WL vs. AKL?

[actioncookbook]

So I thought I was committed to the AKL but I just looked up WL - same price.


:brick::brick::brick::brick::brick::brick:

Which would you prefer? We plan on using one day to explore the resort, relax, and go to DTD. The others are parks sun up to sun down.

Thanks in advance!

 

[disneygirl1]

Tough question!!! I absolutely loved AKL when we stayed there in December, but WL has that off the beaten path quiet atmosphere I just love. Who is all traveling with you? If you have kids, I definitely think AKL is worth it. They have SO many fun activites to do and the night vision goggles were a huge hit with my 8 year old. I have to say there was nothing like waking up every morning, sitting on the balcony, coffee in hand and seeing animals roam the savanna!

Do you plan on being at MK alot? If so WL may be better since its just a quick boat ride away.

 

[slappy magoo]

AKL is more unique
WL is more "Disney"
AKL has a new incredible water-play are for kids
WL is a walkway/bus ride/boat ride away from Fort Wilderness and all their amenities including nighttime movies, campfires, pony rides, etc.
AKL has one extra sit down restaurant, but it's also a higher-capacity resort, which results in their food court tending to be more slammed than WL's despite Roaring Forks being tinier.
Both resorts have sit down restaurants open for lunch, but WL's would be more "accessible" for finicky eaters.
And last thing about food, AKL has my favorite buffet (Boma). WL has one of my favorite higher-end restaurants (Artist Point) and Whispering Canyon is one of the "funner" restaurants on property.
AKL has the savannah, and a dedicated bus line.
WL has boat rides to the MK and boat rentals.
AKL has the better gym
Are you planning on working out on vacation?
Right, don't know why I brought that up.

I've stayed in both, and it's a "your mileage may vary" kind of sentiment, but when we used Disney transportation, AKL's line seemed to be more reliable. If you're really planning on doing mostly parks from sun up to sun down (and if you don't have your own car), I'd think reliable transportation would be the only criterion worth a hoot. In this, I'd give AKL a slight edge.

 

[actioncookbook]

My girlfriend and I are the only ones going. I am 22, she is 21. We're taking a last minute get away to celebrate my recent acceptance of a job offer. Just graduated in May and will be starting full time teaching in my hometown in August!!:sohappy::sohappy:

Sorry, I digress.

 

[disney magic 06]

They are fairly similar really. The main difference is AKL has animals (which can obviously get fragrant at times) WL has a lake with various boats etc. I prefer WL but I'm biased, it is my favourite resort. In fact, they are my two favourites, I'm sure you'll have a great time whichever you choose.

 

[KaliSplash]

Wilderness Lodge in a heartbeat. I prefer the Pacific Northwest theming to the African theme, although the animals available at AKL are unparalleled. Also prefer the water activities at WL, MUCH better than AKL. And the boat ride to MK is a wonderful thing. AKL has better bus service, WL does some sharing. Still, I'd always pick WL.

 

[HouCuseChickie]

Last trip we stayed at WL and my brother/SIL stayed at AKL. While I enjoyed the MK convenience factors with WL since we have young kids and I was thrilled to be able to see the fireworks from our balcony...I was pretty envious of their Savannah view. On the flip side, they said they would have preferred WL. We went during December so the WL decorations won that battle. While we're staying at the Contemporary our next trip, DH and I have both said we'd like savannah view at AKL for the trip after that if we opt to stay off the monorail line since savannah view trumps woods view in our minds.

Have you thought about splitting your stay between the 2?

 

[coachwnh]

just spent time at both just a few weeks back ( 8 days AKL - 4 days WL) have stayed at WL twice. like them both, but have to say if you are getting the savannah view, then AKL. also, for a few extra bucks, the club level offers the savannah view. its the cheapest club level of all the resorts. worth it if you choose AKL and have never stayed club. club is not worth the extra couple hundred dollars at WL.

 

[worldfanatic]

My guess is because of it's near MK location, the WL will get more love here.
And it's a great resort.

But I prefer the AKL's pool, lounge, gift shop, lobby, restaurants and guest room views.

So for me, it's a no brainer, AKL.:wave: