Why Disney's Old Key West Resort is the Best DVC Home Resort (Budget-Friendly!)

Considering making Disney’s Old Key West Resort your DVC Home Resort, but haven’t made your mind up yet?

There are many pros to purchasing a DVC contract with an Old Key West contract, but is it really worth it for you?

After all, there are plenty of DVC Home Resort locations. With so many choices, is Disney’s Old Key West Resort really the best option for you?

Let’s talk all about it and decide now 🙂

This post is all about why Disney’s Old Key West Resort is a great (budget-friendly) Disney Vacation Club Home Resort.

Disney’s Old Key West Resort

Where is Disney’s Old Key West Resort?

Disney’s Old Key West Resort is located at Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida.

It’s located close to Disney Springs – providing you with easy access to plenty of dining and shopping options.

Transportation Options

Navigating around Walt Disney World is a breeze when you stay at Disney’s Old Key West Resort. Here’s how you can get around:

Bus Services: The resort provides complimentary bus service to all Disney theme parks and water parks. Buses run regularly, so you’ll never have to wait long. Whether you’re heading to Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios, or Animal Kingdom, the buses will take you directly to the park entrances. Of course, this is less exciting than taking the Skyliner, Monorail or a boat. It can also be quite time-consuming, as Old Key West is a big resort. But, if you don’t mind taking the bus, it really isn’t a huge deal.

Boat Service to Disney Springs: For a scenic and relaxing ride, take the boat service to Disney Springs. It’s tranquil and relaxing. You can also catch a bus to Disney Springs, but the boat is usually more fun! Alternatively, you could walk to Disney Springs to Old Key West, but this will usually take around 30+ minutes.

Walking and Biking Paths: For those who enjoy a bit of exercise, there are walking and biking paths around the resort, allowing you to explore the beautiful surroundings at your own pace.

Proximity to Other Resorts

Staying at Disney’s Old Key West Resort also means you can easily visit other nearby Disney resorts. For instance:

Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort: Just across the lake, offering additional dining and shopping options.

Disney’s Port Orleans Resorts – Riverside & French Quarter: A charming boat ride away, perfect for an additional dining adventure or a relaxing stroll along the river. Or, if you just want some beignets, you can go to Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter.

Historic Charm and Atmosphere

Disney’s Old Key West Resort offers more than just a place to stay. It’s a destination within itself. Stepping into this resort feels like taking a trip back in time to the charming and quaint streets of old Key West.

Key West-Inspired Architecture

The moment you arrive at Disney’s Old Key West Resort, you’re greeted by architecture that mimics the historic charm of Key West. Pastel-colored buildings, white picket fences, and charming gingerbread trim are just a few of the design elements that transport you to the idyllic island community. The design doesn’t just stop at the buildings.

The resort features:

Pastel-Colored Buildings: Soft pinks, blues, and yellows create a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere.

Tropical Landscaping: Palm trees, hibiscus flowers, and lush greenery surround the property, immersing you in a tropical paradise.

Walking around the resort, you can’t help but feel like you’ve been transported to a different time and place. It’s a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the theme parks.

Relaxed and Spacious Layout

One of the standout features of Disney’s Old Key West Resort is its layout. Unlike some other DVC resorts that can feel packed and busy, Old Key West offers a more laid-back experience.

Here’s how the layout contributes to a relaxed vacation:

Spread-Out Villas: Rather than towering hotels, the resort features low-rise buildings spread out over a vast area. This means fewer people and more privacy.
Open Spaces: Wide, open spaces between buildings allow for beautiful views and make the resort feel even more expansive.
Quiet Nooks: Various quiet spots around the resort let you find a peaceful place to relax, whether it’s a hammock by the water or a secluded bench under a palm tree.

This spacious layout means you never feel overcrowded, and there’s always room to breathe. Families can spread out and enjoy their own space, making it feel more like a home away from home.

This combination of charming architecture and a relaxed layout makes Disney’s Old Key West Resort a haven of historic charm and tranquility.

Budget-Friendly Accommodations

When choosing a Disney Vacation Club (DVC) home resort, staying within your budget is crucial. Disney’s Old Key West Resort shines here with its affordable accommodations. Let’s break down why this resort is a top choice for budget-conscious families.

Low Upfront Costs

If you’re buying a direct contract at Old Key West, it will cost you $205 per point. This is certainly not cheap, but is on the low end for direct DVC contracts.

*Please note that all direct Old Key West contracts expire in 2057.*

However, Old Key West resale contracts are where you’ll see the best savings.

For resale contracts expiring in 2042, the average sales price according to DVC Resale Market, was between $80 and $98 per point (between June 2023 and June 2024).

