Walt Disney World Resort is opening a major location that is aimed at only its most passionate fans.

Disney recently unveiled plans for a new addition to the Walt Disney World Resort experience, aptly named the Gateway to Discovery. This innovative space, set to open its doors in 2024, aims to offer visitors a chance to unwind and explore new dimensions of the Disney magic. Positioned as a hub for relaxation and adventure, the Gateway to Discovery will not only showcase the Disney Vacation Club (DVC) but also feature an exclusive members-only area.
For those unfamiliar with the Disney Vacation Club (DVC), it is a vacation ownership program that provides its members with the opportunity to enjoy memorable vacations at Disney destinations and a select number of other vacation destinations around the world. Members purchase a real estate interest in a Disney Vacation Club Resort, which grants them access to a wide range of vacation accommodations, from cozy studios to spacious multi-bedroom villas.

Joining the Disney Vacation Club is a straightforward process. Prospective members can choose from a variety of membership options that best suit their vacation preferences and travel habits. Upon becoming a member, individuals gain access to an array of exclusive benefits, including discounts on Disney theme park tickets, special offers on dining and merchandise, and access to exclusive events and experiences.
At the heart of the Gateway to Discovery is the Disney Vacation Club Welcome Home Center, where guests can immerse themselves in interactive experiences that unveil exciting vacation destinations within the DVC portfolio. From tranquil beachfront escapes to enchanting theme park getaways, the Welcome Home Center serves as a gateway to a world of unforgettable experiences available through DVC membership.

In addition to serving as an information hub for prospective members, the Welcome Home Center will provide current DVC members with personalized assistance and guidance to enhance their vacation planning experiences. Furthermore, the center will house a second-floor lounge reserved exclusively for DVC members and their guests. Here, amidst a welcoming ambiance, members can gather to unwind and connect with fellow enthusiasts while enjoying complimentary refreshments and taking in panoramic views of the surrounding area.
This concept of exclusive member lounges is not new to Disney Parks, with existing spaces like the Top of the World Lounge at Bay Lake Tower and the EPCOT DVC Member Lounge in the Imagination Pavilion already delighting members with refreshments, scenic views, and a serene atmosphere.

For those eager to explore the Gateway to Discovery, it will be conveniently located in the heart of Disney Springs, within the Town Center area. Visitors can easily access it from the Lime garage and the bus drop-off point. The center’s proximity to popular spots like Francescas, Frontera Cocina, and the Disney Springs Welcome Center ensures that it will be a focal point for guests seeking relaxation and adventure during their visit to Walt Disney World Resort in which they can also visit Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom.
What do you think of this new addition to Disney World? Let Inside the Magic know in the comments!