Which is the Best DVC Resort - Animal Kingdom Lodge or Wilderness Lodge?!

Join us this week for another battle of DVC Resorts - Animal Kingdom Lodge vs. Wilderness Lodge! We debate and choose our favorite, as well as delve into dining, rooms, views, point charts, cost, transportation, and more!
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[@brianburke4409]

Wilderness Lodge has been my perennial favorite since we first stayed there in 2000, the year before the W.L. DVC opened and we became members in the first months. Our first DVC vacation at W.L. was a family trip inviting my wife’s parents to join us in December 2001. My in laws then became DVC members at W.L. the next year. In the years to follow, the four of us along with our daughter enjoyed many family vacations there together. It is all about the emotions evoked from the memories, and we are fortunate to have had many. I often introduced my father-in-law as my best friend. Our next vacation together was planned for this October but unfortunately he passed away at 86 years old last week. It will be bittersweet to return back home when my wife and I do so in October or otherwise. John’s comment about his own father-in-law struck a heartfelt emotion and my condolences to him and his family. 💔❤️

[@dee_mcgee11]

This one was an easy one for me. There was no question that Animal Kingdom would be our first DVC stay.

[@chrismanlau9283]

My first time entering Wilderness Lodge, I was blown away. I'd been to Grand Californian and Animal Kingdom Lodge prior. What caught me off guard is the unassuming entrance to Wilderness Lodge. The tiny exterior door is smaller than some budget hotels that I've checked into. This made such a huge juxtaposition once I entered the lobby of Wilderness Lodge.

[@MONEYCONA01]

Someone jumped into Jeff’s balcony at animal kingdom lodge? I must’ve missed that episode would like to hear how the whole thing unfolded.

[@bobgargiulo802]

It's Nahtazu! 😂😂 Although I loved the Wilderness Lodge lobby at Christmas, I could not get enough of the Jambo House lobby last Christmas! Love both, but AKL will always be my favorite!

[@disneyresortsfan]

Derek nailed it! Wilderness Lodge for the win on this👍

[@cubanitoorlando]

We love that AKL is the only DVC that offers Club Level Amenities for points

[@alisonl5439]

Paul, I’m with you…sitting in silence in a rocking chair at Kidani is the absolute best ❤

[@agm03231991]

This is why you buy where you love - which for us was Wilderness. And we prefer Boulder Ridge - especially since the refurbish. We purchased both CC and BR!! Agree on the food - we loved Artist Point until they made is a character meal!! But love every other restaurant on property!!

[@christinekaras1730]

You can't go wrong with either one, that's what's so great about DVC you don't have to pick just one you just have to plan two vacations or do a split stay which I often do if I can't decide. LOL

[@bellsindisney]

This was such a great mash-up! But for us, it's AKL! It became our Christmas resort (even over Wilderness Lodge) when we walked in and saw the tree and decorations!

[@jessicakleinberg7925]

Love that Bekah got a shoutout! Love her and have been a fan since before she even became a mom!!

[@WVUdave99]

I’m in ROFR currently for WL/CC and I feel the same as Derek. The first time I ever went to WL I was in AWE. It’s just so beautiful and sweeping. I truly feel immersed. Also, don’t forget that you can technically get to EPCOT without a bus from WL (boat to MK, monorail to TTC, then monorail to EPCOT). That was a factor for me as well.

[@Amy-yh8kf]

No offense to anyone, but, I can tell who definitely had NEVER dealt with the NYC MTA buses & trains! Because the Disney buses are NOT that bad! Trust me!!!! I take the MTA EVERYDAY and you can wait OVER an HOUR for a bus/train in the freezing cold/sweltering heat! At least, at Disney, you're on vacation! In NYC, you're on your way to work & your livelihood is at stake! The MTA doesn't GAF!

[@YamKriegs]

Haha, not offended. I’m just spoiled. 😂 I haven’t taken an NYC subway since college. We are heading that way next month though so maybe I’ll gain some more perspective.

[@CarissaHelmer88]

I always say this, people make such a big deal about busses at disneyworld...I ride busses everyday in DC, at least at disneyworld I'm riding them on vacation.

[@JoeCosentino]

Wilderness is our first home 350 points it served us well back in the day we go for monorail stays now days

[@ryukagesama]

My wife and I made a point of taking her father to the AKL just this past week, and it was great watching him geek out and wander around excitedly at all the giant features and little touches in the lobby and restaurants. It's a magical place.

