Disney World is in the middle of a huge glow-up. Brand-new attractions are on the horizon, lands are being reimagined, and the resort is racing to reshape its future. But when Disney goes all in on change, that often means some headaches for guests.
This time, the disruptions aren’t limited to the parks. Disney’s hotels are joining the construction party — and for travelers in 2026, it might create a few unwelcome surprises.
How Disney Hotels Play a Big Role
For most guests, a Disney resort isn’t just a room with a bed. It’s an extension of the magic. Whether you’re watching fireworks from your balcony or riding the monorail straight into Magic Kingdom, the hotel is part of the experience.
So, when pools close, pathways get rerouted, or construction noise breaks the atmosphere, it can easily derail what was supposed to be a relaxing stay. And this time, several beloved resorts are on Disney’s renovation list.
What’s Changing Inside the Parks
If this feels overwhelming, that’s because it is. The theme parks are already buzzing with projects. Hollywood Studios is preparing for its Monsters Inc. Land, while Magic Kingdom gears up for both Piston Peak and Villains Land.
Animal Kingdom is replacing DinoLand U.S.A. with Tropical Americas, and EPCOT has just reopened Spaceship Earth with system upgrades. Test Track has returned with a look that celebrates its roots in the World of Motion. All of this is exciting, but it sets the tone: Disney is in full transformation mode.
Resort Renovations You Should Know About
Let’s talk hotels. The Contemporary Resort’s construction timeline now stretches through July 2026, with Bay Lake Tower updates and a pool closure early in the year. The Polynesian Village Resort is undergoing long-term renovations, affecting both the main resort and its bungalows.
Pop Century is expected to complete room refurbishments by February 2026, but guests visiting early in the year may still encounter work crews. At Port Orleans Riverside, Magnolia Bend is expected to be completed by late January, although lingering activity may still be possible.
Animal Kingdom Lodge will undergo back-to-back phases, with Kidani Village scheduled to be completed by May 2026 and Jambo House set to begin immediately after, extending into 2027.
Value Resorts and Transportation Snags
All-Star Sports is getting its turn, too. From January through late April 2026, the main pool and kiddie pool will be closed. Guests will need to use the nearby pools at All-Star Music Resort and All-Star Movies Resort, which can become crowded during spring break.
Meanwhile, the Disney Skyliner, which serves multiple resorts, will shut down for a week in late January 2027. It’s not during peak holiday time, but it may still disrupt travel plans for those booking around that period.
Attractions Still Down
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad and Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin remain without firm reopening dates, but both are expected back sometime in 2026. Hollywood Studios will also say goodbye to the original Rock ’n’ Roller Coaster as it transforms into a Muppets-themed ride.
Stay Informed, Stay Ahead
Between park expansions, resort overhauls, and attraction closures, Disney World in 2026 will be a different beast. It’s not all bad news — these updates set the stage for an exciting future. However, if you’re traveling during the transition, being prepared matters.
Knowing which hotels are impacted, which rides are offline, and how transportation may be limited can help save your vacation. Disney magic is still on the table… You just might have to dodge a few construction walls to get to it.
