So, you’re planning a trip to Disney World, and you know you want to stay at a deluxe resort, but might want something a little outside a more traditional hotel vibe.

But how do you choose between Disney’s Contemporary Resort and Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge? Well, let’s dive into the deets to see which one is right for you!

Choosing between the Contemporary and the Animal Kingdom Lodge, is like choosing a favorite child, a favorite Disney cupcake, or between a Dole Whip or a Mickey Pretzel — there’s enough love to go around! But just like cupcakes and classic Disney snacks (and maybe your kids, too… only you know your family dynamic…), there’s a certain flavor that might just hit the spot for what you’re looking for.

There’s no doubt that Disney vacations are expensive, and no one wants buyer’s remorse when it comes to what can usually be the most EXPENSIVE part of your Disney trip. We’re approaching this chaos-agent of a decision with as much logic as possible, so we’re breaking it down into five categories:

• Common Ground
• Theme/Rooms
• Pools
• Food
• Transportation

We’re putting each resort through these paces to see where they stand and which one may be speaking to you for your Disney trip.

Common Ground

Before we start down the rabbit hole into the Wonderland of their differences, let’s review the similarities of these resorts. These resorts are both Disney Deluxe Resorts, so they will be at a similar price point, with similar room sizes, and the same perks. And both offer Disney Vacation Club Villas as additional accommodations.

For the Contemporary, that means that for the cheapest room at the cheapest time to visit, you can expect to pay around $550 per night (not accounting for any tax or current discounts), and it goes up to $5,594 per night (not accounting for any tax or current discounts) for the most expensive rooms at the most expensive time to visit.

For the Animal Kingdom Lodge, that means that for the cheapest room at the cheapest time to visit, you can expect to pay around $469 per night (not accounting for any tax or current discounts), and it goes up to $3,792 per night (not accounting for any tax or current discounts) for the most expensive rooms at the most expensive time to visit. (Based on 2023 rates)

Wow. In the cheapest room, during the cheapest season, Animal Kingdom Lodge is almost 20% less than the Contemporary. And for those more expensive options, it’s about 70% less than the Contemporary! Let’s dig a little deeper to see what you can get for the money at these resorts!

Extra Theme Park Hours Benefits for Disney World Resort Hotel Guests

Theme/Rooms

These are not your standard hotels. You can stay in the sleek sophistication of the Contemporary, or or head out to Africa at Animal Kingdom Lodge. But whether your stay takes you into the heart of modern midcentury modern or into the panoramic vistas of an African savanna, you’ll find that both of these options provide top-of-the-line Disney amenities.

The Contemporary

As the name suggests, the Contemporary has a very modern theme. It feels a little less immersive and more upscale and sleek. The lobby recently got an upgrade with colorful artwork and more modern furniture, which sets the tone for the resort. Ok, so maybe it is immersive if you’re looking to be immersed into an art museum.

All of the rooms have recently been renovated and updated with an Incredibles-inspired theme.

And the Top of the World Lounge in the neighboring Bay Lake Tower, has also recently reopened with a new Villains-themed look and refreshed menu. So even though this beauty is 50 years old, she’s gotten some TLC and looks better than ever!

Since the rooms face in on the hotel, it can be a bit noisy because all of the action is in one spot. From the rooms, you can look down and see Chef Mickey’s (which opens pretty early and gets noisy, so it can be hard to sleep in), and the Monorail runs through the resort.

There’s also a massive mural on the wall created by Mary Blair, a famous Disney artist. This is a super fun touch for Disney history fans. Remember that art museum vibe we mentioned earlier… um, yeah.

Animal Kingdom Lodge

Jambo! And welcome to Animal Kingdom Lodge! This is more than your typical hotel, and honestly, it’s beyond the standard of a typical Disney hotel. This resort offers a few things that none of the resorts do. First, live animals right out your window! Definitely, the only Disney resort where you can wake up and view some giraffes out your window, and drink coffee or snack on some Zebra Domes on your balcony while watching real-live zebras. Disney also brings in Cultural Representatives from countries around Africa to share their countries’ unique stories, culture, art, and history. Off of the lobby, there is an observation room where guests can appreciate artifacts from African exploration or just sit and enjoy the animals on the safari.

