Best DVC Resorts For First-Timers

Choosing a Disney Vacation Club resort can be overwhelming, especially if you are visiting Walt Disney World for the first time. Each DVC resort offers something different when it comes to location, transportation, theming, dining, and room options. First-time visitors might want to choose a resort that makes getting around easy or one that gives them a classic Disney experience even when they aren’t inside the parks. If you are planning your first DVC stay, consider these resorts for your vacation.

Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows

Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows is a great choice for first-time visitors who want to be close to the magic. This resort is located along the monorail route, giving guests convenient transportation to Magic Kingdom and access to EPCOT with a transfer. Guests can also take a boat to Magic Kingdom. The Polynesian is a fun resort for first timers because it has a classic Disney feel with its tropical atmosphere, popular restaurants, and views of Magic Kingdom across Seven Seas Lagoon. There is also plenty to explore around the resort during a day away from the parks.

Disney’s Riviera Resort

First-time visitors can benefit from choosing a DVC resort with convenient transportation, and Disney’s Riviera Resort certainly fits the bill. The Disney Skyliner connects Riviera to both EPCOT and Hollywood Studios, making it easy to reach two of the four theme parks without taking a bus. Riviera also has several different DVC accommodations to choose from, including Tower Studios, Deluxe Studios, one-bedroom villas, two-bedroom villas, and Grand Villas. First-time guests can enjoy the resort’s pools, dining, and recreation when they aren’t spending time in the parks.

Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort

There is something special about being able to see Magic Kingdom from your Disney resort, especially during your first trip. Bay Lake Tower is within walking distance of Magic Kingdom, making it a convenient option for guests who plan to spend a lot of time at this park. Guests also have access to the monorail at the neighboring Contemporary Resort, which can be used to reach Magic Kingdom or connect to the EPCOT line. The location can make a first Walt Disney World vacation feel a little less overwhelming since getting to and from Magic Kingdom is so simple.

Disney’s Beach Club Villas

Disney’s Beach Club Villas is another DVC resort with a location that can make a first trip easier. Guests can walk to EPCOT’s International Gateway, and the nearby Skyliner and boat transportation provide additional ways to travel around the EPCOT resort area. Beach Club is also home to Stormalong Bay, giving families a great reason to plan some resort time during their trip. With EPCOT nearby and Disney’s BoardWalk just a short walk away, there are plenty of things for first-time visitors to explore outside of the theme parks as well.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas

For first-time visitors who want a truly unique resort experience, Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas is hard to beat. Guests can enjoy the detailed theming of Animal Kingdom Lodge and spend time watching animals around the resort. While transportation from Animal Kingdom Lodge is primarily by bus, the resort itself offers plenty to experience. This can be a great first DVC stay for families who want their resort to be just as memorable as their days in the parks, especially if they plan on building some downtime into their vacation.

Which DVC resort would you recommend to someone visiting Walt Disney World for the first time? Let us know in the comments below!

Featured Photo: Emily Murray.