Like many other timeshares, DVC Resorts tend to operate at full capacity most of the time, which means that trying to book DVC accommodations at the last minute isn’t ideal due to availability. When not even Old Key West or Saratoga Springs have availability, what are some good alternative resorts?
For the Best Bargain
While they may be the opposite end of the spectrum when it comes to Disney Resorts, the All-Star Resorts (All-Star Sports, All-Star Movies, and All-Star Music) are great when you are just looking for the lowest price and a basic place to stay on property. Thanks to annual passholder discounts, Florida resident discounts, and other seasonal promotions, I have seen prices as low as $128 per night before tax in the last year. Having stayed at the All-Stars myself recently, there are some good reasons to consider staying at these resorts, such as the fun theming and the convenient quick service food courts.
For the Prime Location
When you want a resort with a prime location within walking distance of a theme park but don’t want to shell out money for a cash stay at a Deluxe Resort, the Swan and Dolphin can be good alternatives to a DVC Resort. They have the same convenient location between EPCOT and Hollywood Studios as the Beach Club and BoardWalk but with room rates more similar to Moderate Resorts. Plus, they offer the perks of a Deluxe Resort, such as Extended Evening Theme Park Hours. If you are an annual passholder, be sure to check for the Swan and Dolphin annual passholder discount rates.
For the Amenities of a Deluxe Studio and Space for Up to 6 Guests
Deluxe Studios may not have full kitchens, but even their kitchenettes can still be a game changer for some travelers. When you can’t find DVC availability but want the amenities of a Deluxe Studio, the next best alternative may be Family Suites at Art of Animation or All-Star Music. These suites have kitchenettes with a microwave, coffee maker, and refrigerator. A nice perk is that the refrigerator is a full-size fridge, not just the mini fridge, so there is an actual separate freezer.
The Family Suites also offer more space than a standard hotel room and sleep up to 6 guests. With two full bathrooms and a separate bedroom with a queen bed, the suite can be comfortable for larger travel parties when you can’t get a One Bedroom Villa.
For That Deluxe Feel Without the Deluxe Price
Many DVC Members have mentioned that they would love the Gran Destino Tower at Coronado Springs to be a DVC Resort, and it’s not hard to see why. From its beautiful modern rooms with finishes that rival those at some Deluxe Resorts to its great restaurants and lounges with Toledo, Three Bridges Bar & Grill, and the Dahlia Lounge, Gran Destino is something of a hidden gem. It’s certainly worth a look when you cannot find any DVC rooms available.
Where are your favorite places to stay when there’s no DVC availability? Join in on the conversation in the DVC Fan Facebook group or the DVC Fan Forums!
