – Soaps, bath bombs, etc.
Curiouser Clothiers – Premium Souvenirs and Merchandise

Monorail Loop Must Do’s

You’re staying on the Monorail loop, you should take advantage of it. Even if you just take a few hours on a non park day and visit the Contemporary and Polynesian. There is a lot to take in while you’re visiting, but below are a few I would definitely check out:

Contemporary
- Chef Mickey
- Mary Blair Artwork
Polynesian
- Ohana
- Pineapple Lanai – Get some Dole Whip outside of the parks!

Transportation to Parks & Disney Springs

Let’s go over the options to travel between the 4 theme parks, Disney Springs, and the Grand Floridian. Spoiler Alert – Magic Kingdom is a short walk! We used the walkway on our last trip and it may have been worth the added cost on its own. It’s a lot less stressful not having to worry about timing the traffic to get out of Magic Kingdom at the end of the night.

Magic Kingdom

Monorail
Walkway
Boat

EPCOT

Monorail – Transfer at TTC
Bus

Animal Kingdom

Hollywood Studios

Disney Springs

Transportation to MCO

There are a few different options for getting to the Grand Floridian from MCO. I’ll call out the most popular ones; Mears Connect ( previously Magical Express), Sunshine Flyer bus service, Uber, Lyft, or rental car.

We have an article that goes over the pros and cons of each.

Grocery Deliveries to Resort

If you want to save a little money when staying on the resort, I would recommend getting a grocery delivery order from Walmart, Amazon, or Instacart.

It’s a great way to get snacks, drinks, water, shampoo, etc. without having to pay a premium at Sandy Cove Gifts and Sundries.

Just place an order and have it delivered to bell services. The bell service team will even bring the delivery to your room. Just be sure to tip.

Grand Floridian Address:

4401 Floridian Way

Lake Buena Vista, Florida 32830-8451

Phone: (407) 824-3000

Grand Floridian Summary

We had a great time at this resort. It was perfect for our short trip and made getting over to the Magic Kingdom so easy. We would definitely come stay again. I would personally want to stay here even if not going to any of the theme parks, its that nice!

Still not convinced? Check out all of our other Resort Reviews!

FAQs

How much does it cost to stay at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa?

Disney’s Grand Floridian is a Deluxe Resort, so be prepared to budget $500 to $700 a night for a studio that sleeps 5 adults.

Does Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa have an airport shuttle?

There are a few different options to get to the resort but the resort itself does not offer a direct shuttle. We recommend Mears Connect, Sunshine Flyer, Uber, or Lyft.

Which room amenities are available at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa?

The rooms have large LCD TVs, coffee maker, mini fridge, and phone.

Can Disney’s Grand Floridian accommodate a large group?

Yes, the Grand Floridian has villas that accommodate up to 12 adults.

Can you see Magic Kingdom Fireworks from Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa?

Yes, you can view the Magic Kingdom Fireworks from the grounds of the Grand Floridian. There are a few different spots and it can be busy at that time. For the best views, try to get to the beach area early.

Disney’s Wilderness Lodge: A Wonderful Vacation Spot

Posted on November 27, 2022 by JT Timbs

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Wilderness Lodge is inspired by National Park lodges from the Northwest. Its a deluxe resort nestled only a short distance from one of Disney World’s most iconic parks, Magic Kingdom.

Tucked between tall pine trees and boulders is a majestic retreat with breathtaking views, beautiful grounds, and lush landscapes. Of course, we’re talking about the rustic getaway known as Disney’s Wilderness Lodge Resort.

Welcome to the third stop on what we’re calling our “Resort-Hopper Tour”. If you missed our latest stop, check out our in-depth review of Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort. It won’t disappoint!

At each stop in our six-part series, we’re doing a deep dive into some of Disney World’s most popular resort destinations. We’ll share important aspects about each resort, including theme, room types, amenities, restaurants, transportation, and more.

It’s our mission to help you make an informed decision for your next Disney getaway, and we won’t stop until you’re satisfied.

So, without further ado, let’s travel to our next magical stop on our Resort-Hopper Tour — Disney’s Wilderness Village Resort.

An Overview of Disney’s Wilderness Lodge Resort

Do you ever wish you could travel to the turn of the century and relive the glory of America’s National Park Lodges? You can’t get much closer than Disney’s Wilderness Lodge Resort.

Crafted for those who cherish the great outdoors, Disney’s Wilderness Lodge is an adventurer’s oasis. The explorer in you will love hiking through trails between towering pines or rocking the afternoon away enjoying views that overlook the Murmuring Creek.

If you’re a sucker for American craftsmanship, you’ll enjoy the rustic elegance of Disney’s Wilderness Lodge. From stone hearth fireplaces to majestic totem poles, it’s sure to inspire your inner adventurer.

What Type of Rooms Does the Wilderness Lodge Resort Have?

Like every Disney deluxe resort, you can count on a variety of excellent room choices. The best part of staying at the Wilderness Lodge Resort is how private it feels.

Disney’s Wilderness Lodge provides all the comforts of a resort destination with the privacy of a tucked-away retreat.

Disney’s Wilderness Lodge offers five excellent room options:

● Rooms & Suites that sleep up to 4 adults

● Rooms & Suites with Club-Level Service that sleep up to 6 adults

● Deluxe Studios that sleeps up to 5 adults

● 2-Bedroom Cabins that sleep up to 8 adults

● One, two, and three-bedroom Villas that can sleep up to 12 adults

Deluxe Studios feature a kitchenette, a queen bed, a pull-down bed, and a sleeper sofa.

Cabins and Villas feature kitchens, spacious living and dining room spaces, separate bedrooms, and a washer and dryer.

Cabins also feature a double-sided fireplace and a porch with a built-in hot tub for breathtaking views of Bay Lake. Those staying in the three-bedroom Grand Villas also enjoy a private porch or balcony.

No matter which room you choose, you’ll love the experience of staying in a cozy resort that feels isolated while only minutes from Disney’s Magic Kingdom.

