My advice when visiting WDW, especially with young children, is to remember that
all of WDW is quite a splurge for their young minds. My son was amazed by seeing Herbie the Love Bug at the All Star Movies Resort at age 6 as much as he's been enchanted by the Grand Floridian.
In fact, on our most recent visit to WDW, we were originally booked at the Animal Kingdom Lodge which my son was excited about returning to as he hasn't been there since he was "little". He's now 8. My husband and I also find the Animal Kingdom Lodge to be a beautiful resort.
Yet, I decided to switch to the Caribbean Beach Resort for two reasons.
1 - to save money
2 - to try out the new pool
I think a 3 year old would love either resort. At the Animal Kingdom Lodge, it's all about the animals and the exotic atmosphere. I love the music, decor and even the smell that wafts throughout the lobby. A breakfast at Boma's is a great way to start your day. The pool area is delightfully relaxing, especially at night time.
At the Caribbean Beach Resort, your son will love the kid meals that are served in sand pails. The sandy beaches with playgrounds are wonderful for an energetic boy. The new pirate themed pool is beautiful. And your little pirate is sure to love the water play area complete with pirate ship with squirting hoses, small slides, a bucket that dumps water and Cast Members that frequently play games with the kids.
So, rest assured that your son's
birthday can be celebrated in a special way at either resort. Perhaps you could use the money you save by staying at CBR to enjoy other
birthday surprises.