Attention Disney World guests: You may think you’ve “done” Disney World. You’ve stayed at your go-to resort. You’ve mastered Genie+. You’ve even rope-dropped Seven Dwarfs Mine Train like a pro. But what if we told you that by 2027, the Walt Disney World experience will be nearly unrecognizable—in the best way possible?
What’s unfolding now behind construction walls and blueprints isn’t just a hotel update or a new ride. It’s a multi-year transformation that could reshape how millions of Disney fans plan, book, and experience their trips in the coming years.
So what exactly is coming—and why should it be on your radar now?
Attention Disney World Guests: Disney’s Lakeshore Lodge: A Resort Unlike Any Before
Nestled quietly along Bay Lake on the site of the former River Country water park, Disney’s Lakeshore Lodge is the next major Disney Vacation Club resort—and it’s scheduled to open in 2027.
This new retreat is no ordinary resort. It’s being designed as a tranquil, nature-inspired getaway, “inspired by the majesty of nature and its enduring influence on Disney artists,” according to Disney. Think calming forest vibes mixed with imaginative storytelling, nestled between the beloved Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground and Wilderness Lodge.
While Disney has not released all the details just yet, early previews have hinted at themed guest rooms featuring woodland characters from classic Disney films and an all-new Princess and the Frog-themed restaurant, which could serve as a perfect complement to the upcoming Tiana’s Bayou Adventure attraction.
For DVC members, this could quickly become a top choice. For non-members, it may be worth finally considering membership—or at least keeping an eye on room availability. With its lakeside location and heavy theming, Lakeshore Lodge is poised to disrupt long-held resort loyalties.
A Bigger Picture: Park Expansions on the Horizon
But while Lakeshore Lodge is the most visible project, it’s only part of the bigger story. Disney has been quietly laying the groundwork for massive theme park expansions, most notably in Magic Kingdom and Animal Kingdom—and they’re also expected to be completed around 2027.
At D23 and in investor meetings, Disney executives have teased “the largest expansion plans ever for Magic Kingdom,” comparing the scale to Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. Although still under wraps, these new lands and experiences are expected to be immersive, IP-driven, and tailored to guests’ growing appetite for more interactive, story-rich attractions.
The expansion may also include improved connectivity between resorts and parks, meaning guests staying at the new Lakeshore Lodge could have even easier access to Magic Kingdom than before.
So, what does this all mean? The 2027 projects don’t just add capacity—they raise the bar for what a Disney vacation can be.
Why It Matters: A Redefined Guest Experience
This isn’t just about building more—it’s about building smarter. Over the past few years, Disney has faced pressure to deliver more value, more comfort, and more unforgettable moments, especially as ticket prices rise and competition in the theme park space intensifies.
By anchoring a new deluxe-level resort near Magic Kingdom and expanding the parks with modern, immersive experiences, Disney is creating a more holistic vacation package—where the hotel stay feels as magical as the theme park visit.
Expectations are changing:
-
Families want more character-themed spaces to keep kids engaged 24/7.
-
Disney adults crave nostalgia with high-end design and amenities.
-
Frequent visitors are looking for new reasons to come back again.
These expansion projects directly respond to those shifts—and they may just usher in a new golden era for Walt Disney World.
Disney World Guests: The Future Starts Now
With 2027 just around the corner, now is the time to start watching closely. Whether you’re a DVC member banking points or a first-timer dreaming of your perfect trip, this next phase of Disney’s growth could influence everything from when you travel to where you stay.
So yes, the magic is still there. But soon, it’ll look—and feel—like something completely new.