What Amenities Does Disney’s Wilderness Lodge Resort Offer?

One of the pleasures of staying on the Disney campus is that no matter which resort you stay at you’ll always experience tons of amenities. It comes standard with your Disney experience.

Each guest at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge Resort enjoys complimentary WI-FI access, air-conditioned rooms, and the following amenities:

Pools, Waterslides, and Whirlpools, Oh, My!

Wilderness Lodge has two excellent pool areas to please any swimmer. Follow the bubbling Copper Creek to a gorgeous heated pool surrounded by nature.

Copper Creek Springs Pool offers a 67-foot slide that’s built into rocks. How cool is that? Your little swimmers will love splashing into the warm water below.

For those who like to chill, enjoy both hot and cold whirlpools built for relaxation. With lounge and patio areas nearby, your children can soak up the sun and get in touch with their wild side at the renovated splash area while you relax.

Boulder Ridge Cove Pool offers a more reserved pool area for those who like a chill swim session. Feel free to soak in the spa-like whirlpool, wade through the zero-depth entry pool, or score a seat at one of six shaded patio areas!

Wilderness Lodge Tour and Walkthrough

Release Your Inner Wild Animal With Fun Activities!

Enjoy the great outdoors and embrace your penchant for adventure and fun recreational activities. It’s the perfect way to bring the family together, have fun, and create memories that will last a lifetime!

Here are some recreational activities to enjoy at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge:

● Tennis

● Volleyball

● Basketball

● Boat rentals

● Jogging trails

● Gaming station

● Fishing excursions

● 24-hour health club

We hope this list inspires your family to get outside, enjoy the outdoors, and get active. After all, the family that plays together, stays together.

Create Memories With Family Friendly Activities

Like other stops on our Resort-Hopper Tour, Disney’s Wilderness Lodge Resort offers many family friendly activities.

Here is a short list of great family friendly activities you can enjoy:

● Specialty Cruises

● Movies Under the Stars

● Electrical Water Pageant

● Wilderness Lodge Campfire

At Disney’s Wilderness Lodge, you’ll love every moment. So whether you enjoy the specialty fireworks cruise, s’mores around the campfire, or taking in the sights and sounds of the water pageant or movies under the stars, you’ll be sure to feel the magic in the air.

What Types of Restaurants Does Disney’s Wilderness Lodge Resort Have Available?

Disney always has a knack for creating dining choices that work for every family, and the Wilderness Lodge is no different. Whether your family likes to eat on the go or enjoys a sit-down meal, you’re sure to find a restaurant that meets your needs.

Let’s take an in-depth look at some of the dining choices at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge:

Casual, Family Friendly Dining Choices

The Wilderness Lodge has several options for casual family friendly dining experiences. The Whispering Canyon Cafe fits the bill.

If you need to fill up before hitting the parks or any time of day, you can mosey over to this old western-wtyled eatery. It offers all-you-care-to-eat service and some character-themed sass.

It’s hard to beat the hearty meals you’ll find at the Whispering Canyon Cafe.

For brunch, enjoy classic favorites, like:

● Heritage Skillet with house-made buttermilk cheddar biscuits, sausage gravy, eggs, bacon, and Mickey waffles.

● The Carnivore with maple-chipotle pulled pork smoked ribs, citrus herb chicken, country potatoes, and carrots.

There is also the choice of lighter fare and plant-based options.

For dinner, enjoy country-style favorites, like:

● Oak-smoked mustard-barbecued beef brisket

● Braised pork belly

● House-cooked salmon

For plant-based options, there are delectable sides, like:

● Maple-chipotle barbecued jackfruit

● Mustard-glazed beefless tips

● Over-roasted carrots and charred peppers

Be sure to grab some Granny Smith apple pie before you skedaddle.

Quick Hits for Grazing and Fast Food

If you’re in a hurry, you have two choices for excellent quick-hit, fast-food options.

Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, you can bring the family for a quick sit-down meal at the Roaring Fork.

Breakfast options include:

● Pastries

● Egg sandwiches

● Egg platters with bacon, sausage, and potatoes

● Steel cut oatmeal

Lunch and dinner options include:

● Entrees – Brisket, Meatloaf, and pulled pork sandwich

● Burgers and chicken

● Sandwiches – Tuna or turkey

● Salads – Asian-style with tofu, Chicken caesar, Heirloom tomato, Wilderness with Chicken

● Plant-based – Zesty slaw burger

If you’re getting hungry while lounging poolside, you always have the option to grab quick-service American food from the Geyser Point Bar & Grill. Early risers can enjoy

● Crispy Salmon Croquettes

● Cheesy Barbecue Brisket

● Teriyaki Chicken Wings

● Shrimp on a Wire

For lunch and dinner enjoy

● Burgers

● Crab Cakes

● Grilled Portobello Salad

● Fruit Plate

● Roasted Salmon

● Smoked Turkey Sandwich

● Kids Meals and Desserts

Oh, and for the adults, don’t forget to enjoy cocktails with your meal.

Picture-Perfect Dining Experiences

If you’re looking for something that will bring the family together and create lasting memories — it’s hard to beat Story Book Dining at Artist Point.

Your family will love the sit-down meal with sophistication and Disney characters from Snow White and the Seven Dwarves. Enjoy guiltless allergy friendly appetizers, entrees, and desserts. For families with no allergy restrictions you can order from the main menu that offers the same choices.

Here are a few favorites:

● Appetizers – Wild Mushroom Bisque, Wicked Shrimp Cocktail, and more

● Entrees – “Cottage” Beef Stroganoff, Royal Prime Rib Roast, Brother’s Grimm Grilled Chicken, Magic Mirror’s Slow-Braised Pork Shank, and more

● Desserts – Miner’s Treasures, Fairy Tale Gooseberry Tart, “Poison” Apple

Kid’s meals and plant-based options are also available. For adults, there is a wide assortment of cocktails, beer, and non-alcoholic drink choices.

