What Makes Deluxe Resorts Extra Magical?

Everyone’s idea of the perfect vacation looks different. However, if you’re anything like me, your vacation daydreams probably involve a spacious and chic hotel room, indulging in mouth-watering meals, soaking up some sun, and most importantly, taking the time to relax and focus on fun. If this sounds like you, you’ll LOVE the Disney Vacation Club resorts!

All of the DVC Resorts are categorized as Deluxe Villas. They also have some of the most amazing amenities you’ll find, all with a special dash of Disney magic! Let’s take a look at some of the fantastic features that set DVC apart!

Transportation Options:

This is probably where I have found the biggest difference between the Deluxe, Moderate, and Value resort categories! One of the biggest factors that keeps me coming back to Disney World is the convenience offered, and the complimentary transportation from the resorts to the parks is definitely a big part of that. With the exception of the Animal Kingdom Villas, each of the DVC resorts at Walt Disney World offers multiple types of transportation to whisk you away to your next destination!

A few years ago, I booked a very last-minute trip, and with there being no availability through the DVC inventory for my dates, I wound up staying at a Value category resort for the first time in a long time. Don’t get me wrong, there are still a lot of great perks to staying at any Disney resort, but I must say, I noticed a BIG difference when it came to the transportation services! While staying at the Value resort, I had significantly lengthier waits for buses (especially at busy times of the day, such as park opening and closing) than I had ever experienced when staying at one of the DVC locations. I definitely found myself wishing that I had other options such as the monorail or a water taxi to consider!

When staying in a Deluxe DVC villa at the Villas at Disney’s Grand Floridian, guests have the advantage of a wider variety of transportation methods, including buses, monorail access, water taxis, and the walking path to the Magic Kingdom. As not as many guests are all vying for space on a bus and have a variety of options to make their way from A to B, the crowds are typically smaller for each mode of transport. This means that the time spent getting to and from your destination is typically much lower, allowing for more magic in your day! 

Dining Options:

If you’re a foodie headed to WDW, you’ll definitely want to check out all of the amazing dining options that can be found at the DVC resorts! Unlike all of the Value category resorts and most of the Moderate resorts, the Deluxe resorts offer some of the best table service and signature restaurants you can find on Disney property! Critically acclaimed and fan-favorite locations such as Topolino’s Terrace, Sanaa, ‘Ohana, Narcoossee’s, Olivia’s Café, and more are all found at DVC resorts!

Even if you’re looking for a delicious quick-service meal during your stay, I would definitely say that the DVC resorts offer some of the most mouthwatering options you’ll find! The Boardwalk Bakery, Capt. Cook’s at the Polynesian Villas, Primo Piatto at Disney’s Riviera Resort, and The Artist’s Palette at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa have some incredible menu options to choose from and receive rave reviews from a lot of guests!

In addition to hosting some of the best eateries Disney World has to offer, one hugely convenient thing about the DVC villas is that they will all have either a kitchenette or if staying in a One Bedroom or larger room size, a FULL kitchen! This is a huge plus if you’re travelling with little ones, picky eaters, have special dietary requirements, or just want to save some money on dining out during your stay! It’s quick, easy, and convenient to enjoy a meal or midnight snack from the comfort of your villa!

Pools:

The temperatures in Florida can soar, so having an epic pool at your resort is often a big factor when choosing where to stay! Each of the DVC resorts boasts multiple pools for guests to enjoy during their vacation, and we aren’t talking your regular backyard pool either! 

The resorts in the Deluxe Villas category all have feature pools with amazing theming, waterslides, whirlpool spas, and comfy loungers so you can kick back and relax. You are on vacation after all! The Stormalong Bay pool at Disney’s Beach Club Villas is more like a mini waterpark, with a life-size shipwreck slide, unique sand-bottom, and even a lazy river! It’s unlike any other hotel pool I’ve ever seen!

If you prefer a quieter, more serene atmosphere, the Deluxe resorts have got you covered there too! In addition to the feature pools, almost all of the DVC resorts also offer “leisure pools” where guests can enjoy taking a dip in a more laidback environment. 

As a shining example of how amazing the DVC resorts are when it comes to pools, Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort has 2 feature pools and 3 leisure pools! There is something for everyone, and it’s easy to enjoy your time poolside without feeling cramped or crowded!

Overall Atmosphere:

The thing I love most about DVC and staying in the Deluxe Villas is hearing the phrase “welcome home!” I’ve found that when staying at the Value or Moderate category resorts, most of the guests around me are just using their room as a spot to sleep, shower, and store their bags. Personally, I’m looking for a little bit more when it comes to the whole resort experience. I find that the Deluxe Villas offer immersive theming and amenities blended masterfully with cozy rooms with all the comforts of home. You can easily relax and pamper yourself while taking advantage of that extra level of convenience and luxury. 

I also LOVE that the DVC resorts feel like their own small communities! You’re not just staying in any old hotel here! The friendly waves and smiles from Cast Members and fellow guests, taking a leisurely walk through the grounds on the way to breakfast or dinner at the resort’s restaurant, spending an afternoon poolside, and enjoying a late-night drink on my villa’s private porch or balcony always end up being some of my favorite trip moments! It genuinely feels like a home away from home.

For me, the combination of all of these factors, as well as the heaping helpings of Disney magic, make a Deluxe Disney Vacation Club resort extra special! It’s definitely worth it for the priceless memories you will capture and timeless tales your family will relive for years to come!

~Stacy