OMG you will have a fantastic time! STOP WORRYING!
The Desert Palm is wonderful...and it's not that far away. It's at Harbor and Katella, so it's more of a walk than the Tropicana, but it can easily be done in 5-10 minutes. It's not a tough walk, it's rather a nice stroll.
It is a BEAUTIFUL hotel

- I just visited it again today for nostalgia sake - it's where DH and I stayed on our honeymoon. I've stayed there twice total. Newly refurbished, trust me, it's wonderful.
One of my top recommended hotels!
Their breakfast room looks over DCA too - a GREAT way to start your Disney day!
