We all have our favorite spots to relax when it comes to Disney Vacation Club resorts. Most often, the balcony of your villa is a great location and it’s hard not to love some of the beautiful grand lobbies of the hotels where many DVC resorts reside. Despite this, there are some great spaces tucked away or even in plain sight at many DVC resorts that are often overlooked. These spaces offer a quiet respite away from the hustle and bustle of the parks. I thought it would be fun to discover my top five underrated DVC resort spaces.


1. BoardWalk Porch

While these are in no particular order, this one is my favorite. The giant porch off the back of the BoardWalk lobby is so often overlooked. I almost never see anyone sitting out there which is surprising because it is really stunning. Overlooking Village Green, the boardwalk, and Crescent lake, the porch is well covered from the sun and sits high enough for a great view. Plus, I love the ceiling fans, wicker furniture, and comfy cushions. BoardWalk has always had this all-American seaside resort feel to me and this big porch reminds me of the many bed & breakfast resorts along the shores of Cape May, NJ. Of course, the resort itself is reminiscent of boardwalks along the Atlantic coast and there are nods to Cape May over at Beach Club. Next time you’re hanging around BoardWalk, grab yourself some ice cream (or a margarita from Joe’s) and have a seat on the BoardWalk porch.

BoardWalk Porch
BoardWalk Porch

2. Beach Club Solarium

This is another location that I usually find to be pretty quiet. The Solarium at Beach Club is located towards the back of the building near the entrance to the Beach Club Marketplace. There are usually plenty of seats from couches to tables and chairs. My favorite section is the entrance hall area as it has lots of windows and is always bright and sunny. We have found this to be a great place to enjoy our quick service or just relax in the comfy seating.

Beach Club Solarium
Beach Club Solarium

3. Animal Kingdom Lodge Lobby Balconies

While BoardWalk has a fantastic porch, we can’t forget the balcony/porch areas at Animal Kingdom Villas. Both Kidani Village and Jambo House have areas off of the lobbies that overlook the savannas where you can sit and relax in a rocking chair and watch the animals graze. There are a variety of these areas so be sure to explore each one to find your favorite. They can certainly be some of the most relaxing spaces on property.

Kidani Village Porch

4. Copper Creek Third Floor Lobby Area

Heading over to Copper Creek, the main lobby fireplace is great. However, if you hop on the elevator or take a quick jaunt up the steps, you will find a quiet retreat and an additional fireplace. Especially during the holidays when Wilderness Lodge’s lobby is so busy, you may want to seek out these quieter spots on the other floors. On the third floor (the floor just above the lobby) you will find a smaller fireplace area. There are also small seating spaces that overlook the lobby on higher floors. These a great places to watch the people and activity below.

3rd floor Copper Creek: Photo Credit: Lauren De La Cruz
Fifth Floor Copper Creek: Photo Credit: Lauren De La Cruz

5. Saratoga Springs-Disney Springs Overlook

I wasn’t sure what to call this particular area so I made up a name. I’ve not been shy about my love for Saratoga Springs and there is really no shortage of quiet areas around the resort. Along the walking path in Congress Park, you will find areas with rocking chairs overlooking the lake and Disney Springs. It’s a peaceful area and if you hang out long enough, you may get to watch some otters play in the water or the amphicars drive by. It’s a great place to take a snack and just enjoy the scenery.


I’m interested to know what some of your favorite overlooked areas are at DVC resorts. Where do you like to relax and get away from the crowds? Let us know in the comments below and as always, stay tuned to DVCFan.com and our YouTube Channel for the latest news, insights, and information on all things DVC.

Amy Krieger

Amy loves Disney theme parks, resorts, and the beloved films. She and her husband, Paul, are originally from West Virginia (near Pittsburgh, PA). They now live in Central Florida with their Spanish galgos, Hermes, Cinders, and Emerson. As DVC members and WDW Annual Passholders, they visit Disney properties as often as possible. Amy is the Manager of Loan Origination for Monera Financial, a World of DVC company, where she helps buyers finance DVC contracts. Amy and Paul own DVC at some of their favorite resorts: BoardWalk, Grand Floridian, Animal Kingdom, Polynesian, and Grand Californian. Another passion for them is cruising. They love both Disney and Royal Caribbean cruises. It's a great way to travel and see parts of the world.

4 thoughts on “Five Underrated DVC Resort Spaces

  • Day 3 and I’ve already been to number 2 and 4 this week. Stayed one night at CC and now 7 at BC. I’d love to walk over to BW and check out that spot too.

  • Great stuff Amy! You have a great knack for pointing out the things we wish we knew, but didn’t. We own DVC at Copper Creek. I am a resort walker to burn off over excitement and to satisfy curiosity, and I did not know that little 3rd floor nook was there….and a fireplace to boot.
    And I appreciate your love of Saratoga. Like others, we just never considered this for so long, but we’re doing a split stay for the 50th and Saratoga is our first stop. Looking forward to it.
    Thanks for the tips. I will find the spots!

  • I love this article, because it’s all about slowing down, relaxing and appreciating all of the beauty at Disney! This often gets forgotten in exchange for the craziness of the parks.

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