Riviera, worth the splurge?

[Punzel]

Hi all!
Just looking for some input from those who have stayed in the Riviera resort... is it worth it? We are a family of 5, two adults and 3 children ages 11, 8, and 4. Looking into splurging and giving Riviera a try. All that is available is a deluxe studio with preferred view. Would love a 1 bedroom but those must be harder to come by.

Other options available that will fit all 5 of us are PO Riverside 5th sleeper, and CB 5th sleeper. We have stayed at both, although not when our family was quite this big. Love the theming of these resorts but the rooms seem small now that we are a bigger family.

Help convince me that Riviera is worth the splurge It's nearly triple the price of what we would spend at Port Orleans and CB. Selling points on the Riviera that appeal to us- balcony, view, larger space especially more bathroom space. Seems like more of a room you can "hang out" in, vs. a place to crash when not in the parks. Any input?

 

[npatellye]

We stayed there for a long weekend in a 1 bedroom with our kids (ages 8 and 6) and they loved it. We do spend time hanging out in the room and my husband really appreciated the small footprint. It’s definitely a resort where, once our girls are older (in their teens), we can see ourselves letting them come and go as they please from the pool and from getting snacks or food.

I haven’t yet stayed in a Riviera studio but a few of my local friends have stayed in them with their children and they liked them, except for how points heavy they are.

 

[RoseGold]

Cash Riviera rates are insane to make the timeshare math work. DFB rated RIV last of all the resorts in value. If you're renting DVC points, RIV's point chart for the timeshare points is equally inflated. It scrapes against Grand Floridian, for a resort I would argue is nowhere close to the Grand Floridian level.

That's a lot of humans in a one-room hotel room, especially if you are hanging out in the room. I'd honestly consider renting a more reasonably priced DVC 1BR, or a AoA suite. 1BRs aren't that hard to get in the DVC system, because they cost so many points. Heck, for maybe lower price than CB, you could rent a large DVC Polynesian studio, which sleeps 5 with a murphy. I love the balconies at Poly. All of the WDW DVC rooms have balconies (or patios).

I'd pick CB all day every day of your choices. The same transportation as RIV, arguably better, because it isn't a midpoint on the line, better pool, awesome food. 1/3 the price. Win-win-win.

 

[Punzel]

Cash Riviera rates are insane to make the timeshare math work. DFB rated RIV last of all the resorts in value. If you're renting DVC points, RIV's point chart for the timeshare points is equally inflated. It scrapes against Grand Floridian, for a resort I would argue is nowhere close to the Grand Floridian level.

That's a lot of humans in a one-room hotel room, especially if you are hanging out in the room. I'd honestly consider renting a more reasonably priced DVC 1BR, or a AoA suite. 1BRs aren't that hard to get in the DVC system, because they cost so many points. Heck, for maybe lower price than CB, you could rent a DVC Polynesian studio, which sleeps 5 with a murphy and is much larger. I love the balconies at Poly. All of the WDW DVC rooms have balconies (or patios).

I'd pick CB all day every day of your choices. The same transportation as RIV, arguably better, because it isn't a midpoint on the line, better pool, awesome food. 1/3 the price. Win-win-win.

Great points. I did consider a room at GF, which is about the same price as what I'm seeing for Riviera. And the monorail is a huge draw for me. I do agree we'd be happier in a one bedroom, especially if I can snag one woth rented DVC points for less than the cash Riviera price. Back to the drawing board!

 

[lockets]

When and how long is your trip?

 

[js]

I know you didn't through this into the mix but OKW studios have two beds I believe and their rooms are larger. I stayed there in February for the first time and it is now one of my top three.

 

[Punzel]

I know you didn't through this into the mix but OKW studios have two beds I believe and their rooms are larger. I stayed there in February for the first time and it is now one of my top three.

I don't believe that was available for the week we are going, but I will keep checking back because different things keep popping up as available.

 

[Punzel]

When and how long is your trip?

February 20-27. Busy season I am sure, and the reason why there aren't a ton of room options to choose from Only thing that works with the kids schedules though. We'll probably only do 3-4 days in the parks, so a resort and room that are nice to spend time in are important

 

[hexfetton]

Riviera is nice enough, any new resort added to the system is an upside with me. But as @RoseGold and @js pointed out, there might be some other options have have nearly the same benefits (or better) while being cheaper.

Sound like you're already on the hunt.

 

[PsycProfPlum]

I'd rent points for a one bedroom elsewhere. Boardwalk is my fav and the point chart is much better. For a true splurge, grand Floridian gets my vote

 

[CSLucas]

Hi all!
Just looking for some input from those who have stayed in the Riviera resort... is it worth it? We are a family of 5, two adults and 3 children ages 11, 8, and 4. Looking into splurging and giving Riviera a try. All that is available is a deluxe studio with preferred view. Would love a 1 bedroom but those must be harder to come by.

