Hi Mary,
Welcome back to the Disney Parks Moms Panel! I am happy to discuss these
deluxe resort hotels with you!
Although my family adores Disney's Polynesian Village Resort, it can be beyond our budget at times. When we want to keep those deluxe resort amenities with access to the Resort Monorail, we stay at Disney's Contemporary Resort. The Garden Wing rooms are actually just perfect for us - they are typically less expensive than the rooms in the main tower. We request a room on the first floor with a patio. The laundry facilities are also in the Garden Wing, so we use those during our visit. And, we always dine at Chef Mickey's during our stay!
If booking a room in the Garden Wing, know that the rooms in the 5000 section are generally closer to the main tower while the rooms in the 6000 section are a bit farther but some have views of Bay Lake. With a little one your daughter's age, Disney's Contemporary Resort would be my choice because it also has a walking path to Magic Kingdom. It takes us no more than 10 minutes to walk from the resort to Magic Kingdom. On nights that we leave Magic Kingdom after the fireworks, that pathway is like gold!
Mary, having said that, Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge is a gorgeous resort with stunning views of the animals. If you do not plan much park time, this resort is an oasis for relaxation. Disney's Beach Club Resort is within walking distance to Epcot and would give you access to the shops, dining and entertainment in the BoardWalk area. Of course, I have to highlight
Stormalong Bay at Disney's Beach Club Resort. It is amazing!
Happy choosing!
Magic, memories and Minnie Mouse hugs,
Donyell