After reading others questions, we have definetly decided to stay on property at Disney World. However, since I have not been there in approximately 18 years I am at a loss on Hotels. Which hotels are the best to stay at with a 2 1/2 year old? Is it worth it to spend more money on accomodations or is one just as nice as another? Does anyone know anything about the Polynesian? Thank you and any help would be most appreciated.

The main reason for you to consider the Poly (besides it being a nicer hotel than some of the less expensive onsite hotels) is that it is on the Magic Kingdom monorail. With a 2-1/2 year old that would be a big bonus. As I recall, it is the only onsite with monorail direct to the Magic Kingdom (besides the Grand Floridian which is pretty formal). You need to be able to get in and out of the park easily with a little one. Plus you get early admission on certain days. The Beach/Yacht Club seemed to have the best hotel pool area, but your little one would be a bit young to appreciate that.

We have stayed at several hotels in the Disney complex and I would suggest the Yachet Club for the pool area. Even though I don't have children your age, I see lots of young ones enjoying the pool area for this age, it is swallow and more like a beach area with sand bottom and sand to play in. Also don't find it hard to get anywhere from there. You can walk to Epcot, boat to MGM and bus to Magic Kingdom - and they have recently opened the Boardwalk area that you can also walk to at night with lots of activities.

Contemporary is good location to Magic Kingdom as well and they have a great Character Breakfast/buffet.

We live in California but for 1 year lived in New Jersey. We drove to Disney World and everyone in New Jersey told us to stay at the Caribbean Beach Resort. It was $80+ a night. I thought it wouldn't be that nice as compared to the others, but we got a room, first floor, facing the lagoon, with white sand beaches. My then 5 year old wouldn't stay out of the pools, complete with cannons that shoot water. It was great. Easy access to park- just catch the buses and cheap food in the food court. I think there is a website for Disneyworld and its hotels. Call 1/800 DISNEY and see if they know of it or can send you brochures.