Disney World Disney Vacation Club Resorts: A Complete Guide to Deluxe Villas

Disney World Disney Vacation Club Resorts offer accommodations ranging from two-person studios to waterfront cabins and three-bedroom Grand Villas. Here’s how every Disney World DVC Resort compares, including rooms, transportation, dining, pools, benefits, and the upcoming Disney Lakeshore Lodge.

Disney Vacation Club Resorts offer some of the most spacious and unique accommodations at Walt Disney World. Guests can choose from compact studios, multiroom villas with full kitchens, overwater bungalows, waterfront cabins, and three-bedroom Grand Villas that sleep large groups.

But you do not need to be a Disney Vacation Club Member to stay at one.

Disney Vacation Club accommodations are also categorized as Disney Deluxe Villa Resorts. When inventory is available, anyone can reserve a villa directly through Disney. Nonmembers may also be able to save money by renting Disney Vacation Club points.

The Disney World DVC Resorts vary considerably in location, price, transportation, and room design. Some share amenities with traditional Deluxe hotels, while others are standalone resorts. Depending on where you stay, you could walk to Magic Kingdom, ride the Disney Skyliner to EPCOT, take a boat to Disney Springs, or watch animals from your balcony.

To help you choose, we’re comparing every Disney World Disney Vacation Club Resort, including accommodations, transportation, restaurants, pools, benefits, and the upcoming Disney Lakeshore Lodge.

Disney World DVC Resorts at a Glance

The Disney World Deluxe Villa Resorts currently include:

• Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort
• Boulder Ridge Villas at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
• Copper Creek Villas & Cabins at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
• Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Jambo House
• Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Kidani Village
• Disney’s Beach Club Villas
• Disney’s BoardWalk Villas
• Disney’s Old Key West Resort
• Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows
• Disney’s Riviera Resort
• Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa
• The Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort – A Disney Vacation Club Resort
• The Villas at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa

Disney’s Lakeshore Lodge is scheduled to open on July 1, 2027, along the shores of Bay Lake.

What Is Disney Vacation Club?

Disney Vacation Club is Disney’s timeshare program. Members purchase a real estate interest represented by Vacation Points, which can be used to reserve accommodations at Disney Vacation Club Resorts.

Each membership has a designated Home Resort. Owners generally receive an earlier booking window at that resort before reservations open to members who own elsewhere.

Photo by Danny Shuster

Although DVC operates as a points-based timeshare program, membership is not required to stay in a Disney Vacation Club villa. Villas may also be booked with cash through Disney when accommodations are released to the general public.

Another option is renting points from a Disney Vacation Club Member or through a DVC rental company. With a points rental, the member uses their points to make a reservation in the traveler’s name.

Point rentals can sometimes cost less than booking the same villa directly through Disney. However, rental reservations frequently have stricter payment, modification, and cancellation policies.

What Is a Disney Deluxe Villa Resort?

At Walt Disney World, Disney Vacation Club properties are categorized as Deluxe Villa Resorts.

Photo by CJ Ayd

These resorts provide the same primary benefits available at Disney Deluxe hotels while offering accommodations designed for longer stays and larger groups.

Room types vary by property but can include:

• Duo Studios
• Tower Studios
• Deluxe Studios
• Resort Studios
• One-bedroom villas
• Two-bedroom villas
• Three-bedroom Grand Villas
• Treehouse Villas
• Cabins
• Bungalows
• Lake Houses

Studios generally include a kitchenette with a small refrigerator and microwave. Most one-bedroom villas and larger accommodations include a full kitchen, washer and dryer, separate bedroom, living area, and dining space.

Sleeping capacities and amenities vary, so review the details of your exact room category before reserving.

Disney World DVC Resort Benefits

Guests staying at Disney World Deluxe Villa Resorts receive several benefits, whether they booked with Vacation Points, rented points, or reserved directly through Disney.

Early Theme Park Entry

Registered guests can enter any of the four Disney World theme parks 30 minutes before the official opening time each day.

Early Theme Park Entry is available on check-in and check-out days as long as guests have valid admission and meet any applicable park-entry requirements.

Extended Evening Theme Park Hours

Disney Deluxe Villa Resort guests qualify for Extended Evening Theme Park Hours on select nights. This benefit allows eligible guests to remain in a participating park after it closes to regular daytime guests. Dates, parks, attractions, and operating hours vary.

Disney has confirmed that Extended Evening Theme Park Hours will continue through 2027. Valid park admission and a MagicBand, Disney MagicMobile pass, or Key to the World Card are required.

Advance Lightning Lane Purchasing

Guests at Disney Resort hotels can purchase Lightning Lane passes and begin selecting experiences up to seven days before the first day of their stay.

Eligible guests can plan for the length of their resort stay, up to 14 days. Lightning Lane products, availability, and rules are subject to change.