Conclusion

If you’re a lover of the great outdoors and the lodge lifestyle, it’s hard to beat the Wilderness Lodge Resort. With amenities galore, great dining options, and beautiful grounds, it’s sure to be a resort you visit again and again. If you’re sold on all the Wilderness Lodge Resort has to offer. We hope you have a magical time. If not, stay on the lookout for our next stop on the “Resort-Hopper Tour”.

FAQs

No, let’s take a look at some specific questions about Disney’s Wilderness Lodge!

Is Disney’s Wilderness Lodge Expensive?

Yes, expect nightly rates to be between $500 and $700 for a basic room depending on the time of the trip. If you are lookign for a similar feel but with a lower price, my recommendation would be to check out Disney’s Fort Wilderness.

Can you walk from Disney Wilderness Lodge to Magic Kingdom?

Unfortunately no, you’ll have to take the bus to Magic Kingdom or you can take a friendship boat. The ride on the boat only takes 10 to 15 minutes to get to Magic Kingdom.

Can I visit Wilderness Lodge without staying there?

Yes, its a really good idea to check out any resorts you may be interested in staying at. The Wilderness Lodge is also a great spot to take a mid day break from Magic Kingdom. Its a short bus ride over and you’ll have much quieter dining options that staying in the park.

Can fireworks be seen from Wilderness Lodge?

Yes, there are a few different spots to view fireworks from. To get the best view, you’ll need to be there a little early. The best spot is by Geyser Point, and they also play the music along with the foreworks.

The 15 Best Christmas Movies on Disney Plus

Posted on November 26, 2022 by JT Timbs

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‘Tis the season to make a cup of hot chocolate and curl up with the family to watch a holiday movie. Every streaming service has lots of choices, but no selection is as big as Disney Plus. If you and your loved ones are in search of a film this season, here are the best Christmas movies on Disney Plus:

Disney’s A Christmas Carol

An animated take on the Charles Dickens classic, Disney’s A Christmas Carol is equal parts festive and spooky. With Jim Carrey voicing Ebenezer Scrooge, this beloved tale is as fun to watch the fifth time as it is the first. Introduce your children to A Christmas Carol through this family-friendly version.

Beauty and the Beast: The Enchanted Christmas

Though many popular animated movies get sequels, few are as fun and festive as Beauty and the Beast: The Enchanted Christmas. Taking place in the winter after Belle and Beast’s love story began. This sweet tale is perfect for any child with a princess obsession who needs some new content for the holiday season.

Home Alone Series

Kevin McCallister has found a permanent home on Disney Plus. The kid we fell in love with in John Hughes’s 1990 Christmas classic returned for a sequel. Hughes went on to direct a few more films of the same name after but without Macaulay Culkin. Though only the first two Home Alone films feature Kevin, the antics in the films remain, and remain on the streaming service.

I’ll Be Home For Christmas

What’s better than listing to “I’ll Be Home For Christmas?” Try watching I’ll Be Home For Christmas on Disney Plus. Starring Jonathan Taylor Thomas, Jake Wilkinson is trying to get home in time for Christmas dinner to gain possession of a beloved car. Several roadblocks inhibit Wilkinson from a smooth ride home, but the journey is entertaining. This movie will have you nostalgic for your own childhood celebrations. Watch it once and you’ll be streaming it all season.

Mickey’s Christmas Carol

A Christmas Carol is a wonderful story no matter how it’s told, but it’s a bit sweeter for children when represented by Mickey and his pals. Mickey Mouse is Bob Cratchit and Scrooge McDuck as Ebenezer Scrooge, no other version of this story is quite so enchanting for viewers of all ages.

Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmas

Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmas just might be the most unique film on this list. Comprised of three separate shorter segments, Once Upon is a great flick to turn on to remind your family members of what’s important this season. With each story teaching viewers a different lesson, the entire film is heartwarming and festive.

Miracle on 34th Street (Original and Remake)

Whether you prefer the 1994 remake or the black and white original, Miracle on 34th Street is a classic Christmas film. Rife with Christmas spirit, Miracle is a timeless story that’s enjoyable no matter which version you choose.

The Muppet Christmas Carol

This is the third recommendation for an A Christmas Carol retell on our list, but we included it because it deserves to be watched every December. This version of the story is the most fun. All your favorite Muppets appear as the legendary Dickens characters, and it’s impossible not to laugh and smile throughout the movie. Muppets fans and Christmas lovers alike will all love The Muppet Christmas Carol.

The Nutcracker and the Four Realms

If you can’t get your entire family to the ballet this year, see the story in film form via The Nutcracker and the Four Realms on Disney Plus. The movie will put you and your loved ones in the Christmas spirit. Whether it be through the story or visuals of the stunning film, it’s impossible not to feel ready for December 25th after watching The Nutcracker.

One Magic Christmas

One Magic Christmas is simply magical. Starring Mary Steenburgen, the film follows a mother’s journey as she once again finds what makes Christmas so special. If you’ve never seen this film, give it a watch with your own loved ones and discover what makes Christmas magical to you.

Santa Buddies: The Legend of Santa Paws Series

Air Bud took the world by storm thanks to one adorable main character. The producers cashed in by making several sequels, like Santa Buddies: The Legend of Santa Paws. This holiday film is cute and fun, and its prequel, The Search for Santa Paws, is just as joyful.

The Santa Clause Series

Tim Allen cemented himself as one of the best movie Santa Clauses, and we were fortunate enough to see his performance three separate times. All three The Santa Clause films are on Disney Plus to stream, and each has a unique story that’s both fun and full of holiday magic. When you’re finished binging the film series, check out the new television series, The Santa Clauses.

‘Twas the Night

‘Twas the Night is fun and funny, and it’s got a little more edge than the other films on this list. It’s a quick watch that’s a good compromise for anyone who wants an entertaining plot and a sweet Christmas tale.

