Yesterday, we took an in-depth look at the Cool Kid Summer activities that are currently being offered at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort, and today, we’re going to explore the happenings at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge.
The first thing I saw when I walked into Wilderness Lodge was their activities board for Cool Kid Summer. I love that the information is located in several places inside and outside of the resort, so guests don’t miss it. The details are also available in digital form, so you can access them on your mobile device.
I always love stopping by the Wilderness Lodge Mercantile to see what they’ve got on their shelves. When I used to live in Florida, this resort reminded me of home in the Pacific Northwest, so it felt a bit different to head inside as more of a tourist this time. I’m a big fan of the merchandise sold here, and I’ll share more about it in another upcoming article. Look at these tiny red shopping carts lined up for kids to use while they shop! These little carts were one of my favorite things to see in shops when my kids were little, as they brought them so much joy and excitement to do the shopping on their own!
After some shopping, I headed out to the stunning lobby to see what else I could find. I loved seeing that the Little Library was set up in the kids’ waiting area, like it was at Art of Animation. It’s so cozy and inviting, and I love that Disney used the little bookshelves that small kids can walk right up to and pick their own book out to borrow while their parents do the grown-up things nearby.
There was a trading pin board set out on the counter, close enough for kids to be able to see that it was there and ask cast members about it. You can also see the larger-than-life celebration buttons behind the front desk, encouraging guests to ask for one.
You already know that I had to work on the Find a Friend scavenger hunt. This time, it was a photo prop of Chip ‘n’ Dale. Remember, the prop can be located anywhere in the lobby, the store, or the food court area, so this one took me a bit to find. Don’t worry, cast members move the prop daily, so you won’t typically see it in the same spot within a week.
The cast member I chatted with when I went to collect my button prize for finding the photo prop was kind enough to add all four stickers to it before handing it over after I explained my desire to share it with our readers here on the DIS. I really love that the stickers are themed to the character(s) you’re looking for – acorns and chipmunks – adorable!
As I wandered around the resort, I spotted a few children carrying reusable grocery bags that appeared to have fun things inside. So, when I went up to the front desk to collect my button, I inquired about the bags. The cast member shared that every child who checks into select resorts during Cool Kid Summer will receive this bag full of coloring sheets, crayons, Bluey buttons, stickers, and more.
The cast member also showed me some cute Cool Kid Summer luggage tags that weren’t inside the bag he shared, but they’re definitely cute.
My favorite item in the bag was a scrapbook page that your child can fill out after their memorable summer vacation at Walt Disney World! There’s even a spot for a photo of their favorite memory. This is such a cute idea and can also be filled out by parents of younger kids who aren’t old enough to complete it themselves.
There was also a brochure in the bag highlighting resort room and hotel amenities, items available for purchase in the gift shop that guests might not realize are sold there, kid-friendly meal and snack recommendations, tips for when you’re out and about, and much more.
Here is a look at all the incredible activities you’ll find during Cool Kid Summer at Wilderness Lodge.
Be sure to pick up the Cool Kid Summer Fun For Families With Kids maps for each of the four major theme parks. They are full of tips and experiences that are not to be missed if you are visiting with kids. You can also find digital versions at the links below.
Disney’s Wilderness Lodge is one of four Walt Disney World Resort hotels with special activities happening for Cool Kid Summer – Disney’s Pop Century Resort, Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort, and Disney’s Art of Animation Resort are the other three, so stay tuned as I’ll be back to tell you all about each of those!
You can also find our articles detailing all the happenings at the four major Walt Disney World theme parks below.
If you’re ready to plan your summer vacation and experience Cool Kid Summer at Walt Disney World, there are fabulous specials that can save you up to 30% on your resort stay and 50% off kids’ (ages 3-9) theme park tickets! Reach out to us at Dreams Unlimited Travel for your no-obligation quote.
