Disney's Contemporary Resort has stood at the edge of the Seven Seas Lagoon since Walt Disney World Resort's opening day in 1971. Now, after over five decades, its exterior is being taken apart and rebuilt.
What Guests Are Seeing
Scaffolding appeared on the outside of the Main Tower at Disney's Contemporary Resort this week, spotted from the Monorail loop and the pedestrian walkway between the hotel and Magic Kingdom Park. BlogMickey reported the development on April 28, sharing photos showing active demolition work on the southwest face of the building. Balconies, sliding glass doors, and windows on that side of the tower have been torn out, with tarps and plywood holding the space while crews work through the refurbishment in phases.
The interior of the Main Tower shows no signs of disruption. Construction is scheduled during daytime hours when the bulk of guests are off-property at the Disney parks, though some noise and worker activity may be noticeable from outside or within the building.
Chef Mickey's, California Grill, and Contempo Café are all operating on normal schedules; the Monorail continues its regular stop at the Main Tower; and the Deluxe Disney Resort hotel's pools and water features remain open. About 20 guest rooms have been removed from inventory as work progresses, with the phased approach keeping the hotel operational throughout.
Disney's Own Words
Walt Disney World Resort addresses the project directly on its booking page, warning guests ahead of their stays:
“Refurbishment work will occur in phases throughout select areas of Disney's Contemporary Resort, including the atrium, Bay Lake Tower and the Main Tower. The Main Tower will undergo exterior maintenance beginning March 23, 2026, which may impact views from various locations throughout the Resort hotel and, at times, require alternate paths of travel. Guests may see or hear construction during daytime hours.
The Bay Lake Pool, the feature pool, the water play area and the whirlpool spa at Disney's Contemporary Resort will remain open for Guests to enjoy.”
The full overhaul of the Main Tower exterior is expected to wrap up by late 2027. Disney's Contemporary Resort's iconic A-frame structure — one of the most recognizable silhouettes at Walt Disney World Resort — is not expected to change.
Have you noticed any other construction projects around Walt Disney World Resort or Disneyland Resort? Disney Fanatic would love to hear from you in the comments!