The Ultimate Christmas Present

Disney Channel original movies peaked in the early aughts, and one of the best from the era is The Ultimate Christmas Present. You’ll enjoy this film if you’re stuck at home during a blizzard, but you’ll especially appreciate it if you decorate a palm tree instead a pine.

Winnie the Pooh: A Very Merry Pooh Year

Most beloved children’s characters have a Christmas special, but few are as good as Winnie the Pooh: A Very Merry Pooh Year. This sweet film is great for your youngest children. The older kids will love it just the same, especially if they watched Pooh and his friends early in life. This film is perfect to watch after Christmas thanks to its New Year feature, easing the transition from the most wonderful time of the year to a new one.

Disney Plus Christmas Streaming

Is there a streaming service with more Christmas cheer than Disney Plus? It would be hard to find if there was. Each one of these films are great on their own, but the list as a whole can’t be beat.

Do you think you can get through the entire list before Christmas? Leave us a comment if you do!

Disney World Vacation Planning

Did watching all the Disney magic make you want to create some of your own? Be sure to check out all our vacation planning tips throughout the site. We have in depth reviews of each Disney World Resort to make you trip magical!

Best Disney World Resorts for Large Groups

Posted on November 22, 2022 by JT Timbs

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If you’re planning a vacation to the Walt Disney World Resort with a large group, you’ll need to weigh the pros and cons of which resorts will meet your groups’ needs. The following article will provide useful information on Disney and non-Disney options from multiple price groups to give you the information you need to make a wise decision on where to stay.

Staying on Property at Disney – the Perks and Drawbacks

For most family vacations, I recommend visitors stay off Disney property to save some money. Disney has been increasing all of its prices to the point where the cost simply does not meet the quality of experience you’re getting.

The first is the resort parking fees. To park your car at a Disney hotel, you’ll have to pay about $20 per day. Though this does excuse you from having to pay for parking again at the parks, it’s an annoying fee.

Secondly, Disney doesn’t offer world-class service anymore. Things like daily housekeeping cleaning are no longer the standard at Disney – which can really put a damper on the magic.

Lastly, Disney’s Magical Express transportation to and from the airport has been discontinues, meaning you’ll have to pay for your own transportation. If you were planning on getting a rental car or driving, this isn’t an issue… but an extra $120 for the to and from airport trips can be frustrating.

Transportation Considerations

Speaking of whether or not to get a rental car, this decision should be a big factor on whether or not you’re staying on Disney property. A rental car gives you easy access to and from the parks, allowing you to control the times you come and go. If you’re looking to get the most out of your Disney vacation, it’s more efficient to arrive at the parks just before opening, leave in the middle of the day when it’s busy if you need a break, and stay later at night. Having access to a rental car makes staying off Disney property a solid option. If you won’t have a car, you must stay on Disney property with a large group.

Staying on-site at the Disney resort solves most transportation issues. The entire resort is connected via busses, monorails, a gondola system, and boat transportation, all of which can efficiently move you from point A to point B. All the transportation is completely free! For the most part, it is reliable (though the timing of busses can sometimes cause up to a 30-minute wait) and can get you to your destination within 15 minutes. If you’re visiting with a large group, this transportation can make a huge difference. Often times with a large group, everyone wants to do something different. The kids will be up early with excitement but might crash in the afternoons. Grandparents might try to stick to early bedtimes while everyone else wants to stay in the park at night to see the fireworks.

Disney transportation makes it easy to split up a large group to ensure everyone has the opportunity to do what they want when they want. Since this is so important, this makes staying at a Disney resort the best plan for large groups. Even if the costs are too high, the convenience ameliorates all sorts of potential issues that may arise while trying to please everyone in a large group.

Theme Park Extra Hours

If this benefit isn’t enough, Disney resorts also grant you a little bit of extra time in the theme parks themselves. Each day, Disney’s 4 theme parks each open an extra half hour early. That means visitors who arrive early can get a head start on their day, riding their top pick attraction before the day even starts.

In summary, despite the costs, staying on Disney property is the easiest stress-free option when visiting with a large group. It’s simply far more convenient and saves you all sorts of trouble during the trip that could derail a successful vacation. If you take a look at Disney resort prices and simply can’t manage to drop that kind of money, it’s best to rent an entire house off of AirBnB.

There are plenty of great rental properties with amazing pools, tons of space, and anything else you need that are within 20 minutes of the Disney resort. Splitting the cost of 6-bedroom house will get way more personal space at a far lower cost per person than a Disney hotel can manage, even when factoring in rental car and parking costs. Take a look anywhere along US 192 or even US 27 to be on the quieter side of Disney. However, since you’re planning a Disney vacation with a large group, I assume you’re willing to spend the money to have a great time. Here are the best picks for Disney resorts that will ensure your vacation is pure magic:

Best Deluxe and Overall Pick: Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort and Bungalows

The best spot to stay across all of Disney’s hotels is directly across the lake from Disney’s premier park. There are 3 Magic Kingdom area resort hotels, but one is far superior to the others: the Polynesian. As the name suggests, it is themed after a lush tropical island paradise. Its paths are lined with tiki torches and beautiful plants. The main pool has a huge volcano feature with a water slide. The entire resort is right up against the Seven Seas Lagoon, where you’ll have views of Cinderella Castle. You can literally watch the fireworks at Magic Kingdom from your room’s balcony (if you’re facing the correct side) or from the hot tub by the pool.

Park Access

The best thing about the Magic Kingdom resort area hotels is their location. It’s easy access to Magic Kingdom (via a boat or monorail directly from the resort lobby), Epcot (via the monorail), and the other top-tier resorts. Taking an afternoon break won’t cost much travel time since you’ll be able to get to your room within 15 minutes of leaving the park! Again, this ability to quickly hop back and forth from your resort to the parks makes traveling with a large group far less stressful.

