Disney’s Old Key West Resort

Nestled along the banks of the Sassagoula River at Walt Disney World Resort lies a charming slice of Key West ambiance – Disney’s Old Key West Resort. As the very first Disney Vacation Club property, opened in 1991, this delightful Disney resort captures the laid-back elegance and tropical charm of historic Key West, Florida, while offering all the magic and amenities you’d expect from a Disney property. One of the easier Disney Resorts to book, Old Key West is a great option for larger groups or families who want to stay together in one of the Disney resort hotels. Disney’s Old Key West Resort one of the Deluxe Villa resorts at Walt Disney World, and offers similar amenities and luxuries as other Walt Disney World Deluxe Resorts.

Old Key West Summary

• Originally opened in December 1991 as “Disney’s Vacation Club Resort” before being renamed to “Disney’s Old Key West Resort” in 1996. Old Key West as the first Disney Vacation Club Resort.
• The resort features the largest rooms and villas at Walt Disney World, ranging from 376-square-foot Deluxe Studios to expansive 2,202-square-foot Three-Bedroom Grand Villas, all designed with a comfortable, home-away-from-home atmosphere.
• Spread across 156 acres along the Sassagoula River, the resort captures the laid-back charm of the Florida Keys through its pastel-colored Victorian architecture, wraparound porches, and lush tropical landscaping.
• Transportation options include bus service to all Disney parks and Disney Springs (with five convenient internal resort stops), plus a scenic water taxi service to Disney Springs that showcases Florida wildlife along the way.
• The resort’s dining includes the popular Olivia’s Cafe (serving Florida-inspired cuisine), Good’s Food to Go quick-service location, and the intimate Gurgling Suitcase lounge, while recreation features four pools (including the main pool with its sandcastle water slide), tennis courts, and proximity to the Lake Buena Vista Golf Course.
• The centrally-located Hospitality House serves as the resort’s main hub, housing check-in, dining, shopping, and guest services, while offering charming touches like rocking chairs on the porch and a welcoming Key West atmosphere.
• Room views include options overlooking the water, golf course, or gardens, with some rooms offering convenient “Near Hospitality House” locations, though the resort’s size means some buildings require longer walks or internal bus service to reach central amenities.

Old Key West History

While today’s guests know this tropical paradise as Disney’s Old Key West Resort, it actually began its story under a different name. When this first DVC resort welcomed guests in December 1991, it was simply called “Disney’s Vacation Club Resort.” As Disney’s first venture into vacation ownership, this straightforward name made perfect sense – it was, quite literally, the only Disney Vacation Club resort in existence.

The resort’s design and theming had always reflected the charm and character of the Florida Keys. From day one, guests were greeted by pastel-colored Victorian architecture, swaying palm trees, and the laid-back atmosphere that Key West is famous for. The imaginative details that transport visitors to America’s southernmost city – from the wraparound porches to the lighthouse motifs – were all part of the original design.

In 1996, as Disney began expanding its Vacation Club program with the opening of Disney’s Vero Beach Resort and plans for additional properties, the company recognized the need for a more distinctive name. The resort was rechristened “Disney’s Old Key West Resort,” a name that better captured its unique identity and celebrated its well-established Florida Keys theming. This change coincided with Disney’s broader expansion of the Vacation Club program, which would eventually grow to include properties across multiple locations and themes.

The name change to Old Key West proves particularly fitting given the resort’s role as the original Disney Vacation Club property. Just as Old Town Key West represents the historic heart of the Florida Keys, this resort represents the historic beginning of Disney Vacation Club. Its role as the pioneer of Disney’s vacation ownership program, combined with its timeless Key West theming, makes the “Old Key West” name feel as natural and appropriate today as when it was introduced in 1996.

Old Key West Location

Old Key West Resort enjoys a prime location in the Disney Springs area, connected to various Disney destinations via waterway and road. The resort sprawls across 156 acres of lush, tropical landscape, dotted with pastel-colored buildings, swaying palms, and tranquil waterways.

Transportation options are plentiful, with dedicated bus service to all four Disney theme parks, water taxis to Disney Springs, and internal resort buses connecting the various sections of this expansive property. The scenic boat ride to Disney Springs is particularly enchanting, meandering along the Sassagoula River past gorgeous views and natural Florida wildlife.

