Hi Kathleen!
Welcome to planDisney.
The good news is that there is no charge for you to stop by and visit your family at Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge, which is a wonderful Resort to explore. There is so much to see, starting with the impressive lobby, and I highly recommend the Resort gift shop -
Zawadi Marketplace - for some very unique souvenirs. Ask for a 'Wildlife Field Guide' from the Front Desk, and see if you can spot any of the 30 species out on the Savannah. Your family will also find a copy of the 'Wildlife Field Guide' in their hotel room if they want to get a head-start on this challenge!
I recently shared a breakfast reservation with my friends at
Boma - Flavors of Africa, and I am looking forward to enjoying another delicious breakfast buffet there again. The breakfast service continues until 11.30 am so you could start your visit with a meal together (reservations are required and highly recommended, and can be made up to 60 days in advance). If you fancy something more casual, the Quick-Service restaurant
The Mara offers a wide choice of food to be enjoyed inside or if you prefer, take it outside to sit in the sunshine at the tables with a fabulous view overlooking the pool.
Unfortunately, it is not permitted for visitors to use the pool at a Disney Resort hotel - they are only for the use of guests with a room reservation at that hotel. You may be required to show your proof of residency at the pool entry point.
If you want to enjoy some family pool time, don't forget the
Disney water parks! With something for everyone in your party - from the most adventurous to the most sedentary. Disney's Typhoon Lagoon is currently open, but it might be Disney's Blizzard Beach that is open during your visit. Take it at a slower pace around the lazy river -
Castaway Creek, or
Cross Country Creek - or grab a snack and a drink and relax on the beach. One-day tickets can be purchased at the Ticket Window at the water parks.
Disney buses will take you to Disney's Typhoon Lagoon from your Disney Resort hotel - via transfer to another bus at Disney Springs, or to Disney's Blizzard Beach via a transfer at Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park. I often use a Lyft rideshare to/from the water parks - just download the Lyft app, where you choose your vehicle, and see all the various prices. It's so convenient and quick, and has always been a reliable choice for me, and fairly inexpensive.
Please come back and visit us if you have any further questions, and you can
send me a direct question if you wish. We will be happy to help you plan your magical holiday to Walt Disney World!
Sue