Dining

For dining, the Polynesian has an excellent quick service restaurant called Captain Cook’s, which has some amazing Thai Coconut Meatballs. It has two full-service restaurants: Ohana and Kona Café. Ohana’s all-you-can-eat style grilled meats, noodles, and other southeastern Asian favorites can really hit the spot after a long day in the parks. The restaurant also features live musicians who periodically teach willing participants how to Hula dance! Since you’re just a walk or monorail stop away from the Grand Floridian and Contemporary resorts, you also have easy access to their dining offerings. A character meal at Chef Mickey’s or world-class dining experience at Victoria and Albert’s Chefs Table might be on the bucket list for someone in your group!

Larger Rooms

Lastly, the Polynesian has some deluxe resort rooms which are far larger than a standard hotel room. Though they have many of the same amenities, they usually come with a Murphy Bed, two showers, and a kitchenette to better serve large groups.

In case you’re not quite feeling the magic of the best-of-the-best pick, you might also want to consider the Wilderness Lodge, which is a boat ride away from the Magic Kingdom. It also has an amazing, relaxed atmosphere and is a great spot for large groups. The Yacht or Beach Club in the Epcot resort area are similarly great picks which offer easy access to Epcot and Hollywood Studios.

Best Mid-Tier Pick: Art of Animation

The best thing about Disney’s Art of Animation resort is its easy access to Epcot and Hollywood Studios via the Disney Skyliner. The Skyliner is a gondola system connecting the two parks with Art of Animation, Pop Century, Caribbean Beach, and the Riviera resorts, giving your family great access to a variety of places to explore. The Skyliner stop is located on a bridge which connects the Art of Animation resort to Pop Century.

The resort is split up into 4 different sections themed after classic Disney and Pixar films. My favorite sections are the Cars area and the Lion King area, but you could also stay in Finding Nemo or the Little Mermaid themed rooms. Some of the rooms are considered “suites” and are slightly larger with doors dividing up the room, offering some privacy for larger groups or families.

Other solid picks are Disney’s Caribbean Beach and Port Orleans resorts, both of which are a bit further away from the parks but have lots of space and are very relaxing.

Best Cost-Saving Pick: Rental Homes via AirBnB, VRBO, or other home rental site

As considered earlier, if costs are a big consideration for your trip, it might be best to stay off property at a rental house. Despite not being in the center of the magic, you’ll have extra space, everyone can have their own rooms, and you can have your own private pool. Make sure you have a rental car and everyone is on the same page of when to arrive and depart from the parks each day!

When compared to the deluxe or suite rooms on Disney World Property, an Airbnb or VRBO rental can be several hundred dollars cheaper a night.

Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort: An In-Depth Review

Posted on November 10, 2022 by JT Timbs

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If you’ve ever wanted to escape to the South Pacific and live the Island life, you’ll love staying at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort. Made to put you in a Hawaiian vacation vibe. It offers all the amenities of a South Pacific vacation with Disney perks galore!

Welcome to our second stop in our six-part series we’re calling the “Resort-Hopper Tour.” In case you missed our first stop, be sure to check out our in-depth review of Disney’s Contemporary Resort.

At each stop in our six-part series, we’re doing a deep dive into some of Disney World’s most popular resort destinations. Along our journey, we’ll share important aspects about each resort, including, theme, room types, amenities, restaurants, transportation, and more.

It’s our mission to help you make an informed decision for your next Disney getaway, and we won’t stop until you’re satisfied.

So, without further ado, let’s travel to our next magical stop on our Resort-Hopper Tour — Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort.

An Overview of Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort

Tucked between Magic Kingdom and the Seven Seas Lagoon, is one of Disney’s first resorts, Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort.

Built in 1971, this resort has seen many changes since its first opening. However, one thing has never changed, and that’s the theme. Guests will enjoy the experience of a South Pacific getaway right on the Disney campus.

Guests will enjoy moonlit walks along torch-lit walkways, white sand beaches, waterfalls, and beautiful landscapes. It’s no wonder it’s still one of the most popular resorts on Disney campus.

Divided into Longhouses, this resort brings the look, appeal, and experience of an overseas vacation.

What Type of Rooms Does Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort Have?

Guests will enjoy the wide array of room types available at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort. When you plan your stay, you have your choice between four popular room options:

Rooms & Suites that sleep up to 5 adults
Rooms & Suites with Club-Level Service that sleep up to 5 adults
Deluxe Studios which sleeps up to 5 adults
Bungalows that can sleep up to 8 adults

Deluxe studios offer a kitchenette and sleeper sofa, a queen-sized bed, and one pull-down bed for at-home comfort.

Meanwhile, Bungalows feature a fully equipped kitchen, spacious living room and dining room areas, separate bedrooms, and a washer and dryer. Each Bungalow also comes with a private deck and plunge pool to relax after a long day at the parks.

No matter what room type you choose, you’ll still enjoy the same great amenities and Disney theme.

What Amenities Does Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort Offer?

No matter what room you choose, your family will love all of the amenities that Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort has to offer.

Each guest at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort enjoys complimentary WI-FI access, air-conditioned rooms, and the following amenities:

Lava Pools, Waterslides, and Hot Tubs, Oh My!

Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort offers several swim destinations for all ages. Your children will love swimming beside waterfalls and a towering volcano at the Lava Pool. After splashing around, they can explore their adventurous side as they swoosh down the 142-foot water slide with gentle slopes for easy insta-worthy shots.

Your littles will enjoy splashing around in the Kiki Tikis Splash Area while you take a dip in the infinity hot tub.

The Oasis Pool promises chilled-out vibes beside a beautiful, lush garden. It’s the perfect spot for a tranquil swim session. If you need more relaxation

Create your own private poolside getaway with Oasis Patio rentals. Reserve your outdoor lounge area by the hour or by the day.

