Disney’s Wilderness Lodge Resort Review

Embarking on a Disney World vacation brings with it the promise of magic, adventure, and the ever-important question: where to stay? Nestled within the sprawling enchantment of Walt Disney World Resort, Disney’s Wilderness Lodge stands as a testament to the beauty of the great American Northwest, offering families an escape to a rustic yet luxurious retreat. This review dives deep into our recent stay at Wilderness Lodge, providing insights into everything from room amenities to dining options, aiming to help you decide if this is the perfect Disney resort for your family’s next magical adventure.

Disney’s Wilderness Lodge is a deluxe resort inspired by the National Parks of the American Northwest. It is an homage to natural beauty, complete with towering totem poles, a grand lobby that speaks to the heart of outdoor adventure, and a landscape rich with towering pines and flowing waters. This resort does not just offer a stay; it immerses you in a storyline, one where nature’s grandeur meets Disney’s unmatched hospitality.

Category

As a deluxe resort, Wilderness Lodge is positioned to offer a higher tier of accommodations, dining, and recreational activities within the Walt Disney World Resort spectrum. This category is designed for those looking for an elevated Disney experience, combining the allure of detailed theming with the comforts and conveniences expected from a premium resort offering.

Deluxe Resort Comparison – Understanding Disney’s Resort categories

Theming

The magic of Wilderness Lodge lies in its ability to transport guests to the heart of a lush, Northwestern forest. The resort’s design draws heavily on the aesthetics of iconic National Park lodges, creating an environment that feels both grand and intimately connected to nature. From the majestic lobby to the carefully curated artifacts that dot the landscape, every element of Wilderness Lodge is infused with a sense of wilderness adventure.I especially love Old Faithful, a Geyser by the pool that erupts every hour.

Room

Our stay in a resort view room offered a delightful surprise – the ability to view the Magic Kingdom fireworks from our window. Though not officially classified as a fireworks view due to a partially obstructing tree, this unexpected perk added a special touch to our evenings. The rooms, while slightly smaller than those at other deluxe resorts and accommodating up to four guests, provided ample space for our family of three. The convenience of connecting rooms with our traveling nannies, aka the grandparents, along with split bathrooms, made getting ready for park days a breeze. The thoughtful addition of shelving above the mini-fridge was perfect for storing groceries, making grabbing a quick breakfast before an early morning in the parks, a breeze.

 Ordering groceries for your Disney stay? Find tips here.

Food

Dining at Wilderness Lodge is an experience in itself, with options that cater to a variety of tastes and occasions. Geyser Point, an open-air bar and grill, has always been a favorite spot of mine, reminiscent of a serene lakeside retreat. One of my favorite trips I have ever taken was to Jackson Hole, Wyoming. If you are considering a trip to this equally magical destination check out our Jackson Hole City Guide.(link) Geyser Point serves the huckleberry vodka I discovered on that trip, I request a Huckleberry Mule and it brings me right back to the Tetons. Pair it with brisket dip and a bison burger and I am in heaven.

Storybook Dining at Artist Point offers a unique character dining experience, where the enchantment of meeting Dopey, Grumpy, and even the villainous Queen comes to life amidst a backdrop of exquisite, themed dishes. I have experienced this meal about a half dozen times at this point and have loved it every single time! The food is delicious and comforting with a beautiful creativity. The characters are so playful which makes this one of my favorite character experiences. 

Whispering Canyon provides a more boisterous dining affair, with family-style skillets and playful interactions with the waitstaff, ensuring a meal filled with laughter. While Roaring Fork, the resort’s quick-service option, has seen changes to its menu, it remains a convenient choice for grab-and-go meals.

Amenities

The pool area at Wilderness Lodge is a highlight, designed with thoughtful landscaping to offer a spacious, uncrowded environment. Hours of fun can be had on the slide and at the splash pad, making it a hit with families. The arcade adds an extra layer of entertainment, perfect for downtime between park visits. During the holiday season, Wilderness Lodge transforms into a festive wonderland, with decorations that amplify its natural beauty and warmth.

Transportation

Transportation options from Wilderness Lodge to the parks and other resort areas include bus and boat services. The boat ride to the Magic Kingdom, in particular, is a serene and enjoyable journey, offering picturesque views of the resort from the water. While bus services are efficient, the unique charm of arriving at the Magic Kingdom by boat is an experience not to be missed.

Conclusion

Wilderness Lodge distinguishes itself as a well-rounded resort, seamlessly blending deluxe accommodations with a profound thematic immersion. Its status as the most reasonably priced option among the deluxe resorts, coupled with its array of dining choices, recreational activities, and unique transportation options, positions it as a formidable contender for families seeking a comprehensive Disney experience. Whether you’re drawn to the allure of rustic elegance, the promise of culinary delights, or the simple joy of watching fireworks from your room, Wilderness Lodge stands ready to welcome you into its embrace of wilderness and wonder.

Are you ready to step into the luxurious world of the Wilderness Lodge? Schedule your complimentary vacation consultation call with Christina today!

Who is Christina?

Christina Vieira, a Traveler, a Planner, and a Mom. She is also the owner of Showcase the World Travel, a modern travel agency that helps busy Moms take the vacation they deserve without adding “planning it all” to their to-do lists.  After all, Mom should get to enjoy their vacation too.

She specializes in Disney, Caribbean, Europe and has helped dozens of families have magical vacations that they will always remember. She loves traveling with her four-year-old daughter, Annabelle. Her favorite destinations include Walt Disney World, Wyoming, and Prague.

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