Complimentary Disney Transportation

All Disney World DVC Resorts offer complimentary transportation, but the available methods depend on the property.

Options can include:

• Disney Monorail transportation
• Disney Skyliner transportation
• Water taxis and Friendship Boats
• Walking paths to theme parks or Disney Springs
• Bus transportation

Access to Deluxe Resort Amenities

DVC properties located at traditional Deluxe Resorts share many of their amenities, including restaurants, lounges, pools, recreation, and transportation.

Pool access depends on the exact resort. Guests should not assume that staying at one DVC property permits them to use pools at other Disney resorts.

Every Disney World Disney Vacation Club Resort

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Jambo House and Kidani Village

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas are divided between Jambo House and Kidani Village. Both overlook savannas where guests may see giraffes, zebras, and other animals.

Photo by CJ Ayd

Jambo House is part of Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge. It contains the resort’s dramatic lobby, along with restaurants including Boma – Flavors of Africa, Jiko – The Cooking Place, and The Mara.

Kidani Village is a separate DVC building with its own lobby, pool, bus stop, and dining. It is home to Sanaa, where guests can dine beside windows overlooking the savanna.

The two buildings are connected by a walking path and internal shuttle service. The distance can be significant, so consider which building contains the amenities you expect to use most.

Animal Kingdom Villas Accommodations

Room types can include:

• Deluxe Studios
• One-bedroom villas
• Two-bedroom villas
• Three-bedroom Grand Villas
• Value, Standard, and Savanna View categories
• Club Level accommodations in select Jambo House categories

Animal Kingdom Villas are unusual because they offer Value accommodations in select categories. These require fewer DVC points but are limited and extremely competitive.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge Jambo House One-Bedroom Villa. Photo by CJ Ayd.

Kidani Village’s one-bedroom and larger villas are particularly appealing to families because many contain an additional bathroom compared with similar villas at other DVC properties.

Animal Kingdom Villas Dining and Pools

Dining highlights include:

• Jiko – The Cooking Place
• Boma – Flavors of Africa
• Sanaa
• The Mara
• Victoria Falls Lounge
• Sanaa Lounge

Jambo House guests have access to Uzima Springs Pool, while Kidani Village has Samawati Springs Pool. Registered Animal Kingdom Lodge and Villa guests can generally use the amenities at both areas.

Best for: Animal lovers, unique dining, and immersive theming
Transportation: Buses to all four theme parks and Disney Springs
Biggest advantage: Savanna views and distinctive resort experience
Potential disadvantage: Remote location and bus-only park transportation

Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort

Bay Lake Tower is a DVC property located beside Disney’s Contemporary Resort. Its greatest advantage is its proximity to Magic Kingdom.

Guests can walk from Bay Lake Tower to the park using a dedicated pathway. They can also access the monorail station inside the Contemporary, making this one of the most convenient Disney World resorts for Magic Kingdom visits.

Photo by Mike Billick

An enclosed walkway connects Bay Lake Tower with the Contemporary’s Grand Canyon Concourse, restaurants, shops, and monorail station.

Bay Lake Tower Accommodations

Room types include:

• Deluxe Studios
• One-bedroom villas
• Two-bedroom villas
• Three-bedroom Grand Villas

View categories may include Standard, Lake, and Theme Park View.

Bay Lake Tower’s studios are compact compared with many other DVC studios. However, its one-bedroom and larger villas provide more space, full kitchens, and convenient bathroom configurations.

Bay Lake Tower Dining and Pools

Guests can use the restaurants at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, including:

• California Grill
• Steakhouse 71
• Chef Mickey’s
• Contempo Cafe
• Contemporary Grounds

Bay Lake Tower has its own feature pool, Bay Cove Pool. Pool access is controlled, and guests staying elsewhere at the Contemporary should not assume they can use it.

Photo by Brett Svenson

Best for: Magic Kingdom, families with strollers, and short park commutes
Transportation: Walk or monorail to Magic Kingdom; monorail to EPCOT with a transfer; buses elsewhere
Biggest advantage: Walking distance to Magic Kingdom
Potential disadvantage: Compact studios and high point requirements

Disney’s Beach Club Villas

Disney’s Beach Club Villas sit beside Disney’s Beach Club Resort in the EPCOT Resort area. Guests can walk to EPCOT’s International Gateway and reach Disney’s Hollywood Studios by walking or taking a Friendship Boat.

Disney’s Beach Club Resort. Photo by Laurie Sapp

This location is particularly valuable during EPCOT festivals, when guests can easily enter and exit the park through World Showcase.

Beach Club Villas guests also have access to Stormalong Bay, the expansive pool complex shared by Disney’s Beach Club and Yacht Club Resorts.

Beach Club Villas Accommodations

Room types include:

• Deluxe Studios
• One-bedroom villas
• Two-bedroom villas

Beach Club Villas does not have three-bedroom Grand Villas. Inventory is also relatively limited, making reservations difficult during popular EPCOT festivals and holidays.

