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  • On Mar 7, 2010
    Kerstin from CO Asked Note: This answer was provided prior to the change to planDisney and may still contain references to Disney Parks Moms Panel.

    Experiences, policies, pricing and other offerings are subject to change and may have changed since the date of this answer.

    We are planning a trip to Disney world in Oct. The girls will be 2 and 9 and we are trying to decide if we are better off to stay in a hotel near the Magic Kingdom or somewhere in Downtown Disney. Does anyone have any suggestions or advice?

    Hi Kerstin!

    My family has spent a lot of time in the hotels at Downtown Disney over the years.  They are nice hotels, close to the magic, and are reasonably priced.  However, if your budget allows it, I recommend staying in a Disney Deluxe Resort, especially a Magic Kingdom resort.  Staying in a Magic Kingdom resort will allow you to easily return to your hotel during the day for a nap, swim in the pool, etc.  That may be important for your 2 year old.

    The three monorail resorts are the Polynesian, Grand Floridian, and the Contemporary.  Of those three, I recommend the Polynesian, though all are spectacular and I'm sure other panelists would give a completely different opinion.  I just think your girls would enjoy the Polynesian; your 9 year old may especially enjoy the volcano pool!  You can also walk from the Polynesian to the Transportation and Ticket Center, providing you direct monorail access to Epcot, though you could always just take the resort monorail and then transfer to an Epcot monorail.  If you stay there, consider having dinner in 'Ohana.  I think it is a great place to dine!

    Another option that is generally less expensive than a monorail resort is the Wilderness Lodge.  It is on Bay Lake and connected to the Magic Kingdom via boat service.  It is beautifully themed and most young guests love it.  It is my absolute favorite resort on property.  My family especially enjoys dining at the Whispering Canyon Cafe.

    If you do stay at a Downtown Disney resort hotel, remember that these are independent properties and with the exception of the Hilton, you won't have access to Extra Magic Hours.  Also, the hotels run their own shuttle bus service so you will not be able to take a Disney bus to and from your hotel.

    Enjoy planning and write back if you have any more questions! 
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Meet the Panelist: Bernie, Maryland

I am an engineer with NASA with prior Air Force service. My wife and I have two boys, ages 13 and 8. At home, I'm known as the "Disney Guy" and I've enjoyed helping guests plan their Walt Disney World, Disney Cruise Line, and Disneyland vacations. Learn More About Bernie

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