Old Key West Resort is Disney’s original home base for its vacation club members, and it shows. With laid-back Florida Keys theming, palm-lined roads, spacious villas, and a quiet riverside setting, the resort feels like a getaway within a getaway. While it’s often overlooked in favor of flashier or more centrally located hotels, Old Key West has a loyal following, especially among guests who value extra room to breathe, full kitchens, and a slower pace. If “peaceful but practical” sounds like your kind of vacation, Old Key West delivers.
Where Is Old Key West Resort
Old Key West sits in the Disney Springs resort area, nestled along the Sassagoula River. It’s just across from Saratoga Springs and close to Epcot and Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon water park. The resort is tucked into a wooded pocket of Walt Disney World, making it feel secluded without being far from the action.
How Much Is Old Key West Resort
Standard prices range from $350 to $550 per night for studios, and $500 to over $1,000 for larger villas depending on season. It’s one of Disney’s more affordable Deluxe resorts, especially for families or groups seeking extended stays with kitchen access.
Is Old Key West a Deluxe Resort
Yes. It’s one of Disney’s Deluxe Villa Resorts, offering apartment-style units with full kitchens, private patios, living rooms, and laundry. You won’t find high-rise lobbies or flashy theming here, but you will find square footage and serenity.
Old Key West Resort Rooms
All accommodations are villa-style, with larger layouts than typical hotel rooms. Room types include:
- Deluxe Studios: Sleep up to four guests with a queen bed and pull-down bed, plus a kitchenette.
- One-Bedroom Villas: Sleep up to five, with a king bed, pull-out sofa, full kitchen, washer/dryer, and spacious living area.
- Two-Bedroom Villas: Sleep up to nine guests with additional bedding and full amenities.
- Three-Bedroom Grand Villas: Sleep up to twelve, with over 2,000 square feet of space, multiple bathrooms, dining room, and large balcony.
The decor reflects the Florida Keys with pastel colors, tropical artwork, and breezy design.
Which Buildings at Old Key West Have Elevators
Most buildings do not have elevators. However, buildings 62, 63, and 64—all located in the Hospitality House section—do. If elevator access is important, it’s best to request these buildings during booking or mention it to your travel agent.
When Was Old Key West Built
Old Key West was the first-ever Disney Vacation Club resort, opening in 1991. Originally named “Disney Vacation Club Resort,” it was rebranded as Old Key West in the mid-1990s to better reflect its laid-back island theme.
When Was Old Key West Resort Renovated
A full room refurbishment was completed between 2019 and 2021, updating all units with new flooring, furniture, lighting, and appliances. The result is fresher, brighter interiors that still keep the beachy charm intact.
Old Key West Near Hospitality House
The Hospitality House is the resort’s main building, housing check-in, dining, gift shop, and access to the bus stop and boat dock. Rooms near this area are especially popular with guests wanting quick access to amenities. You can request “Near Hospitality House” during booking, and it’ll be treated as a room category.
Old Key West Resort Pool
The Sandcastle Pool near the Hospitality House is the resort’s feature pool. It includes:
- A sandcastle-shaped waterslide
- Kids’ play area
- Hot tub
- Pool bar (Turtle Shack)
- Plenty of shade and seating
In addition, there are three leisure pools located throughout the resort for quieter swimming.
Are Old Key West Pools Heated
Yes—all pools, including the feature and leisure pools, are heated year-round to maintain a comfortable temperature regardless of season.
Dining at Old Key West Resort
While dining is limited compared to larger resorts, there are solid options here:
- Olivia’s Café: A hidden gem offering hearty Floridian comfort food like buttermilk fried chicken, conch fritters, and banana bread pudding. Great for breakfast, brunch, or dinner.
- Good’s Food to Go: The quick-service spot with burgers, wraps, breakfast sandwiches, and grab-and-go options.
- Turtle Shack Poolside Snacks: Located near a quiet pool, it offers light fare and drinks.
- Gurgling Suitcase Libations & Spirits: A compact but charming lounge with cocktails, beer, and a laid-back vibe.
You’re also just a short walk or boat ride from all the dining options at Disney Springs.
Old Key West Resort Transportation
| Old Key West Resort to Magic Kingdom | Bus |
| Old Key West Resort to Epcot | Bus |
| Old Key West Resort to Hollywood Studios | Bus |
| Old Key West Resort to Animal Kingdom | Bus |
| Old Key West Resort to Disney Springs | Boat |
| Old Key West Resort to Blizzard Beach | Bus |
| Old Key West Resort to Typhoon Lagoon | Bus |
What Is Old Key West Resort Near?
Old Key West is near:
- Disney Springs, via walking path, boat, or bus
- Lake Buena Vista Golf Course, adjacent to the resort
- Saratoga Springs Resort, just across the river
Its central location offers good access to all four theme parks without feeling crowded.
Where Does the Old Key West Boat Go?
The resort’s boat service runs to Disney Springs, with a scenic ride along the Sassagoula River. Boats depart from the dock near Hospitality House and run every 20–30 minutes.
Old Key West to Saratoga Springs Resort
There’s no dedicated walking path between the two, but they’re close enough to access one another by short boat ride, or via driving and internal transportation.
Old Key West Resort Comparisons
Old Key West Vs. Saratoga Springs Resort
Both are quiet and villa-style. Saratoga has more pools and walking access to Disney Springs. Old Key West has larger rooms and a more relaxed layout.
Old Key West Vs. Animal Kingdom Lodge
Animal Kingdom Lodge offers exotic theming and savanna views. Old Key West wins on space and proximity to Disney Springs.
Old Key West Vs. Pop Century
Pop Century is a value resort with small rooms and Skyliner access. Old Key West is quieter, larger, and better suited for long stays.
Old Key West Vs. Port Orleans
Port Orleans offers riverboat charm and themed sections. Old Key West has more space and kitchen facilities.
Old Key West Vs. Boardwalk Inn
BoardWalk Inn is livelier, with direct EPCOT access. Old Key West is more peaceful, with better parking and bigger rooms.
Old Key West Vs. Coronado Springs
Coronado Springs is a moderate with some deluxe amenities. Old Key West offers full kitchens and is built for longer stays.
Old Key West Resort Maps
A detailed map showing room buildings, dining locations, boat dock, pools, and proximity to Disney Springs will be available soon. For now, guests can explore the resort layout via Disney’s interactive map.
FAQs
Why Stay at Old Key West?
- Oversized rooms are ideal for families
- Full kitchens and in-room laundry
- Peaceful, low-key atmosphere
- Beautiful waterfront setting
- Direct boat access to Disney Springs
- Well-maintained and recently renovated
When Does Old Key West DVC Expire?
For Disney Vacation Club owners, contracts at Old Key West typically expire in 2042, unless extended through specific resale or direct purchase options. Be sure to verify expiration details if buying into DVC.
