Guests planning a Walt Disney World vacation in 2027 have another date to circle on the calendar.
Disney’s Lakeshore Lodge is still months away from opening, but the next major step is coming much sooner. Disney is preparing to open reservations for its newest resort, giving future guests their first chance to secure a stay.
Just days before that happens, Disney released another update about what visitors can expect when the property opens.
With general bookings beginning October 8, the latest reveal gives guests more to consider before deciding whether Lakeshore Lodge belongs in their 2027 vacation plans.
Disney's Newest Resort Opens Next Summer
Disney’s Lakeshore Lodge will officially open July 1, 2027, along the shores of Bay Lake.
The nature-inspired property will join the Disney Resorts Collection and offer 967 rooms. Options will range from smaller studios to larger villas and waterfront Lake Houses for families who need more space.
Disney is also drawing from decades of animation throughout the resort. Accommodations will feature inspiration from Bambi (1942), Pocahontas (1995), Brother Bear (2003), Fantasia (1940), and Encanto (2021).
The Wetlands will serve as a large outdoor recreation area featuring pools, play spaces, and a lazy river.
Complimentary transportation will connect Lakeshore Lodge with Walt Disney World, including boat transportation to Magic Kingdom.
Disney had already shared plenty about the property. Its October 1 announcement added another piece to the experience.
A New Lounge Is Coming to Bay Lake
Just beyond the main lobby, Lakeshore Lodge will feature a new lounge called Branch & Brush.
The location will serve handcrafted cocktails alongside views of Bay Lake, giving guests another place to relax without leaving the resort.
Disney designed Branch & Brush around the changing seasons. Artwork, natural textures, and rich colors will carry that idea throughout the lounge.
One of its biggest visual features will hang overhead.
A color-changing chandelier will represent all four seasons, altering the space's look and atmosphere.
Guests could watch the sunrise over Bay Lake before returning to Branch & Brush for a nightcap after a day in the theme parks.
And Disney's latest announcement didn't stop there.
The Lobby Is Taking Shape
Disney also shared more details about what guests will encounter upon entering Lakeshore Lodge.
Floor-to-ceiling windows will showcase the surrounding natural environment. Disney is also incorporating elements inspired by the music and storytelling of Pocahontas (1995) throughout the lobby.
A fiberoptic river will seemingly flow through the floor and around a custom bronze centerpiece created by Walt Disney Imagineering. Guests who look closely will find familiar Disney characters from decades of animated storytelling incorporated into its design.
Above them will be another major visual feature.
The blown-glass Colors of the Wind sculpture will feature hundreds of suspended glass leaves, adding movement and color to the lobby.
Together, these additions show how Disney is carrying the resort's nature-driven concept throughout the property, from accommodations and recreation to artwork and gathering spaces.
Soon, guests can decide when they want to see it themselves.
Three Crucial Dates Are Almost Here
Disney has established three reservation dates depending on the type of guest.
Disney Vacation Club members have the first opportunity on October 6 to make early rental reservations through Member Services.
Walt Disney World Annual Passholders follow on October 7.
Then comes the date that matters for everyone else.
On October 8, reservations open to the general public. Guests can book online through Walt Disney World's website or call Disney at (407) 934-7639.
Anyone hoping to stay around the July 1 opening may want to be flexible.
Disney hasn't said that opening dates will immediately sell out. However, a brand-new Walt Disney World Resort could attract considerable attention, potentially leaving certain dates or accommodation categories unavailable.
Guests targeting opening week, holidays, or other popular periods may want backup dates or room types ready.
Just Days Remain Until Booking
Lakeshore Lodge won't welcome its first guests until July 2027, but Disney is already giving future visitors plenty to consider.
The latest announcement adds another layer to a resort that combines Disney animation, nature-inspired design, recreation, dining, and a waterfront location on Bay Lake.
Now, attention turns toward reservations.
Beginning October 8, the general public can start locking in stays at Disney World's newest resort.
For guests hoping to experience Lakeshore Lodge during its earliest days, the wait to book is almost over.