And the lobby delivers on that jaw-dropping “oh wow” moment (especially around the holidays).

The Animal Kingdom Lodge standard rooms received a little facelift, like the Contemporary and Polynesian rooms have. So, when you stay here, you’ll get to experience a bit more streamlined and updated decor that is both modern and rustic.

Animal Kingdom Lodge also has Disney Vacation Club accommodations over at Kidani Village, with villas ranging from basic studio rooms all the way up to multi-room villas overlooking their own animal savanna.

Kidani Village rooms look out onto the Sunset Savanna, and Jambo House rooms look out onto the Uzima and Arusha Savannas. All the savannas have giraffes and zebras, and a plethora of other beautiful animals.

Results

When it comes to immersive theming, the Animal Kingdom Lodge wins out. The Contemporary is lovely, the Contemporary is striking, the Contemporary doesn’t really distinguish itself from any other non-Disney resort, like Marriott or Hyatt. And if you enjoy that experience of staying at a Marriot or Hyatt, then you can do so and save yourself quite a bit of dough. Disney had added some Disney flare with the incorporation of The Incredibles in the resort rooms, but we wouldn’t recommend paying those prices just for some nifty Incredible graphics in your room, you better enjoy a lot more of what this unique resort has to offer. So keep reading to see what it has in store!

Boma vs. Sanaa vs. Jiko: Comparing Animal Kingdom Lodge Restaurants

Pools

Pools, splash pads, hot tubs, and lounge chairs, a vacation just doesn’t feel complete without spending some time soaking in some sun by that ol’ cement pond. Which of these resorts is the aquatic champion of water lounging? Only one way to find out…

The Contemporary

There are two pools at the Contemporary: the aptly named Feature Pool and the quieter Bay Lake Pool. There is a waterslide, lounge chairs, and private cabanas to rent, but otherwise, it’s your standard resort pool. So the creativity for the names pretty much sums up any creativity with the pool area.

If you’re looking for a spot to cool down, these pools deliver, and there’s a splash area for the smaller kiddos.

For those post-swim munchies, the Cove Bar and the Sand Bar will provide you with access to some basic quick service vittles and cocktails to enjoy poolside.

Animal Kingdom Lodge

AKL (as we like to call it) is not to be outdone in the pool category; it hosts two pools as well: the Samawati Springs Pool and the Uzima Springs Pool. Both pools have the natural feel of swimming in a natural spring. Uzima Springs pool is smashing. This oasis is 11,000 square feet. It includes a large free-form, zero-entry swimming pool (gradual like a beach, you can take one centimeter at a time getting in). 

Samawati Springs Pool has a 67-foot water slide, a children’s wading pool, and kids’ life jackets in several sizes. There are two private hot tubs, tons of seating in comfy loungers, tables and umbrellas, and unlimited towels. You can build a herd of towel animals if you want. Oh, and of course, the Uzima Springs Pool Bar is for hydration purposes.

Results

Both have two pools, and both have pool bars, a pool slide, lounge chairs, and splash areas. And that’s where the similarities end.

As straightforward as their names imply, the Contemporary’s Feature Pool & Bay Lake Pool are concrete holes filled with water for guests to splash in. They are clean and provide all of the fun a respite you might expect at any hotel or public pool, but there’s not much special about it. And you may ask yourself, who needs a special theme for a pool when you’re visiting Disney World for the theme parks and not the pool? But, if you’re gonna pay that nightly rate, you might want a bit more to your resort leisure experience than rows of lounge chairs staring at a cement waterlogged crevice.

Do you want to soak in a zero-entry oasis surrounded by an African savanna? Animal Kingdom Lodge has two beautiful pools that camouflage these concrete watering holes with beautiful landscaping.  It boasts those beautiful savanna views and close proximity some unique animal viewing areas, like flamingos. Plus, the Animal Kingdom Lodge pool is just steps away from Zebra Domes!

There’s no real loser in this category if you’ve found relaxation and joy, but our heart leans towards the Animal Kingdom Lodge!

