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Your Guide to Disney Vacation Club (DVC)

Disney Vacation Club (DVC) is more than just a timeshare—it’s your passport to magical vacations at Walt Disney World, Disneyland, and beyond. Whether you’re a Disney superfan, a frequent traveler, or a family seeking value-packed adventures, DVC offers a unique way to experience the magic of Disney resorts, cruises, and destinations year after year. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know, from DVC’s history and membership costs to vacation points, exclusive member benefits, and planning tools—all infused with the excitement and wonder that only Disney can deliver.

Disney World

What is Disney Vacation Club?

Disney Vacation Club (DVC) is Disney’s innovative take on the vacation ownership (timeshare) model, offering members the flexibility to use points for stays at Disney resorts, cruises, and partner destinations worldwide. Unlike traditional timeshares, DVC uses a points-based system, giving you the freedom to choose when, where, and how you vacation each year. With over 250,000 member families from around the globe, DVC is the ultimate way to make Disney a regular part of your life.

DVC Bedroom Disney World

The History of Disney Vacation Club

DVC launched in 1991, revolutionizing the vacation ownership industry. Disney’s Old Key West Resort (originally the Disney Vacation Club Resort) was the very first DVC property, opening its doors on December 20, 1991, at Walt Disney World in Florida. The idea was simple: let families “own” a piece of the magic and return year after year.

Over the years, DVC expanded rapidly:

  • 1995: Disney’s Vero Beach Resort opened in Florida.

  • 1996: Disney’s Hilton Head Island Resort debuted in South Carolina.

  • 2007-2009: Iconic resorts like Animal Kingdom Villas and Bay Lake Tower joined the lineup.

  • 2011: Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa, opened in Hawaii, bringing Disney magic to the Pacific.

  • Recent years: New additions include Riviera Resort, The Villas at Disneyland Hotel, and The Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort.

DVC has grown from a single resort to a vast network of properties, cruises, and guided adventures, making it one of the most popular vacation clubs in the world.

DVC Luna Park - Playground Disney World

How Disney Vacation Club Works

The Points System

At the heart of DVC is the flexible vacation points system. When you purchase a DVC membership, you’re buying an annual allotment of points tied to a “home resort.” These points are your currency for booking stays at DVC resorts, Disney Cruise Line, Adventures by Disney, and more.

Key features of the DVC points system:

  • Choose Your Home Resort: Your contract is linked to a specific DVC property, giving you booking priority there.

  • Book Where You Want: Use points at any DVC resort, subject to availability.

  • Customize Your Stay: Book any room type, length of stay, and travel season—use more points for deluxe villas during peak times, or stretch your points with studios in the off-season.

  • Banking and Borrowing: Bank unused points for next year, or borrow from next year for a big trip now—maximizing your flexibility.

Disney World

Booking Windows

  • Home Resort Priority: Book 11 months in advance at your home resort.

  • Other Resorts: Book 7 months in advance at any other DVC property.

Use Year

Every contract has a “Use Year”—the month your points become available each year. You have 12 months to use them, but you can bank or borrow points to adjust for larger or smaller trips.

DVC Disney World

Vacation Points

The number of points needed for a stay depends on:

  • Resort and Location: Some resorts, like Grand Floridian or Aulani, require more points per night.

  • Room Type: Studios use fewer points; 1-, 2-, and 3-bedroom villas or bungalows require more.

  • Season: Peak times (holidays, summer) cost more points; off-peak times are more affordable.

For example, a standard studio at Animal Kingdom Villas can start at just 7 points per night, while a 3-bedroom Grand Villa at Grand Floridian may require over 100 points per night during peak season.

Tip: Use a DVC points calculator or planner to estimate your needs and optimize your points for the best value.

Mickey Character

Cost of Disney Vacation Club Membership

Upfront Costs

  • Minimum Buy-In: As of 2024, you must purchase at least 100 points, with each point costing around $225. That’s a minimum of $22,500 upfront.

  • Typical Buy-In: Many new members purchase 150 points or more, bringing the total closer to $33,000 or higher.

  • Closing Costs: Expect several hundred dollars in closing costs, varying by resort and number of points.

Exterior

Annual Dues

  • Annual Dues: These cover resort maintenance, taxes, and operating costs. Dues vary by resort and number of points, but expect around $1,000–$1,500 per year for a typical contract.

  • Dues Increase: Annual dues typically rise 2–8% per year, so budget for future increases.

Financing

  • Financing Options: Disney offers financing for qualified buyers, but rates can range from 10% to over 18% APR. Paying cash saves you thousands in interest over the life of your contract.

