Jane Ferguson
If you’re looking for a quiet, laid-back Disney resort that feels worlds away from the hustle and bustle of the parks, Disney’s Old Key West just might be the hidden gem you’ve been searching for. As someone who usually stays at Pop Century, I was pleasantly surprised by how calm and serene Old Key West felt–from early mornings through late evenings.
Why I Loved Disney’s Old Key West Resort
The first thing I noticed was how peaceful and quiet the resort is. Pop Century often comes alive around 6am with the sound of kids running down the corridors, but not here. Old key west is tucked away and surrounded by lush trees, giving it a secluded, almost tropical vibe. It truly feels like its own little escape from the excitement of the parks.
Spacious Deluxe Studios with 2 Real Beds
One of the biggest perks of staying at Old Key West is the room size. I stayed in a Deluxe Studio and it felt huge compared to other Disney resorts I have stayed in. Even better? It had two actual queen beds–not a Murphy bed, which is a rarity on Disney property these days. We also had a patio that overlooked a small retention pond, and it was such a peaceful spot to enjoy a quiet morning.
If you’re someone who values space and comfort, these rooms are a fantastic choice. Bonus; the Lake Buena Vista Golf Course runs through the property, and it’s gorgeous. I didn’t get a chance to play this time, but it;s officially on my Disney bucket list.
Dining at Old Key West Resort
Old Key West has a few solid dining options:
- Olivia’s Cafe: A casual table-service restaurant located at the Hospitality House. They serve Key West-inspired dishes for brunch and dinner. I didn’t get a chance to dine here (next time!), but it looked great.
- Good’s Food to Go: This is your quick-service spot at the Hospitality House. Breakfast includes standard options like hot entrees and pastries. I grabbed a croissant–simple, but no complaints. Lunch and dinner are typical theme park fare like hot dogs, burgers, and sandwiches.
- Turtle Shack Poolside Snacks: Located at the main pool, this spot serves pizza, hot dogs, wraps, and sandwiches. I didn’t try it, but it’s a convenient option if you’re hanging by the pool.
- The Gurgling Suitcase: This cozy little lounge serves adult beverages and surprisingly delicious appetizers. I had the spinach and artichoke dip and the deep-fried pickle chips–both were awesome. I’ll do a full review on the lounge soon!
Heads up on refillable mugs: There’s only one refillable mug station at Good’s Food to Go. For a resort as spread out as Old Key West, this was a big downside. Unless you’re staying near the Hospitality House, I wouldn’t recommend getting the mug. The vending machines at some bus stops were also out of stock during our stay.
Transportation Options
Transportation at Old Key West is better than I expected. You can catch buses to all four Disney parks and Disney Springs either at the Hospitality House or at several inter-resort bus stops. Having multiple pickup spots throughout the resort was super convenient.
They also offer a boat ride to Disney Springs, which I absolutely loved! It’s peaceful and scenic–a nice break from the buses.
Resort Amenities and Activities
If you’re planning a non-park day, this resort has you covered. There are four pools across property, with the main one located near the Hospitality House. You’ll also find:
- S’mores by the campfire
- Movies under the stars
- Bike and Surrey Bike rentals
- A beautiful walking/jogging path just under 1/5 miles
- Fishing and other recreation options
There is truly so much to do if you’re looking for a slower-paced Disney trip
Final Thoughts: Is Disney’s Old Key West Worth It?
Overall, I really loved staying at Disney’s Old Key West Resort–but with a few caveats. This is not the resort I’d choose for a jam-packed, park-hopping trip. The resort is very spread out, and unless you book a preferred room, be prepared for long walks (we walked nearly a mile with our luggage!). While they supposedly have golf carts to help guests get around, we were not given that option when we asked.
That said, this is an ideal resort for a Disney golf getaway, a couple’s trip, or a relaxing, resort-focused vacation. It’s quiet, spacious, and full of charm. If you’re craving a slower pace and more downtime, Old Key West might become one of your favorites.
