A new refurbishment is on the horizon at Disney’s Old Key West Resort, reminding guests that even the most familiar corners of Walt Disney World continue to evolve.
From September 29, 2025, through late November, the Miller’s Road leisure pool will be closed for scheduled maintenance. Guests are invited to enjoy the resort’s other pools, including the Sandcastle Pool, complete with waterslide and sandy beach elements, and the leisure pools in the Old Turtle Pond and South Point sections. Disney has shared that refurbishment activity may be noticeable in nearby areas.
Old Key West is steeped in Disney history. As the very first Disney Vacation Club resort, it opened in 1991 before adopting its current name. Today, it stretches across a village-style setting near Disney Springs, evoking the relaxed spirit of the Florida Keys. Pastel colors, waterways lined with palms, and laid-back architecture combine to create a retreat where time seems to slow.
Accommodations range from Deluxe Studios to Grand Villas with three bedrooms, each equipped with kitchens or kitchenettes, generous living spaces, and the comforts of home. Designed for both families and larger groups, the resort blends privacy with community across its expansive grounds.
Recreation options embrace the resort’s leisurely pace. Beyond its pools, guests can rent bicycles and surreys, walk or jog along scenic paths, or enjoy tennis, basketball, and volleyball. In the evenings, there are campfire gatherings and “Movies Under the Stars.” Dining includes the welcoming Olivia’s Café, quick-service locations, and a lounge for lighter fare.
While some note the property’s transportation can feel slow and certain areas lean traditional, many fans embrace Old Key West for precisely those reasons. Its quiet rhythm, wide open spaces, and timeless character continue to draw guests who prefer a retreat-style stay.
The upcoming pool closure is one of many updates happening around Walt Disney World resorts.
At the Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, the lobby has already seen major changes. The removal of its celebrated aviary makes way for a “Birdcage Bar” with an Enchanted Gardens theme. Longtime guests will also notice the absence of the resort’s beloved gingerbread house during Christmas 2025. Renovation continues across meeting spaces and convention areas, while road and entrance improvements continue as part of the Floridian Way project.
The Polynesian Village Resort has debuted its new Island Tower, though construction throughout 2026 will continue adjusting its entrance and transportation network. Nearby, the Contemporary Resort remains under renovation until mid-2026, with updates to Bay Lake Tower, the convention center, and pool areas.
Other resort updates include work at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge, with refurbishments extending to the Copper Creek Villas. At Port Orleans Riverside, the Royal Rooms are receiving updates. The Beach Club Resort is also undergoing exterior maintenance and arrival-area enhancements.
Taken together, these projects highlight one of the largest refresh efforts in Walt Disney World’s resort history. For some, these changes bring excitement and modern convenience. For others, they spark reflection on what makes these resorts special—and how updates will shape them for years to come.
