Hi Jennifer:
These are both great choices. Old Key West is immersed in a Florida Keys theme and Saratoga Springs possesses an equestrian Victorian-style theme. OKW and SS are spread out and cover a lot of property. Both OKW and SS are Deluxe Villa Resorts and boast similar services and amenities. The pools are great spots at both locations. While it's a close call between the two, in my view, SS would come out slightly ahead.
For me, a big advantage of SS is that parts of the resort are within
short walking distance to the restaurants, shops, and attractions in Downtown Disney. In addition to quick and easy access to Downtown Disney, being close to Downtown Disney also means you can also take advantage of direct buses from Downtown Disney to other resorts. When we travel to Disney, my family often likes to eat at restaurants at other resorts. When staying at SS, we can save time and still use Disney's free transportation system with a quick walk to Downtown Disney to catch a direct bus to the resort destination without having to make a transfer. Request a room in the Congress Park section of SS to be close to Downtown Disney. What makes the decision between OKW and SS such a close call is that you can also walk from OKW to Downtown Disney, commencing from a trail near the OKW South Point area, but it's a further walk. There is also boat service from OKW to Downtown Disney. While I find the boat ride pleasant, waiting for boat service will likely add to your travel time.
If you plan to use the spa, the
Saratoga Springs Spa is incredible and a must visit. I also enjoy the dining at SS. I find their sit-down restaurant, The Turf Club, to be a top-notch "undiscovered" gem of Disney dining. While you don’t have to stay at SS to enjoy The Turf Club, it's nice to know it's right on property.
Enjoy your vacation.