Mom and daughter on Expedition Everest; Animal Kingdom
  • On Feb 4, 2010
    Jennifer 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.

    I am planning a trip to WDW with my 12 year daughter during the summer. I have narrowed down our choices to OKW and SS. Would you recommend one over the other? Also, what buildings would be the best to stay in?

    Hi Jennifer:

    These are both great choices. Old Key West is immersed in a Florida Keys theme and Saratoga Springs possesses an equestrian Victorian-style theme. OKW and SS are spread out and cover a lot of property. Both OKW and SS are Deluxe Villa Resorts and boast similar services and amenities. The pools are great spots at both locations.  While it's a close call between the two, in my view, SS would come out slightly ahead.

    For me, a big advantage of SS is that parts of the resort are within short walking distance to the restaurants, shops, and attractions in Downtown Disney. In addition to quick and easy access to Downtown Disney, being close to Downtown Disney also means you can also take advantage of direct buses from Downtown Disney to other resorts. When we travel to Disney, my family often likes to eat at restaurants at other resorts. When staying at SS, we can save time and still use Disney's free transportation system with a quick walk to Downtown Disney to catch a direct bus to the resort destination without having to make a transfer. Request a room in the Congress Park section of SS to be close to Downtown Disney. What makes the decision between OKW and SS such a close call is that you can also walk from OKW to Downtown Disney, commencing from a trail near the OKW South Point area, but it's a further walk.  There is also boat service from OKW to Downtown Disney.  While I find the boat ride pleasant, waiting for boat service will likely add to your travel time.

    If you plan to use the spa, the Saratoga Springs Spa is incredible and a must visit. I also enjoy the dining at SS. I find their sit-down restaurant, The Turf Club, to be a top-notch "undiscovered" gem of Disney dining. While you don’t have to stay at SS to enjoy The Turf Club, it's nice to know it's right on property.

    Enjoy your vacation.
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Meet the Panelist: Jonas, New York

I am a family man and huge Disney fan raising two awesome and rambunctious boys.  As Disney Vacation Club members, we travel to Walt Disney World often. Learn More About Jonas

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