Wilderness Lodge vs. Animal Kingdom Lodge: The Ultimate Disney Deluxe Showdown
On a recent episode of the Where We Roam Podcast, the crew brought back one of our favorite formats: a resort showdown! This time, it was Lodge vs. Lodge—Wilderness Lodge vs. Animal Kingdom Lodge—two of Disney World’s most beloved entry-level deluxe resorts. And while both properties offer immersive theming and unique experiences, the hosts didn’t hold back in scoring them across six critical categories.
Here's what went down:
🚍 Transportation & Location
Wilderness Lodge enjoys a distinct advantage in this category due to its location in the Magic Kingdom resort area. Guests can hop on a relaxing water taxi straight to Magic Kingdom, which adds a dose of charm and convenience. There’s also a full bus system to access the other three parks, making it a well-connected resort overall.
Animal Kingdom Lodge, on the other hand, is more isolated. While it’s close to Animal Kingdom Park, it's a bus ride away from all four parks—with no alternative transportation like boats, monorails, or Skyliners. Guests often face longer wait times, particularly at park close. As Shawn described, "you’re fully reliant on that Animal Kingdom Lodge bus pulling up in a timely manner."
🏆 Winner: Wilderness Lodge
🛌 Rooms
Both resorts feature standard rooms that are 344 square feet—the smallest of all deluxe accommodations on Disney property. They are cozy but cannot sleep five guests (unless an infant is included), making them less ideal for larger families.
Animal Kingdom Lodge shines with its theming. Rooms feature African-inspired decor, gorgeous carved headboards, and rich textiles. If you spring for a Savannah View, you’ll be rewarded with real-time animal sightings right from your balcony. As John noted, "the theming and views really elevate the room."
Wilderness Lodge rooms, post-renovation, feel slightly lighter and fresher but are still on the darker side. While they echo the rustic charm of national park lodges, they don't quite match the immersive experience you get at Animal Kingdom Lodge.
🏆 Winner: Animal Kingdom Lodge
🍽️ Dining
This category was a runaway win for Animal Kingdom Lodge.
Dining at Wilderness Lodge includes:
Roaring Fork (quick service)
Whispering Canyon Cafe (table service)
Storybook Dining at Artist Point with Snow White (signature dining)
Geyser Point Bar & Grill (lounge-style dining)
While these are solid options, they don’t offer the variety or depth of flavor that Animal Kingdom Lodge brings to the table.
Animal Kingdom Lodge offers:
The Mara (quick service)
Boma (buffet-style, heavily praised for both breakfast and dinner)
Jiko (signature dining with rich African cuisine)
Sanaa (table service with bread service everyone raves about and savanna views)
This resort is a true foodie haven, and many guests make the trip out just to dine there, even if they aren’t staying on-site.
🏆 Winner: Animal Kingdom Lodge (by a landslide)
💦 Pools & Activities
Wilderness Lodge provides unique activities such as guided fishing excursions and a picturesque location near Bay Lake. The pool area is scenic and themed beautifully, with the geyser and Boulder Ridge Cove pool offering relaxing experiences. The lobby is also a highlight—grand and cozy with a giant fireplace and rocking chairs.
Animal Kingdom Lodge offers a completely different type of activity: wildlife viewing. Guests can roam the grounds to observe giraffes, zebras, and more. Night vision goggles are sometimes available for nighttime animal watching. Pools vary by building—Jambo House has a large, central pool, while Kidani Village offers a more secluded and serene option with a fun splash area for kids. However, due to the sprawling nature of the resort, your room may be quite a hike from the amenities.
🏆 Winner: Animal Kingdom Lodge
💸 Price Point
Both resorts fall into the "entry-level deluxe" pricing tier, making them more budget-friendly than other deluxe options like the Grand Floridian or Polynesian. But Animal Kingdom Lodge often has better promotions and discounts available. Savannah View rooms that might normally cost the same as a Beach Club standard room can dip below $500/night with the right deal.
Considering the level of immersion, dining, and amenities, Animal Kingdom Lodge offers excellent value for its price point.
🏆 Winner: Animal Kingdom Lodge
✨ Vibe & Theming
This one is tough and ultimately subjective.
Wilderness Lodge transports you to the Pacific Northwest, complete with towering timber beams, roaring fireplaces, and that cozy lodge feel. It's nostalgic and inviting, especially during the holidays.
Animal Kingdom Lodge, meanwhile, offers a deeply immersive African-inspired experience. From the art and music to the smells and architecture, everything is thoughtfully curated. As Dayna put it, "you walk in and just melt."
🏆 Winner: Animal Kingdom Lodge
🏅 Final Verdict
While Wilderness Lodge holds its own in terms of location and charm, Animal Kingdom Lodge dominated the showdown. With top-tier dining, authentic theming, and those breathtaking savanna views, it offers a one-of-a-kind experience that makes the trek worthwhile.
Planning a Disney Deluxe getaway? Let us help you find your perfect resort match.