Disney’s Beach Club Resort. Photo by CJ Ayd

Beach Club Villas Dining and Pools

Nearby dining includes:

• Cape May Cafe
• Beaches & Cream Soda Shop
• Beach Club Marketplace
• Martha’s Vineyard
• Hurricane Hanna’s Waterside Bar and Grill

Guests are also within walking distance of restaurants at Yacht Club, Disney’s BoardWalk, the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin, and EPCOT.

Photo by CJ Ayd

The main attraction is Stormalong Bay, which includes a sand-bottom pool, lazy river, waterslide, and multiple swimming areas. Access is restricted to registered Beach Club and Yacht Club guests.

Best for: EPCOT festivals, families, and pool time
Transportation: Walk or boat to EPCOT; walk or boat to Hollywood Studios; buses elsewhere
Biggest advantage: EPCOT access and Stormalong Bay
Potential disadvantage: Limited inventory and difficult availability

Disney’s BoardWalk Villas

Disney’s BoardWalk Villas share a property with Disney’s BoardWalk Inn. The resort overlooks a waterfront entertainment district inspired by turn-of-the-century Atlantic City and Coney Island.

Photo by CJ Ayd

Guests can walk or take a Friendship Boat to EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Restaurants, lounges, shops, and entertainment are located along the BoardWalk outside the resort.

Its location makes BoardWalk Villas particularly appealing to adults, couples, and guests planning to spend significant time at EPCOT.

BoardWalk Villas Accommodations

Room types include:

• Deluxe Studios
• One-bedroom villas
• Two-bedroom villas
• Three-bedroom Grand Villas

Available views can include Standard, Garden or Pool, and BoardWalk View.

One-Bedroom Villa at BoardWalk Inn. Photo by CJ Ayd

BoardWalk View rooms provide a lively waterfront setting, but noise from entertainment and guests can carry into some accommodations. Standard View villas require fewer points and are among the resort’s most competitive categories.

BoardWalk Villas Dining and Pools

Dining around the BoardWalk includes:

• Flying Fish
• Trattoria al Forno
• BoardWalk Deli
• Pizza Window
• AbracadaBar
• Belle Vue Lounge
• Carousel Coffee

Luna Park Pool is the resort’s feature pool, with additional leisure pools available.

The pools at Disney’s BoardWalk Inn are reason enough to stay. Photo by Laurie Sapp

Best for: Adults, nightlife, EPCOT festivals, and walkable transportation
Transportation: Walk or boat to EPCOT and Hollywood Studios; buses to Magic Kingdom and Animal Kingdom
Biggest advantage: Walkability and entertainment
Potential disadvantage: Some amenities require walking outside along the BoardWalk

Boulder Ridge Villas at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge

Boulder Ridge Villas are located in a separate building beside Disney’s Wilderness Lodge. The design is inspired by the railroads, lodges, and natural landscapes of the American West. The resort offers a quiet atmosphere while providing access to the restaurants, recreation, and transportation at Wilderness Lodge.

Boat service connects the resort to Magic Kingdom. Buses serve the remaining theme parks.

Boulder Ridge Villas Accommodations

Room types include:

• Deluxe Studios
• One-bedroom villas
• Two-bedroom villas

Boulder Ridge does not offer three-bedroom Grand Villas. Its refreshed studios can accommodate up to five guests in select configurations.

Photo by CJ Ayd

The separate building and secluded lobby create a peaceful atmosphere, but guests must walk to the main Wilderness Lodge building for most dining and services.

Boulder Ridge Dining and Pools

Dining at Wilderness Lodge includes:

• Story Book Dining at Artist Point with Snow White
• Whispering Canyon Cafe
• Geyser Point Bar & Grill
• Roaring Fork
• Territory Lounge

Boulder Ridge Cove Pool provides a quieter swimming area, while Copper Creek Springs Pool is the primary feature pool.

Best for: Quiet stays, rustic theming, and Magic Kingdom trips
Transportation: Boat or bus to Magic Kingdom; buses to other parks
Biggest advantage: Relaxing atmosphere and Wilderness Lodge amenities
Potential disadvantage: No Grand Villas and limited non-bus transportation

Copper Creek Villas & Cabins at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge

Copper Creek Villas are located primarily inside the main Wilderness Lodge building. The resort also includes freestanding waterfront Cabins along Bay Lake.

Copper Creek guests share Wilderness Lodge’s restaurants, pools, shops, recreation, and transportation. Compared with Boulder Ridge, Copper Creek provides more convenient access to the main lobby and dining.

Copper Creek Accommodations

Room types include:

• Deluxe Studios
• One-bedroom villas
• Two-bedroom villas
• Three-bedroom Grand Villas
• Two-bedroom waterfront Cabins

The waterfront Cabins sleep up to eight guests and include two bedrooms, a full kitchen, washer and dryer, screened porch, double-sided fireplace, and private hot tub.

