A trip to Walt Disney World is about more than just the theme parks. For many fans, the real magic happens at the resorts. Disney knows that to keep guests returning to Central Florida, the hotels must be just as much of a draw as the rides.
That’s why Disney is pouring a staggering $30 million into upgrading just two of its beloved resort properties: Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge and Disney’s BoardWalk. With renovations already underway, here is a look at what the Orlando Business Journal revealed about these massive investments and what guests can expect from the next generation of Disney accommodations.
A $24.4 Million Overhaul for Animal Kingdom Lodge
The majority of this massive budget—at least $24.4 million—is dedicated to updating one of Walt Disney World's most unique properties: Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge. Known for its immersive African-inspired design and sprawling savannas filled with live animals, the resort is a fan favorite.
According to records from the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District, guest rooms at both the main Jambo House and the Disney Vacation Club property Kidani Village are undergoing major overhauls.
The permit filings note that the work includes the “removal and replacement of finishes and fixtures.” This points to a significant modernization of the rooms, likely bringing updated flooring, fresh lighting, modernized bathrooms, and new technological integrations to the luxurious resort.
Because construction has already begun, guests visiting the resort may notice localized work as Disney updates the rooms section by section. However, the beloved savanna views and the resort's stunning core aesthetic remain as breathtaking as ever.
Hurly-Burly: The BoardWalk's New $6.2 Million Venue
The remaining $6.2 million is being used to build an exciting new addition to Disney's BoardWalk from the ground up. The BoardWalk, known for its turn-of-the-century Atlantic City charm and vibrant nightlife, will soon be home to Hurly-Burly, a brand-new music waterfront lounge slated to open in late 2026.
Hurly-Burly is designed with a dual-concept model to appeal to all types of guests:
- Daytime Fun: During the day, the venue will host family-friendly activities, including interactive games and trivia led by a charismatic host. It is poised to be a perfect afternoon spot for families looking to relax outside the parks.
- Nighttime Exclusivity: At night, Hurly-Burly transforms into a live music venue exclusively for guests 21 and older. Adults can enjoy a variety of musical entertainment while sipping coastal-inspired cocktails and enjoying gourmet light bites.
Permit filings show that the $6.2 million budget covers a complete transformation of the space. “The renovation includes demolition, new walls, floors, ceilings, and finishes, new kitchen and bar equipment, new restroom finishes and limited modifications to the existing windows and doors,” the filings read.
The Strategy Behind the Spending
With new theme parks and luxury hotels constantly opening in the Orlando area, Walt Disney World is heavily invested in maintaining its status as the premier vacation destination in Central Florida. By continuously elevating the resort experience, Disney ensures that its hotels offer compelling new reasons for guests to visit.
When speaking to the Orlando Business Journal about the dual projects, a Walt Disney World spokesperson made the company's strategy clear:
“This is part of the significant investments across Walt Disney World that we are making to ensure we continue to be the number one reason people visit Central Florida. These efforts reflect our commitment to creating new reasons to visit now and for years to come.”
By committing $30 million to modernizing the luxurious rooms at Animal Kingdom Lodge and creating a dynamic new entertainment space at the BoardWalk, Disney is proving that the magic extends far beyond the park gates.
With renovations already in progress, the future of Walt Disney World’s resort lineup is looking more exciting than ever. Whether you are looking forward to a refreshed savanna-view room or an evening of live music by Crescent Lake, these upgrades are sure to make your next Disney vacation unforgettable.
