We are going to WDW at the end of May and are trying to decide whether to stay at the AKL or Yacht Club. We have a boy 8 and a girl 5. Both love animals but we're worried about the location of the AKL. We will have our own car but want to limit driving.”

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Answer 1

To say that you have a wonderful dilemma is an understatement! I have stayed at both properties, and while very different, both are spectacular in my opinion. The Animal Kingdom Lodge is truly a unique resort. A savannah-view affords your kids the ability to peak out your window and see wildlife in its natural environment. The African watering-hole-themed, pool is lovely, and the lobby of the hotel is magnificent. Jiko and Boma (the two table service restaurants ) are among our favorites at Disney. Transportation to and from the Lodge to all Disney parks is via bus. In my experience, the buses run frequently, and we never had a wait that was significantly different from that at other resorts. The Lodge is further from Magic Kingdom, Epcot and Hollywood Studios, so your ride on the bus is slightly longer.

The Yacht Club shares with its neighbor property, The Beach Club, what might be the best-themed, pools (its actually a mini waterpark) at Disney, Stormalong Bay. In addition, the resort's location is outstanding. You can walk to both Epcot and Hollywood Studios. The Boardwalk offers fun evening entertainment options steps away from your resort, and a host of excellent dining options. Its proximity to Epcot and Hollywood Studios makes it easy to see Illuminations or Fantasmic in the evening.

In short, if location is your highest priority, and you plan to spend a lot of time at Epcot and/or Hollywood Studios, I would probably suggest the Yacht Club, and schedule a trip to Animal Kingdom to satisfy your kids love of animals. If most of your time will be spent at the Magic Kingdom, you will be taking a bus from both resorts, an the few extra minutes on the bus from Animal Kingdom shouldn't seem significant. The opportunity to "live" on a savannah is truly amazing.

We are going to WDW at the end of May and are trying to decide whether to stay at the AKL or Yacht Club. We have a boy 8 and a girl 5. Both love animals but we're worried about the location of the AKL. We will have our own car but want to limit driving.”

Meet the Panelist: Tanya, New Jersey

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