Cascade Cabins at Copper Creek at Wilderness Lodge. Photo by Danny Shuster

Copper Creek studios are among the smaller DVC studios and have a lower capacity than Boulder Ridge studios, so families should check the sleeping arrangements carefully.

Copper Creek Dining and Pools

Copper Creek shares all Wilderness Lodge dining, including:

• Story Book Dining at Artist Point
• Whispering Canyon Cafe
• Geyser Point Bar & Grill
• Roaring Fork
• Territory Lounge

Guests can use Copper Creek Springs Pool and Boulder Ridge Cove Pool.

Photo by Courtney Reynolds

Best for: Wilderness Lodge fans, large groups, and special occasions
Transportation: Boat or bus to Magic Kingdom; buses to other parks
Biggest advantage: Access to Wilderness Lodge and unique waterfront Cabins
Potential disadvantage: Small studios and expensive Cabin reservations

The Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort

The Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort became a Disney Vacation Club property in 2024. These freestanding accommodations sit throughout the extensive Fort Wilderness campground.

Photo by Danny Shuster

Each cabin provides more privacy than a traditional hotel room, along with a full kitchen and outdoor patio.

Fort Wilderness offers boat transportation to Magic Kingdom, but navigating the resort requires additional planning. Internal buses connect the cabin loops with the Settlement and Meadow areas. Guests may also rent golf carts for an additional fee.

Fort Wilderness Cabin Accommodations

Photo by CJ Ayd

Each one-bedroom cabin sleeps up to six guests and includes:

• One queen bed
• One queen-size pull-down bed
• One bunk bed
• A full kitchen
• A living and dining area
• A full bathroom
• A private patio deck

The Cabins can work well for families who want a kitchen, separate sleeping areas, and outdoor space. However, they have only one bathroom, which may be a limitation for groups of six.

Fort Wilderness Dining and Pools

Dining and entertainment include:

• Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue
• Trail’s End Restaurant
• Crockett’s Tavern
• P&J’s Southern Takeout
• Meadow Snack Bar
• The Chuck Wagon

Guests can use Meadow Swimmin’ Pool and Wilderness Swimmin’ Pool. Fort Wilderness also offers extensive recreation, including horseback riding, trails, boat rentals, fishing, and Chip ’n’ Dale’s Campfire Sing-A-Long.

Photo by CJ Ayd

Best for: Families with cars, outdoor recreation, and private accommodations
Transportation: Boat to Magic Kingdom; buses elsewhere; internal resort buses
Biggest advantage: Full kitchen, privacy, and outdoor space
Potential disadvantage: Complicated internal transportation and one bathroom

Disney’s Old Key West Resort

Disney’s Old Key West Resort was the original Disney Vacation Club property. Its design is inspired by the Florida Keys, with pastel buildings, waterways, palm trees, and a relaxed residential atmosphere.

Photo by Laurie Sapp

Old Key West is known for having some of the largest villas in Disney Vacation Club. Its spacious rooms and relatively low point requirements can make it a strong value for larger groups.

The resort is expansive, and transportation primarily relies on multiple internal bus stops. Boat transportation is available to Disney Springs.

Old Key West Accommodations

Room types include:

• Deluxe Studios
• One-bedroom villas
• Two-bedroom villas
• Three-bedroom Grand Villas

Most buildings do not have elevators. Guests with mobility concerns or strollers should request a ground-floor room or one of the limited buildings with elevator access.

Grand Villa at Disney’s Old Key West Resort. Photo by CJ Ayd.

Old Key West studios are unusual because they typically include two traditional queen beds rather than a bed and pull-down or sofa-style sleeping surface.

Old Key West Dining and Pools

Dining options include:

• Olivia’s Cafe
• Good’s Food to Go
• Gurgling Suitcase Libations & Spirits
• Turtle Shack Poolside Snacks

Sandcastle Pool is the feature pool, and three additional leisure pools are spread throughout the resort.

Disney’s Old Key West Resort. Photo by Laurie Sapp

Best for: Larger villas, relaxed stays, and lower point requirements
Transportation: Buses to the parks; boat or bus to Disney Springs
Biggest advantage: Some of the largest DVC villas
Potential disadvantage: Large layout, multiple bus stops, and limited elevators

Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows

Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows combine tropical theming with a prime location near Magic Kingdom.

DVC accommodations are found in the original longhouses, the waterfront Bungalows, and Island Tower. Guests can use the monorail or boat to reach Magic Kingdom and can walk to the Transportation and Ticket Center for EPCOT monorail service.

Photo by CJ Ayd

The resort’s beaches, restaurants, views, and transportation make it one of the most popular Disney Vacation Club properties.