10 Hidden Secrets About Disney World Pools

Food

Because we are Disney FOOD Blog, we take food seriously. Very. Seriously. And we love it all. We love the cheap, comfort of plastic cheese, and we love the high-brow sophistication of a wine flight or a multi-course pre-fixe meal. We don’t discriminate; we are a lover of all foods. Since food is SO important, let’s see how these resorts stack up against each other in the restaurant category.

Contemporary

The Contemporary has ten (10!) dining options, including lounges and pool bars (because those count!)!

The Sand Bar is a modern poolside counter located in the Contemporary Resort’s marina and pool area. While the food menu is limited (you can grab a burger or hot dog here, or a snack like an ice cream treat), there is a full bar menu along with classic beachy cocktails like Mai Tais and Banana Cabanas up for grabs. A few stools are available right at the bar, or you can grab a seat at an umbrella-covered outdoor table. The Sand Bar is a great place to let the breeze blow on your face as you watch the watercraft move around Bay Lake or just enjoy your time by the pool. Or if you’re visiting the Bay Lake Pool, then the Cove Bar serves a selection of quick service meals (think wraps and salads), snacks, and cocktails.

The Contemporary Resort is one of the few resorts to host their own Joffrey’s Coffee bar. Contemporary Grounds is your go-to location. You’ll find coffee, pastries, and specialty coffee drinks. This spot also offers options for Disney-inspired Latte Art! Those early morning dashes to the parks won’t feel so taxing when you have tasty coffee so conveniently located.

Contempo Cafe is the main quick service spot here, serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner. There are some lighter options, including salads and grilled chicken, as well as your typical fast food fare like chicken fingers and burgers. This is also home to one of our favorite treats — the Peanut Butter Pie. It’s a must-try if you love peanut butter as much as we do!

If you need something to wash down your meal or seasonal cupcake from the Contempo Cafe, just a few steps away is the Outer Rim lounge. The Outer Rim is a great place to go for a pre-dinner drink or a relaxing evening right in the middle of all the action of the Contemporary Resort’s 4th Floor Grand Canyon Concourse. Indulge in one of the Outer Rim’s draft beers, wines, bourbons, martinis, or specialty cocktails

Still considered part of the Contemporary offerings, The Top of the World Lounge, exclusive to Disney Vacation Club members, is perched on the top floor of the Contemporary Resort’s Bay Lake Tower. Top of the World is open daily from 6PM to midnight, with seating available on a first come, first served basis. Disney Vacation Club Members with access to Membership Extras and who are staying in Disney World Resort hotels can enjoy this exclusive spot, and guests staying on Members’ reservations are also eligible! Grab a drink, an appetizer, and the best view of the Magic Kingdom fireworks here!

The Contemporary is home to one of the most iconic character meals on property. Chef Mickey’s is one of the most difficult reservations to get on property, and the reason is that at this all-you-care-to-enjoy restaurant, you can meet every single one of The Fab Five character set: Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Goofy, and Pluto

Steakhouse 71 is a NEW restaurant at Disney’s Contemporary Resort. The “71” is a nod to the opening year of Walt Disney World, and the restaurant itself opened on October 1, 2021, which is the 50th Anniversary of the Resort! Steakhouse 71 offers casual dining for breakfast, lunch, and dinner (with varying menus for each meal and a steakhouse focus in the evenings) just steps away from the Magic Kingdom. And if you opt for dessert (which is always a good idea),  you may want to try the Steakhouse 71 Chocolate Cake, made with “15 layers of whiskey-infused chocolate cake, chocolate mousse, and raspberries – one layer for every floor at Disney’s Contemporary Resort.” The accompanying Steakhouse 71 Lounge also provides a spot to enjoy a few bites and unique cocktails.

