While going on vacation is great and all, depending on how many people you’re traveling with and where you choose to stay, things can get a little, well, cramped – not to mention expensive. Plus, you may find yourself missing all the comforts of home. After all, eating out for every meal ain’t cheap.
Luckily, for folks heading to The Most Magical Place on Earth, that’s what the Walt Disney World villas are for. Spacious and comfortable with many homey conveniences, these roomy accommodations are a hit with parties of all sizes, whether big families or a group of friends on an adult Disney trip.
But, which of the deluxe villa resorts are right for your next trip to Walt Disney World? Keep reading for why you should consider staying in these supersized rooms, as well as which villa resort is right for your group.
Traveling with a Large Group? Stay in the Disney Villas
Ever wished you had a bit more space while visiting the Walt Disney World Resort? Or, maybe you’d like the option to cook for yourself instead of eating out at yet another overpriced restaurant. (Sorry, Disney – just calling it like we see it.)
Well, you’re in luck. Rather than squeezing into a standard room or spending half your travel budget on food, think about booking a villa at Disney World instead. Dotted around the massive Orlando resort, these roomy accommodations are perfect for groups large and small, along with more self-sufficient travelers hoping to save a little cash.
What Are the Walt Disney World Deluxe Villa Resorts?
Similar to Disney’s swanky deluxe resorts, deluxe villas are some of the nicest – and biggest – properties available at The Most Magical Place on Earth. In fact, many of these spacious stays, like Bay Lake Tower at the Contemporary Resort and the Polynesian bungalows, are located at Walt Disney World’s most luxurious resort hotels.
But, that’s not all. They’re also part of the Disney Vacation Club. For the uninitiated, the Disney Vacation Club (or DVC) is the company’s timeshare offering, allowing the most ardent Disney fans to “own” a piece of the magic.
Not a DVC member? No problem! Although DVC members get the first crack at open rooms at Disney Vacation Club resorts, you don’t need to be a member to stay in these apartment-like accommodations. As long as a villa has availability, it’s able to be reserved by guests of all kinds.
Here are all the resorts with deluxe villas at Walt Disney World:
- Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Jambo House
- Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Kidani Village
- Disney’s Beach Club Villas
- Disney’s BoardWalk Villas
- Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort
- The Villas at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
- Disney’s Old Key West Resort
- Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows
- Disney’s Riviera Resort
- Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa
- Boulder Ridge Villas at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
- Copper Creek Villas & Cabins at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
Why Stay in the Disney World Villas?
There’s a lot to love about Disney’s villas. Whether you’re a large group looking for some extra space to spread out during your stay or a small family hoping to save some cash by cooking for yourself, these condo-like guestrooms have got you covered.
Spacious Rooms with Homelike Amenities
Without a doubt, the biggest perk of staying at Disney’s villa resorts is all the room. While you can opt to book one of Walt Disney World’s smaller studios, which fit around four people, large groups can stay in the massive 3-Bedroom Grand Villas, which can accommodate parties of 12.
And, that’s not all. Villas offer a decidedly homey atmosphere and are outfitted with conveniences like fully stocked kitchens (or kitchenettes for studios) and, in some cases, even an in-room washer and dryer. This can be a huge selling point, especially for folks who are planning a long visit, hoping to spend more time at the hotel or trying to make their travel budget stretch.
Convenient Locations (Usually) Close to the Theme Parks
As anyone who has ever shopped for a home can attest, great real estate is all about location, location, location. Naturally, the same can be said for these homelike hotel rooms. Similar to the deluxe resorts they call home, many of the Disney World villas boast enviable parkside locations.
This can make getting to and from the action as easy as hopping on the monorail or Skyliner for a quick, convenient ride. Or, if you’re really lucky, you might even be able to walk. Oh, and did we mention the views? Many of these spacious guestrooms gaze out directly over the parks, offering breathtakingly beautiful vistas of Magic Kingdom or the nightly fireworks.
Sadly, this isn’t the case for all the villas at the Walt Disney World Resort. Some, like those at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge and the Animal Kingdom Villas – Kidani Village and Jambo House, may be close to a theme park but not so close that you can see the magic from your bedroom window. Meanwhile, standalone villa resorts such as Old Key West and Saratoga Springs aren’t really close to anything other than Disney Springs.
More Time in the Parks Without All the Crowds
If you’re anything like us, fighting the theme-park crowds can be downright exhausting. Fortunately, like the deluxe hotels, staying at a villa resort earns you exclusive time in the parks outside of regular guest hours.
Along with Early Park Entry, which allows guests of all Disney World resorts (including guests of cheaper Disney hotels like the value and moderate resorts) to enter the park of their choosing 30 minutes early, villa resort guests can also enjoy Extended Evening Hours.