Polynesian Villas Accommodations

Room types include:

• Duo Studios at Island Tower
• Deluxe Studios
• One-bedroom villas at Island Tower
• Two-bedroom villas at Island Tower
• Two-bedroom Penthouse Villas at Island Tower
• Two-bedroom overwater Bungalows

The original Polynesian DVC longhouses contain primarily Deluxe Studios. These studios have a split-bathroom design but do not offer one-bedroom or standard two-bedroom villas.

Photo by CJ Ayd

Island Tower expanded the resort’s room variety by adding Duo Studios and multiroom villas.

The waterfront Bungalows sleep up to eight guests and include a full kitchen, washer and dryer, separate bedrooms, and private outdoor space with a plunge pool.

Polynesian Dining and Pools

Dining includes:

• ‘Ohana
• Kona Cafe
• Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto
• Capt. Cook’s
• Pineapple Lanai
• Tambu Lounge
• Wailulu Bar & Grill at Island Tower

Guests staying in eligible accommodations can access the pools and recreation associated with their resort. Because Polynesian pool policies and access points can vary, confirm which pools are available for your room location.

Photo by CJ Ayd

Best for: Families, Magic Kingdom access, and tropical theming
Transportation: Monorail or boat to Magic Kingdom; EPCOT monorail from the Transportation and Ticket Center; buses elsewhere
Biggest advantage: Transportation, dining, and multiple room styles
Potential disadvantage: High point requirements and sprawling layout

Disney’s Riviera Resort

Disney’s Riviera Resort is a standalone Disney Vacation Club property inspired by the European Riviera. Its elegant design, compact layout, and original Disney artwork give it a more refined atmosphere than many Disney World resorts. The resort has its own Disney Skyliner station, providing direct service to EPCOT and transportation to Hollywood Studios with a transfer at Caribbean Beach.

Disney’s Riviera Resort. Photo by CJ Ayd

Riviera also has one of the strongest dining collections among the standalone DVC properties.

Riviera Resort Accommodations

Room types include:

• Tower Studios
• Deluxe Studios
• One-bedroom villas
• Two-bedroom villas
• Three-bedroom Grand Villas

Tower Studios are unique to Riviera and sleep up to two guests. These small rooms include a queen-size pull-down bed and can be a practical option for couples, although the compact layout may feel restrictive during a longer stay.

Photo by CJ Ayd

Riviera’s one-bedroom and larger villas have full kitchens, washers and dryers, multiple sleeping spaces, and modern bathroom layouts.

Riviera Dining and Pools

Dining includes:

• Topolino’s Terrace – Flavors of the Riviera
• Primo Piatto
• Le Petit Café
• Bar Riva

Topolino’s Terrace offers character dining at breakfast and a signature dining experience at dinner.

Photo by CJ Ayd

Riviera Pool is the resort’s feature pool, while Beau Soleil Pool provides a quieter alternative.

Best for: Adults, couples, dining, and Skyliner transportation
Transportation: Skyliner to EPCOT and Hollywood Studios; buses elsewhere
Biggest advantage: Compact layout, strong dining, and Skyliner access
Potential disadvantage: High point requirements and resale restrictions

Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa

Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa is inspired by historic Saratoga Springs, New York, and its horse-racing heritage. The resort sits directly across the water from Disney Springs. Guests in select sections can walk to Disney Springs, while boat transportation is also available.

Disney’s Saratoga Springs. Photo by CJ Ayd.

Saratoga Springs is one of the largest DVC resorts, so room location can significantly affect the experience. Preferred sections provide easier access to Disney Springs or the main resort amenities, while Standard sections require fewer points.

Saratoga Springs Accommodations

Room types include:

• Deluxe Studios
• One-bedroom villas
• Two-bedroom villas
• Three-bedroom Grand Villas
• Three-bedroom Treehouse Villas

The Treehouse Villas are freestanding accommodations surrounded by woodland. They provide three bedrooms, a full kitchen, a washer and dryer, and a private deck.

Treehouse Villa. Photo by CJ Ayd

However, Treehouse Villa guests must account for additional transportation. An internal bus connects the Treehouses with the main Saratoga Springs bus routes.

Saratoga Springs Dining and Pools

Dining includes:

• The Turf Club Bar and Grill
• The Artist’s Palette
• The Paddock Grill
• The Turf Club Lounge
• On the Rocks Pool Bar
• Backstretch Pool Bar

High Rock Spring Pool and The Paddock Pool are the resort’s primary feature pools, with additional leisure pools throughout the property.

Best for: Disney Springs, spa visits, and larger groups
Transportation: Walk or boat to Disney Springs; buses to the theme parks
Biggest advantage: Disney Springs access and broad availability
Potential disadvantage: Very large layout and multiple bus stops

The Villas at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa

The Villas at Disney’s Grand Floridian are located at Disney World’s flagship hotel. Guests have access to the Grand Floridian’s restaurants, pools, lounges, shops, recreation, monorail station, and walking path to Magic Kingdom.

