Bottom Line
While other Disney resorts feel either too small and crowded or too grand and difficult to navigate, Old Key West's size feels just right -- 761 studios and large, kitchen-equipped condos, a great gym, and numerous pools (including a waterslide) all set in a beautiful, riverside setting, near Epcot and Downtown Disney.
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Oyster Hotel Review
Disney’s Old Key West Resort
Hotel Class:Upper-middle-range
Scene
A time-share property with comfortable apartment-style rooms in a quieter, more peaceful, Key West-themed setting
One of Disney's oldest (and still most popular) resorts, Old Key West has found a formula that works: the comforts of home in a calm, peaceful setting that's not too far from the parks, crowds, and craziness of Disney.
Modeled after the colorful Key West from the turn of the 20th Century -- you won't find a thriving arts and gay nightclub scene here -- the entire resort feels like a pretty, suburban village set in the Florida wetlands. Pastel-colored buildings with manicured hedges wrap around cul-de-sacs, bus stops punctuate the long road that leads from one mini-compound to the next, and egrets and herons flock about the banks of a river that winds around the resort. From its southern-plantation-style balconies to its wood-planked dock to its kid-focused attitude, everything is undeniably pleasant -- even more so than at most other Disney resorts.
The hotel is part of the Disney Vacation Club time-share network, and its popularity with members means rooms are often reserved well in advance. Non-time-share owners, however, can still book a room here, though in peak season it's hard to find anything but the more lackluster Studio units (similar, in most respects, to a standard hotel room at any other Disney resort in its price range). But if you book early (or at an odd time of the year) the one-, two-, or three-bedroom villas -- each with a fully equipped kitchen, separate living room, a washer-dryer, and a Jacuzzi tub -- is an excellent option for groups or large families. The villas were renovated in 2010 and sport new linens, countertops, and decor.
Regardless the room type, when you factor in all the free features -- fitness center, sauna, tennis, recreation room, to name a few -- Old Key West is still a great option for the price. If you're on a tight budget, the Port Orleans French Quarter and Port Orleans Riverside next door offer more basic, yet still comfortable, rooms for less, but both resorts are much more crowded and have fewer features.
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Service
Limited services, compared to most Orlando resorts, but the hotel does strive to create a fun, personalized experience for children
Unlike at the more upscale Disney resorts, the service at Old Key West is a bit more sparse -- room service is limited to pizza delivery and there are no business services. You do, however, get extra, personal touches. At the front desk, for example, kids get twisted balloon toys when they check-in -- something I didn't see at other Disney properties. And at the on-site restaurant, Olivia's Cafe, I witnessed staff members gives little prizes to kids who put up artwork on the restaurant's doors. Many of the families I spoke with during my stay explained that the friendly and reliable staff was a big reason they regularly returned.
- Concierge desk mainly helps guests book an activity or get tickets to an event.
- Free buses to any Disney property; free water taxi to Downtown Disney
- Limited room service; just pizza during dinner hours
- Extended hours to access the Disney theme parks
- Guests can check in for their flights at the hotel through the Resort Airline Check-in Desk
- Free shuttle to and from Orlando International Airport; free luggage delivery (one item per person)
- Theme-park purchases can be delivered directly to the room.
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Location
In the northeast section of Walt Disney World Resort, a three-minute shuttle to Epcot Center
The resort is in the northeast section of Walt Disney World, next to Port Orleans French Quarter resort. The closest theme park is Epcot Center, a three-minute drive away via a free Disney bus (that runs to all of the various parks and Disney hotels). Any trips outside of Disney World would require a car.
This hotel is but a smidgen in the gigantic world of Disney, but it's still a sprawling property with winding roads, mini-compounds, and a river running through it. Just getting from your room to the lobby could mean a milelong trek, so it's better to wait at one of the resort's three bus stops for an intra-resort shuttle.
- Three-minute free shuttle bus to Epcot Center
- Free bus transportation to Epcot (eight minutes), Animal Kingdom (15 minutes), Hollywood Studios (10 minutes), Downtown Disney (five minutes)
- Free, 10-minute water taxi to Downtown Disney, a strip with shops, bars, and restaurants
- 20-minute drive to International Drive, a 14.5-mile road parallel to Interstate 4 that's chock-full of hotels, strip malls, outlet shops, and restaurants
- 25-minute drive to SeaWorld and Wet 'n Wild parks
- 40-minute drive to downtown Orlando, though there's not much bedsides a bit of notable dining and nightlife on Orange Avenue, and non-theme-park attractions like the Orlando Science Center and the Harry P. Leu Gardens.
