Welcome to planDisney, Kate! FDR once said, "There is nothing so American as our national parks." If you've ever visited one, there is something very grand but at the same time familiar about
Disney's Wilderness Lodge. This resort truly celebrates American craftsmanship. Take some time to marvel at the two totem poles, which were hand-carved and painted by a Native American historian. And my favorite thing to do is sit in a rocking chair by the 82-foot-tall stone fireplace that re-creates the strata found in the Grand Canyon!
I'm happy to report that rooms on the resort's ground floor have a patio, while the remainder of the rooms on the upper floor have balconies. I can't think of anything better than watching the sunrise with a cup of coffee from my balcony; if you have your heart set on this, call the Disney Reservation Center (407) 560-CHAT (2428), and ask them to make a note on your reservation. Sometimes, you can also request an upper floor when you do
online check-in through your
My Disney Experience account. The rooms recently got a refresh, and I love the added space under the beds to stash luggage. Behind the beds, there is a fun new accent wall, and if you look closely, you'll find Chip 'n' Dale!
While you're there, Kate, make sure to visit
Geyser Point Bar & Grill. The restaurant features an open-air deck on the shores of Bay Lake, which will feel fantastic after traveling from the Northeast in December (and what makes it even better is that no reservations are needed)! While you can't go wrong with anything here, the Bison Cheeseburger is a big hit with my family. Have a magical time!
Eean