The California Grill at Disney’s Contemporary Resort is truly a masterpiece of fine dining, and has been recognized by the Michelin Guide. California Grill is currently presenting a new, special dining experience for a limited time in honor of the 50th Anniversary of Walt Disney World Resort! The 3-course prix fixe menu was created to “evoke the spirit of 1971″ — the opening year of Walt Disney World (and also the opening year of the Top of the World!). Disney has shared that the meal celebrates the past while offering a nod to the incredible future ahead, featuring dishes such as Braised Short Rib Wontons, Florida Coast Black Grouper, and a 50th Anniversary Celebration Dessert Grand Marnier Soufflé.

This limited-time celebration menu will soon be replaced. Starting on April 1st, 2023, things change…slightly. On that date, California Grill will start to serve a 3-course selection menu that they say will feature “contemporary, market-inspired cuisine.” We’ll be on the lookout for more details about the menu, so stay tuned.

With two iconic Disney meal experiences and the rapidly growing popularity of a reasonably priced steakhouse, the Contemporary sure packs a 1-2 punch when it comes to food.

Read all about the Contemporary Resort Restaurants here!

Animal Kingdom Lodge

Animal Kingdom Lodge has nine(ish) dining spots for you to nibble and nosh your way through the wilderness.

Maji Pool Bar is located near the Samawati Springs Pool at Kidani Village, and Uzima Springs Pool Bar is over at the Jambo House pool. — and both are a pretty standard pool bars, but with some unique African beers and some tasty nibbles, but nothing truly destination-worthy.

The Mara is named after the Masai Mara National Reserve in Africa, this quick service restaurant located in Jambo House is sure to please all appetites with a taste of Africa, as well as American favorites. It is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner and is located next to the Resort’s Uzima Springs pool area. Guests can dine indoors or take their meals poolside, or to a small area offering shaded tables outside.

Unique items, including Bobotie and Breakfast Quinoa are served alongside classic Disney dishes like Mickey Waffles and more for Breakfast. Lunch and Dinner feature the truly tasty African Potjie (a flavorful stew) among the options, which also include counter service favorites like Chicken Nuggets, Burgers, and Flatbreads. The “Grab & Go” market area features snacks, desserts (including the spot’s famous Zebra Domes!), bottled drinks, breakfast pastries, specialty coffees, and fruit. The Mara also offers a selection of African and international wines, beers, cocktails, and even choose-your-own-flavor smoothies.

Victoria Falls and Cape Town Lounge are cozy lounges in Jambo House near Boma and Jiko. Enjoy a glass of South African wine, or indulge in your favorite martini, beer, or mixed drink. It’s a great place to hang while waiting for a table at Boma or Jiko. Or just stop in before you head to (or after you return from) the parks to grab a quick bite from the unique appetizer menu, including crisp breads and African dips, marinated olives, and more.

Cape Town Lounge serves appetizers and pairings of African wines along with hand-crafted cocktails, dessert wines, and more.  Guests may also order from the full Jiko menu and dine at the bar.

Tucked into the Animal Kingdom Lodge’s Kidani Village, Sanaa, which means “Work of Art” in Swahili, is a beautiful restaurant serving a fusion of African and Indian cuisine made with authentic cooking methods like slow-roasting and tandoori oven cooking. While Sanaa is a table service restaurant serving lunch and dinner, the spot offers the Sanaa Kuamsha Breakfast in the mornings — a quick-service experience for which reservations are not required.

The best part: the view from the restaurant is of Animal Kingdom Lodge’s Sunset Savanna — enjoy the ever-changing scenery of some of the most beautiful African plains animals you’ve ever seen.

P.S. Don’t miss Sanaa’s Indian-style Bread Service, served with NINE different dipping accompaniments!

The other Table Service option at the Jambo House is Boma. Boma continually emerges on the “favorite restaurants” lists of many Disney guests! The popular buffet at Boma gives visitors the opportunity to sample flavorful African dishes while also dining on some American favorites during breakfast or dinner.

We always give two thumbs up to this restaurant, and we always find something new to try here!

And the pièce de résistance: Jiko. Jiko — The Cooking Place is a Signature Dining Experience (which is Disney-speakfor fancy, schmancy), hands-down, one of the most romantic and delicious restaurants on Disney World property. We can highly recommend this one if you enjoy excellent, gourmet food and a lovely and tranquil atmosphere.

