Disney's Club Level (CL) Information & Questions

[mickeynut1]

Thanks to everyone for chiming in!!! We were at our gate at MCO at noon today (about an hour before departure), and I received an email that our flight was CANCELLED. After a lot of calls and scrambling, at about 5 pm, we checked in for a night at Coronado Springs and I’m desperately hoping our flight in the morning isn’t cancelled! So that’s the reason for my delayed response.
We did end up booking the BB for WL St CL room (no deluxe avail) for the following week after our current RPC reservation, so I have both this offer and RPC. Therefore, we have some time to decide!
Current flights are about $400 more for the WL week, so still about $1,100 savings.
My reservations- we have a deluxe RPC room, so it will be a lot more space (almost double the WL room, maybe?). The lounge at RPC is enormous, and there’s so much food there that we would probably just need a QS lunch here and there...
Any and all continued input is greatly appreciated! And it was so awesome after a stressful afternoon to see so many ppl on this board respond to my question!!!
P.S. Due to the Sept. weather and also wanting to have a more relaxed vacation, we’d planned on enjoying the large RPC lounge, a GF cabana day, and maybe even some spa services. So RPC was a great fit for our plans. We also feel as if we aren’t going to get 30% off again anytime soon with SWGE coming! But WL looks beautiful, and I read such good things about the service on this thread. I’m definitely unsure at this point, but am glad to have options!

Hope you don't have any troubles with your flight this morning. I think either resort will provide for a great trip. Yes RPC is amazing and the lounge is large/spacious, but WL CL is wonderful as well. The lounge isn't as spread out as RPC, but it still has plenty of space to spread out, IMO. Good luck deciding which reservation to keep, but I don't think you can go wrong with either one. Safe travels home .

Checked into GF RPC yesterday. We had an early (6:30) direct flight from Michigan. We were worried for a bit that we would not get out of the freezing misery that is home right now. Happy to say we made it! We had a much longer wait for ME than I can ever remember having. We finally arrived at resort about 11:15. We were not greeted when we entered so stood the regular check in line and were quickly tended to. The CM acted surprised that we were there because I had done online check in. (I always do o line check in but it never seems to “work”, in that I always have to go through the CC info, etc when I get there. This time, all seemed to be in order because he didn’t ask for a thing). Our room was not ready (did not expect it to be since we were so early). He did tell us it would be on the 5th floor. Since I had twice requested 4th floor (Signature Services and when booking), I was kind of bummed. I asked if anything was available to change and was told no (after he checked). We were taken up to the lounge and found our magic bands did not work. The escorting CM dropped us off and took our bands to correct them. We were not given a tour of the lounge as had been done previously. We were not offered a welcome drink. Yes, we have stayed at RPC before, so not sure if that is why were were just dumped up there, but I appreciate the little extra touches that were missing. We tracked down a CM and asked for a glass of wine. They had just started the 11:30 food service, so we were able to eat something while we waited for our room. We got our room ready text about 1:00.
Our room is on the 5th floor and is oddly shaped (in my opinion). It feels much smaller then the room we had previously (directly below this room on 4th floor). Only 2 queen beds, no daybed/couch. The bathroom has a lovely soaker tub, but it makes for an odd shower experience since you have to climb in and out. The vanity and toilet are also in the same area...no dividing door. I don’t care for the set up.
We came back from dinner last night...no welcome gift. Again, probably a trivial thing, but since we have received at every other resort, it just makes me feel meh.
Regardless, we are not in Michigan and the weather here is beautiful. I am at Disney in a gorgeous resort....life is good right now!

Sorry your room request wasn't granted, but hope you have a great stay overall .

 

[reluctantredhead]

Checked into GF RPC yesterday. We had an early (6:30) direct flight from Michigan. We were worried for a bit that we would not get out of the freezing misery that is home right now. Happy to say we made it! We had a much longer wait for ME than I can ever remember having. We finally arrived at resort about 11:15. We were not greeted when we entered so stood the regular check in line and were quickly tended to. The CM acted surprised that we were there because I had done online check in. (I always do o line check in but it never seems to “work”, in that I always have to go through the CC info, etc when I get there. This time, all seemed to be in order because he didn’t ask for a thing). Our room was not ready (did not expect it to be since we were so early). He did tell us it would be on the 5th floor. Since I had twice requested 4th floor (Signature Services and when booking), I was kind of bummed. I asked if anything was available to change and was told no (after he checked). We were taken up to the lounge and found our magic bands did not work. The escorting CM dropped us off and took our bands to correct them. We were not given a tour of the lounge as had been done previously. We were not offered a welcome drink. Yes, we have stayed at RPC before, so not sure if that is why were were just dumped up there, but I appreciate the little extra touches that were missing. We tracked down a CM and asked for a glass of wine. They had just started the 11:30 food service, so we were able to eat something while we waited for our room. We got our room ready text about 1:00.
Our room is on the 5th floor and is oddly shaped (in my opinion). It feels much smaller then the room we had previously (directly below this room on 4th floor). Only 2 queen beds, no daybed/couch. The bathroom has a lovely soaker tub, but it makes for an odd shower experience since you have to climb in and out. The vanity and toilet are also in the same area...no dividing door. I don’t care for the set up.
We came back from dinner last night...no welcome gift. Again, probably a trivial thing, but since we have received at every other resort, it just makes me feel meh.
Regardless, we are not in Michigan and the weather here is beautiful. I am at Disney in a gorgeous resort....life is good right now!

