Old Key West has never tried to compete with Disney’s flashiest resorts, and that’s always been part of its charm. It’s calm. It’s spacious. It’s the kind of place where families settle in instead of rushing out the door. But that familiar version of Old Key West is preparing for some major changes.
Disney has confirmed that the resort will undergo a substantial refurbishment beginning in 2026, and early details suggest it will be one of the more involved updates the property has seen in years.
At first glance, the plan includes what guests typically expect—new carpets, updated bedding, refreshed curtains, and upgraded upholstery. But Disney isn’t stopping there. Entire room components, including kitchens, living areas, and bedrooms, are being replaced.
That’s a meaningful shift for a resort defined by how livable its villas feel.
Old Key West rooms are larger than many other DVC villas, and the layouts emphasize comfort over efficiency. Updating kitchens could introduce more modern finishes, reworked storage, or new appliances. Living rooms might see redesigned layouts that feel more contemporary, while bedrooms could receive visual updates that align with Disney’s newer resort style.
One question continues to loom: will Murphy beds be added?
Disney has embraced Murphy beds across many recent refurbishments, but Old Key West has always leaned toward traditional beds and classic layouts. Adding Murphy beds would significantly change how spaces are used, especially for guests who spend more time in the villa. Right now, Disney hasn’t confirmed whether that change is happening, leaving fans guessing.
As for scheduling, Disney has remained vague. A 2026 start date has been identified, but there’s no word yet on how long the refurbishment will last or which buildings will be affected first. Given the size of the resort, construction will likely stretch across multiple phases, meaning some guests could encounter active work during their stay.
Transportation changes aren’t part of this update. Despite its proximity to Caribbean Beach Resort, Disney has stated that Old Key West will not receive a Skyliner connection. Instead, the resort will continue relying on bus service and the water taxis that run to Disney Springs.
Those boats recently returned following dock improvements, restoring a favorite amenity that many guests missed.
Disney’s recent decision to buy back Old Key West contracts also adds context. When paired with a major refurbishment, it suggests confidence in the resort’s future value and continued relevance within the Disney Vacation Club lineup.
The big question now is how these updates will land with fans. Old Key West doesn’t need to be reinvented—it just needs care. If Disney modernizes the villas while preserving their relaxed, residential feel, the resort could emerge stronger than ever. If not, it risks losing a little of what made it special in the first place.
Either way, change is coming—and at Old Key West, even subtle changes tend to matter.
