From its colorful Victorian architecture to the historic influence of horse racing, this lakeside community recaptures the heyday of upstate New York country retreats of the lates 1800s.

Saratoga Springs is located across a lake from the Downtown Disney® shopping, dining and entertainment complex. In fact, there are footpaths that allow you to walk from the resort to the Marketplace and West Side areas of Downtown Disney.

Saratoga Springs is Disney’s newest Vacation Club Resort and, as such, offers vacation homes with separate bedroom and living areas, kitchens and laundry facilities that can accommodate a family of four up to groups of 12. The Villas are elegant, but also casual – with traditional furnishings that are light and bright.

The recreational facilities are stellar here. The High Rock Spring pool is a large free-form, heated pool with a 125 foot-long waterslide that passes through a jumble of rocks and waterfalls. There’s also an interactive “pop-jet” play area for the kids and two whirlpools. The Joe Lee designed Lake Buena Vista golf course is next door and the resort boasts a full-service spa. You can rent bikes on-site, or take advantage of the tennis, basketball and shuffleboard courts located throughout the grounds.

There is only a food court (albeit an upscale one) on premises. Yes, Downtown Disney® is only a hop, skip and a jump away with its multitude of eating establishments – but not having a full-service restaurant can be a hassle when you’ve been park touring all day. And, there’s no room service. Transportation to the theme parks, water parks, and other resort hotels is via bus only. And, while the Downtown Disney® resort area is fairly centrally located to all of Walt Disney World’s attractions, you’ll find it more convenient having your own car here.