Other options available that will fit all 5 of us are PO Riverside 5th sleeper, and CB 5th sleeper. We have stayed at both, although not when our family was quite this big. Love the theming of these resorts but the rooms seem small now that we are a bigger family.

Help convince me that Riviera is worth the splurge It's nearly triple the price of what we would spend at Port Orleans and CB. Selling points on the Riviera that appeal to us- balcony, view, larger space especially more bathroom space. Seems like more of a room you can "hang out" in, vs. a place to crash when not in the parks. Any input?

We recently came back from a split stay between Riviera and Grand Floridian. At RIV we were in a studio and it felt small even with only 2 children. Also the beds are weirdly close to the ground for some reason and it annoyed me. The bathroom was big, but was mostly just empty space which I found confusing since the room itself was so cramped and really, how many times are you all going to be hanging out in the bathroom???
I probably wouldn't do RIV again (maybe would be willing to try in a bigger room) - it felt very hotel-y with a crowded lobby and pretty generic theming IMO. I've never stayed at the other options you mentioned, but if there is a way to get into a monorail resort instead of RIV, then I would probably do that. Grand Floridian is by far my favorite, but of course I'm biased because that's our "home".
I know a ton of people love RIV, it just didn't do it for me.

 

[Blondie58]

Stayed four nights in July. Room was pristine. Resort is upscale hotel like. Not so much of a Disney resort feel. The latter being said, the property really grew on us. Topolino's is a great place to dine. Matt at the front desk is a professional and personable employee. Great being on the gondola line. Not sure I would pay three times another resort to stay but that is personal opinion.

 

[Punzel]

I'd rent points for a one bedroom elsewhere. Boardwalk is my fav and the point chart is much better. For a true splurge, grand Floridian gets my vote

Thank you! I am strongly considering GF

We recently came back from a split stay between Riviera and Grand Floridian. At RIV we were in a studio and it felt small even with only 2 children. Also the beds are weirdly close to the ground for some reason and it annoyed me. The bathroom was big, but was mostly just empty space which I found confusing since the room itself was so cramped and really, how many times are you all going to be hanging out in the bathroom???
I probably wouldn't do RIV again (maybe would be willing to try in a bigger room) - it felt very hotel-y with a crowded lobby and pretty generic theming IMO. I've never stayed at the other options you mentioned, but if there is a way to get into a monorail resort instead of RIV, then I would probably do that. Grand Floridian is by far my favorite, but of course I'm biased because that's our "home".
I know a ton of people love RIV, it just didn't do it for me.

Thanks for your input! All things for me to consider.

 

[Punzel]

Stayed four nights in July. Room was pristine. Resort is upscale hotel like. Not so much of a Disney resort feel. The latter being said, the property really grew on us. Topolino's is a great place to dine. Matt at the front desk is a professional and personable employee. Great being on the gondola line. Not sure I would pay three times another resort to stay but that is personal opinion.

Thanks for your input! Just looking for something a little different than resorts we have tried so far. I'm really bad at decisions

 

[Sandisw]

My top resort and in a word, yes, I think it is soooo worth it to stay there. I love the ease to the two parks, and the Skyliner can be a fun ride all on its own! We did that even as adults just to enjoy the sites!

The rooms were very nice and spacious! Of course, we own and stay on points, so for cash, it might be a lot, but I currently have it booked to stay at every trip, at least for a few nights!

 

[DVCsloth]

As much as I love this resort, I think 5 in a studio would be too many people for me. Personally I would try for a 1 BR at Kidani or BLT. The 2nd bathroom, full kitchen and laundry would make it so much more relaxed. I think the cost would be similar, but may not be available. We like to spend time at the resort and seem to spend less time at the resorts, so for us we wouldn't do it. Even if you were to stay at Riviera in a studio I'm sure it would be a great trip, pack light the rooms have lots of storage, very well thought out. Good luck! great resort, lots of fun.

 

[HappyDisneyWife]

…

Help convince me that Riviera is worth the splurge It's nearly triple the price of what we would spend at Port Orleans and CB. Selling points on the Riviera that appeal to us- balcony, view, larger space especially more bathroom space. Seems like more of a room you can "hang out" in, vs. a place to crash when not in the parks. Any input?

So, by now I’m sure you can see that you’re going to get a wide gamut of answers

First, let me sat that I love the Riviera. I’ve stayed multiple times and feel it has one of (if not the) best DVC studios on property!! It’s so nice! It is almost identical to the VGF layout, but has a better entry, is slightly bigger, and has a pull-down Murphy bed instead of a pull-out couch (although VGF’s refurb could be complete by your travel dates & then they will have the Murphy bed as well). The biggest DVC studio is the Poly’s, but having stayed there several times as well, they don’t feel as big bc of the cavernous bathroom… RIV fixed that & is very balanced. Based on room alone, I would hands down choose RIV… however, when placed against VGF, everything else (location, restaurants, pools) would make the decision harder (we really love the Grand Flo Cafe & walking into MK!!).

Do you value walkability? Or Skylining? Magic Kingdom? Or EP/HS area? What type of food/restaurants are you looking for? Pools??