DVC Flying Fish Disney World

Contract Length

  • Expiration: Most DVC contracts last 50 years from the resort’s opening date. After that, ownership reverts back to Disney.

Kids playing in pool

Offers & Benefits

DVC membership unlocks a world of exclusive perks and magical extras:

Member Discounts

  • Dining & Shopping: Save 10–20% at select restaurants and shops across Walt Disney World, Disneyland, Disney Springs, and Disney resorts.

  • Tours & Experiences: Get 15% off popular tours like Keys to the Kingdom, Wild Africa Trek, and more.

  • Special Events: Enjoy discounted tickets and exclusive access to member-only parties and events.

Pool Hopping

DVC members can use pools at most Disney resorts, regardless of where they’re staying (with a few exceptions and blackout dates).

Mickey Mouse

Vacation Flexibility

  • Book Disney Cruise Line, Adventures by Disney, and partner hotels worldwide using your points.

  • Access to special room types and early booking windows.

Exclusive Events

  • Holiday Parties: Enjoy DVC-exclusive events during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party and Jollywood Nights, with special treats and keepsakes.

  • Member Pre-Shows: Access unique pre-shows and commemorative gifts at select Disney performances.

Disneyland

DVC Member Lounges

Disney Vacation Club (DVC) member lounges are exclusive, relaxing retreats designed to give members and their guests a break from the hustle and bustle of the parks. These lounges are thoughtfully themed, offer complimentary refreshments, and provide unique amenities that make them a favorite perk for many DVC members. Here’s a detailed look at all current and upcoming DVC lounges, their locations, what you can do inside, and the free offerings you’ll find!

Current and Upcoming DVC Lounges

Lounge Name Location Hours Theme/Notes
Disney Vacation Club ImaginAtrium EPCOT, Imagination! Pavilion, 2nd Floor 11 AM – 6 PM Futuristic, Disney history
Top of the World Lounge – A Villains Lair Bay Lake Tower, Disney’s Contemporary 6 PM – Midnight Villains, panoramic views
Star View Station – A Member Lounge Disneyland, Tomorrowland (Launch Bay) 11 AM – 6 PM Space-themed, Tomorrowland views
McKim’s Mile House (Coming Soon) Magic Kingdom, Frontierland TBA (Summer 2025) Rustic, American West
Gateway to Discovery Disney Springs 12 PM – 7:30 PM Welcome Center, DVC info & models
 

1. Disney Vacation Club ImaginAtrium (EPCOT)

  • Location: Second floor of the ImageWorks area in the Imagination! Pavilion, above Journey Into Imagination with Figment.

  • Theme: Bright, airy, and futuristic with panoramic views of EPCOT through pyramid windows. The lounge features Disney history displays and archival photos.

  • Amenities & Free Offerings:

    • Complimentary soft drinks from Coke Freestyle machines

    • Coffee and tea

    • Comfortable seating areas

    • Wi-Fi and charging stations for devices

    • Children’s entertainment area (Disney movies and clips)

    • Member Services Advisors on hand for questions or help

  • Notes: No in-lounge restroom (nearest is across the pavilion). Members may bring up to four guests or their entire reservation party.

2. Top of the World Lounge – A Villains Lair (Bay Lake Tower, Disney’s Contemporary Resort)

  • Location: 16th floor of Bay Lake Tower, adjacent to Disney’s Contemporary Resort at Walt Disney World.

  • Theme: Recently reimagined as a “Villains Lair,” with stylish decor, villain-inspired cocktails, and dramatic views.

  • Amenities & Free Offerings:

    • Access to a private observation deck with sweeping views of Magic Kingdom and the nightly fireworks

    • Full-service bar (drinks and appetizers available for purchase)

    • Comfortable lounge seating

    • Wi-Fi and charging outlets

  • Special Features:

    • Themed menu items such as “Twisted Tales Pretzel” and “Unfortunate Souls Shrimp”

    • Specialty cocktails like “The Underworld” and “Mirror Mirror Moonshine”

    • Fireworks viewing with synchronized music

  • Notes: Only available to DVC members with Membership Extras who are staying at a Disney World Resort hotel. Access is first-come, first-served. No complimentary snacks or drinks, but the experience and views are a major draw.

3. Star View Station – A Member Lounge (Disneyland Resort, Tomorrowland)

  • Location: Second floor of Star Wars Launch Bay in Tomorrowland, Disneyland Park.

