It must be enormous fun to be an Imagineer. Being challenged to tell stories through the most minute detail, finding ways to transport people to another time and place instantaneously, and inventing ways to capture not only the history but the feel of a location and scale it down to a smaller representation must be nothing short of exciting. But, until the day comes that we have the opportunity to work as Imagineers, we must simply resort to enjoying the excitement that comes with experiencing the final product of their labor.
And, what better way to “resort” to enjoying the results of the Imagineer’s efforts than to spend time in a Disney “Resort”? One resort that offers an abundance of detail necessary to be an innovative representation of nature’s wonders is Disney’s Wilderness Lodge.
As with all our resort themed posts, we realize there are a multitude of blogs or sites available with in-depth information about resort costs, layout, etc.; as always, DLuminations would like to forego the in-depth review you may find on other sites and offer a brief overview of things of interest surrounding the resort that may help you make the decision as to whether or not you would like to stay there.
Atmosphere: This Deluxe Resort features genuine artifacts and authentic decorations that celebrate both the ancient Native American cultures and early American settlers and explorers alike.
The main building is constructed from 85 loads of Lodgepole Pine which serves to set the rustic tone of the Pacific Northwest in a simpler time. Stepping inside the lobby instantly transports you to a different place. A mixture of logs, stone and leather are accented with two 55-foot totem poles and accents of Native American artifacts to create such an immersive atmosphere, you almost feel as if you should be wearing buck skin pants, moccasins and a coon-skin or cowboy hat. I can almost imagine the king of the wild frontier himself - Davy Crocket - lounging around the lobby, spinning yarns for anyone who will listen. A perfect place to find Mr. Crocket might be next to an 82-foot tall fireplace which serves as the centerpiece of the beautifully decorated lobby.
The fireplace – a recreation of the strata of the Grand Canyon featuring over 100 colors in various hues – also offers a wonderful location for resting with the family after a full day in the parks; or before a meal in one of the restaurants as you spin your own yarns about recent adventures in the parks. The 8-story atrium not only serves to house the large accents of the totem poles and the fireplace, but helps to capture and convey the grandness of the National Parks it helps to celebrate.
Moving to the back of the lobby, you will find a small bridge that crosses the headwater of Silver Creek. The water bubbles from the lobby and flows over Silver Creek Falls and into the Silver Creek Springs Pool.
Paying tribute to the wonders of nature that can be found in our National Parks, the resort features many wonderful sights. Drawing inspiration from Old Faithful in Yellowstone National Park, Fire Rock Geyser erupts with a 120-foot plume of water.
Resort Location: Wilderness Lodge is conveniently located near the Magic Kingdom and adjacent to both Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground, and The Villas at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge.
Restaurants: Whispering Canyon Café may possibly be one of the most enjoyable and memorable meals for you and your kids. Remember to ask for “Ketchup!”. Artist Point offers a more elegant setting for families or couples. The grilled Buffalo and the Salmon are notable menu items. Roaring Fork offers a great option for those guests in a hurry - Disney fast food at its finest.
Pools: There are two pools to choose from. Hidden Springs Pool and Silver Creek Springs both offer a great atmosphere and a fun water slide is also available to enjoy. In fact, Silver Creek Springs was ranked as #4 on our list of Top 10 Disney Resort Pools. Wilderness Lodge also offers a beach of white sand by Bay Lake, a great place to relax and soak up some sun.
Other Activities & Attractions: Waterslides, watercraft, and bike rentals are actually fairly common activities offered by a number of Disney resorts, and Wilderness Lodge is no exception. However, Wilderness Lodge offers a number of unique activities for children including Chip ‘n Dale’s Campfire Sing Along, and a 24-hour playground, a supervised activity center named the Cub’s Den which allows children to play while the adults spend a few precious moments alone. For adults, a Segway Tour is available on the grounds. Fishing is also available for those anglers who just can’t get enough of the sport, or for those who want to relax by tossing a line and pole into the Florida waters.
Have you stayed at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge Resort? What were your opinions? Was there something you liked about the resort or wanted to add to help people better enjoy their stay? If so, just add your comments below, we would love to hear from you.
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