we are spending two nights in orlando in October and would like to stay in the park. We are going to the magical kingdom. Please recommend a hotel/resort that is in park. THanks

If you have little ones, stay on the monorail (Polynesian or Grand Floridian) or at Wilderness Lodge which has direct boat access. This will make hopping back to the hotel mid-day, or for little emergencies, much easier. All 3 are lovely hotels. I think, especially if you have boys, the WL is the most fun. GF is very pricey, and has lovely tea during the afternoon and a spa for the grown-ups.

Agree with above as those are the most convenient-particularly the Contemporary which is even close enough to walk (although the Polynesian has prettier grounds). If you don't want to spend that much and don't mind riding the bus you might check out the Animal Kingdom Lodge which is beautiful, has a great pool area, animal viewing and I think they are having special rates there during the fall so you might get a better deal on price there.

Check out www.ourlaughingplace.com for lots of pictures & rack rates for properties on-site, www.mousesavers.com for special 'code' rates for hotels and the message boards at www.disboards.com for any specific questions you may have about WDW, even room # requests at each resort.
We stayed at the Polynesian this June, it was wonderful & very convenient to go back to the parks in the evening. We are staying at Wilderness Lodge this January & I would love to stay at Animal Kingdom Lodge & Port Orleans - French Quarter sometime also. Have a wonderful vacation!

We had a great time at Animal Kingdom Lodge when we went in April. My "kids" are now 19 and 16 and they loved seeing the animals wandering right outside our balcony. The pool area is the best---very large and attractive. The buffet is the best---great variety of African foods and some American foods as well for the picky eaters.

Definitely Animal Kingdom Lodge. We stayed there in May and still can't get over what an amazing place it is. The theming is beautiful and the views of the animals are spectacular. Splurge for a savannah view room. I will never forget my daughter's excitement when we opened our curtains to see giraffes and zebras right outside.