Available exclusively to those staying at Disney’s deluxe and deluxe villa resorts, as well as select third-party properties like Shades of Green and the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin, this prized perk lets guests spend two additional hours in a select park after it “closes.” Check out the My Disney Experience app or Walt Disney World website for the current schedule.
Delicious Dining Options
One of the best benefits of staying in a Disney villa (certainly the tastiest) is the buffet of dining options that are typically available, especially for villas located at deluxe resorts. Most Walt Disney World villas offer a smorgasbord of restaurants, from quick service eateries to luxurious fine dining establishments. Some, like Topolino’s Terrace at Disney’s Riviera Resort, even have their own Disney character meals.
For all the foodies out there, keep in mind that you’ll find the best (and most) hotel restaurants at deluxe resorts with villas. In contrast, standalone villa resorts tend to have fewer choices, though there are some exceptions. On the bright side, however, properties like Old Key West are often home to hidden gems such as Olivia’s Café, a laidback table-service spot with a killer brunch.
How Much Do Disney Villas Cost?
As Disney Vacation Club resorts, villas are typically assigned point values, allowing members to cash in their membership points for a stay. For non-DVC guests, however, those point values are converted to regular room rates.
So, just how much will it cost to stay at a villa resort? It depends on which Disney resort and room size you choose and when you decide to travel. In general, room rates for Disney World villas can vary greatly, starting out as low as $430 for a studio during the low season to more than $5,000 for a 3-Bedroom Grand Villa during the height of the winter holidays.
Remember that popular travel times like Christmas and summer break will mean a higher price tag. Needless to say, for the biggest price break, plan to visit during slow periods or, if you’re traveling with another family or as a group of Disney adults, split the cost to keep things reasonable across the board.
Best Disney Deluxe Villa Resorts for Your Next Vacation
All set for your Walt Disney World adventure with your nearest and dearest? If you need a lot of space for your next group vacation but you’re not sure where to stay, read on for our take on the best Disney World villas.
Just remember, it’s not about which villa resort is best – it’s about which one is right for you and your crew. So, before you make your decision, think about your trip plans and who you’re traveling with.
Hoping for a truly magical stay with a hint of Disney luxury? Take a look at the villas in the Magic Kingdom Resort Area. Trying to keep things as cheap as possible without staying at one of the value or moderate hotels? Resorts like Disney’s Beach Club Villas, Old Key West and the Boulder Ridge Villas at the Wilderness Lodge offer tons of space with a more budget-friendly price tag.
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas
Best for Animal Lovers and Adventurous Eaters
It’s a jungle out there – and by “there,” we mean Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Kidani Village and Jambo House. Surrounded by savannas crawling with African wildlife, this unique resort is in a league of its own. Sure, it takes a little bit of work to get where you’re going. Call us crazy, but we think the views of giraffes wandering past your window plus the resort’s incredible African-inspired dining are well worth it.
Located in: Animal Kingdom Resort Area
Rates: Jambo House – $429-$4,168; Kidani Village – $450-$4,277
Rooms Available: Jambo House – Studio, Deluxe Studio, 1-Bedroom Villa, 3-Bedroom Villa; Kidani Village – Deluxe Studio, 1-Bedroom Villa, 2-Bedroom Villa, 3-Bedroom Villa
Disney’s Beach Club Villas
Best for Water Babies Seeking Laidback Vibes
You don’t need to drive all the way to the coast to stick your toes in the sand. Just book a room at the Disney Beach Club Villas. Stormalong Bay, the resort’s glorious hotel pool, features a sandy bottom and a lazy river for floating. Add in yummy seafood, a classic ice cream shop and tons of New England-style charm, and you’ve got a relaxing stay for kids and adults alike.
Located in: Epcot Resort Area
Rates: $522-$2,259
Rooms Available: Deluxe Studio, 1-Bedroom Villa, 2-Bedroom Villa
Disney’s BoardWalk Villas
Best for Nightlifers and Indecisive Diners
Located just behind the International Gateway entrance to Epcot and World Showcase, Disney’s BoardWalk Villas are a decidedly picturesque place to rest your head after a day spent drinking around the world. Styled after turn-of-the-century oceanfront promenades like those in Atlantic City, this nostalgic resort is part of Disney’s BoardWalk entertainment district, which is home to an array of unique dining and entertainment options, including carnival games, street performers and a dueling piano bar.
Located in: Epcot Resort Area
Rates: $574-$4,368
Rooms Available: Deluxe Studio, 1-Bedroom Villa, 3-Bedroom Villa
Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort
Best for Disney Fans Wanting Magical Views
When it comes to stunning views, fantastic restaurants and a convenient location, you can’t beat Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort. From its sweeping views of Magic Kingdom to popular restaurants like Chef Mickey’s and California Grill, this villa resort has a ton going for it. To top it all off, it’s just a few minutes’ walk from the Magic Kingdom main entrance.