[@alisonl5439]

We just stayed at Kidani for 8 nights…I don’t want to stay anywhere else. Efficient buses (we were ALONE a few times), pool area is relaxing…the whole resort was perfect for us after chaotic days at the parks. We visited the Poly and Beach Club during our visit…both were SO busy and overwhelming with the amount of people. Kidani any time for me!

[@alee9961]

Wilderness all the Way!!!

[@syn6294]

Just got back from AKV, was there for a week and the buses were running great. Wait times seemed short. Just missed a bus once as it pulled away, but the next bus was there within about 10 minutes.

[@kerryw.5301]

We haven't stayed at either one of these resorts yet but I thoroughly enjoyed this episode. I love your content guys!

[@threekidsandtheirjourney]

Got to go Tie!! Our family loves both of these resorts. Theming is great, restaurants and good pools are fun!!

[@trentsmith4525]

It has a freaking savanna remember that

[@wbsouthton]

Love these shows! Animal Kingdom is its own vacation, favorite vacations included a stay at Animal kingdom. A stay of 3 days plus is a must to experience everything.

[@catshepherd3102]

A year and a half ago, I took my best friend and her daughter to a WL and AK split stay. Having experienced both back to back, we all agreed that Wilderness was the winner. Here are our reasons: WL is easier to get around, there are more dining options _and_ they’re open after 9PM - and it doesn’t require a bus ride, and it’s easier to get to Magic Kingdom and EPCOT. This coming from three shout-from-the-rooftops animal lovers! And a professional baker (love the bread service) and foodie adventurer!

[@jarrettc7215]

We own both. To me this is easy. Wilderness lodge. Not hating on AK., if I’m staying just a weekend AK is great. Food is great but $$. Coppercreek, chilling at geyser point and the holidays at wilderness. Untouchable! And boulder ridge is so quiet and the phineas and refurb is wonderful.

[@michellepearce2922]

We have a split stay at AK/ BR in January and I can’t wait to get the best of both worlds!!!!

[@seanwhent9588]

There are pros and cons to all the resorts but Wilderness Lodge has the most stunning lobby of any resort I have been to. I love the overall theming there. I also really like hearing the boat whistles.

[@kristinapreedy7069]

To be fair, we’ve only stayed at Kidani (because of a two-family group, the extra bathroom is a big plus) and we loved it but since we live in the Pacific Northwest and own at Grand Californian, have not been super tempted to stay at Wilderness (however, after listening to Derek’s passionate speech, we might want to try it next time LOL). AKL just feels like such a unique experience that is hard to get anywhere else, or at least without going to a different continent! ❤. Agree that the rooms are really dark, though - will be interested to see what they do with the refurb! Thanks for another entertaining and enlightening show!

[@QUEENLOLATV]

The wilderness Lodge is great if your main park of choice is magic Kingdom. However from an immersive and unique experience than animal Kingdom lodge. The rooms may be smaller but the point values are also less. So you will be literally getting more days for the same amount of points.

[@bryantreeter1461]

Wilderness Lodge! Derek described the entrance perfectly!

[@user-cm1qt2yt9u]

Christmas at AKL with the Gingerbread animals and the tree is decorated with handcrafted decor for the larger trees. AKL is our home resort- bought unseen. For me I think its AK was pushed for me in my teens and this lodge was imprinted on me. AKL is so unique and that smell... 135 days!

[@fbltnet]

Hey Now, I’ve been waiting for this one. Thanks

[@StevenSato]

This was a good debate and I agree, they are closely rated when compared. WL will always have a place in my heart as it is where my wife and I spent our Honeymoon in 2010 however, on a recent trip to CC in Feb 2024, we realized that the rooms are small and configured in a manner that is not ideal. For instance the DVC studios need a pocket door to the shower if there is going to be a swinging glass shower door. With SSR and Aulani we stay at ALK 75% of the time since being members as of 2012 and I attribute where we own to the cost of the contracts at the times we bought them, perhaps not ideal but it works for us. AND to Derek's point from another video, SSR has given us the booking cushion to never worry about our stays. Today, my vote goes to AKL.

[@wadesanecki7269]

If you bring kids, only the monorail resorts with a theme park view are better. Being able to walk out of your room and watching the animals, for kids is just off the charts. However, I would never book a parking lot view at AKL for any reason.

[@roserose45]

I own at both and Wilderness Lodge is best in December/January. Animal Kingdom is great for spring break and if planning on spending more time at Animal Kingdom Park. Kidani is the best for trip with inlaws bc the second bathroom in the 1 bedroom is priceless!

