If you’re dreaming of a Walt Disney World stay that feels like a true vacation within your vacation, Disney’s Old Key West Resort delivers that breezy, island-inspired magic in every corner. This is one of those Resorts that immediately slows your pace the moment you arrive—sun-washed pastel buildings, swaying palms, and a peaceful, home-away-from-home vibe that makes it the perfect retreat after a fun (and sometimes exhausting!) day in the parks.

After spending time here, I completely understand why so many guests consider Old Key West their hidden gem. Here’s a look at what made our stay so special!

The Rooms: Spacious, Comfortable, and Perfect for Relaxing

One of the biggest highlights of Old Key West is the space. Whether you’re in a studio, a one-bedroom villa, or something larger, these rooms are noticeably bigger than many other Disney Resort options—and believe me, you feel it.

There’s plenty of room to spread out, unpack, and settle in without tripping over luggage or souvenirs. The airy layout, soft colors, and cozy furnishings make it feel more like a beachy condo than a hotel room, and that’s a huge win for families or anyone who likes to relax in comfort after a long park day.

The Patios: A Peaceful Morning or Evening Treat

Every villa comes with a patio or balcony, and it quickly became one of our favorite parts of the stay. There’s just something magical about sipping your morning coffee while watching golfers tee off, or winding down at night with a warm breeze and quiet views of the waterways and lush landscaping.

It’s such a simple thing, but it adds so much to the overall experience.

Olivia’s Café: Comfort Food With a Key West Twist

If you ask anyone what makes Old Key West special, odds are they’ll mention Olivia’s Café—and for good reason. This table-service restaurant is full of charm, friendly cast members, and hearty comfort food with island flair.

Breakfast here is a must, especially the Buttermilk Chicken and the absolutely heavenly Banana Bread French Toast. These dishes are rich, comforting, and full of that cozy “vacation breakfast” energy. Dinner is just as wonderful, and the warm, nautical atmosphere makes it feel like you’ve stepped into a beloved local spot.

It’s the kind of restaurant people return to again and again—even if they’re staying at a different resort.

A Must-Try Treat: The Key Lime Swirl DOLE Whip

One thing you absolutely cannot miss at Old Key West is the Key Lime Swirl DOLE Whip—a refreshing blend of tart Key lime and classic vanilla that’s exclusive to this resort. You can only get it here, which makes it feel like a little hidden treasure for guests in the know. It’s the perfect poolside treat on a warm Florida day, and once you try it, you’ll find yourself craving it long after your trip ends.

The Sandcastle Pool: A Perfect Mix of Relaxing & Fun

The resort’s main pool, complete with its signature sandcastle-themed waterslide, is a hit for both kids and adults. It offers a great balance between “let’s have fun!” and “let’s chill out,” thanks to plenty of seating, a sauna, and that iconic lighthouse theme that fits right into the Key West atmosphere.

You can easily spend a whole afternoon here—and truth be told, we did!

Endless Activities & Community Hall Magic

One of the most wonderful surprises at Old Key West is just how much there is to do beyond the parks.

The Community Hall is packed with crafts, games, and activities for all ages. Whether it’s coloring, ceramics, borrowing equipment, or joining in on scheduled activities, it truly adds an extra layer of fun to the stay. It’s the kind of place where you can pop in for a quick break… and end up staying for an hour because everyone’s having such a good time.

Around the resort, you’ll also find bike rentals, boat transportation, sports courts, playgrounds, and more. It really feels like its own little island community, full of charm and comfort.

The Kindness That Made It Feel Like Home

What truly set Old Key West apart for us was the people. Every Cast Member we interacted with was so warm, genuine, and welcoming. From the front desk to the bus stops to Olivia’s Café, everyone went out of their way to make our stay feel special.

One of the sweetest parts of our stay happened at the Community Hall, where our daughter completely hit it off with one of the Cast Members—a huge shoutout to Nicole! Nicole made her feel welcome from the moment she walked in, and the two of them connected so quickly that it honestly became the highlight of our daughter’s entire trip.

She loved the crafts, games, and fun activities, but it was Nicole’s kindness and attention that made her want to spend every single day there. Seeing her so happy, so comfortable, and so excited to go back again and again made our stay extra special and incredibly memorable.

There’s a comforting, hometown feel to this resort—like you’re staying somewhere that knows you, cares about you, and can’t wait to have you back. Their kindness added so much heart to our trip and made Old Key West feel like our Disney “home.”

Why We Loved Old Key West

At the end of the day, Old Key West isn’t flashy or high-energy. It’s warm, inviting, and filled with the little touches that make a vacation feel easy. The spacious rooms, relaxing patios, delicious meals at Olivia’s (especially that banana bread French toast!), fun pool area, endless activities, and the genuinely kind Cast Members all combine to create a resort experience that feels truly special.

If you’re looking for a peaceful retreat that still has all the Disney magic you love, Old Key West might just be your perfect match.

-Emily

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