Nick Hotel as an attraction - can you view / visit ?

[5togetherWDW]

From all I have heard, my family would be very unhappy staying at the Nick Hotel - but my son would like to look around / see their shops. We have had dinners and shopped at many of the Disney resorts, and were considering doing the same with the Nick hotel. But -- is this possible? I was told that we can't book a meal there without a stay -- but can we look around / shop their gift shops? I've heard they require wristbands just to stay at the place . . . do they allow visitors to enter / look about?

[NJGIRL]

I just called the hotel and they gave me a very simple answer. No, if you are not a registered guest you can not dine, shop or look around the hotel. I do have to say looking at their web site it looks like a really cool place.

[Kenny1113]

I am interested to hear what you have heard negatively about the hotel. I am thinking about taking the kids one day. I have heard nothing but great things.

Yes it does seem to be overpriced for an "holiday inn" but they have a lot of activities