  • Theme: Space-themed with sleek, modern decor and murals. The outdoor deck overlooks Tomorrowland, offering great people-watching and a unique park perspective.

  • Amenities & Free Offerings:

    • Complimentary Coke Freestyle soft drinks and coffee

    • Light snacks (typically chips, cookies, or similar)

    • Comfortable indoor and outdoor seating

    • Wi-Fi and device charging stations

    • Children’s area with Disney entertainment

    • Private restroom (a convenience not found in all DVC lounges)

  • Notes: Open to DVC members and up to four guests. A great spot to recharge, escape crowds, and enjoy Tomorrowland views.

4. McKim’s Mile House – A Member Lounge (Coming Summer 2025, Magic Kingdom)

  • Location: Frontierland, Magic Kingdom Park (opening summer 2025)

  • Theme: Cozy, rustic American West, inspired by the fictional McKim family and the Gold Rush era.

  • Amenities & Free Offerings (expected):

    • Complimentary soft drinks

    • Entertainment for children

    • Wi-Fi and charging stations

    • Themed seating and decor

  • Notes: Details are still emerging, but this promises to be a relaxing, story-rich retreat in the heart of Magic Kingdom.

5. Gateway to Discovery – A Disney Vacation Club Welcome Home Center (Disney Springs)

  • Location: Disney Springs

  • Theme: Modern, welcoming space to learn about DVC and tour room models.

  • Amenities & Free Offerings:

    • Complimentary soft drinks and snacks

    • Comfortable seating

    • Wi-Fi

    • Model rooms to tour

  • Notes: Open to both prospective and current DVC members. A great place to get information or take a break while shopping at Disney Springs.

What Can You Do Inside a DVC Lounge?

  • Relax and Recharge: Lounges are air-conditioned, quiet, and comfortable—perfect for taking a break from the parks.

  • Enjoy Complimentary Drinks and Snacks: Most lounges offer free soft drinks, coffee, and light snacks.

  • Use Wi-Fi and Charging Stations: Stay connected and recharge your devices.

  • Get Planning Help: Member Services Advisors are available in some lounges to assist with reservations or questions.

  • Entertain Kids: Many lounges have children’s areas showing Disney movies or cartoons.

  • Enjoy Unique Views: Some lounges, like Top of the World and Star View Station, offer spectacular views of the parks and fireworks.

  • Connect with Other Members: Lounges are a great place to meet fellow DVC members and share tips or stories.

How to Access DVC Lounges

  • Present your valid DVC Membership Card and photo ID at the lounge entrance.

  • Members can bring up to four guests or their entire room reservation party.

  • Access is subject to capacity and hours of operation.

  • Some lounges (like Top of the World) require you to be staying at a Disney Resort hotel on points.

Why DVC Lounges Are a Member Favorite

DVC lounges are consistently ranked among the top “Membership Extras” by Disney Vacation Club owners. They provide a much-needed oasis in the parks, with free refreshments, comfortable seating, and unique Disney touches. Whether you’re escaping the Florida heat, recharging your phone, or simply soaking in the views, these lounges add extra magic and value to your DVC membership! I really like having a nice, quiet, air-conditioned place to take a break in! Or my family will grab food from nearby and go into the lounge to eat! They have nice comfy seats with free soda machines!

Tip: Always check the latest hours and locations before your visit, as lounges may occasionally close for refurbishment or move to temporary locations.

Events & Experiences for DVC Members

Disney Vacation Club hosts a variety of exclusive events and experiences throughout the year:

  • DVC Member Merriment: Special nights at Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, with member-only treats and souvenirs.

  • Jollywood Nights: DVC members get exclusive access and perks during select holiday events at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

  • Member Pre-Shows: Enjoy private pre-show events and keepsakes at select performances like Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue.

  • Seasonal Gatherings: Look out for DVC member meetups, pool parties, and more throughout the year.

Tickets & Tours

DVC members enjoy discounts and priority booking on a range of Disney experiences:

  • Theme Park Tickets: While DVC does not include park admission, members often receive special offers on Disney World tickets, Disneyland tickets, and more.

  • Guided Tours: Save on behind-the-scenes tours at Disney parks, such as Keys to the Kingdom, Wild Africa Trek, and Epcot’s Behind the Seeds.

  • Cruises & Adventures: Use points or member discounts for Disney Cruise Line, Adventures by Disney, and National Geographic Expeditions.

Where Can You Go with DVC?

