Over the last 30 years, Disney Vacation Club’s managed to maintain an excellent portfolio of resorts for its members.

These resorts offer unique experiences and amenities that appeal to a wide range of vacationers. As a result, everyone’s developed their own favorite DVC resort over the years.

We took a look at some of them in an attempt to show you the top DVC resorts available to both members, prospective members, and those wanting to enjoy the benefits of DVC rentals.

It’s impossible to rank Disney Vacation Club resorts objectively. So, rather view this list as a summary of the most popular ones according to members.

Criteria For Choosing a Great DVC Resort

The best DVC resort for your needs depends on whether you’re picking a Home Resort or choosing somewhere to vacation. Your choice of a Home Resort can affect several factors to do with your membership.

These include your:

• Booking Window
• Contract Expiry Date
• Annual Dues

Research all your options to learn more about what’s involved in your home resort before you decide on your DVC contract. This applies, whether you’re buying a resale or new contract.

When you’re considering the benefits of a DVC resort vacation using your membership or booking via DVC rentals, you might consider different factors. These might include things like amenities, location, luxury levels, and value for money.

These are the top contenders for the best DVC resort based on these factors.

Disney’s Wilderness Lodge, Florida

At Wilderness Lodge, Copper Creek Cabins and Villas offer a luxury experience with a rustic feel. The larger villas accommodate eight people in two bedrooms, a private hot tub, a full kitchen, and fantastic views over the waterfront or wilderness.

There are six different dining options available including one with a Snow White theme. You can look forward to all the usual Disney amenities like housekeeping, Wi-Fi, online check-in, and more.

All importantly, you’ll enjoy access to Walt Disney World via a complimentary shuttle or the iconic spotted Minnie vans.

Some people don’t like the idea of taking transport to WDW, but those who’ve been there say it’s quick and easy.

Polynesian Village Resort

These awesome Pacific-west-themed deluxe bungalows hover over the water with great views of the Magic Kingdom fireworks. They feature all the same amenities as the Copper Creek Villas.

Here, you can spend your time relaxing in the Oasis and lava pools, enjoying boat rentals, watching outdoor movies, or watching the nightly entertainment at the Polynesian Village.

You might have the same concerns about shared transport if you’re visiting this resort.

Animal Kingdom Villas, Florida

This resort makes it onto almost everyone’s list of favorites. The main attractions here are the 200 different wild animals and birds you can view from your DVC savanna room.

Don’t miss the Wanyama Safari complete with a traditional South African dinner afterward.

There are two DVC options available here, namely Jambo House and Kidani Villas. Each offers access to multiple pools and a kid’s water playground with all their favorite activities.

You can also spend time at the fun arcade or shopping for curios at the Gift Shop or enjoying the rides at the nearby Animal Kingdom theme park.

Saratoga Springs, Florida

Another firm favorite, Saratoga Springs occupies a large property close to Disney Springs. The resort has a Victorian, equestrian theme and lovely views over the golf course and Lake Buena Vista.

It’s a top choice for families with awesome treehouses, two pools with slides, a health club, spa, bike rides, and a host of sports. Entertainment includes painting, yoga, campfire activities, and movies under the stars.

You can choose from eight different restaurants here for either a quick bite or a luxurious sit-down meal.

The only complaint we see regularly about this resort is the distance between the amenities. which isn’t surprising with such a large resort. The rooms are also a little low-key for those who prefer a more luxurious stay.

Grand Californian Hotel, California

Catering to those who want to enjoy Disney’s California Adventure Park, these villas are right at the heart of the action.

Apart from its prime location, the resort offers three sparkling pools including whirlpools and water slides, two specialty restaurants, and direct access to Downtown Disney District.

Book early, many DVC members complain that they’re always too late to find accommodation at this sought-after resort.

Aulani DVC Villas, Hawaii

If you’d like a change from the bustle of Disney’s fabulous theme parks, you can head for Hawaii with your DVC membership.

It’s located in a gorgeous tropical location near Ko Olina on Oahu with plenty to see, do, and enjoy nearby. The resort has eight pools onsite, including whirlpool spas, a grotto, a snorkeling lagoon, and a lazy river ride.

The resort has a wonderful beach onsite, complete with complimentary access to umbrellas, loungers, sand toys, paddleboards, boogie boards, and snorkeling gear.

You can enjoy daily shows and great dining options onsite too.

The two major downsides to Aulani don’t involve the resort directly. Being located in one of the island’s most popular areas, you can expect lots of traffic when you head out on excursions. Also, things are very expensive in Hawaii when compared to the US.

You shouldn’t expect the same levels of glitz and glam as you’ll find at the US resorts either. Aulani’s intended as a laid-back place to relax and enjoy the sights around Hawaii.

Plan Your Perfect Vacation

If you’re not convinced you should commit to a long-term vacation option, there’s no commitment involved when you opt for a DVC resort rental from a reputable agency.

Disney offers a world of fun for all ages but it’s not everybody’s cup of tea. Browse my blog for more vacation options if you’d like to try something completely different.