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Toll Free: 877-624-6889
Intl: (407) 917-8432
Posted on November 25, 2022
A Disney timeshare resort provides wonderful accommodation options with all of the magic that you would expect from Disney. Most of the resorts that are part of the Disney Vacation Club are located in the Disney World theme park complex in Orlando, so we’ll delve into which Disney timeshare resort is best for your central Florida vacation.
One of the big benefits of a Disney timeshare vacation is the preferred status you’ll receive as a deeded owner at your favorite resort as well as the option to holiday in other DVC resorts in the network. Trips to Disneyland in California and beach vacations in Hawaii, Hilton Head and Vero Beach can also be in your plans, along with using exchange provider Interval International to choose from 3,200 resorts around the world.
Since the non-Orlando resorts are fairly self-explanatory, depending on your preferred destination, let’s take a look at the unique qualities of the Disney timeshare resorts in Orlando:
What’s it Like at Disney's BoardWalk Villas: The villas are part of Disney’s BoardWalk Inn, so you’ll have the spacious DVC villa accommodations along with the amenities in the Inn. The waterfront location at Crescent Lake really comes alive at night with street performers, jugglers and entertainment options unique to the destination.
What are the top things to do at Disney's BoardWalk Villas: The swimming pool area is carnival-themed after New York’s famed Coney Island, with the resort featuring a 200-ft waterslide. Three pools in all – plus a children’s pool – provide plenty of options to cool off. Stop by the Flying Fish for some of the best seafood at Disney World.
What are the accommodations like at Disney's BoardWalk Villas: Villas come in a variety of sizes from studio units to one-, two- and three-bedroom villas. Units come with either a view of the Boardwalk, garden, pool or standard view of the resort grounds. Each unit has kitchen facilities, with villas equipped with full kitchens along with living room and dining areas.
What makes Disney's BoardWalk Villas stand out? The location right on the Disney Boardwalk, which is also within walking distance to Epcot and the Disney Skyliner gondola system. You’ll have that nostalgic 1940’s Atlantic City boardwalk feel with over a dozen shops and restaurants, plus watersports options on Crescent Lake. Learn more about Disney’s Boardwalk Villa timeshares.
What’s it Like at Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort: Created in classic Victorian-style and themed after upstate New York in the late 1800s when horse racing was king in Saratoga Springs, this is an equestrian-lovers dream. The 65-acre spot has a relaxing feel with a golf course on one side and Village Lake on the other side.
What are the top things to do at Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort: The racetrack clubhouse vibe is alive with great food and drinks at the Turf Club Bar and Grill, while Senses Spa provides the deep relaxation needed while on vacation. Choose from five pools, play a round at Lake Buena Vista Golf Course and roast marshmallows during evening campfires.
What are the accommodations like at Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort: Multiple options provide variety for just about every family size. Deluxe studio, one-, two- and three-bedroom choices offer space and comfort, with two-bedroom lock-off layouts offering added privacy for accompanying friends or family members. A very unique Disney accommodation choice is the Treehouse Villas, which are stand-alone three-bedroom townhomes raised to treetop levels in a secluded enclave adjacent to the resort. The ultimate in privacy while in the midst of Disney World.
What makes Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort stand out? Along with the Victorian horse racing theme, the resort is the closest to the Disney Springs complex and its impressive lineup of shops, restaurants and live entertainment venues. Saratoga Springs has its own boat launch dock near the Turf Club Bar and Grill with water taxi service to Disney Springs. Learn more about Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort timeshares.
What’s it Like at Bay Lake Tower: As part of the iconic Contemporary Resort, members enjoy being a part of Disney history at one of the two original Disney World resorts. The addition of Bay Lake Tower brought spacious, multi-room units to add to the ambiance, along with the great watersports available on Bay Lake.
What are the top things to do at Bay Lake Tower: The Sky Way Bridge gives you access to amenities at both the Contemporary and Bay Lake Tower. Choose from three pools, including the Bay Cove Pool with its 20-ft water slide and stylish poolside cabanas. The Game Station arcade, motorized boat rentals and specialty cruises on a private pontoon boat all add to the fun.