DVC Resorts List

Here’s a complete list of Disney Vacation Club resorts as of 2025:

Resort Name Location
Animal Kingdom Villas (Jambo House & Kidani Village) Walt Disney World, FL
Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort Walt Disney World, FL
Boulder Ridge Villas at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge Walt Disney World, FL
Copper Creek Villas & Cabins at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge Walt Disney World, FL
Disney’s Beach Club Villas Walt Disney World, FL
Disney’s BoardWalk Villas Walt Disney World, FL
The Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort Walt Disney World, FL
Disney’s Old Key West Resort Walt Disney World, FL
Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows & Island Tower Walt Disney World, FL
Disney’s Riviera Resort Walt Disney World, FL
Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa Walt Disney World, FL
The Villas at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa Walt Disney World, FL
The Villas at Disneyland Hotel Disneyland Resort, CA
The Villas at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa Disneyland Resort, CA
Disney’s Hilton Head Island Resort Hilton Head Island, SC
Disney’s Vero Beach Resort Vero Beach, FL
Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa Ko Olina, Oahu, HI
 

Beyond the Parks

  • Disney Cruise Line: Sail the seas on Disney’s award-winning cruise ships using your points.

  • Adventures by Disney: Take guided tours to destinations around the globe, from Europe to Asia to South America.

  • National Geographic Expeditions: Explore the world with expert guides and immersive experiences.

  • Storyliving by Disney: Experience Disney-themed residential communities (coming soon to select locations).

Disney Experiences

DVC isn’t just about where you stay—it’s about the experiences you unlock:

  • Theme Park Magic: Enjoy early entry, extended evening hours, and proximity to the parks.

  • Resort Activities: Participate in pool parties, movie nights, arts and crafts, and more at your DVC resort.

  • Dining & Shopping: Savor world-class dining and exclusive shopping at Disney Springs, Downtown Disney, and resort locations.

  • Recreation: Enjoy golf, spas, fitness centers, and water sports at select resorts.

Planning Tools and Help for DVC Members

Online Tools

  • DVC Member Website: Book reservations, manage points, and access exclusive offers.

  • DVC Points Calculator: Use tools like DVC Trip Planner to visualize and optimize your point usage for each trip.

  • My Disney Experience App: Plan park days, dining, Genie+ selections, and more for Walt Disney World vacations.

Booking Strategies

  • Book Early: Secure your preferred resort and room type by booking at the 11-month window for your home resort.

  • Be Flexible: If your first choice isn’t available, use the 7-month window to try other DVC resorts.

  • Bank & Borrow: Maximize your points for larger trips or special occasions by banking and borrowing points.

Community Support

  • Online Forums: Join communities like DISboards and DVC Fan for tips, trip reports, and planning advice from seasoned DVC members.

  • Member Services: DVC’s dedicated Member Services team is available by phone or online chat to answer questions and assist with bookings.

How to Schedule a Time with a DVC Sales Member

If you’re curious about DVC or want to take a tour, Disney makes it easy—and often sweetens the deal with perks like gift cards, FastPasses, and merchandise!

How to schedule a DVC tour:

  • In-Person: Visit a DVC kiosk or desk at any Disney park, resort, or Disney Springs.

  • Online: Fill out a request form on the official Disney Vacation Club website.

  • By Phone: Call the DVC sales team directly. If a representative has already reached out, you can schedule a time that works for you.

  • What to Expect: Tours are low-pressure, informative, and often include incentives (like a $200 Disney gift card per party, free ice cream, or even special event tickets).

Tip: DVC tours are open to adults who are not current owners. You can schedule at your convenience, and the experience is designed to be fun and educational.

So Is Disney Vacation Club Worth It?

Disney Vacation Club is a dream come true for Disney fans and frequent travelers! With flexible vacation points, access to world-class resorts, and exclusive member benefits, DVC offers a magical way to make Disney memories for decades. The upfront cost and annual dues are significant, so it’s important to crunch the numbers and consider your travel habits. But for those who love the parks, resorts, and Disney experiences, DVC is a ticket to a lifetime of magic, fun, and adventure!

Ready to start your own DVC journey? Schedule a tour, explore the resorts, and discover how Disney Vacation Club can make your vacations more magical than ever. Welcome home!

This guide is your one-stop resource for all things Disney Vacation Club! For more planning tips, DVC reviews, and Disney travel inspiration, follow along with our blog and join the conversation with fellow Disney fans! Be sure to check out our friends over at Yeti Travel! They have amazing travel professional who are ready to help you book your trip at the lowest offered prices! Let someone else stress over planning your vacation at no extra cost!