DVC as launchpad to visiting other attractions and skipping parks

[🍀TwinsMom]

Just curious, I know we're not the first or only ones to skip WDW parks for various reasons; high ticket cost, less bang for the buck, etc., but we burned through a ton of trips since buying in 2019 and taking advantage of those "free" bonus direct points and cheap Covid airfare and now vacation very differently We've really leaned into staying DVC but are now going offsite to do other things, including Universal, Wild Florida, soon Sea World, Discovery Cove, and Epic.

I'm wondering if Disney has thought through in their calculations that DVC die-hard fans may be losing a built-in audience/customer who uses their points now as a crash pad to go other places off site, or do you think they don't care and it's not enough folks to move the needle? I'm a HUGE DVC fan and love staying at different resorts, but the expense and hassle of LLs/virtual queues, and shortened hours with after-hours events/parties has worn the polish off a bit for me.

 

[thanxfornoticin]

DVC is a timeshare and a really nice place to stay. We will spend 90% of our time onsite, but have also enjoyed Universal, SW, Space Coast, and other attractions within a hour or so of WDW. Your list of negatives as you see them can probably be used for other attractions, too. SW isn't anywhere near what it used to be, Universal is a lot of fun but expensive too, and the grass isn't always greener on the other side. We love Disney. We also really enjoy Universal some trips (and are very much looking forward to Epic Universa), and we'll even take longer day trips away from Disney at times. But we still enjoy the Disney bubble very much, and the DVC/WDW combo is very much our happy place.

 

[pinkxray]

We are definitely people who been using our DVC points to explore other options besides just Disney parks. Last spring break we stayed at BLT and did 1 MK day. The rest of the time we had Seaworld/ Discover Cove tickets.

This summer we are staying at Fort Wilderness. Mostly doing Fort stuff but had planned on doing one Disney park. About 10 minutes ago I asked DS if we should skip the Disney park on go to Universal( just looking at all the Epic Universe stuff this morning).

We are also doing a week long trip over Thanksgiving. Really considering doing only 2-3 Disney park days and maybe Universal or Seaworld too. (Might just get Universal Ap’s this summer )

I really think we are the minority though. I’m guessing Disney thinks there aren’t enough people skipping the Disney parks to move the needle.

 

[reddog21]

We always go elsewhere while staying on site. I can't even remember any time we just did Disney and nothing else. There's so much more to do around the Central Florida area. People are missing out that just park themself inside the bubble.

 

[tidefan]

Our last 2 trips have been at CFW and we've done exactly 2 park days out of 12... but we drive every trip, so getting around is easy for us.

 

[Pyxie]

I wouldn't think Disney is overly concerned about DVC members potentially using their points and enjoying attractions outside of Disney. Because otherwise, you'd be staying somewhere else entirely and at least this way you are more likely to buy food, etc. onsite.