You can place food orders from the Oasis Bar & Grill and enjoy:

Fish Tacos
Kalua Pork Sliders
Polynesian-Themed Burgers

Thirsty for more? They also offer:

Wine
Tropical Cocktails
Hawaiian Beer & Assorted Beverages

It’s an excellent way to spend the day while enjoying the South Pacific vibe. However, the fun doesn’t stop there. Along with amazing pools, and relaxing poolside bars, they also offer a wide array of recreational activities.

Recreational Activities Galore

The Polynesian Village Resort offers a TON of amenities for your family to enjoy time away from the parks.

They created a list of fun activities that are sure to meet the needs of any family. As a guest at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, you’ll enjoy recreational activities like:

Tennis
Volleyball
Basketball
Boat Rentals
Jogging Trails
Fishing Excursions
Spa & Fitness Center

Whether you’re taking a family day to enjoy some activities together or having a spa day with the ladies, you’ll love all the amenities that Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort has to offer.

Make Memories With Family-Friendly Activities

It’s easy to make memories that will last a lifetime when you stay at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort.

Here’s a list of family-friendly activities you can enjoy:

Specialty Cruises
Movies Under the Stars
Electrical Water Pageant
Polynesian Village Resort Campfire

So whether your family chooses the specialty fireworks cruise, s’mores around the campfire, taking in the sights and sounds of the water pageant, or movies under the stars, you’re sure to create share-worthy memories.

What Types of Restaurants Does Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort Have Available?

Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort offers a variety of restaurants to meet any family’s needs. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite to eat on the way out to the parks, a sit-down meal made for kids, or sophisticated dining, they have everything you need.

Let’s take a closer look at some of the dining options available at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort:

Casual, Family-Friendly Dining Choices

For family-friendly dining choices that won’t break the budget, Disney’s Polynesian Resort offers a wide array of choices for fun dining experiences.

Here is a list of our favorite family-friendly dining experiences:

Kona Island

Enjoy fresh coffee and pastries in the morning and grab-and-go sushi in the afternoon. It’s the perfect pit stop before you hit the parks and a tasty treat after you get back. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, you’ll find something to satisfy your taste buds.

‘Ohana

Whether you’re looking for a big sit-down breakfast or a relaxing Polynesian-themed dinner, you’re sure to love ‘Ohana’s family-style meals.

Enjoy all-you-care-to-eat meals in a casual environment.

Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto

For a sit-down meal with American and Polynesian flare you can’t go wrong with this South Pacific-themed restaurant.

Quick Hits for Noshing and Fast Food

If you’re in a hurry, or just looking for something fast, we recommend trying out some of these Polynesian Village Resort choices:

Capt Cook’s – this is a great fast-service restaurant when you want to fill up and enjoy the parks. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, you’ll find classic American favorites.

Oasis Bar & Grill – if you’re over by the pool and get the munchies, stop in at this quick-service restaurant for American fare and drinks. It’s sure to fuel you up for the next swim session.

Barefoot Bar – Got a hankering for hot dogs and hamburgers while you’re out by the pool? It’s the perfect pit stop between swimming sessions. It also has a great view of Magic Kingdom!

Bar & Lounge

Who says the kids have to have all the fun? If you’re enjoying adult company, you’ll love Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort’s variety of bars and lounges.

You have your choice of a few options:

Trader Sam’s Tiki Terrace– American and Polynesian menu and drinks
Tambu Lounge – flatbreads, Hawaiian appetizers, and drinks

Did You Say Hawaiian Dessert?

Of course, we couldn’t move on from our favorite spots to eat without mentioning our favorite place to get snacks, Pineapple Lanai!

Enjoy Dole Whip, soft serve, and other treats as you soak up the sun. It’s the perfect compliment to a Disney day.

What are the Transportation Options at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort?

As one of the first resorts built on the Disney campus, the Polynesian Village Resort has many options when it comes to transportation. Here’s a list of options for transportation to and from Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort.

Monorail

From the Polynesian Village Resort, you can take the monorail over to Magic Kingdom. You can also ride to the Transportation and Ticket Center (TTC) to go to EPCOT.

Buses

From the Polynesian Resort, you can travel using Disney World resort buses to Animal Kingdom, Hollywood Studios, Disney Springs, or the Transportation and Ticket Center. Buses run regularly, so your wait time is only a few minutes.

Boats

If you want to spend the day in the great outdoors, there’s no better way than to hop on the Blue Line to Disney’s Wilderness Lodge and Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground.

You can spend the day riding bikes, hiking, or riding in canoes.

Conclusion

As one of the first Disney resorts, the Polynesian still impresses. With tons of amenities, plenty of transportation options, loads of dining options, and beautiful views, it’s a great Disney World Destination spot.

If you’re sold on Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, we congratulate you and hope you have a magical time!

If not, stay tuned for the next stop on our tour when we visit Disney’s Wilderness Lodge.

Is Disney Vacation Club Financially Worth it?

Posted on October 15, 2022 by JT Timbs

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Is your family obsessed with everything Disney?

Do you like saving between 40% and 70% on your Disney vacations?

If so, joining the Disney Vacation Club at Disney World Resorts may be the perfect fit for your Disney-loving family!

In this short guide, we break down whether the Disney Vacation Club is worth the investment and how you can capitalize on Disney’s popular Club Level offers.

Let’s explore, shall we!

How Does Disney Vacation Club Work?

Disney Vacation Club is the perfect option for Disney-obsessed families looking to visit often. Club Level allows you to stay at several Disney properties across the United States.

Here is a list of the Disney resorts your family can stay at:

Disneyland
Disney World
Disney Aulani, in Hawaii
Disney Hilton Head Resort in South Carolina
Disney Vero Beach Resort in Vero Beach, Florida

Using a points system, your family can save between 40% to 70% off Disney Resort prices. That includes some of Disney’s nicest properties.

For example, using your Club Level status at Disney Resorts, you can stay in Disney’s Aulani 2-bedroom Ocean Villa for roughly $500 per night. That same room would cost $1,500 per night without your Club Level Walt Disney Resort status.