Old Key West’s Hospitality House

The Hospitality House serves as the vibrant center of Disney’s Old Key West Resort, embodying the welcoming spirit of the Florida Keys in both architecture and atmosphere. This sprawling Victorian-style building, with its wraparound porches, white trim, and pastel yellow exterior, immediately transports guests to the historic streets of Key West.

Lobby and Check-In Area

Upon entering the Hospitality House, guests are greeted by a bright, airy lobby that perfectly captures the resort’s coastal charm. Comfortable seating areas feature wicker furniture with plush cushions, while paddle fans spin lazily overhead, creating a gentle breeze. The lobby’s decor includes nautical touches like ship wheels, elegant lighthouse artwork, and vintage-style maps of the Florida Keys.

The check-in area maintains the building’s relaxed atmosphere while efficiently handling arrivals and departures. Cast Members, known for their friendly “island” attitude, welcome guests from behind dark wood counters at the resort front desk. A separate concierge desk provides assistance with dining reservations, park tickets, and general resort information. During busy periods, cast members often offer comfortable seating areas where guests can complete check-in paperwork.

Olivia’s Cafe

Olivia’s Cafe, the resort’s signature table-service restaurant, occupies a prominent space in the Hospitality House. Large windows flood the restaurant with natural light while offering views of the resort’s waterways and lush landscaping. The restaurant’s entrance features a charming collection of family photos contributed by Disney Vacation Club members, creating a homey atmosphere before guests even step inside.

The Gurgling Suitcase

Adjacent to Olivia’s Cafe, this intimate lounge captures the spirit of Key West’s famous drinking establishments. The Gurgling Suitcase, with its dark wood accents and tropical decor, provides a cozy spot for adults to enjoy creative cocktails and light bites. The bar’s unusual name comes from Prohibition-era smuggling practices, adding a touch of historical whimsy to this popular gathering spot.

Conch Flats General Store

The resort’s main shopping venue offers much more than typical hotel sundries. The General Store features a carefully curated selection of Disney merchandise, resort-specific souvenirs, and vacation essentials. Guests staying in Disney deluxe villas particularly appreciate the store’s grocery section, which stocks everything from snacks to basic cooking ingredients. The store’s front porch, complete with rocking chairs, provides a pleasant spot to enjoy a morning coffee or evening ice cream.

Recreation Window

Located within the Hospitality House, the recreation window serves as the hub for all resort activities. Here, guests can rent bikes, pick up tennis equipment, or learn about scheduled resort activities. The friendly staff can provide information about fishing excursions, boat rentals, and other recreational opportunities available throughout Walt Disney World.

Business Center

A small but well-equipped business center provides computers and printers for guest use. This area proves particularly useful for printing boarding passes or handling any unexpected work matters that arise during vacation.

Community Hall

While not technically within the main building, the Community Hall sits adjacent to the Hospitality House area. This activity center offers pool tables, video games, board games, and craft activities. Daily scheduled activities might include tie-dye shirt making, painting, or family game tournaments.

Arrival Experience

The Hospitality House’s porte-cochère provides covered access for arriving and departing guests. The building’s entrance features lush tropical plantings, creating an immediate sense of arrival in a Florida Keys paradise. Bell Services staff are readily available to assist with luggage and groceries, and can provide resort tours for first-time guests.

Transportation Access

The main building area serves as a central transportation hub. The resort’s boat dock, offering water taxi service to Disney Springs, sits just steps away from the Hospitality House. The resorts main bus stop is also located here, providing convenient access to Disney theme parks and water parks.

Outdoor Spaces

The Hospitality House features several covered porches and seating areas that invite guests to linger and relax. These spaces, furnished with comfortable rocking chairs and porch swings, provide peaceful spots to enjoy morning coffee, afternoon reading, or evening conversations. The building’s second-floor balcony offers particularly nice views of the resort’s waterways and main pool area.

The landscaping around the Hospitality House creates a lush, tropical atmosphere with swaying palms, vibrant flowers, and native Florida plants. Walking paths connect the main building to nearby accommodation buildings, the main pool complex, and other resort amenities.

This central hub of activity manages to maintain the resort’s relaxed, Key West atmosphere while efficiently serving guests’ needs. Whether checking in, dining at Olivia’s, shopping at the General Store, or simply relaxing on a porch rocker, the Hospitality House provides a welcoming space that sets the tone for a laid-back Florida Keys-style vacation.