View from One-Bedroom Villa at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort. Photo by CJ ayd

The resort offers one of the most luxurious DVC experiences at Walt Disney World and is particularly popular for celebrations and Magic Kingdom-focused trips.

Grand Floridian Villa Accommodations

Room types include:

• Resort Studios
• Deluxe Studios
• One-bedroom villas
• Two-bedroom villas
• Three-bedroom Grand Villas

Resort Studios are located in the Big Pine Key building and resemble traditional hotel rooms. They do not have the same kitchenette setup found in a typical DVC Deluxe Studio, making it important to understand which category you are booking.

Photo by CJ Ayd

One-bedroom and larger villas provide full kitchens, living areas, washers and dryers, and additional sleeping space.

Grand Floridian Dining and Pools

Dining includes:

• Victoria & Albert’s
• Cítricos
• Narcoossee’s
• 1900 Park Fare
• Grand Floridian Cafe
• Gasparilla Island Grill
• Enchanted Rose
• Beaches Pool Bar & Grill

Guests can use the Beach Pool and Courtyard Pool.

Photo by Stephanie Shuster

Best for: Luxury, celebrations, dining, and Magic Kingdom
Transportation: Walk, monorail, or boat to Magic Kingdom; monorail to EPCOT with a transfer; buses elsewhere
Biggest advantage: Luxury amenities and several ways to reach Magic Kingdom
Potential disadvantage: High cash prices and point requirements

Disney’s Lakeshore Lodge

Disney’s Lakeshore Lodge is a new nature-inspired Disney World resort opening July 1, 2027. The resort is being built along the shores of Bay Lake near Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground.

Photo Courtesy of Disney

The project was originally announced in 2018 as Reflections – A Disney Lakeside Lodge before disappearing from Disney’s development plans in 2020. It later returned under the name Disney Lakeshore Lodge.

The resort will celebrate nature through the work of Disney artists and storytellers, with design details inspired by films including Bambi, Pocahontas, Brother Bear, Encanto, and Fantasia.

Lakeshore Lodge will have 967 rooms and offer both villa accommodations and traditional resort rooms.

Lakeshore Lodge Accommodations

Announced accommodations include:

• Encanto-inspired Duo Studios sleeping two
• Bambi-inspired Deluxe Studios sleeping four
• Resort Studios sleeping four
• King Resort Studios sleeping two
• One-bedroom villas sleeping five
• Two-bedroom villas sleeping nine
• Three-bedroom Grand Villas sleeping 12
• One-bedroom waterfront Lake Houses sleeping five
• Two-bedroom waterfront Lake Houses sleeping eight
• Club Level resort rooms
• Hidden Willow Presidential Suite sleeping six

One- and two-bedroom Lake Houses will be freestanding accommodations along Bay Lake. They will feature A-frame architecture, floor-to-ceiling windows, private porches, full kitchens, washers and dryers, and artwork inspired by Brother Bear.

Photo Courtesy of Disney

The three-bedroom Grand Villas will feature Fantasia-inspired artwork, full kitchens, multiple bathrooms, gathering spaces, and private patios overlooking Bay Lake.

Lakeshore Lodge Dining and Recreation

Announced dining includes:

• Moonglade, a waterfront table-service restaurant
• Bay Lake Provisions, an all-day quick-service marketplace
• Paint Out Point Bar & Grill near the feature pool
• Dandelion Terrace, a lounge with Magic Kingdom fireworks views
• The Artist’s Nest, a Club Level concierge lounge

The Wetlands recreation area will include:

• Lakeshore Lagoon zero-entry feature pool
• A spiral waterslide
• Daydream River lazy river
• Otter Springs water-play area
• Heron Shores dry-play area
• Cypress Point leisure pool
• Whirlpool spa
• Magic Kingdom fireworks views

Boat transportation will connect Lakeshore Lodge with Magic Kingdom. Additional transportation details are expected closer to opening.

Concept art courtesy of Disney

Best for: New accommodations, families, resort days, and Magic Kingdom
Transportation: Boat to Magic Kingdom; additional options to be announced
Biggest advantage: Wide room selection and extensive recreation
Potential disadvantage: Pricing, transportation patterns, and operations remain untested

Disney World DVC Resort Transportation

Transportation varies dramatically among Disney Vacation Club Resorts.

DVC Resorts Within Walking Distance of a Theme Park

Guests can walk to Magic Kingdom from:

• Bay Lake Tower
• The Villas at Disney’s Grand Floridian
• Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows

Guests can walk to EPCOT from:

• Disney’s Beach Club Villas
• Disney’s BoardWalk Villas

Guests can also walk to Hollywood Studios from BoardWalk and Beach Club, although the distance is longer than the walk to EPCOT.

DVC Resorts With Monorail Transportation

Monorail access is available at:

• Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort
• Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows
• The Villas at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort

DVC Resorts With Disney Skyliner Transportation

Disney’s Riviera Resort has its own Skyliner station. It provides direct service to EPCOT and service to Hollywood Studios with a transfer at Caribbean Beach.

