Checkmarks the Spot: The Top 3 Resorts on My DVC Bucket List!

I don’t know about you, but I have a pretty lengthy Disney bucket list! Over the years, I have continued to put new experiences, locations to see, foods to try, and more on my to-do list, but one of my biggest goals is to eventually stay at each of the Walt Disney World DVC resorts!  

I’ve had the chance to visit and tour the grounds of all of the DVC Resorts at Walt Disney World, and I’ve managed to put a checkmark next to a number of locations after enjoying a stay. As the DVC family continues to grow, there are still quite a few resorts I haven’t yet checked off my list. Today I’d like to share the top three DVC resorts on my personal Disney bucket list!

#3 – Copper Creek Villas & Cabins at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge

Inspired by turn-of-the-century National Park Lodges and the history of pioneering in the Pacific Northwest, the Copper Creek Villas & Cabins at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge is on my list. 

With the beauty of nature being celebrated at this resort, the grounds are incredibly picturesque, and the atmosphere is so tranquil and serene; you’d never know you’re just across the lake from the Magic Kingdom!

While inspired by history and the pioneering spirit, you certainly won’t be roughing it here! The amenities and features of these villas and cabins deliver all of the modern comforts you’d expect at a deluxe resort. The décor is rustic yet contemporary and provides a stylish and elegant retreat while still honoring the glory and natural beauty of the great outdoors.

There’s no shortage of activities to be found at this resort! With two amazing pools, fishing, bike rentals, and campfires, you’ll never be bored! 

If you’d like to treat yourself to some extra pampering during your stay, the Salon by the Springs offers hairstyling, manicures, pedicures, and more.  

Dining options certainly aren’t lacking at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge either! From the quick yet tasty options at the Roaring Fork to the sit-down service at Whispering Canyon Café or Geyser Point Bar & Grill, there are plenty of spots with delicious options to choose from.

This resort is on my DVC bucket list is pretty surprising to most people who know me. I am not what you would describe as “outdoorsy,” and my idea of a perfect hike is roaming from store to store in the mall. That’s exactly why a stay at this resort is so appealing to me! One of the things I love most about vacationing is that it’s a chance to spend a few days outside of your usual surroundings. I live in an urban area and don’t see too much wilderness in my everyday life.  After a long day, spending a quiet evening in a rocking chair just enjoying the scenic view, strolling past an erupting geyser, or listening to the crickets chirping as the sun sets over the lake definitely isn’t typical for me, however, it is something I would love to experience!

#2 – Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows

The spirit of the South Pacific is the inspiration for Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows. 

Here guests the chance to have their own little slice of an island paradise. As palm trees sway in the breeze, your ‘ohana can experience a tropical oasis, all while being able to spot Cinderella Castle from the resort’s stunning white-sand beach!

Tiki torches and lush green foliage line the outdoor pathways between the longhouses, and you’ll find that the feeling of being in an island paradise doesn’t end at the door to your villa or bungalow! Dark yet warm woods, splashes of vivid colors, and tropical touches in the décor fill the room with an exotic ambiance. The studios have a modern and well-designed layout, and the bungalows offer ample space for families to spread out and enjoy a deluxe fun-filled holiday in the sun.

While the Magic Kingdom sits just across the Seven Seas Lagoon, there is a lot of fun that can be found without even leaving the resort grounds! Boat rentals, outdoor movies on the lawn of the Great Ceremonial House, and swimming in the Oasis and Lava pools are just a few of the many activities the Polynesian has in store for guests calling this their home away from home.  

The Spirit of Aloha Dinner Show serves up a feast of tropical flavors and fun, as guests enjoy a luau with entertainment, including hula dancing, drumming, and even a fire-knife performance! Although the Spirit of Aloha Dinner Show is currently on pause, I look forward to when it returns in the future!  

In fact, there’s a myriad of dining options at this resort, such as ‘Ohana, Kona Café, and Capt. Cook’s, as well as lounges perfect for relaxing after a busy park day. Don’t forget to stop by the Pineapple Lanai for a Dole Whip!

While I have had the chance to visit and tour the Polynesian many times, I haven’t yet heard the words “welcome home” here. The fun-filled activities, spectacular dining options, and delightful décor are just a few of the reasons this resort is near the top of my DVC bucket list. Combine those with the multiple transportation options and immersive and enchanting theming, and you’ve definitely got my idea of a Disney paradise!

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#1 – The Villas at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa

Luxurious opulence, modern sophistication, and of course, a dash of Disney whimsy can all be found at the Villas at Disney’s Grand Floridian. 

Elegant splendor and timeless charm combine effortlessly to create a dreamy atmosphere at Disney’s flagship resort. It’s inspired by the golden era of Palm Beach and located just moments away from the Magic Kingdom.

Soft and demure colors, pretty floral prints, and artwork featuring beloved characters such as Mary Poppins and Alice in Wonderland bring the charm and theming of the resort into the villas. The modern conveniences and stylish comforts blend seamlessly with the Victorian elements of the décor, creating a refined, chic, and magical space to call home during your stay.

With multiple transportation options to easily take you from place to place, it’s effortless to make your way to the theme parks; however, there are plenty of fun-filled recreational options to be found just outside your door! There are specialty boat cruises, basketball courts, the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique, and a whimsical Alice in Wonderland themed splash pad that is the perfect place for kids to cool off and play. The Grand Floridian also has two beautiful pools: The Beach Pool and the Courtyard Pool, which are perfect for making a splash during your stay. For some extra-indulgent pampering you may want to rent a poolside cabana, or pay a visit to Senses – A Disney Spa and Salon for a massage or other rejuvenating treatment.  

There are several sumptuous dining options to consider at the Grand Floridian as well! From sophisticated and critically acclaimed Signature Dining at Victoria & Alberts or Narcoossee’s to the whimsical charm of 1900 Park Fare, and classic American dishes served at the Grand Floridian Café, you’re sure to find something that tickles your taste-buds. 

You can also visit the Enchanted Rose for cocktails and appetizers in a stunning lounge inspired by Beauty and the Beast.

The Grand Floridian is a resort I’ve dreamed of staying at since childhood, and for me, it perfectly symbolizes a deluxe Disney vacation full of charm, elegance, luxury, and, most of all – magic! Mary Poppins is my favorite movie of all time, so I have always loved visiting the resort grounds to see all of the features and décor that were inspired by the classic 1964 film. I think the Grand Floridian would be a practically perfect place to stay for a jolly holiday!

Personally, I think all of the DVC resorts at Walt Disney World have fantastic features and look forward to the day I’ve heard “welcome home” at them all! While these are my current top 3 choices, I love that there are so many different resort themes, locations, and types of DVC villas to choose from, as variety is the spice of life! I can’t wait to see what new experiences come my way as I continue to check off boxes on my Disney bucket list!  

~Stacy