The Finest Features a Mouse Could Offer!
One of the best things about being a David’s Vacation Club Rentals Team Member is having the chance to tour all of the DVC resorts at Walt Disney World!
I’ve seen that there are a plethora of reasons why a guest would choose to make it their home away from home, but there are usually one or two features that stand out to me more than others. Today, I’d like to share my favorite features of each of Walt Disney World’s DVC resorts with you!
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Immersive Theming at its Best!
I have never been to Africa, but I feel like I have!
This resort takes theming to another level, and as soon as you step foot on the grounds, it’s as if you have been magically transported to a deluxe African lodge, right in the heart of lush savannahs that are simply teeming with wildlife!
Did you know that more than 30 species of animals roam the savannahs surrounding the Animal Kingdom Villas?
Not only that, but the resort is also home to one of the largest collections of African art and artifacts outside of Africa! This resort’s theme is so incredibly immersive; the décor, activities, and even the cuisine come together to paint a vivid picture of life on safari!
You completely forget that you’re in central Florida!
Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort – Just Steps from the Magic!
Modern amenities and Disney magic combine effortlessly at Disney’s Bay Lake Tower, and I think my favorite feature of this resort is the walking path to the Magic Kingdom! That’s right, when staying here, there is no need to wait for a bus, boat, or monorail if you’re in a hurry; the Magic Kingdom entrance is mere steps away!
Apart from the walking path, buses and boats can be taken to other WDW locations. Guests staying here can also access the monorail by simply crossing the Skybridge that connects Bay Lake Tower to Disney’s Contemporary Resort. The convenience of so many transportation methods is definitely notable, in my opinion!
Disney’s Beach Club Villas – Poolside Perfection!
I have to admit, Disney’s Beach Club Villas are close to my heart as it was the first DVC resort I stayed at, so it is very challenging for me to pick just one favorite feature! That said, I think I have it narrowed down!
The top spot has to go to the Stormalong Bay pool complex! This resort is home to its very own 3-acre mini waterpark! With the sand-bottom pool, lazy river, and even a life-sized shipwreck replica that houses one of the tallest and longest resort waterslides, Stormalong Bay is the perfect place to cool off in the Florida sunshine!
Disney’s Boardwalk Villas – Walk the Planks!
I suppose this one is kind of obvious, but I love wandering up and down the Boardwalk itself! The turn-of-the-century seaside charm is in full effect as you walk along the waters of Crescent Lake.
Whether you’re looking for a sumptuous seafood dinner at signature restaurant Flying Fish, a quick pizza or sandwich, a sweet treat, or are looking to catch the game at the ESPN Club, the Boardwalk is home to a wide variety of dining options that are sure to hit the spot.
Not only will you find something to fill your tummy, but there are also tons of activities, nightlife, and other entertainment to be found as you stroll across the wooden planks. Dueling pianos at Jellyrolls (which will hopefully return soon), bike rentals, fishing excursions, galleries, shopping, and more fill the Boardwalk with lively fun!
The Villas at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort – Endless Elegance and Disney whimsy!
The Grand Floridian is known for its stunning Victorian elegance. Still, I think my favorite thing about this resort is how it effortlessly combines such timeless beauty with touches of Disney magic!
From the fountain in the DVC lobby featuring the penguins from Mary Poppins’ jolly holiday, topiaries and gardens, to the charming Alice in Wonderland water-play area, there are so many whimsical features to enjoy!
Disney’s Old Key West – Conch Flats Community!
Disney’s Old Key West Resort is the place for you if you’re looking for a laidback, tranquil yet fun atmosphere but also want to feel like you’re at your second home. What I truly love about Old Key West is how it feels like its own little magical community!
The spirit of living in the Florida Keys comes to life here, as you’ve got roomy villas, great dining, and pools, and tons of activities to choose from! There are bike rentals, campfires, volleyball, and arts and crafts at the Conch Flats Community Hall; not to mention the resort also has a golf course running through it! You’ll never be bored here, that’s for sure, and there are always lots of smiling faces and friendly Cast Members around to say “Welcome Home!”
Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows – An Oasis of Food!
The fun and tropical South Pacific theme of Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows doesn’t only reach as far as its décor and amenities; it even includes the on-site dining options!
This resort is home to many fan-favorite restaurants, snacks, and beverages, that help to fully immerse visitors in its island-inspired theme. From Dole Whip at the Pineapple Lanai, to Capt. Cook’s Tonga Toast, Kona Café specialties (hopefully reopening soon), or Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto, there are many options to choose from for a meal, snack, or something to sip on. These options will make you feel as though you’re being welcomed home to a Polynesian paradise! This is definitely a resort you won’t leave with an empty stomach!
Disney’s Riviera Resort – Disney Décor at its Finest!
The newest member of the DVC family has proven that it’s got great style, and the artwork featured at Disney’s Riviera Resort is worth checking out!
Mosaics, murals, sketches, prints, and more pieces featuring beloved Disney characters and movie moments have been re-imagined, showcasing the influence of cubism, impressionism, and other popular styles of artistry through different periods of European and Mediterranean history. I have to say, the mural of the lantern scene from Tangled is simply stunning, and my favorite to admire!
Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa – Walk This Way!
The gorgeous, sprawling and serene grounds, cheerful and comfortable villas, as well as five pools perfect for making a splash are all great reasons to love Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa. That said, as someone who loves to shop ’til I drop, I think my very favorite feature is the walking path to Disney Springs!
The idyllic stroll offers gorgeous views of the shopping and dining complex across the sparkling waterway, and along the way, you’re likely to pass a lot of friendly, smiling faces! In the evenings, it’s also a lovely spot to sit on one of the benches or rocking chairs and enjoy some of the live music from Disney Springs as it floats across the water on a peaceful evening’s light breeze.
Boulder Ridge Villas and Copper Creek Villas & Cabins at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge – Cozy Comfort and All Kinds of Ambience!
With its rustic yet warm woods, plentiful and plush nooks for relaxing, and massive stone fireplace, I can’t think of anywhere that seems cozier than Disney’s Wilderness Lodge!
Whether you’re staying at Copper Creek Villas & Cabins, Boulder Ridge Villas, or simply stopping by to enjoy a delicious meal in one of the fabulous restaurants, the ambiance of these resorts will surely trick you into thinking you’ve stepped into one of the grand National Park lodges in the American Northwest.
It doesn’t matter which way you turn; everywhere you look, there are immersive touches to set the scene. From the art and architecture to the warm, lantern-like lighting and landscaping, the feeling of being in a beautiful and magical yet untamed wilderness is all around you!
As you can, each resort has its own special magic to share with guests during their visit! The great thing is that no matter where you hear your “Welcome Home” greeting, fantastic amenities, charm, and a whole lot of fun will be right outside your door!
~Stacy