DVC Resorts With Boat Transportation

Boat transportation is available at select resorts:

• Wilderness Lodge properties to Magic Kingdom
• Fort Wilderness Cabins to Magic Kingdom
• Beach Club and BoardWalk Villas to EPCOT and Hollywood Studios
• Old Key West to Disney Springs
• Saratoga Springs to Disney Springs
• Polynesian and Grand Floridian to Magic Kingdom
• Lakeshore Lodge to Magic Kingdom after opening
• Boat routes and operating schedules can change because of weather and operational conditions.

DVC Resorts That Rely Primarily on Buses

Animal Kingdom Villas rely on bus transportation to all four theme parks. Old Key West and Saratoga Springs also use buses as their primary park transportation.

Large DVC properties may have multiple internal bus stops, which can add time to trips.

Disney Vacation Club Studios vs. Villas

Choosing the right accommodation type is one of the most important parts of booking a DVC Resort.

Duo and Tower Studios

These compact accommodations sleep up to two guests. They can require fewer points but offer limited living and storage space.

Duo Studio at Island Tower. Photo by CJ Ayd

Deluxe Studios

Deluxe Studios typically sleep four or five guests and include:

• A kitchenette
• A small refrigerator
• A microwave
• A toaster
• A coffee maker
• Limited disposable dishes and utensils

Deluxe Studio. Photo by CJ Ayd.

Studios do not usually contain an in-room washer and dryer, although complimentary laundry facilities are generally available to guests staying on points.

One-Bedroom Villas

Most one-bedroom villas include:

• A separate bedroom
• A full kitchen
• A washer and dryer
• A living area
• A dining area
• One or more bathrooms
• Additional sleeping surfaces in the living room

One-Bedroom at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort. Photo by CJ Ayd

Two-Bedroom Villas

Two-bedroom villas typically sleep eight or nine guests. They may be dedicated two-bedroom accommodations or lock-off villas created by connecting a one-bedroom villa with a Deluxe Studio.

Two Bedroom at Island Tower. Photo by CJ Ayd

Sleeping arrangements can differ between dedicated and lock-off categories.

Three-Bedroom Grand Villas

Grand Villas are designed for large groups and generally sleep up to 12 guests. They include full kitchens, washers and dryers, multiple bathrooms, large living areas, and expanded dining space.

Grand Villa at Old Key West. Photo by CJ Ayd

These villas require a substantial number of points and can be difficult to reserve.

How to Book a Disney Vacation Club Resort

There are three primary ways to book a Disney World DVC Resort.

Book With Disney Vacation Club Points

Members can reserve accommodations using Vacation Points. Home Resort owners generally receive an earlier booking window, followed by members booking at other DVC properties.

Availability can be extremely competitive for low-point rooms, small resorts, holidays, EPCOT festivals, and certain room views.

Rent Disney Vacation Club Points

Nonmembers can rent points from a member or through a DVC rental company. The member makes the reservation using their points and places it in the traveler’s name.

Renting points may provide significant savings compared with Disney’s cash price, but travelers should understand the restrictions. Many rentals require substantial or full payment in advance and have limited cancellation or modification options.

Travel insurance may be worth considering.

Book Directly Through Disney

Anyone can book an available Disney Deluxe Villa directly through Disney. These reservations function more like standard hotel bookings and may qualify for Disney promotions.

Direct reservations frequently cost more than point rentals but generally provide more flexible policies and access to regular hotel housekeeping.

Housekeeping at Disney Vacation Club Resorts

Housekeeping schedules can differ depending on how the room was booked. Guests staying on Disney Vacation Club points generally receive a limited housekeeping schedule based on the length of the reservation. Services may include trash removal, towel service, or a full cleaning on designated days.

Photo by CJ Ayd

Guests who reserve a villa directly through Disney typically receive the housekeeping service associated with a cash hotel reservation.

Policies can change, so confirm the applicable schedule before your stay.

How Much Do Disney Vacation Club Resorts Cost?

DVC Resort costs depend on the property, room type, view, dates, and method used to book.

Grand Villa at Disney’s Old Key West Resort. Photo by CJ Ayd.

When using Vacation Points, the required number is determined by the resort’s annual points chart. Weekends, holidays, popular seasons, larger accommodations, and upgraded views generally require more points.

Cash prices can range from several hundred dollars per night for some studios to several thousand dollars per night for Bungalows, Cabins, Lake Houses, and Grand Villas.

Before booking, compare:

• Disney’s direct cash price
• Current Disney hotel discounts
• The cost of renting DVC points
• Studio versus traditional Deluxe hotel room pricing
• One villa versus multiple hotel rooms
• Kitchen and laundry savings
• Cancellation and modification policies
• Housekeeping differences
• Parking and transportation needs

The lowest nightly price is not always the best overall value. A villa’s kitchen, washer and dryer, multiple bathrooms, and separate bedrooms can reduce other vacation expenses and make a longer stay more comfortable.

