Magic Kingdom Welcomes New Disney Vacation Club Lounge: McKim’s Mile House Opens March 18
The highly anticipated McKim’s Mile House—A Disney Vacation Club Member Lounge will open on March 18, 2025, in Magic Kingdom’s Frontierland. Replacing the historic Frontierland Shootin’ Arcade, this space honors Disney’s legacy while offering exclusive perks for DVC members.
The lounge is open from 11:00am to 6:00pm daily, although hours may changed based on season or special events.
A Nod to Frontierland’s Past
The lounge occupies the former Frontierland Shootin’ Arcade, which closed June 23, 2024, after 53 years of operation. Originally an opening-day attraction, the arcade transitioned from pellet guns to infrared technology in the 1980s and became free to guests in 2021. Its rustic log cabin aesthetic and Boot Hill-themed targets symbolized Frontierland’s adventurous spirit, making way for a new chapter tied to Disney Vacation Club’s growth.
Design Inspired by Disney History
Named after Disney Legend Sam McKim, whose sketches shaped Frontierland’s iconic landmarks, the lounge features a mural reading “The Frontier’s Best Kept Secret” alongside vintage exploration motifs. Design elements pay homage to McKim’s contributions, including concept art reminiscent of Slue Foot Sue’s Golden Horseshoe Revue. The space blends rugged wood accents with modern comforts, creating a retreat for members.
Exclusive Amenities for Members
The lounge provides a retreat with perks tailored to Disney Vacation Club owners:
- Complimentary Snacks and Beverages: Enjoy seasonal offerings like prickly pear lemonade, frontier-spiced popcorn, and miniature cornbread loaves. Coffee, tea, and bottled water are available all day.
- Charging Stations and Wi-Fi: Recharge at rustic wooden workstations with built-in USB ports and wireless charging pads. Complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi ensures connectivity.
- Exclusive Previews: Members access early details about upcoming Frontierland projects, including the Beyond Big Thunder Mountain expansion.
- Themed Seating Areas: Relax in leather armchairs beside murals depicting Sam McKim’s concept art for Big Thunder Mountain Railroad and Splash Mountain.
Disney Vacation Club’s Expanding Footprint
Launched in 1991, Disney Vacation Club began with Disney’s Old Key West Resort, offering 50-year ownership plans starting at $51 per point. Over three decades, DVC expanded to 15 resorts, including Aulani and Disney’s Riviera Resort, with membership costs now exceeding $200 per point. Today, the program boasts nearly 250,000 owners and 77 million points.
The Island Tower at Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows, which opened December 17, 2024, added 268 Moana-themed rooms and tropical hideaways to the Magic Kingdom monorail loop. Meanwhile, Disney Lakeshore Lodge (formerly Reflections – A Disney Lakeside Lodge) revives plans for a 900-room resort on Bay Lake’s shores, now slated for 2027. This nature-inspired property will feature Bambi and Princess and the Frog-themed spaces, replacing the long-dormant River Country site.
Member Benefits Drive Lounge Additions
Exclusive lounges like McKim’s Mile House underscore DVC’s focus on member perks. Benefits include dining discounts, EPCOT’s ImaginAtrium Lounge, and access to events like Moonlight Magic. The Magic Kingdom lounge aligns with DVC’s goal to provide dedicated spaces in all four Walt Disney World parks.
Balancing Nostalgia and Innovation
While the Shootin’ Arcade’s closure sparked nostalgia, the lounge reflects Disney’s strategy to prioritize underutilized spaces for member experiences. This shift coincides with broader Frontierland updates, including the Beyond Big Thunder Mountain project.
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