As expected, resale contracts expiring in 2057 have a higher average sales price, between $99 and $125 per point (between June 2023 and June 2024).

Low Points Requirement

One of the biggest advantages of Disney’s Old Key West Resort is its low points requirement. As a DVC member, you know that points are like gold. Stretching them means more magical vacations for you and your family. This resort has some of the lowest point requirements across DVC properties.

More Nights for Your Points: Imagine getting a longer stay for the same amount of points you’d use elsewhere. That means more time enjoying the magic without constantly glancing at your points balance.
Flexible Planning: With lower points needed per night, you can plan more spontaneous trips. No need to save for a year just for a few nights.
Great for Larger Groups: If you’re traveling with extended family or friends, using fewer points per night lets you book larger villas without breaking the bank.

By choosing Disney’s Old Key West Resort, you’re getting more value and more memories for your points, making it a smart, budget-friendly choice.

Spacious Studios & Villas

Another reason Disney’s Old Key West Resort stands out is its spacious studios and villas. When traveling with a family or a larger group, space is everything. This resort doesn’t just give you a room; it offers a home away from home.

Roomy Studios: Even the studios here are larger than most Disney resort rooms. They come with kitchenettes, giving you the option to prepare simple meals and save on dining costs.

is disney old key west a deluxe resort — Disney’s Old Key West Deluxe Studio

Expansive Villas: The one, two, and three-bedroom villas are perfect for bigger families. They include full kitchens, laundry facilities, and separate living and sleeping areas.
Comfortable Living: Each villa is like your own tropical retreat. With plenty of room to spread out, everyone can unwind comfortably after a day at the parks.

These spacious accommodations not only ensure comfort but also provide excellent value compared to pricier DVC resorts. When you break down the cost per square foot, it’s clear you’re getting a great deal.

In a nutshell, Disney’s Old Key West Resort offers a budget-friendly option without skimping on comfort. The lower points requirement and generous space make it a smart choice for families looking to make the most of their DVC membership.

Amenities and Activities

Disney’s Old Key West Resort offers a treasure trove of amenities and activities that cater to guests of all ages. From thrilling water slides to relaxing dining experiences, there’s something for everyone. Let’s take a closer look!

Pools and Recreation

Old Key West has 4 pools to choose from! The feature pool – known as Sandcastle Pool – has a waterslide and a dry sauna inside the iconic lighthouse.

There are 3 quieter pools are located throughout the property, perfect for a relaxing swim or catching some sun in a more peaceful setting.

In addition to swimming, Old Key West has a range of recreational options:

Boating: Rent a boat and explore the serene waterways. It’s a fun way to see the resort from a different perspective.
Biking: There are scenic biking paths around the resort. Grab a bike – or even a Surrey Bike for 2 or 4 guests – and enjoy a leisurely ride through beautifully landscaped areas.
Fishing: For those who enjoy the tranquil activity of fishing, there are designated spots where you can cast a line and relax.
Basketball, Volleyball, Tennis & Pickleball Courts: Want to play sports on your Disney vacation? Old Key West provides so many options!

Conch Flats Community Hall: Here, you can play pool, foosball, ping-pong. You can also find equipment for volleyball, basketball and tennis.

Whether you’re looking for high-energy fun or a relaxing day, the pools and recreation options at Disney’s Old Key West Resort have you covered.

You can find more details on the amenities and recreation at Disney’s Old Key West Resort here.

Dining Options

Disney’s Old Key West Resort isn’t known for its dining. Frankly, it isn’t the most exciting place to dine.

However, there are definitely some hidden gems at Old Key West.

At the table service, Olivia’s Café, you can enjoy:

Seafood Specialties: Dishes like crab cakes and shrimp po’boys bring the flavors of the coast to your plate.
Comfort Food Favorites: From buttermilk chicken to tender ribs, there’s plenty of hearty options that feel like a hug from the inside.
Island-Inspired Desserts: Don’t miss out on their famous Key Lime Pie, the perfect sweet ending to your meal.

For quicker bites or snacks, the resort also features:

Good’s Food to Go: Perfect for grab-and-go meals, whether you’re heading out for a day at the parks or just want a quick meal by the pool.

Gurgling Suitcase: This poolside bar offers refreshing drinks and light snacks, ideal for enjoying a sunny afternoon.

These dining options ensure that you have access to tasty and convenient meals throughout your stay.

Disney’s Old Key West Resort combines fantastic recreational activities with delightful dining experiences, making it a wonderful place to stay for families and groups of all sizes. The resort’s amenities provide endless enjoyment without breaking the bank, solidifying its reputation as a top choice for Disney Vacation Club members.

