Exploring Disney’s Wilderness Lodge: An Escape into Nature
Inspired by the Pacific Northwest, Walt Disney World’s Wilderness Lodge transports guests to a destination that feels separate and distinct from an Orlando theme park . Sitting on the shores of Bay Lake along with the Magic Kingdom, The Polynesian, The Grand Floridian, and The Contemporary Resorts, Wilderness Lodge is the perfect destination for those seeking a tranquil experience without sacrificing convenience in location on Disney property. Here’s an overview of what makes this resort so special.
The Wilderness Lodge Theme and Atmosphere
Inspired by the grand lodges of America’s national parks, Disney’s Wilderness Lodge combines towering pine forests, cascading waterfalls, and rugged architecture for a truly immersive experience. Walking into the resort’s lobby, guests are greeted with massive timber columns, rustic stone fireplaces, and Native American art. A massive, 82-foot stone hearth fireplace dominates the lobby, giving guests a cozy, mountain-lodge vibe as soon as they enter. With music inspired by American folk tunes, the ambiance is warm, welcoming, and a peaceful contrast to the excitement of the parks. Another distinct lobby feature is the bubbling geyser, which flows from inside to outside down a creek and into the resort’s impressive main pool.
Lodging Options: Rooms and Villas
Wilderness Lodge is both a Disney hotel and Disney Vacation Club Property. The main hotel building is where you will find the hotel rooms as well as the vacation Club Villas for the Copper Creek Property. A separate building next door houses the Disney vacation Club property Boulder Ridge.
- Standard Rooms: These cozy rooms feature natural wood furnishings, warm colors, and classic wilderness touches. Many rooms come with balconies, offering scenic views of Bay Lake, lush forests, or the resort’s pool area.
- Copper Creek Villas & Cabins: For a more deluxe experience, Copper Creek Villas offer villa-style accommodations with kitchenettes or full kitchens and larger living spaces. The Copper Creek Cabins are over-lake bungalows that offer two-bedroom luxury retreats with private hot tubs and screened-in porches, ideal for family gatherings or a special celebration.
- Boulder Ridge Villas: This is another DVC property with villa-style accommodations just like Copper Creek’s but with a different decor scheme. Boulder Ridge captures the charm of the 1800s railroad lodges, and thus has a smaller and more cozy lobby than the main building next door.
Copper Creek Cabins lining Bay Lake
Dining Options:
Wilderness Lodge has several unique dining experiences that match the lodge’s rustic, outdoorsy theme.
- Whispering Canyon Café: Known for its playful, interactive servers and hearty all-you-can-eat skillets, Whispering Canyon Café offers classic American fare with a twist of fun. Guests can expect great food with a side of laughs, especially if they’re in the mood to play along with the restaurant’s antics! Not sure what I mean? When you visit, just ask for some ketchup and you’ll see!
- Geyser Point Bar & Grill: Located along the shores of Bay Lake, this open-air bar and grill is perfect for enjoying delicious bites with beautiful water views. With a menu featuring items like bison burgers and craft cocktails, it’s a lovely spot to unwind after a day in the parks.
- Artist Point: Offering a character dining experience called Storybook Dining with Snow White, this signature restaurant presents delicious food in a storybook forest setting. Guests have the chance to meet Snow White, the Evil Queen, and other beloved characters from Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. The menu includes unique, elevated dishes inspired by the fairy tale theme.
Geyser Point Bar and Grill
Recreation and Activities
Wilderness Lodge has a wide range of recreational activities that make it easy to relax and have fun without ever leaving the resort:
- Pools: The main pool, Copper Creek Springs Pool, has a 67-foot waterslide that winds around boulders and trees, creating a natural swimming experience. Guests can also enjoy the nearby hot and cold whirlpool spas or visit the Boulder Ridge Cove Pool for a quieter, more relaxing experience.
- Outdoor Adventures: Nature trails around the resort are ideal for a morning stroll or jog. Guests can also rent bikes or explore the beautiful lake on rented boats. In the evening, Disney hosts campfires where guests can roast marshmallows and enjoy classic Disney tales.
- Electrical Water Pageant: Every night, guests at Wilderness Lodge have the unique treat of watching the Electrical Water Pageant, a delightful floating parade on Bay Lake featuring twinkling lights, music, and familiar Disney characters.
Main Pool
Quiet Pool – Boulder Ridge
Convenient Location and Transportation
Wilderness Lodge’s location on Bay Lake gives it a secluded feel while still being close to the action. The resort offers:
- Boat Transportation to Magic Kingdom: A scenic boat ride takes guests directly to Magic Kingdom, adding a touch of adventure and convenience.
- Bus Transportation: For easy access to other Disney parks and Disney Springs, buses run frequently from Wilderness Lodge, making it easy to explore all that Walt Disney World has to offer.
Seasonal Magic and Holiday Decor
Wilderness Lodge is particularly enchanting during the holiday season. The lodge’s rustic style lends itself beautifully to Christmas decor, with garlands, twinkling lights, and an awe-inspiring Christmas tree in the lobby, complete with pinecones, woodland creatures, and rustic ornaments. It’s the perfect setting for a cozy holiday stay, with a festive, yet relaxed atmosphere.
So, is Wilderness Lodge right for you?
There a couple of resorts that, for me, seem like a separate destination from Walt Disney World and for me this is one of those resorts. If you are looking for a more relaxed, quiet, non-Floridian feeling resort that doesn’t compromise on location/convenience, Wilderness Lodge is a great fit. This hotel has one of my all-time favorite resort lobbies, with a massive timber construction that makes you feel like you are in the middle of a National Park. I appreciate the variety of resort dining options, and I think the pool is a standout. From relaxing by the fireplace to exploring scenic trails, every aspect of Wilderness Lodge encourages guests to slow down, reconnect with nature, and create lasting memories.
Wilderness Lodge Entrance
If you want to chat more about your family’s specific wishes for your Disney Hotel, reach out to us! We are specialists on the Disney destination and would love to help you plan your dream vacation. Working with us is free- our compensation comes from Disney! Let us help you take care of the details so that you can focus on the fun.