Booking Saratoga Springs/Old Key West as room only?

[Libby6]

I'm not a DVC member but am really interested in trying SS or OKW.....if you book a room only directly on the Disney site, can you request a studio in one of the buildings next to the main building? Or do only DVC members have that option? We won't have a car.

Also, would you recommend one resort over another for the first time? Thanks!

 

[_auroraborealis_]

Those are booking categories for DVC. I do not know if the cash reservation office is offering Near Hospitality House (OKW) or Preferred (Saratoga); whatever rooms they have will be specific, though.

I prefer Saratoga to OKW.

 

[DisneyRegulars]

My decision on OKW vs SSR for a studio would need to take into consideration if I needed to use the pull out sofa. I like that the OKW studios have two real beds in them and a really large balcony to sit out on. SSR studios have a bed and a sleeper sofa.

If I were getting a larger unit and didn't need the sleeper sofa my preference for resort is definitely SSR. It's a lot more convenient to Disney Springs, and although the resort is pretty big, the walking doesn't seem unreasonable to me even from the least preferred rooms.

 

[disneynutz]

I'm not a DVC member but am really interested in trying SS or OKW.....if you book a room only directly on the Disney site, can you request a studio in one of the buildings next to the main building? Or do only DVC members have that option? We won't have a car.

Also, would you recommend one resort over another for the first time? Thanks!

I would rent a reservation from an owner. OKW stands alone, SSR is walking distance to DS.

Bill

 

[Deb & Bill]

Cash reservation usually include the larger selection of rooms. So non-Hospitality House area at OKW and standard villas at SSR (not Congress Park and not Springs). At BWV, it is the pool/garden, not BW view villas.

 

[Deb & Bill]

My decision on OKW vs SSR for a studio would need to take into consideration if I needed to use the pull out sofa. I like that the OKW studios have two real beds in them and a really large balcony to sit out on. SSR studios have a bed and a sleeper sofa.

If I were getting a larger unit and didn't need the sleeper sofa my preference for resort is definitely SSR. It's a lot more convenient to Disney Springs, and although the resort is pretty big, the walking doesn't seem unreasonable to me even from the least preferred rooms.

OKW studio has a nice little porch to sit on, not the large porch that the one bedroom has with round table and four chairs. It's about four feet by four feet with two chairs and a little side table.

 

[Dawn68PA]

I have stayed at both resorts and love both. OKW has an edge with us because we've done a non-park trip and had plenty to do there. The rooms are larger and has tons of amenities. Both restaurants are delish, both rooms were pristine. No complaints My only thing with OKW is we'll never stay on the 3rd floor again. Since there's no elevator it's hard on us since hubby and I both have bad knees. We prefer the bar at OKW over SSR as it has an actual "bar". SSR just has a walk up station and then you sit in the common area. However if you plan to use QS food options, SSR has the upper hand there.

 

[kniquy]

SS or OKW

Like disneynutz mentioned I would consider a DVC rental from somewhere like davids DVC. My guess is that it will cost less than direct through disney. You will be able to make room requests once the reservation is made - with OKW booking there is a category of near hospitality house (which might be what you are looking for). I stayed at SSR and didn't think it was anything special, but it is a walk or boat ride to disney springs -- so if that is of interest then pick SSR. The OKW rooms (with it being the first DVC) are larger - so if space is a concern then you might want there. I have never eaten there but OKW has Olivia's, which i have heard is really good.

 

[BEASLYBOO]

Love both, both have restaurants, SSR/Turf Club, great prime rib, nice ambiance. OKW/Olivia's, Family ambiance, good breakfast, great burgers and fried chicken! I enjoy the tropical feel of OKW and a Turtle Crawl at the Guirgling Suitcase can't be beat! Ask for hospitality area to be close to the main pool though we prefer the Turtle pond area for the views and the quiet.

Really comes down to the accommodations for us. If we need 2 beds, OKW. If we want a couch then SSR. The good thing about SSR, is the last minute availability. Congress Park area is our favorite.

Good luck!