Old Key West Accommodations

One of Old Key West’s most distinctive features is its incredibly spacious accommodations. The resort offers some of the largest guest rooms and deluxe villas in all of Walt Disney World, designed with a homey, comfortable feel that perfectly matches the relaxed Key West atmosphere. Each room type provides a unique vacation experience, catering to different group sizes and needs.

Room Types and Layouts

Deluxe Studio (376 square feet)

• Sleeps up to 4 adults
• 1 queen-size bed
• 1 double-size sleeper sofa
• Private balcony or porch
• Kitchenette with microwave, small refrigerator, coffee maker, and toaster
• 1 bathroom with shower/tub combination

One-Bedroom Villa (942 square feet)

• Sleeps up to 5 adults
• Master bedroom with king-size bed
• Queen-size sleeper sofa in living room
• Pull-down single bed under TV in living room
• Full kitchen with full-size appliances
• Separate living and dining areas
• Washer and dryer
• 2 bathrooms (master bathroom features whirlpool tub)
• Private balcony or porch

Two-Bedroom Villa (1,333 square feet)

• Sleeps up to 9 adults
• Master bedroom with king-size bed
• Second bedroom with two queen-size beds
• Queen-size sleeper sofa in living room
• Pull-down single bed under TV in living room
• Full kitchen with full-size appliances
• Separate living and dining areas
• Washer and dryer
• 3 bathrooms (master bathroom features whirlpool tub)
• Private balcony or porch

Three-Bedroom Grand Villa (2,202 square feet)

• Sleeps up to 12 adults
• Two-story villa
• Master bedroom with king-size bed
• Second bedroom with two queen-size beds
• Third bedroom with two queen-size beds
• Queen-size sleeper sofa in living room
• Full kitchen with full-size appliances
• Separate living and dining areas
• Washer and dryer
• 4 bathrooms (master bathroom features whirlpool tub)
• Multiple private balconies

Room Views and Locations

The resort offers several view types, each providing a unique perspective on the property’s beautiful surroundings. The Near Hospitality House category places guests within easy walking distance of the main building, dining options, and the feature pool. These rooms may overlook pools, water features, or garden areas, and their convenient location makes them highly sought after.

Water View rooms offer stunning vistas of the Sassagoula River, canal waterways, or golf course water features. These rooms provide entertainment in the form of passing boat traffic and native wildlife, with many offering spectacular sunset views. Golf Course View rooms overlook the Lake Buena Vista Golf Course, providing peaceful vistas and typically quieter locations. Some fortunate rooms combine both water and golf course views for an especially scenic outlook.

Garden View rooms showcase the resort’s lush tropical landscaping and may include views of the quiet pools. These rooms often provide more peaceful surroundings and can be found throughout the resort’s various sections.

The resort’s layout is divided into several distinct areas, each with its own character. Miller’s Road, closest to the Hospitality House, offers the most convenient access to main amenities but experiences higher foot traffic. South Point Road provides a quieter atmosphere with many golf course views, though it requires a longer walk to central amenities. Old Turtle Pond Road strikes a balance between convenience and tranquility with its central location, while Peninsula Road offers many water views in a more secluded setting.

Room Amenities and Features

Every room at Old Key West reflects the resort’s attention to detail and commitment to guest comfort. Ceiling fans create a tropical ambiance while providing comfortable air circulation. Entertainment options include flat-panel TVs and DVD players, while practical amenities such as hair dryers, irons with ironing boards, and in-room safes ensure all guest needs are met.

The villas expand on these amenities with full-size refrigerators, stoves and ovens, microwaves, and dishwashers in their well-equipped kitchens. Complete sets of cooking utensils, plates, and silverware make it easy to prepare meals, while comfortable dining furniture allows families to enjoy meals together. The addition of washers and dryers in these units adds significant convenience for longer stays.

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Old Key West Dining Options

The resort’s flagship restaurant, Olivia’s Cafe, is a hidden gem in the Disney dining scene. This casual table-service restaurant serves up delicious Florida and Caribbean-inspired cuisine in a cozy, homey atmosphere. The walls are adorned with photos of Disney Vacation Club members, adding to the restaurant’s friendly, familiar feel.

Breakfast offerings include the popular Banana Bread French Toast and Southernmost Buttermilk Chicken, while lunch and dinner feature local favorites like the Southernmost Fish Sandwich and Conch Fritters. Don’t miss their famous Key Lime Pie – it’s among the best on property.

