901 Timberline Drive
Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830-1000
The Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
If you’re trying to decide between a vacation at Walt Disney World or a wilderness adventure, you have an opportunity to do both at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge; an escape to the rustic majesty of America’s great northwest. Inspired by turn-of-the-century national park lodges, this resort celebrates American craftsmanship and honors the beauty of the untamed wilderness. So come with me and experience the many ways to enjoy the big wilderness in style.
The Location, the Grounds and the Lobby
Disney’s Wilderness Lodge is a deluxe resort; it is located on Lake Buena east of the Magic Kingdom and only a boat or bus ride away from the park and monorail station, in other words, a very accessible location (just ask the wonderful front desk personnel for more details).
The lobby is huge and it is very easy to get to the restaurants and gift shop. There is an accessible front desk (over by the gift shop on the left) which makes wheelchair check-in a breeze.
There are several dining options, from fine dining to quick- service. The great thing is, all are easily accessible and routes to them are clearly marked with blue direction signs.
The pool area is located in a courtyard with a flowing waterfall and a small stream that runs around the pools. There are lifts located at a few of the pools which will provide access to those who are not able to walk into the water (just ask the front desk how to make this happen).
Even though you’re not at the Magic Kingdom Park yet you’ve already started your wilderness adventure simply by checking into the resort! Just wait until I show you the room I viewed, you’re going to love that too! Come on let’s go!!!
Room 1034
This room is perfectly designed for a wheelchair (or even two) and you can roll on in and maneuver with ease. There is one queen size bed for the adults and a bunk bed for the kids (personally, I would use the bunk bed for the fun of it; it really reminded me of being at camp). At the desk there are three easy-access outlets and two UBS ports for you to plug in all your high tech stuff. The closet has a low bar to hang your clothes on and the sliding doors are easy to operate. The view from the patio is peaceful, looking onto a small lake. You’re getting a taste of both worlds here; a high-class resort and the beauty of nature.
Bathroom
The bathroom is very accessible, with a roll-in shower, a pull- down bench and a hand-held shower head. There are two corner dishes for your shower stuff. The only drawback that I could see (and I am confined to a wheelchair) was the shower curtain; you’ll need to position it closer to the shower chair in order to reach it to actually close it across the opening of the shower. Be sure to get that figured out before you begin your shower!
The sink is the perfect height for a wheel chair to roll under and there is plenty of accessible counter space for your toiletries. There is an accessible towel rack attached directly to the sink on the left; I really liked this feature because towels are always an issue for me at hotels (meaning most of the time I cannot reach them). The electrical outlets are a bit high and you might need someone to help you initially to plug things in. The toilet has grab bars on the side and back so if you need a different configuration, you’ll need to make that inquiry with the resort when you make your reservations.
