Welcome back to planDisney, Caitlyn. It is always great to see your name pop up, and I truly appreciate the continued trust you place in us for thoughts, opinions, and recommendations as you plan your visits to the
Most Magical Place on Earth, the Happiest Place on Earth, and
Where Magic Meets the Sea!
You picked a fantastic resort to call home.
Disney’s Wilderness Lodge is one of my favorite places on property. From the moment you walk into that stunning lobby with the massive fireplace and the warm, woodsy design, you feel like you’ve escaped to a secluded national park lodge. Add in the walking paths around the resort and the boat transportation to Magic Kingdom, and you’ve got a place that blends peaceful relaxation with easy access to all the fun. And of course,
Whispering Canyon Cafe is always a lively way to start or end a day. If you like hearty food with a side of humor, it’s hard to beat.
As for your question about balconies, you’re absolutely right. At Wilderness Lodge, a handful of rooms, especially on the top floor of the north wing, have balconies that feel a bit more enclosed because of the roofline. These spaces still offer an outdoor area, but with a solid upper border rather than the more open railing you see on most other floors.
If you’re hoping for a traditional open balcony, the best thing to do is make that request with a Cast Member when you arrive. Let them know what you prefer and that you’re willing to wait a bit if needed. In my experience, that extra flexibility goes a long way. Room assignments involve a lot of moving parts, so it’s always best to approach the request with patience and understanding, but Cast Members do their best to honor those preferences when they can.
Since you mentioned something specific like balcony style, I’d actually recommend skipping online check-in for this trip. While the
direct-to-room feature is incredibly convenient and often gets you into your room earlier, speaking to someone in person gives you the best chance of securing the type of balcony setup you’re looking for.
Once you’re settled into your room, the transportation options are also part of what makes Wilderness Lodge special. That peaceful boat ride to Magic Kingdom is one of my favorite ways to start a park day. It’s relaxing, scenic, and sets the tone beautifully. And heading back in the evening, gliding across Bay Lake under the night sky, is just as good.
Caitlyn, if you’d like help narrowing down room categories, location preferences, or want tips for making the most of your stay at Wilderness Lodge,
send another question my way anytime. I’m always happy to help you plan your next great Disney stay.
Brent