Sharing tastes of Africa with a special Jiko flourish, this restaurant doesn’t offer a great view or any characters, but it does offer truly beautiful food — and the Animal Kingdom Lodge savanna is right outside…

Best Animal Kingdom Lodge Restaurants

Results

It’s so hard to designate a clear winner for food — because we love it all! When it comes to sheer quantity, the Contemporary definitely starts off strong, by simply just providing more dining options. Top that off with two of the most popular and iconic restaurants, Chef Mickey’s and California Grill, and the Contemporary extends the lead. And Steakhouse 71 has proven itself time and time again with us and has fast become one of our favorites.

But Animal Kingdom Lodge has a small but mighty team of contenders. Boma hosts our favorite breakfast buffet. Sanaa has become a cult classic with its epic bread service and just as epic savanna views. And Jiko offers a menu, including that tender filet, that makes our mouths water just thinking about it. Though you won’t find character dining at Animal Kingdom Lodge, what you will find is plenty of natural wildlife.

This match-up may be the most difficult to gauge, since we genuinely love the options at both resort. We may just have to call this one a draw because, truly, no matter which resort you stay at, you’ll have amazing food — and we’d absolutely recommend you make some reservations at the other to experience there as well!

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Transportation

Do these deluxe resorts offer anything different when it comes to transportation? Let’s see!!

The Contemporary

The Contemporary is on the Monorail loop. It’s the fourth stop after the Transportation & Ticketing Center (TTC) on the way to the Magic Kingdom. If Magic Kingdom is your destination, guests can also walk a quick 7-10 minute jaunt right up to the front gate.

If Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom, or Disney Springs is your destination, then you can board one of Disney’s busses to transport you over to these parks.

And if EPCOT is your park of the day, you can take a bus over or take the monorail over to the Transportation and Ticketing Center and transfer to the EPCOT monorail loop. So, there are some options available to get to two Disney parks without having to set foot on a bus.

Animal Kingdom Lodge

Animal Kingdom Lodge is not on the Monorail loop. Or the Skyliner Route. Or even boat access. If you want to visit any of the Disney Parks (even the nearby Animal Kingdom), the only option for free Disney transportation is a bus.

Now, Animal Kingdom Lodge is already the furthest resort from the Disney Parks (except Animal Kingdom), and relying solely on bus transportation makes it feel every inch of that distance. And no one really looks forward to having to wrestle to get their stroller on and off the bus, or standing in those lines at the end of a park day to be packed in like sardines with your fellow Animal Kingdom Lodgers once that bus does arrive.

Guests staying at the Animal Kingdom Lodge can also use ride share, taxis, and Minnie Vans at an extra cost in case you find yourself in a hurry.

Results

These Magic Kingdom area resorts are both deluxe and some of the best of what Disney has to offer in terms of luxury and amenities. The Contemporary is the winner of Transportation category. Animal Kingdom Lodge secured the Theme/Room and Pool categories. And interestingly, both resorts are neck-and-neck when it comes to Food.

The Contemporary really has the edge when it comes to proximity to the Magic Kingdom (and even EPCOT). But Animal Kingdom Lodge is significantly cheaper and offers so much more in terms of theming with the live animal savanna, artistic displays and Cultural Representatives. So, which one is the clear winner?

Why You Should Skip the Monorail on Your Next Magic Kingdom Trip

The Winner!

So, who is the ultimate winner in the Contemporary vs. Animal Kingdom Lodge battle? We hate to say it, but it depends! The Contemporary is an amazing choice for those who want that close proximity to Magic Kingdom, but that price tag can be daunting when compared to Animal Kingdom Lodge. If you’re looking for that serene escape from the stimulation of Disney parks while staying in the magic and being immersed in the sense of adventure, Animal Kingdom Lodge might be the oasis you seek.

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Polynesian Village vs. Contemporary Resort Guide for Disney World in 2023

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What do you think? Is the Contemporary or Animal Kingdom Lodge better? Let us know in the comments!

The post Contemporary vs. Animal Kingdom Lodge Disney World Resort Guide 2023 first appeared on the disney food blog.