Just imagine a week-long Hawaii vacation for less than $500 per night, including Disney!

How Do the Disney Vacation Club Points Work?

Disney Vacation Club works off a points system for the home resort of your choosing. Your family can purchase as many points as you wish. Points are provided every year based on your plan and can be banked from year-to-year.

The contract for Disney Vacation Club lasts 50 years, so the points you purchase would be broken down over 50 years.

Even though your family will choose a home resort, you can still choose whatever resort you’d like to stay at each year. So you can use your points to stay at different Disney properties.

Points will vary depending on the Disney property you choose, the size of your room, and the time of year you stay. Here is a break down of the points for 2022 for Beach Club Villas:

Source: https://dvcfan.com/beach-club-villas-2022-dvc-point-chart/

Pro Tips:

Studios are cheap but book up fast.
You can break up your points throughout the year.
You can choose to save points from year to year for a grand Disney vacation.
If you would rather not save for two years, you can borrow from next year’s points.

When choosing your home resort, you’ll want to keep two things in mind:

Annual Dues: Your annual dues can vary based on your home resort.
Booking Window: You can book a vacation at your home resort eleven months in advance and seven months in advance for other Disney properties.

How to Get the Most Out of Your Disney Vacation Club Points

It’s normal to assume that you may not visit Disney every year, and that’s okay. Disney’s Vacation Club is flexible and offers a variety of ways to use your points.

Here are a few options in you’re planning to take a year off:

Bank your points for a dream vacation the following year.
Rent your points using a site like David’s Vacation Rentals.

The great news is that you can even make a little money on your investment by renting out your points. Right now, Club Level owners can rent points starting at $16 per point. With annual dues coming out to around $8 per point. That’s a 100% ROI!

Is Disney Vacation Club Worth It? | DVC Purchase Review | DVC Marketplace Review

Breaking Down the Costs

As of July, the average price per point is around $140/50 years. The price per point for 50 years would be $2.80 plus the cost of annual dues, which hovers around $8.50. That means per point, the cost average is $11.30.

To put that into perspective, a one-week stay at Deluxe Studio would be 134 points times your cost per point would be $1,514.20 with all taxes and fees included.

Keep in mind that a deluxe studio can sleep a family of five, and you’re saving a TON on a November vacation.

Is the Disney Vacation Club Worth It?

So, is the Disney Vacation Club worth it? With savings ranging from 40% to 70% — we say it is! Ultimately, you would have to be the judge.

One way to see if it’s right for you is to rent points before you buy, and we encourage that. Whatever you choose, we hope you have the best Disney experience you can dream up!

We hope you raise your game to a Club Level Disney World Resort experience.

Still Looking for more information on all the Disney World Resorts? Check out our resort reviews!

Top 5 Pools at Disney World for Kids

Posted on September 16, 2022 by JT Timbs

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If you’ve ever traveled to Disney World with young children then you know the importance of booking a resort with the perfect pool.

For some families, the pool is just as important as the parks themselves. So if your children count down the seconds to when they can go back to the hotel and swim, this article is for you!

To help you with your Disney World vacation planning, we created a list of the top five best pools Disney World Resorts offer. Let’s dive in!

5. Doubloon Lagoon

Located at the Port Orleans French Quarter Resort, Doubloon Lagoon is the perfect pool for young children. Your kids will love all 51 feet of the SerpentDragonSnake slide that leads down to a large pool with a band of jazz-playing alligators. It’s a great place to steal some photo opportunities.

Another great feature at Doubloon Lagoon is their splash pad. Since not all Disney pools have a splash zone (yet), it’s an excellent place for your littles who love the water but aren’t ready to swim yet.

For parents, the Mardi Grogs pool bar offers a nice variety of drinks, so you can sit back and sip your cares away while your kids play.

4. The Lost City of Cibola Pool

Your family will want to strap in for an adventure when they visit The Lost City of Cibola Pool, located at Coronado Springs Resort. The Mayan-themed pool boasts a giant pyramid, elaborate Myan ruins, and a 123-foot water slide.

Other great amenities include a kiddie pool, Iguana arcade, and a play area for kids. Parents will enjoy the siesta bar, white sand volleyball courts, and Disney’s largest hot tub. With a capacity of 22, there’s plenty of room to soak away those sore park-hopping muscles.

3. Lava Pool

For your Moana-loving brood, the Polynesian Resort offers a Hawaiian-themed pool with a volcano, waterfalls, a tiki-themed splash area, and an awesome volcano-traversing 142-foot slide! It’s the perfect spot for insta-worthy photos!

Other amenities include an infinity-edge hot tub, nearby beach areas, and a gorgeous view of Seven Seas Lagoon. It’s safe to say that Lava Pool has the best views of any pool on the Disney campus.

Mom and Dad can enjoy drinks at the Barefoot Pool Bar, and the whole family will love the Dole Whips at Pineapple Lanai. The Lava Pool offers fun in and outside of the pool.

2. Big Blue Pool

Your Nemo-loving youngsters will love Big Blue Pool, located at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort. As the largest pool on Disney property, it is an ocean-loving oasis for kids of any age.

Some unique features available at Big Blue pool are the large splash zone for young swimmers, a playground area for kids, and giant set pieces inspired by Finding Nemo.

Parents will love the Drop-Off Pool Bar that boasts spiked Dole whips and smoothies with rum. It’s also the perfect place to grab snacks and drinks for hungry little swimmers.

Swimmers young and old will love listening to music as they swim underwater. For a truly magical swimming experience, you can’t beat Big Blue Pool.

1. Stormalong Bay

Finally, we come to the pinnacle of all pools on Disney World properties — Stormalong Bay. Boasting three acres of aquatic fun, it’s a swimmer’s paradise.

From their sand-bottomed pool to their lazy river — this resort has it all. Kids will love sliding down the 230-foot life-like shipwrecked water slide. It’s the largest water slide at any Disney resort. Meanwhile, parents will enjoy the elevated tanning deck and choice of three different whirlpool spas.