- One-and-a-half hour drive to Kennedy Space Center
- 25-minute drive to the Orlando International Airport (Disney provides a free shuttle bus from the airport)
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Rooms
Large, apartment-style units; all except studios have fully equipped kitchens
They may not be the most stylish or technologically up-to-date rooms around, but these apartment-style units provide all the comforts of home. Pastel walls, floral bedspreads, and pink couches provide an unmistakably homey feel, and in-room amenities like a fully equipped kitchen and a washer and dryer are a great convenience, especially to families.
- At 376 square feet, the comfortably sized Studio can sleep up to four adults in two queen-size beds. It has a wet bar with a mini-fridge, microwave, and coffeemaker -- but not a full kitchen.
- Villas, available with one-, two-, or three-bedrooms (as well as a two-story three-bedroom Grand Villa that sleeps 12), all have a fully equipped kitchen, as well as a Jacuzzi and a washer and dryer. All villas were renovated in 2010, receiving new linens, countertops, and decor.
- Every unit has a furnished porch or balcony, many of which have beautiful views of the river.
- Every unit comes with a new flat-screen TV and a DVD player; DVDs can be rented from the Recreation Room.
- iPod docks in every room
- Bath products are H20+ Aquatics (a Disney brand), and they include shower gel, shampoo, conditioner, and bar soap
- Towel animals in every room
- Free Wi-Fi
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Features
A great pool and up-to-date fitness center, as well as boats for cruising along the on-site river
- The main pool has a waterslide, and it's surrounded by a Jacuzzi, a sandy deck, and a sauna housed in a cute little lighthouse.
- Free Wi-Fi
- Three lifeguards are stationed around the main pool throughout the day.
- Smaller pools are spread throughout the property, so guests don't have to trek to the main pool for a swim.
- 24-hour, brightly lit, and well-maintained fitness center with five treadmills, two stair climbers two bikes, six different weight machines, and free weights; cardio machines have individual TV screens.
- Three free tennis courts, two of them with lights for night play; no charge to borrow tennis rackets and balls from the hotel's rental kiosk.
- Free activities include beach volleyball, shuffleboard, and table tennis; equipment available from the hotel rental kiosk.
- For indoor fun, the recreation room has free air hockey, billiards, foosball, darts, and a PlayStation 3
- Two video arcades with coin-operated games
- The hotel's DVD lending library has loads of family-friendly titles for $3 each.
- Guests can rent pedal boats, pontoons, or Sea Raycers (a slow-moving, two-person boat with a single engine) for cruising around the river.
- A convenience store near the lobby sells groceries and Disney merchandise.
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Family
One of the best places to take your family in Orlando
Families love Old Key West -- it's one of Disney's most popular properties. Because the resort is a bit smaller and has fewer crowds (compared to other Disney resorts) it is a bit easier to keep track of your kids running about the property. In addition, there's a plethora of free activities (see Features section), multiple pools, solid, kid-focused service, and large, apartment-style guest rooms (most with kitchens).
- Large guest rooms, including three-bedroom units that sleep up to 12 people; every unit comes with a crib; the hotel doesn't have rollaway beds, but all the units, except studios, have queen-size sofabeds.
- Olivia's Cafe has kid-friendly food like burgers and fries, and every night the staff gives an award to the kid with the best artwork drawn over dinner.
- Dining plans can be a great value and a way to budget meal expenses. For rates and information on the different plans, click here.
- There's no separate kids' club, but the hotel hosts daily activities including a Wii contests and bingo; most activities are free, but some craft-making workshops can add up.
- Playgrounds are located near the pools.
- Family-friendly movie screenings are held three times a week near the main pool.
- Babysitting service can be arranged by calling Disney-approved childcare service, "Kid's Nite Out"
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Cleanliness
Very clean, like most Disney resorts
As at anywhere in Disney World, the grounds are impeccable, and the guest rooms are faultlessly maintained. However, 2010 renovations replaced carpets, furniture, and appliances in all of the villas.
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All-Inclusive / Food
Delicious Southern restaurant and a couple of snack stands
Olivia's Cafe is the only sit-down restaurant at the hotel, and it's a popular dining destination, even for guests staying off-site. Open for lunch and dinner, the restaurant serves good ol' Southern dishes like buttermilk fried chicken and a pot-roast sandwich.
- For a quick bite, there are two poolside snack counters that serve sandwiches and salads.
- Room service is limited to pizza.
- For guests who want to use their kitchen, groceries are available at the on-site convenience store.
- For more dining options, hop on a free bus or water taxi to Downtown Disney or to another Disney property.
