I have stayed in many of the Disney resorts from bargain (Pop Century) through Deluxe (Grand Floridian, Wilderness Lodge, Contemporary, & Polynesian). I love staying in the resorts. They are themed well, have great amenities, and wonderful customer service.
But, Fort Wilderness is one of our favorite places to stay. We have done it four times; three spring break trips and once for Thanksgiving. You are in your camper, but it really is a camping resort, not a campground. Great sites, nice pool, beach area, boat transportation to the Magic Kingdom.
There are a few advantages to staying at the Fort. One is outside time. We like to ride bikes. There is a nice trail along the lake to the Wilderness Lodge. Something you can't really do at the other resorts. Some advocate for a golf cart. For us, we use our bikes to get around. It is really nice to have the extra space, too. In the morning, you can have your coffee outside with room to spread out with everyone is getting ready. Sometimes we set up games outside in the sand area behind the site (premium sites are all paved so you won't have this) or just play games on the picnic table.
Another advantage is food. We like to eat well. I usually make reservations for one nice restaurant each day. Epcot is great. Many of the resorts have good restaurants, too. We have breakfast in the camper. That alone can save 30.00 per day in food expenses. You can freeze bottles of water at night and bring them to the park with you. At 3.50 a bottle in the park, your 50 cent bottles are a great savings.
An advantage that might not be obvious is flexibility. When I stay in one of the other resorts, I use the Magical Express transportation from the airport. That means I don't have a car. This is great if you want to be at your hotel or a theme park each day. But it limits your flexibility for visiting other attractions, like Universal, SeaWorld, or the Space Center. We usually build in a day or two just to hang out at the Fort since there is so much to do there.
You will have a great vacation at either the Fort or another resort. The choice offers you different types of experiences. It just depends on what you are looking for.
Safe travels and have a great time.
the e-man
