Hello Kris!
I just spoke with a VERY HELPFUL Cast Member about your question. She said that the travel time from the South Garden Wing at
Disney's Contemporary Resort to the Monorail would be more than five minutes, but less than 10 minutes.
For your second question, I believe the answer is all about preference. For me, I LOVE
Disney's Polynesian Resort because of the Hawaiian theme and "feel" all throughout this incredible resort. I would choose Disney's Polynesian Resort over Disney's Contemporary Resort because of this, regardless of how long it would take to walk to the Monorail. However, if your preference is a "contemporary" feel, then you have definitely made the right choice.
Regardless of where you stay, I KNOW your family is going to have a MAGICAL time! If you have other questions, please let me know!
"See You REAL Soon!"
Wes