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Things You Should Know About Disney’s Old Key West Resort
Also Known As
- Old Key West
- Disney Old Key West Resort
- Disneys Old Key West Resort
- Disneys Old Key West Hotel
- Old Key West Disney
- Key West Disney
- Old Key West Resort
Room Types
- 2 Bedroom Villa (Lock-off)
- One Bedroom Villa
- Studio
- Three Bedroom Grand Villa
- Two Bedroom Villa
Address
1510 North Cove Road, Lake Buena Vista, Orlando, Florida 32830-8421, United States
Phone
(407) 827-7700
Website
FAQs
Disney's Old Key West Resort Review: What To REALLY Expect If You Stay? ›
Buildings 62, 63 and 64 are the best buildings at Old Key West. (See the resort map above; click it to enlarge it.) Request a third floor room (better views, quieter) in one of these buildings.
What is the best building to stay in at Old Key West? ›Buildings 62, 63 and 64 are the best buildings at Old Key West. (See the resort map above; click it to enlarge it.) Request a third floor room (better views, quieter) in one of these buildings.
Can you walk to EPCOT from Old Key West? ›Can you walk to EPCOT from Old Key West? Unfortunately not.
When was Disney's old Key West Resort refurbished? ›Between the scope of the work and the number of guest rooms at Disney's Old Key West Resort, it's a longer project than the normal hotel refurbishment at Walt Disney World. You might recall that Old Key West last received a major refurbishment in 2010 and 2011.
How often do boats run from Old Key West to Disney Springs? ›There is a very soothing boat ride that can take guests from Old Key West to Disney Springs known as the D.V.C Ferry. The Ferry runs every 20 minutes and is available from 10 am to 11 pm.
Where do celebrities stay in Key West? ›Casa Marina Key West
Casa Marina is located on the southern edge of the island and has its own private beach—something few Key West hotels can claim. It also enjoys a rich history, hosting a roster of celebrities and politicians in its nearly 100 years.
To stay in Old Town is the best option for a traditional Key West vacation with all the quirky things to do nearby. New Town in Key West is further away from the Duval Street liveliness but also a great option if you don't mind the longer distance to most things to do on the island.
How long does it take to get from Old Key West to Hollywood studios? ›The bus ride from Disney's Hollywood Studios to Old Key West Resort is 25 minutes. It's approximately 20-30 minutes from the resort to each of the four theme parks.
How far is the Old Key West from the parks? ›The closest theme park is EPCOT, which Google says is only six minutes of travel away from Old Key West. That's one of the shortest distances for any DVC resort to a theme park. Magic Kingdom and Disney's Hollywood Studios are only seven and eight minutes away as well.
Does the boat from Old Key West go to Disney Springs? ›The resort offers a daily boat ride to and from Disney Springs. Old Key West's boat dock is located behind the resort's main lobby, Hospitality House. Signage indicates that water taxis depart for Disney Springs daily from 10:00 a.m. through 11:00 p.m.
How late is the Old Key West pools open? ›
At Disney's Old Key West Resort, the main pool area is located behind Olivia's Café and is open from 7 a.m. - Midnight. You will find a hot tub and sauna here as well.
How many floors does Old Key West Resort have? ›Old Key West is huge, with 49 three-story villa buildings spread over about 100 acres. Views are nice from almost all villas; all multiroom villas and some studios have a large balcony furnished with a table and chairs.
Why is it called Old Key West? ›The very first DVC resort opened on December 20, 1991, was just known as Disney's Vacation Club Resort up until January 1996. It was renamed Disney's Old Key West Resort to distinguish it from the newer DVC resorts, Disney's Vero Beach Resort (October 1995) and Disney's Hilton Head Island Resort (March 1996).
How long is the water taxi from Old Key West to Disney Springs? ›The ferry is about 10 minutes and runs continuously from around 11:00am until about 1:00am. There is a schedule posted at the dock near the hospitality house with more details. over a year ago.
How many bus stops does Disney Old Key West have? ›There are five different bus stops at this resort. Buses start at the Peninsular Road stop, then head to the Old Turtle Pond Road stop, then on to the South Point stop, then to the Miller's Road stop, and end at the Hospitality House before heading into the park.
Where does the boat at Old Key West go? ›I am happy to share that the boat from Disney's Old Key West Resort does stop at The Landing dock at Disney Springs. So, you'll be able to enjoy a scenic boat ride as you head over to enjoy all of the fabulous shopping and incredible dining over at Disney Springs.