For quick service options, Good’s Food to Go offers sandwiches, salads, and other casual fare, perfect for a poolside meal or quick bite between activities. The Gurgling Suitcase, the resort’s intimate bar, serves up creative cocktails and light bites in a setting that would feel right at home on Duval Street.

Old Key West Recreation and Amenities

The main pool area, themed after an old-fashioned swimming hole, features a 149-foot-long waterslide fashioned after a giant sand castle. The pool deck includes a whirlpool spa, children’s pool, and plenty of space for sunbathing. Three additional quiet pools are scattered throughout the resort, perfect for a more relaxed swimming experience.

Sports enthusiasts will appreciate the tennis, volleyball, and basketball courts, as well as the resort’s proximity to Disney’s Lake Buena Vista Golf Course. The resort also features a well-equipped exercise facility, jogging paths, and bicycle rentals for exploring the property’s scenic grounds.

For children, the resort offers a playground and a community hall featuring games, crafts, and family activities. The ESPN Club, while not technically part of Old Key West, is just a short boat ride away at Disney’s BoardWalk.

OKW Transportation Options

Disney’s Old Key West Resort offers comprehensive transportation services to all Walt Disney World destinations through a combination of buses and water taxis. The resort’s expansive layout includes multiple bus stops and a scenic water taxi route, ensuring guests can easily access all that Disney World has to offer.

Bus Service

The resort’s complimentary Disney bus service connects guests to all four theme parks, Disney Springs, Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park, and Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park. Due to the resort’s size, Old Key West features five internal bus stops strategically placed throughout the property:

The Hospitality House stop serves as the main transportation hub, located near Olivia’s Cafe and the resort’s check-in area. The Peninsula Road stop serves guests staying in buildings 19-22 and 62-64. The Old Turtle Pond Road stop accommodates buildings 30-35 and 45-49. The South Point stop serves buildings 41-44 and 52-56, while the Miller’s Road stop covers buildings 11-14 and 23-26.

Bus service begins approximately 45 minutes before the parks open and continues until about two hours after they close. During peak times, buses typically arrive every 20 minutes. Each theme park has its own dedicated bus service, meaning guests won’t need to stop at multiple resorts before reaching their destination. The exception is Disney Springs routes, which may make stops at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa.

For guests with mobility concerns, all Disney buses are equipped with lifts and spaces for wheelchairs and ECVs. The buses also feature comfortable seating and air conditioning, making the journey as pleasant as possible.

Water Transportation

One of the most charming aspects of staying at Old Key West is the water taxi service to Disney Springs. The resort’s boat dock is located near the Hospitality House, offering a scenic 20-minute journey along the Sassagoula River. These water taxis, reminiscent of traditional Key West watercraft, operate throughout the day with service typically beginning at 10:00 AM and running until Disney Springs closes.

The boat route takes guests past beautiful natural scenery and through the waterways of Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa. Wildlife sightings are common along the route, with guests often spotting various birds, turtles, and sometimes even alligators from a safe distance. The boats are covered to provide protection from sun and rain, though the sides remain open to allow for cooling breezes and better views.

Water taxi service runs approximately every 20-30 minutes throughout the day. These boats can accommodate wheelchairs and ECVs, though the captains may limit the number of such devices per journey depending on current conditions and capacity.

Internal Resort Transportation

For guests staying in buildings farther from the Hospitality House, Old Key West provides internal resort bus service. This convenient option helps guests reach the main building area for dining at Olivia’s Cafe, shopping at the General Store, or accessing the main pool complex. The internal service follows the same route as the theme park buses, stopping at all five bus stops throughout the resort.

Transportation Tips

Evening park departure times often see the highest demand for bus service. Guests planning to leave a park during these peak times should allow extra time for transportation. This is especially true after fireworks shows or park closing times.

For trips to Disney Springs, consider the water taxi as both a mode of transportation and an attraction in itself. The peaceful boat ride offers a unique perspective of Walt Disney World’s waterways and can be a relaxing break from the parks’ excitement.

During busy seasons, the internal resort bus can be particularly useful for reaching the Hospitality House, especially in inclement weather or when carrying groceries from the General Store back to your room. However, many guests enjoy walking the resort’s scenic paths during pleasant weather.

The multiple bus stops throughout the resort can be both an advantage and a consideration when planning your stay. While they provide convenient access for all guests, they also mean that bus rides to and from destinations may take slightly longer than at smaller resorts due to the multiple stops.

