Tucked away in the heart of Walt Disney World Resort,
Disney’s Old Key West Resort is a charming retreat that offers a laid-back Florida Keys-inspired atmosphere. As the original Disney Vacation Club (DVC) resort, it boasts some of the most spacious accommodations on Disney property, making it a fantastic choice for families and groups seeking extra room and comfort.
With picturesque waterways, pastel-coloured villas, and swaying palm trees, Old Key West provides a relaxed yet immersive Disney experience. Guests can enjoy a variety of recreational activities, dining options, and convenient transport to the parks, all while soaking in the resort’s welcoming tropical ambience…
What Makes Disney’s Old Key West Resort So Unique?
Since opening in 1991 as the very first Disney Vacation Club resort, Old Key West has been designed to offer a "home away from home" experience, providing guests with all the benefits of a resort stay whilst never losing the comforts of a villa-style holiday.
What sets the villas apart?
- Spacious homes: The villas here are larger than most other Disney resorts, making them a great option for families who want extra space to spread out. Unlike standard hotel rooms, these villas include full kitchens and laundry facilities, making them perfect for extended stays.
- Serene atmosphere: Unlike the more fast-paced resorts, Old Key West offers a tranquil escape with scenic canals, golf course views, and lush landscaping. Its secluded setting makes it feel like a private oasis within the magic of Disney.
- Exclusive DVC perks: While anyone can book a stay here, Disney Vacation Club members receive added benefits such as access to exclusive events and priority booking options.
Despite its peaceful setting, the resort is still just minutes away from Disney Springs, EPCOT, and other major attractions, offering the perfect balance of relaxation and convenience during your Florida holiday.
What Are the Villa Options at Disney’s Old Key West Resort?
Unlike standard hotel rooms, Old Key West’s villa-style accommodations provide plenty of space and amenities. Each villa includes:
- A full kitchen (except in Deluxe Studios), complete with a refrigerator, stove, microwave, dishwasher, and all necessary cookware.
- A washer and dryer in all 1-bedroom, 2-bedroom, and 3-bedroom villas, perfect for longer stays.
- A private balcony or patio to enjoy the Florida sunshine and resort views.
- Separate living and sleeping areas to provide more comfort for families.
Here’s a breakdown of the different room types:
Deluxe Studio
- Sleeps: Up to 4 guests
- Size: 390 sq. ft.
- Amenities: Kitchenette, queen bed + queen-size sleeper sofa, small dining table, private balcony.
1-Bedroom Villa
- Sleeps: Up to 5 guests
- Size: 942 sq. ft.
- Amenities: Full kitchen, living room, king bed + queen-size sleeper sofa + twin sleeper chair, washer/dryer, private balcony.
2-Bedroom Villa
- Sleeps: Up to 9 guests
- Size: 1,395 sq. ft.
- Amenities: Full kitchen, 2 bathrooms, king bed + 2 queen beds + queen-size sleeper sofa + twin sleeper chair, washer/dryer, large dining area.
3-Bedroom Grand Villa
- Sleeps: Up to 12 guests
- Size: 2,375 sq. ft.
- Amenities: Full kitchen, 3 bathrooms, king bed + 4 queen beds + queen-size sleeper sofa, washer/dryer, spacious dining area, large living space.
With some of the largest accommodations at Walt Disney World, Old Key West is ideal for families looking for extra space and comfort.
What’s Near Disney’s Old Key West Resort?
A Walt Disney World Resort holiday wouldn’t be the same without access to some of the hotspots that make it so special. Luckily, Old Key West is in a prime Lake Buena Vista location, providing easy access to many of Disney’s best attractions:
- Disney Springs: Just a 5-minute boat ride away, Disney Springs offers world-class shopping, dining, and entertainment. Enjoy live performances, browse Disney-themed shops, or dine at top restaurants like The Boathouse and Morimoto Asia.
- Lake Buena Vista Golf Course: Golf enthusiasts will love the award-winning 18-hole course adjacent to the resort. The course is known for its beautiful landscaping and challenging play.
- EPCOT & Disney’s Hollywood Studios: A short drive or bus ride away, both parks are must-visits for families and thrill-seekers alike.
- Water Parks: Both Disney's Typhoon Lagoon and Disney's Blizzard Beach are within close reach, making it easy to plan a day of aquatic fun.
For guests looking for more adventure and maximum excitement, Universal Orlando Resort and SeaWorld are also within a 20-30 minute drive from the resort.
Where to Eat and What to Do at Disney’s Old Key West Resort
Where to eat at Disney’s Old Key West Resort
- Olivia’s Café: A hidden gem among Disney resorts, this charming sit-down restaurant serves a mix of Southern comfort food and Key West favourites. Their famous Southernmost Buttermilk Chicken is a must-try.
- Good’s Food to Go: A quick-service spot perfect for grabbing breakfast sandwiches, burgers, and refreshing frozen drinks by the pool.
- Turtle Shack Poolside Snacks: Located near the Turtle Pond area, this casual snack bar serves pizzas, sandwiches, and tropical cocktails.
- Gurgling Suitcase Libations & Spirits: A cosy bar offering tropical cocktails, frozen margaritas, and small bites. It’s the perfect place to unwind after a day at the parks.
What to do at Disney’s Old Key West Resort
- The Sandcastle Pool: Features a 125-foot waterslide, a whirlpool spa, and a children’s play area.
- Conch Flats Community Hall: Perfect for kids, with crafts, games, and movie nights.
- Campfire Nights & Movies Under the Stars: Free evening entertainment featuring classic Disney films.
Transport and Extras at Disney’s Old Key West Resort
Getting around
Navigating the resort and accessing other Disney locations is made easy from Disney’s Old Key West Resort, there are the following options available to help you get around:
- Complimentary Disney Buses provide direct transport to all four Disney theme parks and Disney Springs.
- Boat Service to Disney Springs offers a scenic and relaxing way to travel.
- Complimentary self-parking is available for guests.
Additional resort amenities
Whether you’re seeking some respite from a busy day at the parks or you simply want to enjoy a leisurely morning at the resort, there are plenty of additional resort amenities that will keep you and the family entertained and active:
- Bike rentals
- Jogging trails
- Fishing excursions
- Fitness centre
- Tennis and basketball courts
- Arcade and kids’ play areas
FAQs
Do guests of Disney’s Old Key West Resort get Extra Magic Hours?
Guests can enjoy Early Theme Park Entry, allowing access to all four Disney parks 30 minutes before the official opening each day.
What time is check-in at Old Key West?
Check-in starts at 4:00 PM, while check-out is at 11:00 AM.
How many pools does Old Key West Disney have?
There are four pools at the resort, including the feature Sandcastle Pool with a waterslide.
Which buildings in Old Key West have elevators?
Buildings 62, 63, and 64 are the only ones with elevators. If you need an accessible room, request one in these buildings.
What star rating is Disney’s Old Key West Resort?
Old Key West is a Deluxe Disney Resort, which is comparable to a 4-star hotel in terms of amenities and service.
What is the nearest theme park to Disney’s Old Key West Resort?
EPCOT is the closest theme park, just a short bus ride away.
Do guests at Disney’s Old Key West Resort get free transport to theme parks?
Yes! Complimentary bus transportation runs between the resort and all four theme parks, while a boat service is available to Disney Springs.
Ready for Your Florida Fairytale?
Whether you’re looking for charming accommodation with space for all the family, relaxing vibes, or easy access to Disney Springs and the parks, Disney’s Old Key West Resort offers a unique blend of comfort and convenience.
View our award-winning Walt Disney World Holiday Packages and let’s start counting down the days until your Orlando adventure!