What is the prettiest Florida Key? ›While Key Largo is undoubtedly the prettiest of all the Florida Keys, it's also one that's home to plenty of activities for the avid beachgoer. With scenic views like this, it would be tough not to fall in love with such a beachside beauty!
Why is staying in Key West so expensive? ›In addition, restaurant prices have risen, and you can spend lots of money on admissions and tours. But the reason Key West commands high prices is that it is a special one-of-kind city and it's a long way from alternative places to lodge.
Can you walk to everything in Key West? ›Key West is a very walkable town. Many of the best things to do in Key West are located around Mallory Square, along Duval and Whitehead Streets, and down towards the Southernmost Point. The Key West Trolley can be used as a hop-on hop-off bus to get around Key West.
What is the best side of Key West to stay on? ›The Best Area to Stay in Key West
With that in mind, Old Town (also known as the Historic District) is the best area to stay, whether it's a charming bed-and-breakfast in the Heart of Old Town or a more luxurious hotel in and around Downtown, Casa Marina, or the Historic Seaport.
What is the most beautiful street in Key West? ›
Perhaps one of the most popular destinations on the island of Key West, Duval Street is the main drag of downtown, running north and south from the Gulf of Mexico to the Atlantic Ocean.
Can you get around Key West without a car? ›The best way to get around Key West is on foot. Mopeds and bicycles are also popular, though mopeds can be dangerous. Taxis are available on the street, as well as in front of the Key West International Airport (EYW) in the middle of the island.
How many nights should I stay in Key West? ›Key West is worth a day trip, but the more time you have, the better! You could easily spend a week in Key West, but 3-4 days is optimal if you want to do it all and still have time to relax.
Is 2 nights enough in Key West? ›How many days do you need to visit Key West? 2 to 3 days are enough for Key West. With an extra day in the city you can either visit one of the national or state parks on a day tour. Or pick more water sports.
What is busy time of year for Key West? ›Similar to the rest of Florida, Key West experiences its peak tourist season in the summer months of July and August. With temperatures in the upper 90s and, in some areas, extremely high humidity, this is the hottest season of the year.
Do you have to pay for parking at Old Key West? ›Valet Parking is $33 per night: (includes sales tax). Standard self-parking is complimentary for day Guests while they enjoy select dining, shopping, entertainment and recreation experiences at this Disney Resort hotel.
What is the closest park to Old Key West resort? ›The closest park is Epcot but all resorts are not that far from any park except maybe Animal Kingdom. There are Magical Express buses from airport to resorts you should be able to arrange for yes. over a year ago. Old key west is close to Disney Springs.
How much is parking in Old Town Key West? ›| Duration | Fee |
|---|---|
| Hourly Rate | $ 5.00 |
| Daily Maximum | $40.00 |
| Monthly Rate | $268.75 |
| Monthly Employee Permit | $25.00 |
Disney Cruise Line has several Ports of Call, even one in Key West, Florida. A port of call is just a stop on the itinerary of your cruise and the length of your stay in port varies. Usually, your ship docks for anywhere from a half-day to a full day.
How many rooms are at Disney's Old Key West Resort? ›What time do boats stop at Disney Springs? ›
Boat leaves every 20 minutes traveling from Port Orleans Resorts to Downtown Disney Marketplace from 10am - 4pm, and every 10 minutes from 4pm - 11pm. The final departure time from the resorts is 11:00pm. The final departure time from Downtown Disney is 11:30pm.
Does Old Key West have towels at the pool? ›Hours and lifeguard availability vary by pool and are subject to change. Complimentary towels are provided at all pools.
Which buildings at Old Key West have elevators? ›There are three buildings at Disney's Old Key West Resort that have elevators, building numbers 62, 63 and 64. They are along Miller's Road. The Miller's Road area is pretty long and there are quite a few other buildings there, so you may not get an elevator building with that request.
How many grand villas does Old Key West have? ›There are 27 Grand Villas at Disney's Old Key West Resort and you can find them in buildings 15, 16, 19, 22, 25, 29, 43, 48, 49, 51, 53, and 63.
What is the Big Red building on Key West? ›Looming over Mallory Square near the Margaritaville Resort & Marina, the Custom House is an iconic Key West institution. An imposing four-story, red brick structure built in 1891, it's a sight easily recognizable from land and sea.
What is the old Margaritaville Key West? ›Ideally located right on the waterfront of Old Town Key West within a working cruise ship port and just steps from the famous Mallory Square and one block from Duval Street is Opal Key Resort & Marina (formerly Margaritaville Key West Resort & Marina) - a hub of relaxation and luxury in the middle of all of the ...