Quiet Escape

After a day filled with the excitement and magic of the Disney parks, returning to Disney’s Old Key West Resort feels like stepping into a serene oasis.

The resort’s peaceful location and relaxed atmosphere make it the perfect retreat to unwind.

Tranquil Atmosphere: The resort is tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the parks. This quieter setting helps you relax and recharge. Picture yourself lounging in a hammock by the water, with the sounds of nature around you and the soft breeze rustling the palm trees.
Spacious Grounds: The resort’s spacious layout means there’s plenty of room to spread out and find your own quiet corner. Whether you choose a secluded bench under a tree or a spot by the pool, there are numerous peaceful spots to unwind.
Nature and Scenery: The lush tropical landscaping, tranquil waterways, and beautifully designed grounds create a sense of calm. Walking around the resort, you’ll be surrounded by vibrant flowers, swaying palm trees, and picturesque views that make it easy to forget the busy day you had at the parks (unless you’re really tired from walking and you have to walk a long way to your studio/villa …).

Staying at Disney’s Old Key West Resort gives you the best of both worlds: the convenience of being close to the action and a peaceful retreat to relax at the end of the day. It’s the perfect combination for a magical, stress-free vacation.

Are All the Rooms at Disney’s Old Key West Resort Renovated?

Are you wondering, when was the last time Old Key West was renovated?

The rooms were last refurbished in 2019, and the lobby was refurbished in 2021, so there are no planned renovations in the foreseeable future.

Do You Need to be a DVC Member to Stay at Disney’s Old Key West Resort?

You might be wondering if you have to be a Disney Vacation Club (DVC) member to enjoy a stay at Disney’s Old Key West Resort. The good news is, you don’t! While being a DVC member offers some perks, anyone can book a stay at this charming resort. Let’s get into how you can make a reservation and what options are available.

Renting DVC Points

The cheapest option usually is renting DVC points to stay at Old Key West.

This approach allows non-members to enjoy the benefits of staying at a DVC resort without committing to a membership.

How It Works: DVC members can rent out their unused points to others. Websites like David’s Vacation Club Rentals or DVC Rental Store make this process straightforward. You can search for availability, choose your dates, and book your stay using rented points.
Cost Efficiency: Renting DVC points can often be more budget-friendly than booking directly through Disney. The cost per point is usually lower than the regular room rates, meaning you get more value for your money.
Room Options: Just like booking through Disney, renting points gives you access to the full range of accommodations at Old Key West. Whether you need a studio for a quick getaway or a large villa for a family reunion, there are options to meet your needs.

Booking Through Disney

One straightforward way to stay at Disney’s Old Key West Resort is by booking directly through Disney. This option is open to anyone, whether you’re a DVC member or not.

Available Rooms: Through Disney’s official website or reservation line, you can book various room types, from cozy studios to expansive three-bedroom villas. Each room reflects the relaxed, island vibe that makes this resort special.
Special Offers: Keep an eye out for special deals and discounts. Disney often runs promotions that can save you money on your stay. These could include discounted room rates and package deals..

Booking through Disney is a hassle-free way to experience all that Old Key West has to offer, regardless of your membership status.

Deciding on Membership

If you’ve stayed at Disney’s Old Key West Resort and fallen in love with it, you might consider becoming a DVC member. This lets you make the resort your “home” and enjoy long-term benefits.

Initial Commitment: Becoming a DVC member involves purchasing a real estate interest in one of the Disney resorts. This requires an upfront fee and annual dues.

Long-Term Savings: Over time, being a member can save you money, especially if you’re a frequent Disney visitor. The cost per night tends to be lower when you use points compared to paying cash rates.
Exclusive Perks: Membership comes with added perks like access to exclusive events, discounts, and more flexible booking windows. Beware there are restrictions for new resale DVC members.

Whether you choose to book directly through Disney or rent DVC points, staying at this resort is accessible and offers incredible value.

And if you decide that Old Key West feels like home, exploring a DVC membership might just be the perfect next step.

Ta Ta For Now

Disney’s Old Key West Resort stands out as the best budget-friendly Disney Vacation Club home resort for several reasons.

Choosing Disney’s Old Key West Resort means enjoying a magical Disney vacation without breaking the bank. Its blend of charm, convenience, and affordability make it the ideal choice if you’re looking to make the most of their DVC membership.

This post was all about why Disney’s Old Key West Resort is a great (budget-friendly) Disney Vacation Club Home Resort.

Why Disney’s Old Key West Resort is the Best DVC Home Resort (Budget-Friendly!)