What are the accommodations like at Bay Lake Tower: Spacious and elegant with some of the best views available of the Magic Kingdom. Units range from Deluxe Studio to one-, two-, and three-bedroom villas, with each layout having a choice of resort, lake or Magic Kingdom views. The two-bedroom lock-off configuration is a combination of a studio and one-bedroom, with separate entrances and more privacy for families and friends. Multi-room villas come with features like full kitchens, washer/dryer, Whirlpool tub and private porch or balcony.
What makes Bay Lake Tower stand out? The monorail running through the Contemporary Resort has been a part of Disney World since the beginning, and guests can easily use the monorail or walk to the Magic Kingdom. And for an amazing meal, book dinner at the award-winning California Grill and ask for a table with the best views of the fireworks. Learn more about Disney’s Bay Lake Tower timeshares.
What’s it Like at Disney's Beach Club Villas: This unique, New England-style resort also shares amenities with Disney’s Yacht Club Resort and is the closest resort within walking distance to Epcot as well as a watercraft ride away to Disney’s Hollywood Studios. The beach borders Crescent Lake with a number of pools and water-based activities, plus bike rentals for a ride around the lake.
What are the top things to do at Disney's Beach Club Villas: After the swimming pools, Fantasia Gardens mini-golf and Pirate Adventure Cruise, the dining options are terrific with a variety for every taste. Cape May Café offers Character breakfasts perfect for the little ones, with surf and turf dinners for the adults. Multiple lounges, restaurants and casual dining provide plenty of choices.
What are the accommodations like at Disney's Beach Club Villas: Deluxe Studio, one-, and two-bedroom villas along with two-bedroom lockoff layouts that sleep up to nine people mean options for nearly every family size. Views range from resort, woods, pool or Courtyard views, with each unit featuring Wi-Fi and kitchen facilities. Larger, multi-room villas have fully equipped kitchens, living room, dining area, balconies and convenient in-unit washer/dryer for easier cleanup when coming in from the beach.
What makes Disney's Beach Club Villas stand out? Stormalong Bay. This three-acre waterpark is a kid’s dream with a full sized shipwreck, sand beach, swimming pool, lazy river, three whirlpool spas, 230-ft water slide and two children’s pools. The tanning deck is elevated and perfect for Mom and Dad. Learn more about timeshares at Disney’s Beach Club Villas.
What’s it Like at Disney's Old Key West Resort: The original Disney Vacation Club timeshare resort, Old Key West resort has been a fan favorite for years. Centrally located between Epcot and Disney Springs, you’ll love the vibe of the Florida Keys at this waterside location which is also tucked into the Lake Buena Vista Golf Course.
What are the top things to do at Disney's Old Key West Resort: Choose from four swimming pools, including the Sandcastle pool with its water slide and adjacent kiddie pool. Two arcades keep the kids entertained, with playgrounds, basketball, volleyball, tennis, fishing and more. After a full day of fun, head over to Olivia's Café for a bite from the Keys-themed menu.
What are the accommodations like at Disney's Old Key West Resort: Deluxe Studio, one-, two-, two-bedroom lockoff and three-bedroom villas all have choices of water, woodlands or fairway views. Studios sleep four while the larger suites sleep from nine to as many as 12 people in the three-bedroom villa. Studios have kitchenettes while the multi-room units have full kitchens as well as living and dining areas and washer/dryer. Wi-Fi access is available in each unit.
What makes Disney's Old Key West Resort stand out? The nostalgia of staying in Disney’s very first vacation club resort is very attractive, with multiple generations enjoying the resort over the years. The tranquility of the location and lower-set, residential style buildings are a more relaxed change from some of the larger resorts. Learn more about timeshares at Disney’s Old Key West Resort.
What’s it Like at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort: The Grande Dame of the Disney timeshare fleet, this resort styled in Victorian elegance has everything you look for in a wonderful Disney vacation. Located on the shores of Seven Seas Lagoon, you’re also on the monorail line for easy access to the Magic Kingdom. For a change of pace, take the boat launch to the Kingdom.
What are the top things to do at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort: Enjoy upscale shopping at Summer Lace, indulge in a massage at Grand Floridian Spa or refresh in one of the two pools. Among the multiple dining and beverage options are waterfront dining at Narcoossee's, casual dining at Grand Floridian Café, cocktails at Enchanted Rose and the award-winning Victoria & Albert's.