What is considered old town Key West? ›Old Town is the name given to the historic district of the island of Key West, Florida. It is roughly the western half of the island. It is also where the central business district and majority of tourist attractions are located.
What are people from Key West called? ›In Key West, conchs are people born in Key West. You're not considered a conch by simply living in Key West; but if you've been a local for at least seven years, you may be considered a “freshwater conch” in some circles.
Why is Key West so special? ›And although it's famed as the home of key lime pie, this destination offers much more, from high end art galleries to literary festivals and cool bars. With both land and sea-based activities to entertain everyone, a unique culture, and a buzzing food and beverage scene, Key West caters to all ages and interests.
What do the locals call Key West? ›The story continues when in April of 1982, the city of Key West declared itself the Conch Republic.
Is the Disney ferry free? ›
Just like the Monorail, Disney Skyliner and bus service, whether you want to ride on a Magic Kingdom Ferry or float over to Epcot on a Disney Friendship Boat, all water transportation options at Walt Disney World are completely free.
How much is the ferry ride from Miami to Key West? ›| Adults (13-61 years Old) | $185.00 |
|---|---|
| Seniors (62+ Years Old) | $175.00 |
| Juniors (5-12 Years Old) | $135.00 |
| Children (4 and Younger) | $85.00 |
Officially, buses to the parks begin running approximately 45 minutes prior to first Guest admittance, so this would be 45 minutes prior to early theme park entry for Disney Resorts Collection hotel Guests. However, in my experience, buses usually start running earlier than that.
Can you go in the ocean in Key West? ›Yes, Key West has several swimmable beaches. The island is located in the Florida Keys, which is known for its clear blue waters. Some of the best beaches for swimming include Smathers Beach, Higgs Beach, and Fort Zachary Taylor State Park.
How long does the Key West ferry take? ›How long does it take for the Key West Express? While weather can play a significant role in the actual travel time, we recommend that each passenger plan on a 3.5-4 hour journey from port to port.
What is the famous boat in the Keys? ›The iconic vessel the African Queen is located in Key Largo Florida. Made famous in the 1951 movie of the same name starring Humphrey Bogart and Katherine Hepburn she still remains a timeless classic. This famous steamboat is available for daily canal cruises in the Port Largo Canal area and also for private events.
Which Old Key West buildings have grand villas? ›There are 27 Grand Villas at Disney's Old Key West Resort and you can find them in buildings 15, 16, 19, 22, 25, 29, 43, 48, 49, 51, 53, and 63.
How big is the Deluxe Studio at Old Key West? ›Each deluxe studio at Disney's Old Key West sleeps up to four guests and has two queen-size beds. The deluxe studios at Old Key West are approximately 380 square feet, making them the largest studios at the Walt Disney World Resort.
Do you need a car at Old Key West? ›You don't NEED a car for any Disney trip. It's convenient at Old Key West because you can park right at your room building and it's a large resort. As far as parks, obviously if you don't use Disney transportation to get to and from the parks, you'll need a car.
What time does Old Key West pool close? ›At Disney's Old Key West Resort, the main pool area is located behind Olivia's Café and is open from 7 a.m. - Midnight.
How many people fit in Old Key West 2 bedroom? ›
Two Bedroom Villas
accommodate up to nine Guests, plus one child under age 3 in a crib, and offer a fully equipped kitchen, king-size bed in master bedroom, 2 queen-size beds in second bedroom, queen-size sleeper sofa and twin sleeper chair in living room, washer & dryer and private porch or balcony.
Duval Street in Key West
Stretching from the Atlantic Ocean to the Gulf of Mexico, historic Duval Street is truly the heart and soul of Old Town Key West.
The resort is huge, with 49 (three-story) villa buildings reminiscent of the Florida Keys. It is the least Disney-esque of all Disney properties.
What should I be careful of in Key West? ›- Don't Drive in Key West. ...
- Don't Think Duval Street Has All the Restaurants. ...
- Don't Let Prices Scare You Off. ...
- Don't Forget These Key West Essentials: ...
- Don't Feel Bad Taking a Trolley or Train Tour. ...
- Don't Miss Sunset in Key West. ...
- Don't Expect Sandy Beaches.
While Key Largo is undoubtedly the prettiest of all the Florida Keys, it's also one that's home to plenty of activities for the avid beachgoer. With scenic views like this, it would be tough not to fall in love with such a beachside beauty!
Is Duval Street safe in Key West? ›Busy tourist areas like Duval Street and the Historic Seaport have little to worry about when it comes to safety. The Truman Annex is a very quiet and safe guard-gated community.