Hi Katelyn,
There is nothing better than a multi-generational trip to Disney World. I love seeing the magic of Disney World through the eyes of my children, but there is something special about watching a grandparent's reaction to that experience as well. I always recommend planning for taking breaks when traveling with little ones and seniors who may need rest mid-day because it really does help make sure everyone is enjoying their time at the theme parks.
You have picked two stellar options. I have stayed at both
Disney's Contemporary Resort and
Disney's Wilderness Lodge and love them both. Convenience is a major factor for both of these locations, especially when you plan to spend a lot of time at Magic Kingdom. I recommend also thinking about the vibe you are going for on your vacation. While I love the joy and bustle of the Contemporary Resort, I often opt for the Wilderness Lodge instead because it offers a more peaceful respite from the excitement of the parks. I find it much easier to nap and rest at the Wilderness Lodge because the main building at the Contemporary Resort can stay quite loud later in the evening.
Since your main question was travel time, let's get into the details of your options at both locations. Disney's Contemporary Resort has the most transportation options of the two resorts. When staying here, you can walk, board the water taxi, or take the monorail to Magic Kingdom. The walk takes 5-10 minutes, depending on how slow you move, and the monorail will take about 10 minutes because it stops at the other monorail resorts on your way to the Magic Kingdom. On the way home, you are the first stop, which feels extra special when you are tired. The monorail will also take you to EPCOT with a quick transfer at the Transportation and Ticket Center. Due to the transfer and potential wait times for a monorail, I would budget 30 minutes for this trip. To get to Hollywood Studios and Animal Kingdom, you will hop on the bus located right outside the entrance. Both of these rides will also take about 30 minutes.
When staying at
Disney's Wilderness Lodge, you will have the option to take a bus or board the
water taxi for your ride to Magic Kingdom. The water taxi takes about 15 minutes once you board the boat, but be aware that these are not always running, and when they are running, it is typically run at 15 or 30-minute intervals, so you may spend some time waiting for one to arrive. To get to Hollywood Studios, EPCOT, and Animal Kingdom, you will board the bus. The bus ride between the Lodge and both Hollywood Studios and EPCOT takes about 15 minutes, but I factor in at least 30 minutes of travel time because you will often wait for a bus to arrive. When traveling to Animal Kingdom, the ride takes about 30 minutes plus wait time.
Good luck making such a tough decision! No matter which resort you choose, your family will have an amazing time.
Happy Planning,
Jenna