What are the accommodations like at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort: Newly added Resort studio units along with Deluxe Studio, one-, two- and three-bedroom villas feature upscale Victorian-style furnishings. Resort studios have quartz countertops, ornate crown molding, and a beverage center with a beverage cooler and coffee maker. Larger villas have full kitchens with stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, cabinets with seeded glass doors, along with cove ceilings in the living room and bedrooms and custom art work.
What makes Disney's Grand Floridian Resort stand out? The resort is home to one of the country’s most prestigious restaurants, Victoria & Albert's, a AAA Five Diamond award winner each year since 2001. The wine list includes over 500 wines from 35 regions. When packing, keep in mind the dress code is semi-formal/formal if you plan to partake in the experience. Learn more about Disney's Grand Floridian Resort timeshares.
What’s it Like at Disney's Animal Kingdom Villas: Guests have a choice between two locations, Jambo House and Kidani Village – both set in the midst of African-themed savannahs where more than 30 species of wildlife roam freely around the resort grounds. Guests can use facilities of both locations with shuttles running between the two, and both overlook the savannahs with exceptional wildlife viewing.
What are the top things to do at Disney's Animal Kingdom Villas: Because of the unique layout between the two locations, preplanning is important. Both have swimming pools with slides but Kidani Village has the Uwanja Camp, a water playground for the kids. Kidani is also home to Sanaa, the unique restaurant specializing in African cuisine where you dine while you watch the wildlife. Spa lovers can rejuvenate at Zahanati Massage & Fitness Center near Jambo House.
What are the accommodations like at Disney's Animal Kingdom Villas: Both Jambo House and Kidani Village have studio, one-, two- and three-bedroom villas, but not all accommodations have savannah views. If wildlife viewing from your balcony is a priority, be sure to book your preferred villa size with a specific Savannah View designation. Also - Kidani Village has more of the larger villas than Jambo House, which is part of the original Animal Kingdom Lodge.
What makes Disney's Animal Kingdom Villas stand out? The wildlife. Numerous opportunities abound to view animals such as zebras, giraffes, gazelles, kudu and flamingos. The resort provides a Wildlife Field Guide to help families identify each species, and specialist staff members run educational programs to explain the intricacies of the animals and their ecosystems. Learn more about Disney's Animal Kingdom Villas timeshares.
What’s it Like at Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows: One of the two original Disney World resorts from the Magic Kingdom’s birth in 1971, the DVC villas and bungalows have added a terrific accommodation option to this Disney classic. Take in the Polynesian ambiance, from the Great Ceremonial House through to coffee at Kona Café and dinner at ‘Ohana. The resort is on the monorail network, with easy access to the Magic Kingdom either by monorail or by water taxi.
What are the top things to do at Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows: Themed daily activities are a must. From the ceremonial torch lighting and Samoan fire-knife dance called Nifo Oti to hula lessons and the kid’s Lava Pool Party, there is something for everyone. Lava pool has an “active” volcano along with a 142-ft waterslide that the kids will love. The Oasis leisure pool provides a more relaxed swimming experience.
What are the accommodations like at Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows: At present there are two Disney Vacation Club accommodation options, the Deluxe Studio units with either a standard resort or lake view and the Bungalows. The Deluxe Studios are the largest of their type at Disney, at 447 sq. ft., sleeping up to five with a kitchenette, queen bed, queen sofa bed and a pull-down single bed under the TV. Bungalows sleep up to eight people with two bedrooms and two bathrooms, full kitchen, living and dining area, washer/dryer and private deck overlook the lagoon. Stay tuned to this space as an expansion is underway with a new tower being constructed to include new accommodations. Completion is scheduled for late 2024.
What makes Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows stand out? The bungalows. As the first-ever DVC accommodations to sit directly above water, you’ll have that South Pacific island feel as you look across Seven Season Lagoon from your private deck with your own plunge pool. They also provide terrific views of the fireworks over Cinderella’s Castle as well as the Electrical Water Pageant on the lagoon. Learn more about Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows timeshares.
