Westgate Resorts is one of the largest privately held travel and hospitality companies in the United States. Founded in 1982, the company has grown from a single resort in Orlando, Florida, to a massive network of properties across the country. Whether you are looking for a traditional hotel stay or considering vacation ownership, understanding how Westgate operates can help you make the best decision for your travel needs.
This article provides a comprehensive overview of what Westgate Resorts offers. We will cover their primary locations, the types of accommodations available, and how their timeshare model works. You will also find practical tips for booking a stay and what to expect during your visit.
The History and Scope of Westgate Resorts
Westgate Resorts was established by David Siegel and began with the Westgate Vacation Villas in Central Florida. Today, the company operates nearly 30 resorts in premier travel destinations. They are primarily known for their “vacation ownership” model, which is another term for timeshares.
While timeshares are their core business, Westgate also functions as a traditional resort operator. This means that anyone can book a room at a Westgate property, much like they would at a Hilton or Marriott. They cater largely to families, offering spacious villas rather than standard single-room hotel setups.
Popular Westgate Resort Locations
Westgate has strategically placed its properties near major tourist attractions. Here are some of the most popular destinations where you will find Westgate Resorts:
- Orlando, Florida: This is the company’s hub, featuring multiple properties like Westgate Lakes Resort & Spa and Westgate Town Center. These are located minutes away from Walt Disney World and Universal Studios.
- Las Vegas, Nevada: The Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino is a massive landmark located just off the Strip. It is famous for its large sportsbook and its history as the venue where Elvis Presley performed.
- Gatlinburg, Tennessee: Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort & Water Park offers a rustic theme with easy access to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
- Park City, Utah: Westgate Park City Resort & Spa is a premier ski destination, offering ski-in/ski-out access and luxury amenities.
- Myrtle Beach, South Carolina: Westgate Myrtle Beach Oceanfront Resort provides direct beach access and family-friendly water features.
- Branson, Missouri: With several locations like Westgate Branson Woods, the company has a strong presence in this entertainment and outdoor recreation capital.
Types of Accommodations
One of the main draws of Westgate Resorts is the size of the units. Unlike a standard hotel room that typically offers two beds and a small bathroom, Westgate properties focus on villas. These units are designed to feel like a “home away from home.”
Common unit types include studios, one-bedroom, two-bedroom, and even four-bedroom villas. Most villas include a fully equipped kitchen or a kitchenette, which allows families to save money by preparing their own meals. They also frequently feature separate living areas and private balconies.
High-end properties, such as the Westgate Park City or the Westgate Las Vegas, offer “Luxe” or signature suites. These units feature upgraded finishes, premium appliances, and better views. When booking, it is important to check the specific amenities of your unit type, as they can vary significantly between properties.
How Booking Works: Rental vs. Ownership
There are two primary ways to stay at a Westgate Resort. You can either book a nightly rental or participate in their vacation ownership program. Understanding the difference is crucial for managing your expectations.
Nightly Rentals
You can book a stay at Westgate through their official website or third-party travel sites like Expedia and Booking.com. In this scenario, you are a traditional hotel guest. You pay a nightly rate, plus taxes and resort fees, and you have no long-term obligation to the company.
Vacation Ownership (Timeshares)
The majority of people staying at Westgate are “owners.” These individuals have purchased the right to use a resort for a specific amount of time each year. This involves a significant upfront cost, as well as annual maintenance fees. Ownership is a long-term commitment that is intended for people who plan to vacation at Westgate properties every year.
Understanding Westgate Promotional Offers
You may encounter advertisements offering a 3-day, 2-night stay at a Westgate Resort for a very low price, such as $99. These are legitimate offers, but they come with specific requirements. These are known as “timeshare presentation tours.”
In exchange for the discounted stay, you are required to attend a sales presentation. These presentations typically last between 90 and 120 minutes. During this time, a sales representative will explain the benefits of vacation ownership and attempt to sell you a timeshare interest.
If you choose to take one of these deals, be aware that the sales environment can be high-pressure. You are not required to buy anything to receive the discount, but you must stay for the entire duration of the presentation. Always read the fine print regarding eligibility, as there are often income and marital status requirements for these promotions.
Resort Amenities and Features
Westgate Resorts are designed to be destinations in themselves. Many guests choose to spend entire days on the property rather than visiting local theme parks. Common amenities across their larger resorts include:
- Water Parks and Pools: Many locations, like Gatlinburg and Orlando, feature on-site water parks with slides and lazy rivers.
- Dining Options: Most resorts have multiple restaurants, ranging from casual delis to upscale steakhouses like the Westgate Grill.
- Activities for Kids: Activity centers often provide supervised crafts, games, and movie nights for children.
- Fitness and Spas: Full-service spas and modern fitness centers are standard at their flagship locations.
- Shuttle Services: In major hubs like Orlando, Westgate often provides complimentary shuttle service to nearby theme parks.
Practical Tips for Your Stay
To ensure a smooth experience at a Westgate property, keep these tips in mind. First, be aware of resort fees. Like many large resorts, Westgate often charges a daily fee that covers amenities like Wi-Fi and pool access. This is usually not included in the initial nightly rate you see online.
Second, if you are not interested in buying a timeshare, be polite but firm. Upon check-in, you may be directed to a “welcome desk” to receive your parking pass or welcome gift. This is often where the staff will try to book you for a sales presentation. If you do not wish to attend, you can simply decline.
Finally, take advantage of the kitchen facilities. One of the biggest advantages of a Westgate villa is the ability to cook. Stopping at a local grocery store after check-in can significantly reduce your total vacation spending, especially for breakfast and snacks.
Conclusion
Westgate Resorts offers a unique blend of spacious accommodations and resort-style amenities that are ideal for families and large groups. Whether you choose to visit as a rental guest or explore the world of vacation ownership, knowing the layout of their services ensures you won’t be surprised by fees or sales pitches. By planning ahead and choosing the right location, you can enjoy a comfortable and convenient home base for your next vacation.
If you found this guide helpful, you may also want to explore our articles on “How to Save Money on Theme Park Tickets” or “Tips for Booking Your First Vacation Rental.” For more travel guidance and everyday solutions, continue browsing SearchAndHelp.com.