All (6) of my kids (11-20yo) absolutely love RIV, and are very excited to go back in February!! However, when they get to choose a resort for their own trip… I get to see what they value most. For some it is the pool at BCV, others prefer the animals/nature & tranquility at AKL & WL, while one will always pick Poly bc the atmosphere captured her heart! The rest are just easily swayed to stay anywhere bc they love all of the DVC resorts (& I’m in the same boat!! ). So, I don’t think there is a wrong answer!

Now… to your Q of “is it worth it?” That is much, much harder to answer. I’m very against the cash prices of all Disney resorts (for what you get- DVC or no). So, if paying cash- I would say renting points from someone on the boards here may be your best bet. But I don’t think I could possibly rent 1 studio at RIV, knowing I could be booking 2 studios at PO-R or CB… with money leftover that I could use to splurge on meals! Actually, I would pay to stay at the Swan or Dolphin as my first choice (they’re great resorts & so much more reasonable… with all the deluxe perks!). But that’s just me. Happy planning!!!

 

[Punzel]

So, by now I’m sure you can see that you’re going to get a wide gamut of answers

First, let me sat that I love the Riviera. I’ve stayed multiple times and feel it has one of (if not the) best DVC studios on property!! It’s so nice! It is almost identical to the VGF layout, but has a better entry, is slightly bigger, and has a pull-down Murphy bed instead of a pull-out couch (although VGF’s refurb could be complete by your travel dates & then they will have the Murphy bed as well). The biggest DVC studio is the Poly’s, but having stayed there several times as well, they don’t feel as big bc of the cavernous bathroom… RIV fixed that & is very balanced. Based on room alone, I would hands down choose RIV… however, when placed against VGF, everything else (location, restaurants, pools) would make the decision harder (we really love the Grand Flo Cafe & walking into MK!!).

Do you value walkability? Or Skylining? Magic Kingdom? Or EP/HS area? What type of food/restaurants are you looking for? Pools??

All (6) of my kids (11-20yo) absolutely love RIV, and are very excited to go back in February!! However, when they get to choose a resort for their own trip… I get to see what they value most. For some it is the pool at BCV, others prefer the animals/nature & tranquility at AKL & WL, while one will always pick Poly bc the atmosphere captured her heart! The rest are just easily swayed to stay anywhere bc they love all of the DVC resorts (& I’m in the same boat!! ). So, I don’t think there is a wrong answer!

Now… to your Q of “is it worth it?” That is much, much harder to answer. I’m very against the cash prices of all Disney resorts (for what you get- DVC or no). So, if paying cash- I would say renting points from someone on the boards here may be your best bet. But I don’t think I could possibly rent 1 studio at RIV, knowing I could be booking 2 studios at PO-R or CB… with money leftover that I could use to splurge on meals! Actually, I would pay to stay at the Swan or Dolphin as my first choice (they’re great resorts & so much more reasonable… with all the deluxe perks!). But that’s just me. Happy planning!!!

Thank you so much for taking the time to respond. You’re response was very helpful
We were last in Disney World September 2019, before the world changed. Our 2020 Disney trips kept getting postponed due to covid. Our kids not wanting to quarantine from school after travel, etc. We must have cancelled 3 separate times bc the covid situation just didn’t get any better.
Not to mention, my husband has been working NONSTOP since the pandemic. It’a a blessing and a curse. We are all ready for some family time in our happy place, and we are okay with a splurge. Just deciding what exactly to splurge on is the issue I guess there are lots of opinions on this which makes sense bc everyone has different priorities. I have really enjoyed reading everyone’s responses

 

[HappyDisneyWife]

Thank you so much for taking the time to respond. You’re response was very helpful
We were last in Disney World September 2019, before the world changed. Our 2020 Disney trips kept getting postponed due to covid. Our kids not wanting to quarantine from school after travel, etc. We must have cancelled 3 separate times bc the covid situation just didn’t get any better.
Not to mention, my husband has been working NONSTOP since the pandemic. It’a a blessing and a curse. We are all ready for some family time in our happy place, and we are okay with a splurge. Just deciding what exactly to splurge on is the issue I guess there are lots of opinions on this which makes sense bc everyone has different priorities. I have really enjoyed reading everyone’s responses

You are so sweet! & I certainly hope I didn’t offend you… You can splurge any way you want! Absolutely no judgement here!! ☺

I am so happy for your family that you’re finally going to be able to get away! & I hope you enjoy your trip!!!

 

[wishicouldgomoreofte]

February 20-27. Busy season I am sure, and the reason why there aren't a ton of room options to choose from Only thing that works with the kids schedules though. We'll probably only do 3-4 days in the parks, so a resort and room that are nice to spend time in are important

I did a quick look after I read this paragraph, and was shocked that everything was gone in studios and one bedrooms except for very few 1 nights. I have no idea, is that Princess Marathon? Must be something!

Edit: Yes, Princess is 2/24-2/27.