Hi Lori! Welcome back to the Disney Parks Moms Panel!
First, I have to say that I love
Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge! It feels so peaceful and quiet to me that I truly feel like I've entered a completely different world. The smells and sounds in the lobby are soothing and there are lots of hidden Mickeys to be found there.
In the past when free dining has been offered, Disney Deluxe Resort hotels have received the Disney Dining Plan (one Quick-Service meal, one Table-Service meal and two snacks per person, per night of stay) as part of their vacation package. When this Special Offer has been released for dates during our stays, I have called to apply this offer to our vacation and have upgraded to the Disney Deluxe Dining Plan and only had to pay the difference in price between the two plans. If this deal is offered again this year and is during your stay, you should be able to upgrade and only pay the difference as well, as long as nothing has changed. Simply watch the
Special Offers page, then call (407) 939-5277 and speak with a Cast Member and they can guide you through the process.
As far as animal watching goes, you can certainly walk around to see the animals! Even when my family isn't staying at this Disney Resort hotel, we often come by for a meal at Sanaa, Jiko - The Cooking Place or Boma - Flavors of Africa, and we always plan enough time to step outside and watch the animals for a bit. Our kids love it! Of course, there is nothing like having a Savanna View room and animal watching from your balcony with a cup of coffee or tea in hand. If you can upgrade to Savanna View, I encourage you to do so!
Whatever you decide, I know you are going to have the best time! Please visit us again with any other questions you may have!
Tabitha