[@mcurt9]

yes amy is right!!! boulder ridge is last on my list!

[@Jimmy-Mc]

Wilderness Lodge is my favorite resort. I just love the mountain lodge theming and location on the lake. Animal Kingdom does have better high-end dining, but Geyser Point and Roaring Fork are great.

[@xwpfan2]

I love both -- own both. Love CCV during the Holiday season and tend to stay at AKL during the Spring.

[@evijade1]

We debate this exact thing all the time in my family and the answer is..both! Both lodges are amazing.

[@ysykes489]

I did not get to vote (missed that part) but I'm a Wilderness Lodge gal all the way. The first time I walked in there when my boys were young, I was blown away. There isn't anything about WL that I don't like. Oddly enough, the date of its opening, May 28th, is my wedding day. Coincidence? I don't think so...its just beautiful there! :) (the last time we stayed at AKL, the only thing I remember is the smell of poop from our balcony. It was beautiful scenery, but the smell...wow)

[@csharrison2011]

Such a fun topic! Agree 100% AKL Jan - October and Wilderness for Nov and Dec. We own at both and love both for different reasons, all of which you covered today. I will say, for us, there is something about the dark rooms/decor at AKL that is appealing, especially in the hot summer months. We like being at Animal Kingdom most when we have the most daylight to watch the animals and for some reason those dark rooms just FEEL cooler after a good balcony sesh with the majestic beasts of the savanna!

[@JenThePirate]

AKL forever! ❤

[@jamescolvin4463]

Love both and have PROS for each side that just go on and on. For me, these are top Disney resorts in FL. The Cabins push WL in the lead, but the restaurants at AKL even it back up. Great job on the video!

[@AnthonySmith-vv8ks]

These are both awesome resorts. If I’m only doing a park day or two on my annual week stay I’d go with animal kingdom. If I’m doing a day at each park I’d pick wilderness. Also, kidani isn’t bad. If you have kids I’d prefer it just for the splash pad and slide.

[@katherinerogers5681]

Animal kingdom lodge all the way

[@frankcarney4882]

So after you do these 1v1 will you then take the winners into the next bracket until we have one winner?

[@JustinCredible31]

Love this idea, full bracket.

[@SteveCzuba]

AKL food for sure - but WL wins by a hair due to MK boat and "easier" access to 3 of the parks in general. Love both lobbies - but very impressed by AK's Jambo layout. That said we are CC owners. Can't really lose in reality

[@TheMagicInWonderland]

AKL is one of my home resorts. Surely it is one of the most unique hotels in the world - Disney or not. Wilderness lodge is beautiful and looks great but it was just packed with kids when we went. We have to teens rather than young kids and feel WL is more of a young family place.

[@beverlybielewicz5145]

I think it would be so amazing if they would retrofit the safari vehicles and use them as exclusive transportation from AKL to Animal Kingdom. There could be a special close to the entrance drop-off and pick-up at AK. So much fun. Our family has never really minded the bus system. But, we do not care for resorts with multiple bus stops.

[@storey13]

Sounds like we have a to do list for the DVC Fan crew: 1) Jiko review 2)Territory Lounge review 3) Kidani pool tour

[@stbrown100]

We are a Wilderness Family, especially for Christmas. Had not had great meals at AKL but get the pull of the zoo.....

[@angelaterranova1577]

Both great and can’t decide myself which way I’d vote in this one!! 😂😂 Great discussion!

[@sheilaa1333]

Hahaha. We were one of the unlucky ones with a dumpster view at BR. If it was more than one night I’d have (politely) requested a different room….

[@laurapalmieri1711]

I’m with Jeff. Kidani pool is soooooo much better than Jambo.

[@kennethhayes1935]

I loved this video!! Great concept!. But I am sorry guys, Wilderness Lodge all the way. It is not close for me at all.

[@People_of_the_Mouse]

they are one water bridge from having a boat between AKL and Ak. that’s it. other then that the path is clear.

[@angelinesmith6699]

Both incredible…slight edge to copper creek

[@CarissaHelmer88]

I'm staying at Animal Kingdom for the first time my next trip so I can't say. However, Geyser Point is not the only great dinning at WL....ummm territory lounge is maybe my favorite place on earth.

[@christine3507]

I’m with Panda - AKL except Nov & Dec (though think the tree at Jambo is great too). Didn’t have a chance to vote in the poll so that’s one more for AKL. 😊

[@dee_mcgee11]

Agreed. Panda nailed it.

