The
Contemporary would be the most convenient. You can walk to the Magic Kingdom. There is monorail access to the Magic Kingdom and Epcot.
It offers table service restaurants including Chef Mickey’s for fun character meals and the California Grill for fine dining with a tremendous view. The Contemporary has convention facilities so you’ll see people in business attire. The hustle and bustle of this resort while exciting doesn’t seem relaxing to me.
The Magic Kingdom views from certain rooms, however, are superior. Watching the fireworks from the balcony of one of these rooms is delightful. I’ll share with you one of my own reluctances about this resort. I do not like the Tower’s interior hallways that lead to the open atrium. I’m fearful of heights and when my son was younger, I was very nervous walking down the hallways. Now, that is totally my own subjective view. The rooms have been nicely renovated.
The
Animal Kingdom Lodge is very special. While the rooms are much smaller than those at the Contemporary, the attention to detail in the theming of this resort is breath-taking. I feel transported on a safari adventure as soon as we approach the hotel.
This lodge is remote and only offers bus transportation to all of your Walt Disney World destinations. The remoteness adds to its charm and the relaxing nature of the resort.
I find the Animal Kingdom Lodge a true escape from reality. Whether I’m sitting on our balcony gazing at the giraffes, or savoring the sights and smells in the lobby, or lounging at the pool, this resort is always refreshing and memorable. You will also find some wonderful table service restaurants such as Jiko and Boma.
Let me know if I can help any further to narrow your options. Aloha!