What’s it Like at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge: Tucked along the shores of Bay Lake, Wilderness Lodge is surrounded by woodland and themed after the charm of America’s National Park lodges. The Lodge offers DVC members two options - Boulder Ridge Villas and Copper Creek Villas & Cabins. Enjoy the nature-themed experience, complete with the Fire Rock Geyser that erupts every hour with a 120-foot high spray reminiscent of Yellowstone’s Old Faithful.
What are the top things to do at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge: Head over to the “Enchanted Forest” for Story Book Dining at Artist Point with Snow White, a wonderful character dinner for the whole family. Take a dip in Copper Creek Springs Pool or Boulder Ridge Cove Pool, roast marshmallows around the campfire, go fishing or watch a movie under the stars.
What are the accommodations like at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge: Both Boulder Ridge and Copper Creek offer Deluxe Studio, one- and two-bedroom villas, with Copper Creek also providing three-bedroom and stand-alone, cabin-style accommodation. Unit styles feature views of either a pool, Bay Lake, woodlands or resort courtyard. Studios come with a kitchenette while the larger villas have full kitchens, living and dining areas and in-unit washer/dryer. The cabins come with two bedrooms and two bathrooms plus kitchen, living and dining areas, fireplace and a private patio with hot tub under a screened outdoor enclosure with views of Bay Lake.
What makes Disney’s Wilderness Lodge stand out? The rustic charm of this nature-based resort with jogging trails through the pine woodlands and streams leading to rock pools sets a relaxed tone far removed from the crowds at the parks. Yet with water taxi access to the Magic Kingdom and bus transport to the other parks, which is standard to all Disney timeshare resorts. Learn more about timeshares at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge.
What’s it Like at Disney's Riviera Resort: This latest Disney timeshare resort gives a nod to the European themes that were so important to the success of the classic Disney films. Artwork inspired by the European Riviera sets the tone, with gardens, fountains and landscaping transporting you “across the pond”. When you’re ready for Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios, ride the newest mode of transport, the Disney Skyliner gondola.
What are the top things to do at Disney's Riviera Resort: Two pools take care of your family or individual swimming needs. Riviera Pool is the more family-friendly option with a pool slide and the S’il Vous Play water play area for the little ones. Meanwhile, Beau Soleil Pool offers the more relaxing experience. Games popular in Europe are on offer such as chess lawn and a bocce ball court. For fitness buffs, there is the Athlétique Fitness Center.
What are the accommodations like at Disney's Riviera Resort: The new Tower Studio units can accommodate two people and are the latest addition to Riviera Resort. These units feature a clever Murphy bed-style layout which creates a comfortable living area during the day. Deluxe Studio, one-, two- and three-bedroom villas round out the offerings with occupancy ranging from five through to twelve in the largest villas.
What makes Disney's Riviera Resort stand out? The European elegance culminates with Topolino's Terrace, a rooftop restaurant highlighting French and Italian cuisine while offering spectacular views of the Disney World complex. The restaurant is open for dinner as well as character breakfast Breakfast à la Art with Mickey & Friends where you can meet your favorite Disney friends. Learn more about timeshares at Disney's Riviera Resort.
A timeshare with Disney Vacation Club provides great value and significant savings compared to Disney resort timeshare rentals. With some rentals going for as much as $800 a night, owning Disney points deeded to your favorite resort secures your prepaid annual vacation at the best price without the hassle of constantly refreshing travel websites looking for the best deals.
The resale market is clearly the best place to decide which Disney timeshare resort is best for you to experience the Magic Kingdom and all the other terrific Disney World attractions. You’ll see resale savings as much as 50 percent compared to the retail prices at Disney resorts, which adds up to thousands of dollars back in your pocket.
You can learn more about each resort shown above by clicking onto the highlighted links in the resort descriptions, or search for Disney in our search bar to see a list of all Disney timeshare resorts in our system. If you have any questions regarding any DVC resort, give our licensed agents a call on 877-624-6889 or go to our Contact Us page to leave us a message.
Steve manages the public relations and content creation efforts of the company. Previously the Chief Operating Officer for Perspective Magazine, he provided oversight and contributed articles for the five regional vacation ownership trade magazines under the Perspective Magazine banner.
A contributor for industry publications such as Resort Trades and Developments Magazine, Steve Luba has 36 years of experience in various roles in radio and television, sales and marketing, public relations, media and government liaison initiatives.
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