If that wasn’t enough, there’s also a quiet and secluded kiddie pool just behind the shipwreck slide for young swimmers. Parents and children will find solace in the beach-like sand-bottomed pool with tons of space for playing in the sand and building sandcastles.

Hurricane Hannah’s Waterside Bar and Grill is the perfect spot to wind down. Their small, yet mighty menu of tasty food is the perfect respite after a long day of water adventures.

Stormalong Bay Pool at Yacht & Beach Club Resort

Which Will You Choose?

We hope our list of the best pools Disney Resorts offer helps you narrow down your vacation planning options.

No matter what Disney Resort you choose from the list, your family will have a great time soaking up the sun and splashing around.

Want to learn even more about the resorts? Check out our reviews!

Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort Review

Posted on August 29, 2022 by JT Timbs

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Caribbean Beach is a moderate resort with excellent amenities for children and families. If a luxury resort is out of your price range, but you want something more than a value resort, then Caribbean Beach is the place to be. Journey into a world where time slows down and your cares fade away in the midst of Calypso melodies. Resort guests are invited into a relaxing paradise with vibrant colors and lush surroundings.

Caribbean Beach Resort Location

The property is located near Epcot and Hollywood Studios, making it ideal for guests who like to spend time at these parks. It’s also close to Disney Springs, which is excellent for shopping or dining. There are six beautiful villages with two-story buildings. They are named Trinidad North, Trinidad South, Jamaica, Barbados, Aruba, and Martinique. They are located around Barefoot Bay, a 45-acre lake. Each village has its own theme and swimming pool and includes sand beaches, playgrounds, lounge chairs, and comfy hammocks. The tropical resort gives you the feeling that you are in the islands rather than Orlando, Florida.

Room Types

The Caribbean Beach Resort offers a variety of room types, including standard rooms with two queen beds, two queen beds with a child-size pull-down bed, and a king room. There are also several pirate-themed rooms with two double beds. The preferred rooms are more expensive but closer to the center of the action and the dining area.

During their island-themed vacation, guests have easy access to check-in, concierge services, hotel amenities, and dining at Old Port Royale. Here you will find the Calypso Trading Post, which sells resort-themed clothing and merchandise in addition to the standard Disney clothing and souvenirs found throughout the resorts. Snacks, sundries, and convenience items are also available at the shop.

Caribbean Beach Dining Options

Eat at Centertown Market, a colorful counter-service restaurant fashioned after a street market that serves classic breakfast dishes and savory Latin- and Caribbean-inspired meals. Centertown Market also has a grab-and-go section with a variety of delectable items.

Sebastian’s Bistro, also at The Old Port Royale, is a charming island-style restaurant where you’ll be delighted with family dishes infused with rich Latin and Caribbean flavors. The Banana Cabana full-service pool bar and lounge is a popular spot where you can get your island vibe or sit and relax on the deck overlooking the lake.

The Spyglass Grill in the Trinidad section offers counter-service ordering and covered outdoor seating. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are all available. Joffrey’s Coffee is a quick serve beverage and snack stand near the Skyliner transportation station. This is convenient if you are in a hurry and need a bite before heading to the parks.

Walk Towards Cinderella’s Castle at Magic Kingdom

Resort Amenities

The main attractions are the Fuentes del Morro Pool and the surrounding area. Kids and kids at heart can imagine themselves as pirates at this old Spanish fort with a zero-entry pool, two slides, and water cannons. Climb an 82-foot staircase to the top of a turret for a ride down the enormous 102ft slide that runs through the fortress wall! There is a shorter slide and a shipwreck play area, complete with mini slides, a crow’s nest, and a barrel that periodically downpours, which is a favorite among kids. There is also a 12-person spa for relaxing after a day at the parks.

When you’re not playing pirates or relaxing by the pool, there are plenty of other things to do. You can play volleyball on white sand beaches, take a jog, or walk the 0.6-mile course in the lush landscape surrounding Bay Lake. A nightly movie under the stars is offered on Caribbean Cay. Another popular activity is sitting around an old-fashioned campfire in the Martinique beach area, complete with marshmallow roasting.

Transportation Options

The resort is big, so if your room is on the opposite side and you don’t want to walk, they have an internal bus service. Transportation to the parks and Disney Springs is available by bus or you might wish to check out the new Skyliner Gondola service, which has made the Caribbean Beach Resort its central hub. It will connect you to Hollywood Studios, Epcot, and a few exclusive resorts.

Pluto Gondola on the Skyliner at Walt Disney World

Overall Thought Caribbean Beach Resort

There are so many advantages to bringing your family to this beautiful resort that you may wonder if there are any disadvantages to staying here. There aren’t many, but here are a few.

For starters, the resort is enormous, making bus transportation difficult. They must pick up passengers at each village of the resort. You should add extra time to your schedule if that is your preferred mode of transportation. Although the Skyliner Gondola is a delightful new service, getting to the hub can be a bit of a walk, not to mention the long lines to board.

It is also quite a distance to walk from the resort’s far reaches to Old Port Royale if you stay in one of the outermost villages. Some buildings may require at least 15 minutes to get there. I recommend staying closer and paying for a preferred room.

Another drawback is that the rooms are slightly smaller than other moderate hotel rooms at Disney. The pirate-themed rooms are the furthest away and have only two double beds, unlike the other rooms with queen beds. It would be helpful if you also remembered that there are no elevators. Guests with limited mobility will be inconvenienced.

Overall, the Caribbean Beach Resort is one of the more stunning resorts at Walt Disney World. The unique features and prime location make this a great choice. If you want a more relaxing vacation with plenty of fun opportunities, you will likely enjoy your stay here. That being said, if you don’t like a lot of walking, you will want to choose a room near the Old Port Royale. If taking crowded buses with many stops is not your thing, you will want a room near the Skyliner Gondola hub.

Still Looking for more resort ideas? Go check out our Resort Review page!