The Villas at the Iconic Disneyland Hotel Are Now Open — and We Were One of the First to See

17.10.2023 - 15:21 / travelandleisure.com

The “Happiest Place On Earth” just got even more magical with the grand opening of its newest offering, The Villas at Disneyland Hotel. The Disney Vacation Club resort opened last week in Anaheim, California, and Travel + Leisure got a first look at the what’s in store for Disney Vacation Club members and guests checking into the latest Disney lodging.

Set in a new wing of the historic Disneyland Resort, The Villas at Disneyland Hotel is the 16th Disney Vacation Club resort to open around the world, and the first Disney property to open in California in more than a decade. You could feel the excitement buzzing through the air as travelers, distinguished guests and media gathered around the vibrant 12-story tower to celebrate the grand opening, and be among the first visitors to stay at the resort. 

Christian Thompson/Courtesy of Disneyland Resort

Dean Huspen, an Executive Architect at Walt Disney Imagineering, revealed that each and every design element in the resort has been meticulously planned to make your stay the most magical and memorable experience it can be, noting that “everything is intentional.” 

“This resort is all about celebrating the creative process of Disney storytelling,” Huspen told Travel + Leisure. “I think it’s important to us as a design team that we’re conveying the inspiration of storytelling in larger and smaller details, because our Disney Vacation Club members and guests really appreciate that extra touch of magic from us.”

Guests are greeted with DVC’s comforting “welcome home” slogan before entering the new Discovery Tower, and upon entering the lobby you will immediately notice the efforts put forth to make your stay feel like a true “home away from home" experience. A sweeping mural greets you in the lobby, taking you on a journey of Disney animation through the years. Lorelay Bové, the Disney Animation artist behind the mural, noted that you will find easter eggs and hidden Mickeys throughout the painting, so be sure to take an extra look before heading upstairs. 

Christian Thompson/Courtesy of Disneyland Resort

Christian Thompson/Courtesy of Disneyland Resort

The Villas’ ode to animation continues from the bright and colorful lobby into the 344 rooms and suites, where each room type is themed to a different Disney classic, including “The Jungle Book," “Fantasia," «The Princess and the Frog» and «Sleeping Beauty.” 

There are five room types that can accommodate parties of various sizes and budgets at The Villas; the cozy Duo Studio is perfect for a party of two; The Deluxe Studio sleeps up to four; The One and Two Bedroom Villa suites can hold up to 5 and 9 guests respectively; and the standout 3-Bedroom Grand Villa – which features a full kitchen and dining area, a