Disney has a wide variety of on-site villa-style lodgings. You get all the perks of staying on Disney property--free transportation to the parks, early entry and charging privileges--as well as a lot more space. Large families find they can usually get a villa for less than the cost of two hotel rooms, and villas have the additional advantage of a kitchen. Given the high cost of even casual Disney dining, you can save significant bucks by fixing breakfast and other simple meals in your room.

Your choices include:

The brand-new Villas at Wilderness Lodge offer the feel of a Rocky Mountain national park lodge, as well as access by boat to the Magic Kingdom; the other parks are accessible by bus. The Wilderness Lodge enjoys a loyal repeat business from families who love the awe-inspiring lobby with its blazing fireplaces, waterfall leading into the pool and the rustic lakeside setting with plenty of sporting options. Prices range from $284 for an off-season studio to $803 for a two-bedroom during peak season.

The Boardwalk Villas offer easy access to Epcot's private backdoor entrance, as well as water-taxi service to the Disney-MGM Studios; the Magic Kingdom and Animal Kingdom are accessible by bus. Another plus? The bustling Boardwalk complex offers a wealth of great restaurants. Prices range from $305 to $2,020, depending upon the size of the room and the season.

If you yearn to be away from the maddening crowds, try Disney's Old Key West Villas, which are located near Downtown Disney. Disney's original villa-style resort is tucked away from it all behind a golf course, offering plenty of room and plenty of privacy. All the parks are accessible by bus. Prices run from $269 for a studio to $1,545 for a three-bedroom Grand Villa, which could easily accommodate 8 people, making Old Key West a good choice for family reunions.

Suffering from sticker shock? The lowest-priced option for big families who want to stay on Disney property is the Fort Wildnerness Campground cabins. The cabins, while hardly glamorous, have full kitchens and can sleep six people for as low as $279 a night. And you have all the perks of staying on Disney property, including boat service to the Magic Kingdom and bus service to the other parks. Fort Wilderness also offers plenty of outdoor options, including trail-rides, a petting zoo and lively character sing-alongs around a campfire.

Please keep in mind that phone numbers, addresses, and prices are subject to change. Originally published in November 2000.
Updated March 2006