Hello from the snowy (and freezing) Northern LP!

I can totally relate to your being underwhelmed by your check-in experience and your room...we had a similar experience in December when we transferred from WL deluxe CL to a BC 1BR suite . And I said the same to my H..."At least we're not in Michigan!" (And yes, I know some may be thinking for being disappointed with the 1BR suite...but I did explain my reasons in an earlier post...the room was a mixed bag, and for what we paid we felt like the WL Deluxe room and CL delivered a much better experience for a lot less money...but the location of the BC resort is really what you're paying for.)

Here's hoping that the rest of your trip is everything you'd hoped! We are anxiously anticipating our own escape 2 weeks from today...we'll be at the BWI in a garden cottage for a few days and then at GF SL for a few more.

Have a magical rest of your trip!

 

[poohgirl6]

We check into GF Wednesday for a Theme Park CL room. Since we've never stayed in the main building, I was wondering what floor we might be on? I'm not even sure how many floors of rooms there are in the main bldg. I know the RPC lounge is on the 4th floor from what I've read here.

Also, has anyone ever been at the GF for Valentine's Day? Just wondering if they do anything extra or special for the holiday. (No, I'm not expecting it and won't be disappointed, just didn't want to miss it if it is happening...lol)

TIA for any answers. This is a great info thread

 

[NYCgrrl]

We check into GF Wednesday for a Theme Park CL room. Since we've never stayed in the main building, I was wondering what floor we might be on? I'm not even sure how many floors of rooms there are in the main bldg. I know the RPC lounge is on the 4th floor from what I've read here.

Also, has anyone ever been at the GF for Valentine's Day? Just wondering if they do anything extra or special for the holiday. (No, I'm not expecting it and won't be disappointed, just didn't want to miss it if it is happening...lol)

TIA for any answers. This is a great info thread

When I stayed overnight at GF CL in the main building pretty sure the suite was on the top floor. No idea how many other floors the CL rooms encompass but if you want to put in a room preference w/i your category why not put your info into touring plans room finder?

 

[QueenElinor]

Although it is awesome to be at WDW and I know people will still have a great time even if their room is not up to snuff, I think it's perfectly legitimate to be bit disgruntled when one's accommodations don't live up to expectations. These are not off-site budget resorts.

We all know get what you pay for, so when you don't get what you pay for, it's especially annoying.

So don't feel like you have to apologize for grumbling a bit- it's allowed, even in the happiest thread about the happiest place on earth!

 

[ninafeliz]

We check into GF Wednesday for a Theme Park CL room. Since we've never stayed in the main building, I was wondering what floor we might be on? I'm not even sure how many floors of rooms there are in the main bldg. I know the RPC lounge is on the 4th floor from what I've read here.

Also, has anyone ever been at the GF for Valentine's Day? Just wondering if they do anything extra or special for the holiday. (No, I'm not expecting it and won't be disappointed, just didn't want to miss it if it is happening...lol)

TIA for any answers. This is a great info thread

TPV main building CL rooms are on the 3rd and 4th floor, I’m pretty sure there aren’t any up in the 5th.

