Wilderness Lodge Vs Animal Kingdom Lodge: Which Is Best
If you're planning a Disney vacation and can't decide between Wilderness Lodge and Animal Kingdom Lodge, you're not alone. Both resorts offer unique experiences that cater to different tastes and preferences. In this article, we'll delve into the details of each resort, comparing their amenities, rooms, dining options, and overall atmosphere to help you make an informed decision.
Immersive Theming
Both Wilderness Lodge and Animal Kingdom Lodge boast immersive theming that transports you to a different world. Wilderness Lodge is designed to resemble a classic American wilderness lodge, with a grand lobby featuring a massive stone fireplace and ornate woodwork. The resort's rustic charm is reminiscent of the great outdoors, making it perfect for nature lovers and those seeking a cozy retreat.
Animal Kingdom Lodge, on the other hand, is inspired by the savannas of Africa, with a design that reflects the vibrant colors and textures of the African wilderness. The resort's lobby features a stunning atrium with a large tree and comfortable seating areas, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Rooms and Accommodations
Both resorts offer a range of rooms and accommodations to suit different budgets and preferences. Wilderness Lodge features standard rooms, club-level rooms, and suites, all of which are decorated in a rustic, natural style. Animal Kingdom Lodge also offers standard rooms, club-level rooms, and suites, with decor inspired by African savannas.
One key difference between the two resorts is the availability of DVC (Disney Vacation Club) rooms. Wilderness Lodge has a dedicated DVC wing, Boulder Ridge Villas, which offers studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom villas. Animal Kingdom Lodge also has a DVC wing, Kidani Village, which features studio, one-bedroom, two-bedroom, and three-bedroom villas.
Dining Options
Both resorts offer a range of dining options, from quick-service meals to table-service restaurants. Wilderness Lodge is home to several popular restaurants, including Whispering Canyon Cafe, which serves American cuisine with a focus on BBQ and sandwiches. Roaring Fork, a quick-service restaurant, offers breakfast and lunch options, while the resort's signature restaurant, Artist Point, serves gourmet American cuisine with a focus on steak and seafood.
Animal Kingdom Lodge features several dining options, including Jiko, a table-service restaurant serving African, Indian, and Mediterranean cuisine. Sanaa, another table-service restaurant, offers Indian-inspired cuisine with a focus on sustainable ingredients. The resort's quick-service restaurant, Pizzafari, serves pizza, salads, and sandwiches.
Recreational Activities
Both resorts offer a range of recreational activities, including pools, water parks, and children's play areas. Wilderness Lodge features a large pool area with a waterslide and hot tub, as well as a children's play area and arcade. The resort also offers a range of outdoor activities, including fishing, archery, and horseback riding.
Animal Kingdom Lodge features two pool areas, including a large pool with a waterslide and a quieter pool area for those seeking relaxation. The resort also offers a range of outdoor activities, including wildlife viewing areas and a children's play area.
Which Resort is Best for You?
Ultimately, the decision between Wilderness Lodge and Animal Kingdom Lodge depends on your personal preferences and priorities. If you're looking for a rustic, natural atmosphere and a range of outdoor activities, Wilderness Lodge may be the better choice. If you prefer a more exotic, African-inspired atmosphere and a focus on wildlife viewing, Animal Kingdom Lodge may be the way to go.
Pros and Cons of Each Resort
Here's a summary of the pros and cons of each resort:
Wilderness Lodge
Pros:
- Rustic, natural atmosphere
- Range of outdoor activities
- Convenient location near Magic Kingdom
- Several dining options, including Whispering Canyon Cafe and Artist Point
Cons:
- Limited DVC options
- Some rooms may be smaller than those at Animal Kingdom Lodge
Animal Kingdom Lodge
Pros:
- Exotic, African-inspired atmosphere
- Range of DVC options, including Kidani Village
- Several dining options, including Jiko and Sanaa
- Wildlife viewing areas and outdoor activities
Cons:
- Further from Magic Kingdom than Wilderness Lodge
- Some rooms may be more expensive than those at Wilderness Lodge
Gallery of Wilderness Lodge and Animal Kingdom Lodge
FAQs
What is the difference between Wilderness Lodge and Animal Kingdom Lodge?
+Wilderness Lodge and Animal Kingdom Lodge are two Disney resorts that offer different themes and experiences. Wilderness Lodge is designed to resemble a classic American wilderness lodge, while Animal Kingdom Lodge is inspired by the savannas of Africa.
Which resort is closer to Magic Kingdom?
+Wilderness Lodge is closer to Magic Kingdom, with a driving distance of approximately 2 miles. Animal Kingdom Lodge is approximately 4 miles from Magic Kingdom.
Do both resorts offer DVC options?
+Yes, both resorts offer DVC options. Wilderness Lodge has a dedicated DVC wing, Boulder Ridge Villas, while Animal Kingdom Lodge has a DVC wing, Kidani Village.
We hope this article has helped you decide between Wilderness Lodge and Animal Kingdom Lodge. Whether you choose the rustic charm of Wilderness Lodge or the exotic atmosphere of Animal Kingdom Lodge, you're sure to have a magical Disney vacation.