For early morning reservations or activities, such as dining reservations or Lightning Lane return times, it’s recommended to allow at least 60 minutes for transportation. This buffer helps account for potential wait times and ensures you’ll arrive at your destination with time to spare.

Boats may occasionally suspend operation during severe weather conditions, particularly when lightning is in the area. During these times, bus service to Disney Springs is provided as an alternative. The bus pickup/dropoff at Disney Springs is located in the Town Center area, near the entrance to the Orange Parking Garage.

This comprehensive transportation system ensures that guests at Old Key West Resort can easily access all of Walt Disney World’s attractions and entertainment, whether they’re heading to the magic of the theme parks or the shopping and dining of Disney Springs.

The DVC Experience

As Disney’s first Vacation Club resort, Old Key West holds a special place in DVC history. The resort perfectly embodies the “home away from home” concept that DVC properties strive to achieve. The buildings are arranged in small clusters, creating intimate neighborhoods that feel more like a community than a hotel.

The resort’s General Store, located in the Hospitality House area, offers groceries, sundries, and Disney merchandise, making it convenient for villa guests to stock their kitchens or pick up forgotten items. The store’s front porch, complete with rocking chairs, provides a perfect spot to relax and people-watch.

Old Key West Resort Atmosphere and Theming

What sets Old Key West apart is its authentic interpretation of Key West’s charm. The architecture draws inspiration from the Conch Republic’s historic districts, with detailed touches like pastel colors, white trim, and shuttered windows. Victorian-style buildings feature wide wraparound porches, while tropical gardens and swaying palms complete the island atmosphere.

The theming extends beyond just the visual elements. The resort’s laid-back pace and friendly cast members embody the “island time” mentality of the Florida Keys. It’s not uncommon to see guests relaxing on their balconies, reading books by the pool, or enjoying a slow afternoon at the Gurgling Suitcase.

Hidden Gems and Special Touches

Throughout the resort, guests can discover delightful details that enhance the Key West theme. Look for hidden Mickeys in the lighthouse weather vanes, enjoy the whimsical pool deck where a large sandcastle houses the water slide, and notice the nautical touches in the room decor.

The resort’s waterfront promenade offers stunning views, particularly at sunset, and the various bridges and walkways connecting different areas of the property provide perfect spots for photography or quiet contemplation.

Planning Your Stay

When booking Old Key West, consider your room location carefully. The resort’s size means some rooms can be quite far from the main amenities. Buildings near the Hospitality House area offer the most convenient access to dining, shopping, and main pool, while buildings further out provide more peace and quiet.

For families or larger groups, the villas’ spacious layouts and full kitchens can provide significant value compared to booking multiple standard hotel rooms. The ability to prepare meals in-room can also help manage vacation costs.

Tips for Making the Most of Your Stay

1. Request a room near the Hospitality House if walking distance to amenities is important to you.
2. Consider renting bikes to explore the resort’s extensive grounds.
3. Don’t miss the boat ride to Disney Springs – it’s both practical and scenic.
4. Make advance dining reservations for Olivia’s Cafe, especially for breakfast and dinner.
5. Take advantage of the Community Hall’s activities, particularly on rest days from the parks.

Is Old Key West Right for You?

Old Key West is perfect for:

• Families or groups wanting spacious accommodations
• Travelers who appreciate a more relaxed, away-from-it-all atmosphere
• Those who enjoy having kitchen facilities and home-like amenities
• Guests who don’t mind a resort with a larger footprint
• Anyone looking for a true “resort” experience rather than just a place to sleep

The resort might not be the best fit for:

• Those wanting a more compact, traditional hotel experience
• Guests who prioritize proximity to a specific theme park
• Travelers seeking an ultra-luxurious or highly themed Disney experience

Why Old Key West

Disney’s Old Key West Resort offers a unique blend of tropical charm, spacious accommodations, and Disney magic. While it may not have the elaborate theming of some newer Disney properties, its authentic Key West atmosphere, generous room sizes, and peaceful setting make it a favorite among Disney Vacation Club members and regular guests alike.

The resort’s maturity shows in its lush landscaping and established feel, while regular refurbishments keep the accommodations fresh and comfortable. For those seeking a relaxed, home-like atmosphere with plenty of Disney touches, Old Key West provides an excellent vacation experience.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning guest, Old Key West’s combination of comfort, charm, and location continues to make it a compelling choice for a Walt Disney World stay. Its position as Disney’s original Vacation Club resort has stood the test of time, proving that sometimes the classics really are the best.