 

[Maxie86]

Checked into GF RPC yesterday. We had an early (6:30) direct flight from Michigan. We were worried for a bit that we would not get out of the freezing misery that is home right now. Happy to say we made it! We had a much longer wait for ME than I can ever remember having. We finally arrived at resort about 11:15. We were not greeted when we entered so stood the regular check in line and were quickly tended to. The CM acted surprised that we were there because I had done online check in. (I always do o line check in but it never seems to “work”, in that I always have to go through the CC info, etc when I get there. This time, all seemed to be in order because he didn’t ask for a thing). Our room was not ready (did not expect it to be since we were so early). He did tell us it would be on the 5th floor. Since I had twice requested 4th floor (Signature Services and when booking), I was kind of bummed. I asked if anything was available to change and was told no (after he checked). We were taken up to the lounge and found our magic bands did not work. The escorting CM dropped us off and took our bands to correct them. We were not given a tour of the lounge as had been done previously. We were not offered a welcome drink. Yes, we have stayed at RPC before, so not sure if that is why were were just dumped up there, but I appreciate the little extra touches that were missing. We tracked down a CM and asked for a glass of wine. They had just started the 11:30 food service, so we were able to eat something while we waited for our room. We got our room ready text about 1:00.
Our room is on the 5th floor and is oddly shaped (in my opinion). It feels much smaller then the room we had previously (directly below this room on 4th floor). Only 2 queen beds, no daybed/couch. The bathroom has a lovely soaker tub, but it makes for an odd shower experience since you have to climb in and out. The vanity and toilet are also in the same area...no dividing door. I don’t care for the set up.
We came back from dinner last night...no welcome gift. Again, probably a trivial thing, but since we have received at every other resort, it just makes me feel meh.
Regardless, we are not in Michigan and the weather here is beautiful. I am at Disney in a gorgeous resort....life is good right now!

I love the 5th floor it so quiet and peaceful up there. It is hard to get the 5th floor, there are only 1 or 2 standard rooms. As far as I know they are lockoffs for the 2 bedroom suites, which would explain the bathroom. If it's only reserved as a 1 bedroom they use the lockoff room as a standard room. The 5th floor is suites and two deluxe king rooms.

We check into GF Wednesday for a Theme Park CL room. Since we've never stayed in the main building, I was wondering what floor we might be on? I'm not even sure how many floors of rooms there are in the main bldg. I know the RPC lounge is on the 4th floor from what I've read here.

Also, has anyone ever been at the GF for Valentine's Day? Just wondering if they do anything extra or special for the holiday. (No, I'm not expecting it and won't be disappointed, just didn't want to miss it if it is happening...lol)

TIA for any answers. This is a great info thread

The TPV view rooms would be on the 3rd and 4th floors. The 2nd floor rooms are deluxe kings, and the 5th floor are suites.

Although it is awesome to be at WDW and I know people will still have a great time even if their room is not up to snuff, I think it's perfectly legitimate to be bit disgruntled when one's accommodations don't live up to expectations. These are not off-site budget resorts.

We all know get what you pay for, so when you don't get what you pay for, it's especially annoying.

So don't feel like you have to apologize for grumbling a bit- it's allowed, even in the happiest thread about the happiest place on earth!

I completely agree. The service at the Grand has been going downhill, while raising room rates, for several years now and it is not acceptable. I've seen reports that peeps at Pop get welcome chocolates. We've had some awesome welcome gifts at the Grand but nothing for the past couple of years. Last year didn't even get a note welcoming us back. It doesn't have to be elaborate, but something to acknowledge you as a repeat guest, and a note at least and a small box of chocolates or something for 1st time guests...how hard can that be. It's the little things that make your stay special. At that price point we have every right to complain. Off my soap box now...back to regular programming.

 

[DisneyLifePapioNe]

Although it is awesome to be at WDW and I know people will still have a great time even if their room is not up to snuff, I think it's perfectly legitimate to be bit disgruntled when one's accommodations don't live up to expectations. These are not off-site budget resorts.

We all know get what you pay for, so when you don't get what you pay for, it's especially annoying.

So don't feel like you have to apologize for grumbling a bit- it's allowed, even in the happiest thread about the happiest place on earth!

I have a couple of friends at Disney World one of which is a MK resort GM, I had a recent conversation with him on capacity at the MK area resorts, he has said over the past year they have consistently been at 80% or higher. In the past requests were easier to accommodate in slower periods but that has changed according to him, not only is it harder to give guests “Magical” upgrades but it’s harder on the CM’s to always be on top of their game so to say, IMO most are still doing an awesome job and many wouldn’t even think or notice this is taking place, he went onto add that even everyday things like maintenance and such are harder to complete when they have to continually make rooms ready for the next guests so frequently, which plays into why the days of having a room ready early are so hit and miss these days also.

 

[mickeynut1]

We check into GF Wednesday for a Theme Park CL room. Since we've never stayed in the main building, I was wondering what floor we might be on? I'm not even sure how many floors of rooms there are in the main bldg. I know the RPC lounge is on the 4th floor from what I've read here.

Hope you have a great time and enjoy RPC .