Are Disney Vacation Club Resorts Worth It?

A Disney Vacation Club Resort may be worth it if your group will use the additional space and amenities.

They are particularly useful for:

• Families who need separate sleeping spaces
• Multigenerational groups
• Guests preparing meals in the room
• Longer Disney World stays
• Families who want an in-room washer and dryer
• Groups considering multiple hotel rooms
• Guests who want Extended Evening Theme Park Hours
• Travelers who can save by renting points

A studio may not provide much more space than a traditional hotel room. Before paying a premium, compare the exact square footage, beds, kitchenette, view, and location with nearby Deluxe Resort rooms.

Buying a Disney Vacation Club membership is a much larger decision than booking one stay. Prospective members should compare purchase price, annual dues, contract length, booking habits, financing costs, and resale restrictions before committing.

Which Disney World DVC Resort Is Best?

There is no single best Disney Vacation Club Resort for every trip, but these are our picks for different priorities:

• Best for Magic Kingdom: Bay Lake Tower
• Best for EPCOT: Disney’s Beach Club Villas
• Best transportation: Bay Lake Tower or Disney’s Riviera Resort
• Best pool: Disney’s Beach Club Villas
• Best for animal lovers: Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas
• Best for dining: Disney’s Riviera Resort
• Best for adults: Disney’s BoardWalk Villas or Riviera Resort
• Best for large villas: Disney’s Old Key West Resort
• Best for Disney Springs: Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort
• Best for tropical theming: Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows
• Best for luxury: The Villas at Disney’s Grand Floridian
• Best for privacy: The Cabins at Fort Wilderness
• Best for a special occasion: Polynesian Bungalows or Copper Creek Cabins
• Best quiet atmosphere: Boulder Ridge Villas
• Best upcoming resort: Disney’s Lakeshore Lodge

Frequently Asked Questions

How many Disney Vacation Club Resorts are at Disney World?

There are currently 13 individually listed Disney Deluxe Villa Resort accommodations at Walt Disney World, including Jambo House and Kidani Village as separate Animal Kingdom Villa properties.

Disney’s Lakeshore Lodge is scheduled to join the Disney World resort collection in 2027.

Do you need to be a Disney Vacation Club Member to stay at a DVC Resort?

No. Anyone can reserve an available Disney Deluxe Villa directly through Disney. Nonmembers can also rent Disney Vacation Club points.

Are Disney Vacation Club Resorts Deluxe Resorts?

Disney Vacation Club properties at Walt Disney World are generally categorized as Disney Deluxe Villa Resorts. They receive the primary benefits associated with the Deluxe category, including Extended Evening Theme Park Hours on eligible dates.

Do DVC villas include kitchens?

Deluxe Studios generally include kitchenettes. Most one-bedroom, two-bedroom, and three-bedroom villas include full kitchens.

Exceptions and layouts vary, so check your exact room description.

Do DVC villas have washers and dryers?

Most one-bedroom and larger villas include an in-room washer and dryer. Studios generally do not, although laundry facilities are usually available elsewhere at the resort.

Can nonmembers rent Disney Vacation Club points?

Yes. A nonmember can rent points from an owner or use a DVC rental company. The owner makes the reservation in the traveler’s name.

Review payment, cancellation, modification, and insurance policies carefully before renting.

Do DVC guests receive daily housekeeping?

Housekeeping depends on how the stay was booked. Reservations made with DVC points generally receive limited scheduled service. Cash reservations made directly through Disney may receive a different housekeeping schedule.

Which Disney Vacation Club Resort is closest to Magic Kingdom?

Bay Lake Tower is one of the closest resorts to Magic Kingdom and has a dedicated walking path to the park.

The Villas at Disney’s Grand Floridian and Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows also have walking routes and additional transportation to Magic Kingdom.

Which DVC Resorts can you walk to EPCOT from?

Guests can walk to EPCOT’s International Gateway from Disney’s Beach Club Villas and Disney’s BoardWalk Villas.

Which Disney Vacation Club Resort has the largest rooms?

Disney’s Old Key West Resort is known for having some of the largest studios and villas in Disney Vacation Club.

Room size varies by category, so compare the specific accommodations rather than the resorts as a whole.

Do DVC Resort guests receive Extended Evening Theme Park Hours?

Yes. Registered guests at eligible Disney Deluxe Villa Resorts can use Extended Evening Theme Park Hours when the benefit is scheduled.

When does Disney’s Lakeshore Lodge open?

Disney’s Lakeshore Lodge is scheduled to open on July 1, 2027. The nature-inspired resort will have 967 rooms, including studios, villas, Grand Villas, suites, and waterfront Lake Houses.