Located in: Magic Kingdom Resort Area
Rates: $629-$5,037
Rooms Available: Deluxe Studio, 1-Bedroom Villa, 2-Bedroom Villa, 3-Bedroom Villa
The Villas at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
Best for Pleasure Seekers Looking for a Little Luxury
Part of the Walt Disney World Resort’s flagship hotel, The Villas at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa offer a bit of Victorian-inspired luxury in the heart of the Magic Kingdom Resort Area. Along with picture-perfect views of Cinderella Castle, guests can also enjoy such plush amenities as Victoria & Albert’s, the resort’s AAA Five Diamond Award-winning restaurant and character dining with Disney royalty at 1900 Park Fare.
Located in: Magic Kingdom Resort Area
Rates: $763-$5,562
Rooms Available: Deluxe Studio, 1-Bedroom Villa, 2-Bedroom Villa, 3-Bedroom Villa
Disney’s Old Key West Resort
Best for Beach Bums in Need of Some Peace and Quiet
Opened in December 1991 as the Disney Vacation Club Resort, Disney’s Old Key West Resort is the oldest villa resort at Walt Disney World. Inspired by the home of the southernmost point of the continental United States, Old Key West is all about casual comfort and island atmosphere. Not only are the villas here some of the biggest on property, but given the resort’s slightly out-of-the-way location, it also tends to be less busy (AKA cheaper) than most of the other villa resorts.
Located in: Disney Springs Resort Area
Rates: $443-$2,899
Rooms Available: Deluxe Studio, 1-Bedroom Villa, 2-Bedroom Villa, 3-Bedroom Villa
Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows
Best for Romantics and Sun Worshippers
Ever wished you could stay in a dreamy, over-the-water Bora Bora bungalow? Disney has got you covered, no flight to French Polynesia necessary. Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows are just about the prettiest places to rest your head at the Walt Disney World Resort. Unsurprisingly, staying in the Disney Polynesian bungalows can be pretty pricey (blame it on the incomparable location and a private plunge pool). Fortunately, though not as photogenic, the smaller studios are much more affordable.
Located in: Magic Kingdom Resort Area
Rates: $633-$5,738
Rooms Available: Deluxe Studio, Bungalow
Disney’s Riviera Resort
Best for Europhiles Needing a Pixie-Dust Detox
The newest standalone Disney Vacation Club property at Walt Disney World, Disney’s Riviera Resort brings the sophistication of the European Riviera to Lake Buena Vista. Don’t expect too many Disneyfied touches here. Rather, the Riviera keeps the magic to a minimum, opting for subtle nods to beloved Disney movies instead. Don’t miss Topolino’s Terrace, the hotel’s rooftop restaurant, for incredible views, handmade pasta and breakfast with Mickey and his artsy pals.
Located in: Epcot & Hollywood Studios Resort Area
Rates: $438-$4,840
Rooms Available: Tower Studio, Deluxe Studio, 1-Bedroom Villa, 2-Bedroom Villa, 3-Bedroom Villa
Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa
Best for Foodies, Shopaholics and Nature Lovers
Just down the street from Old Key West, Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa is another standalone Disney Vacation Club property. Themed after Saratoga Springs in Upstate New York, a historic retreat famed for its healing mineral springs and racing, the resort is a vision in pastels. Overlooking Disney Springs across the way, it’s just a short walk from some of the best shopping and dining at Walt Disney World. Treehuggers will especially love sleeping amongst the leaves in the resort’s Treehouse Villas.
Located in: Disney Springs Resort Area
Rates: $444-$3,272
Rooms Available: Deluxe Studio, 1-Bedroom Villa, 2-Bedroom Villa, 3-Bedroom Villa, Treehouse Villa
Villas & Cabins at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
Best for Outdoorsy Folks Trying to Get Away from It All
Wish you could enjoy the thrill of the theme parks while still feeling worlds away? Then make your way to Disney’s Wilderness Lodge. This rustic resort boasts not one but two different villa properties. Boulder Ridge is the resort’s original Disney Vacation Club offering, boasting cozy, homespun rooms. Or, for a modern take on a forest retreat, book a stay at the Copper Creek Villas & Cabins. The Disney Wilderness Lodge cabins are particularly impressive, touting vaulted ceilings, waterfront views and even a private enclosed porch with a hot tub.
Located in: Magic Kingdom Resort Area
Rates: Boulder Ridge – $439-$2,269; Copper Creek – $439-$4,815
Rooms Available: Boulder Ridge – Deluxe Studio, 1-Bedroom Villa, 2-Bedroom Villa; Kidani Village – Deluxe Studio, 1-Bedroom Villa, 2-Bedroom Villa, 3-Bedroom Villa, Cabin
Well, that’s a wrap on our guide to the Walt Disney World Resort’s spacious villas. Have you ever stayed in a Disney villa? Which resort tops your list? Let us know in the comments! Then, learn how to save some cash with our discount Walt Disney World tickets.