 

[Disneytam]

Only 6 more days until our return to the BWI for our anniversary celebration . I am so ready for this trip. Looking forward to seeing all my friends at the Innkeepers Club and enjoying the Festival of the Arts!

I hope you have a wonderful anniversary! I am having such horrible BWI CL withdrawal this winter and we currently have no Disney trips booked, though we are starting to make plans for our large family trip in 2021.

 

[Popouri DVC]

We stayed one time at Sugar Loaf at The Grand.
We got greeted upon check-in and there was fancy chocolate that was imprinted with GF building outlines and logos. I still have this little gift today, although it is long-past being edible: it reminds me of a very special stay.

This next week we are going to stay in the main building for the first time ever for my birthday which also happens to be Valentine’s Day. I’m beyond excited! We stay every year at The Grand because we are DVC and VGF is our home resort, but we are really doing this trip special.

I don’t know if there will be special chocolate, but I already know the experience will be one to remember.

 

[Eastern]

I didn't get a gift at RPC and my MB didn't work either, but I was happy with the service while at the resort. Housekeeping was perfect, and that is usually my biggest complaint. CMs were very accommodating and food was good and always replenished.

 

[NYCgrrl]

Every time in the past 1.5 years I've received a gold colored chocolate bar and written missive when staying CL. Only once has anyone greeted us at the door and taken us to the room and that was at BWI.

 

[mickeynut1]

This next week we are going to stay in the main building for the first time ever for my birthday which also happens to be Valentine’s Day. I’m beyond excited! We stay every year at The Grand because we are DVC and VGF is our home resort, but we are really doing this trip special.

Hope you have a great trip and enjoy RPC .

 

[Rachel GB]

Keep searching with different keywords on the thread and I can’t find the answer... does the Old Faithful Club lounge close between services? TIA!

 

[mickeynut1]

Keep searching with different keywords on the thread and I can’t find the answer... does the Old Faithful Club lounge close between services? TIA!

The food service area is closed/locked during non-service times, but the lounge/sitting area is accessible anytime as it's an open lounge rather than a separate room with a door .

 

[Rachel GB]

The food service area is closed/locked during non-service times, but the lounge/sitting area is accessible anytime as it's an open lounge rather than a separate room with a door .

Thank you! Decisions, decisions...

 

[trishadono]

Keep searching with different keywords on the thread and I can’t find the answer... does the Old Faithful Club lounge close between services? TIA!

They did tell me that you can still ask for a coffee, coke or wine etc while doors are closed. Just rattle the wrought iron gate/door. That worked just fine for my last stay,

You can see them in there so just ask can I have X please and they will still get it. They just want a safe environment while they clean and set up.

The seating areas are all still "open".

 

[QueenElinor]

I have a couple of friends at Disney World one of which is a MK resort GM, I had a recent conversation with him on capacity at the MK area resorts, he has said over the past year they have consistently been at 80% or higher. In the past requests were easier to accommodate in slower periods but that has changed according to him, not only is it harder to give guests “Magical” upgrades but it’s harder on the CM’s to always be on top of their game so to say, IMO most are still doing an awesome job and many wouldn’t even think or notice this is taking place, he went onto add that even everyday things like maintenance and such are harder to complete when they have to continually make rooms ready for the next guests so frequently, which plays into why the days of having a room ready early are so hit and miss these days also.

We do a lot of traveling and so I have ample opportunity to compare Disney with other hotels. In Disney's defense, the number of special requests that are made (and honored) is truly amazing. They do go out of their way with room requests, early and late check-in, etc. I'm really impressed by the way they truly try to accommodate people.

But I think they need to staff up, and if their occupancy is so high they might consider minimum stays which greatly reduce the stress and strain on the staff. The Deluxe CL room I'm about to rent at BWI is among the most expensive resort hotel rooms I have ever booked anywhere (including places like Wailea Beach on Maui, and The Breakers & The Hotel Del Coronado, which are the hotels the GF was modeled after). I know that Disney can't hold a candle to these places in terms of service. I accept that, because of the other perks we get, such as in-park transportation, Magical Express, MDE, etc. Disney is about the parks, and these resorts are right next to them! So what I'm really paying for is location and I understand that. It's okay. I've accepted that they're never going to be the Greenbrier.

But the cost/benefit ratio is why we just don't come that often. We live pretty far away so every trip is a big one. And there are lots of places to visit in this world. Disney does need to worry about the "real" competition for their high-end services, it's not Universal or Busch Gardens- it's Paris!

 

[DisneyLifePapioNe]

Ok, we go to Disney as much as our schedule allows us to!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!