[@amydoran9987]

I’m not dvc, but I’ve been to Disney world with my husband and two kids for the past 17 years including this year. I’ve always stayed at wilderness lodge. We love this hotel. We just started staying at boulder ridge. You can take the boat every morning to the magic kingdom. We also love the restaurants. I’ve never even seen the animal kingdom lodge. It does look really beautiful, but having to take a bus the entire trip is a slight turn off. Also,this hotel is not any place near any of the parks.

[@KnollMountain]

Prior to Smokey the Bear, I believe Bambi was used for the forest fire prevention campaign and that is the connection to Disney. Smokey replaced Bambi in the ads

[@jimmyD2484]

We need Saratoga Springs vs Old Key West in a battle of the sleep around points.

[@04forerunner]

Poo on you Amy😉. BRV is great

[@frankcarney4882]

Territory lounge is pretty good 💯

[@zero65ss1]

I had guilt ice cream. It was great

[@MrBoomatt]

I hope the Animal Kingdom Lodge villa refurbishments brighten the rooms up quite a bit. I’ve always felt. They are dark and two brown in their color palette. It makes them feel dirty to me.

[@MegaBeaches]

I think Disney was involved with creating the character Smokey the Bear for the government. Just like they created animated propaganda for the US government during WWII. I am team Wilderness btw but just by a hair. But I love them both. It's unfortunate that Disney doesn't create resorts like these anymore.

[@gcamdalt3727]

Do Beach Club vs Boardwalk!

[@lauramisitano4780]

We just hate that they wait till the last minute to announce them and we miss all the DVC events

[@user-pw6lt7jz8r]

Could Jeff retell the balcony story from AK lodge or let us know what episode to go back and listen to?

[@YamKriegs]

Hello! You’ll find it on our Resort Marathon live stream while we walk between Jambo and Kidani. It’s near the beginning of the video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/op2VkJurhdOog5Ysi=p4rqFoxo59_54_GT- AKV is the first resort we visit.

[@kwlundy]

Amy - did you know Jim Cummings, the voice of Winnie the Pooh (amongst others) voiced Smokey Bear in the 90s and 2000s?

[@robynmoxham4255]

Can DVC members use their points at Animal Kingdom? Or only Kidani? We’ve only stayed at Kidani with our points.

[@dhendersonunitedrealestate2383]

Owners at Animals Kingdom and Wilderness…LOVE Kidani and LOVE Boulder Ridge…I really don’t care for Jambo or Copper Creek.

[@JoeCosentino]

Bring back the old artist point restaurant

[@tmcneil516]

I never felt guilty about eating ice cream whether I bought a contract or not.

[@JS-be8ll]

Sorry guys you have to conpare standard view to standard view, there are some CRAP views at WL.

[@WVUdave99]

Also, I need to know Jeff’s story about the AKL balcony! Can ya’ll point me to a video where it was discussed (or just give a summary in comments lol)?

[@DVCFan]

Hey there! He tells the story in our Resort Marathon video as we walk between Jambo House and Kidani Village. It’s a long video, but Animal Kingdom lodge is the first resort we visit so it should be near the beginning: kzbin.info/www/bejne/op2VkJurhdOog5Ysi=wPyHuLM2OGfqAcBT -Amy

[@WVUdave99]

@@DVCFan thanks Amy! Also, I’m a WV native so was excited to see that you and Paul are too. I moved in 2019 but those country roads will always take me home ❤️

[@geargrinder3014]

The best one has a freakin' savanna.

[@suewalton8822]

ANIMAL KINGDOM LODGE 🤍 🤍🤍 ALL THE WAY 🤍🤍🤍🤍 🦒 🦓 🦒 🦓

[@Amy-yh8kf]

Animal Kingdom Lodge! Hands down!

[@jarrettc7215]

I’d like to know what you are going to put up against bay lake. Cause it might be the only 100-0 pool. And panda…get off your riviera horse:)

[@user-um8ks5fn1e]

Wilderness Lodge hands down, Animal Kingdom Lodge is just a knockoff of WL. Nothing compares to the original.

[@JS-be8ll]

Sanaa is far better than Geyser Point

[@frankcarney4882]

AK!! Has v, s, sv, and c, if you know you know 😁 and animals. WL is a very good resort also. For my family it's AK, RR, Poly and WL. And I think the best food is at GF, and although we love almost everything about GF, the transportation leaves us MEH. (Try getting a seat going to MK and then return and try getting on a monorail).