Walt Disney World is heading into summer with a lot of momentum. New updates are arriving, popular attractions are back, and Disney is clearly making a push to bring guests in with strong offers.
It’s the kind of setup that makes planning a trip feel easy.
Until you start looking at hotels.
While the parks are getting all the attention, some resorts are dealing with changes that could significantly impact your stay. And in the middle of a Florida summer, those details matter more than you might expect.
What’s Driving Crowds This Year
By the time summer hits, the parks will feel refreshed. Rock ’n’ Roller Coaster is getting new attention with its Muppets theme, and Smugglers Run is adding a new mission featuring Din Djarin and Grogu.
Hollywood Studios is also evolving, with a reworked courtyard that shifts the park's feel.
On top of that, rides like Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin and Big Thunder Mountain Railroad will be fully operational again. That changes how crowds move, especially compared to last summer when Big Thunder wasn’t available.
Put it all together, and you’ve got a season that’s going to be packed.
But your hotel can either help you handle that—or make it worse.
Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
The Polynesian remains one of the most popular resorts for a reason, but this summer introduces some challenges.
Without boat transportation early in the season, more guests will rely on the monorail. That can mean longer waits and tighter spaces during busy times.
Construction has also led to limited areas and obstructed views, which detract from the overall experience.
Disney’s Contemporary Resort / Bay Lake Tower
The Contemporary offers unmatched proximity to Magic Kingdom, but construction is currently a major factor.
Guests are navigating around closed walkways and ongoing work, which affects the flow of the resort. The Bay Cove Pool closure also removes a key place to relax during the hottest part of the day.
Even with the short walk to the park, the experience feels less convenient overall.
Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort
At a value resort, convenience matters—and that’s where things get tricky this summer.
The main pool being closed puts more pressure on other areas, making it harder to find space to cool off. Transportation adds another layer, with buses serving multiple resorts, resulting in longer travel times.
That combination can make long park days feel even longer.
Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort
Saratoga Springs has plenty of room, but that space comes at a cost in the summer heat.
Walking longer distances becomes more noticeable, especially when you’re heading to a transportation hub or a restaurant. Some dining closures also limit options, which adds another layer of inconvenience.
Since buses are the main way to get around, travel time becomes a bigger factor.
Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground
Fort Wilderness delivers a unique experience, but summer conditions can make it more challenging.
Construction near the main pool reduces your ability to cool off easily. At the same time, the outdoor setup exposes you to heat, humidity, and bugs throughout the day.
Getting around takes extra time, which can slow down your overall schedule.
Don’t Let This One Choice Ruin Everything
Walt Disney World is clearly preparing for a strong summer in 2026. Between new experiences and returning attractions, there’s a lot to look forward to.
But your resort choice plays a bigger role than most people expect.
These hotels aren’t bad—they’re just dealing with timing issues that make them tougher picks right now. If you plan ahead and factor in these challenges, you can avoid unnecessary stress.
And in a summer this busy, that can make all the difference.
