The Definitive Guide to
Disney's Old Key West Resort

Disney's Old Key West Resort holds a special distinction as the very first Disney Vacation Club property ever built, opening on December 20, 1991. Originally known simply as the Disney Vacation Club Resort, it was renamed Old Key West Resort in January 1996. The resort captures the relaxed, sun-soaked spirit of the Florida Keys, offering a laid-back atmosphere that stands in deliberate contrast to the more theme-park-intensive resorts on property. Sprawling across more than 150 acres on Walt Disney World property, Old Key West is the largest of the DVC resorts, designed to feel like a leisurely waterfront village where time slows down. Its low-rise buildings, pastel-colored exteriors, and tropical landscaping evoke the charm of Key West without the long drive south. Guests who stay here tend to return again and again, drawn to the unhurried vibe and the sense of community that comes from being one of the original homes of the DVC program.

Old Key West Resort sits along the Buena Vista Lagoon and several canals near Disney Springs, placing it in the eastern portion of Walt Disney World property. While it is not on the monorail line, the resort benefits from multiple transportation options. Guests can take Disney buses to all four theme parks and Disney Springs, with service running throughout the day and into the evening. Boat service connects the resort to Disney Springs, offering a scenic and pleasant alternative to the bus for shopping, dining, and entertainment outings. The ride along the waterway is one of the hidden pleasures of staying at Old Key West, especially in the evening when the lights of Disney Springs reflect off the water. Walking to any theme park is not an option from this resort, but the bus system is generally reliable and the marina boat adds a charming, unhurried dimension to daily travel. Guests with rental cars will appreciate the easy access to all parts of property via Buena Vista Drive.

The entire resort is designed to evoke Key West, Florida during its golden era — think white picket fences, gingerbread trim, and pastel cottages nestled among palm trees and tropical foliage. The atmosphere is intentionally relaxed and residential, more like a quiet coastal neighborhood than a theme park hotel. The Hospitality House serves as the main check-in and activity hub, decorated with Conch Republic imagery and warm tropical colors. Throughout the resort, street names pay homage to Key West characters and landmarks, and the overall design philosophy emphasizes space and openness. Buildings are spread across the sprawling grounds, which means guests may have a short walk or a brief internal bus ride to reach their building from the main amenities. This layout contributes to the resort's peaceful, uncrowded feel — it never feels like a busy hotel because no single area ever concentrates too many guests at once.

Old Key West offers a range of accommodations from Studios to Grand Villas, making it suitable for couples, families, and large groups alike. Studios are the most compact option, accommodating up to four guests with a queen-size bed, a queen-size sleeper sofa, a small refrigerator, a microwave, and a single sink. These are well-suited for shorter visits or guests who plan to eat most meals in the parks. One-Bedroom Villas sleep up to five guests and include a full kitchen, washer and dryer, separate living room, master bedroom with king bed, and a whirlpool tub in the bathroom — a significant step up in comfort and home-like convenience. Two-Bedroom Villas accommodate up to nine guests and essentially combine a One-Bedroom Villa with an adjoining Studio. The Grand Villa sleeps up to twelve guests across three bedrooms, three bathrooms, a full kitchen, dining room, and a large private deck — one of the most spacious grand villa options in all of DVC. Every unit features a private balcony or patio and access to in-room laundry facilities in the larger categories.

Old Key West offers a full slate of recreational options befitting its resort-village layout. The main feature pool, Sandcastle Pool, is a large themed pool featuring a waterslide disguised as a sandcastle, a hot tub, and a zero-entry area for young children. Three additional quiet pools are distributed across the resort's expansive grounds, ensuring guests are never far from a place to swim regardless of which building they are assigned to. The resort has a well-equipped fitness center, tennis and basketball courts, a volleyball court, and shuffleboard. Bike rentals are available, and the resort's winding paths make cycling a genuinely pleasant way to explore. Electric boat and canoe rentals are offered at the marina, and the resort's location along the waterway makes these particularly appealing for families with children. The R.E.S.T. Beach serves as a small sandy area along the lagoon where guests can relax near the water. A game room provides indoor entertainment, and a children's playground ensures the youngest guests have dedicated outdoor space.

The signature dining experience at Old Key West is Olivia's Café, a beloved full-service restaurant that has become something of a DVC institution. Known for its warm, casual atmosphere and Caribbean-inspired American cuisine, Olivia's offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The walls are decorated with photos contributed by DVC members over the years, lending the restaurant a genuine sense of community and belonging. Signature dishes include conch fritters, key lime pie, and hearty breakfast platters.

Good's Food to Go serves as the resort's quick-service option, offering a selection of sandwiches, salads, snacks, and beverages for guests on the go. The Gurgling Suitcase is the resort's charming poolside bar, named for a contraption Key West legend claims Hemingway used to smuggle rum. It offers tropical cocktails, beers, and light snack options in a laid-back setting perfect for afternoon relaxation. Turtle Shack is a poolside snack bar near one of the recreational pools, providing ice cream and light refreshments.