Let’s face it—planning a Disney World vacation is a bit of an art. You have to juggle park days, dining reservations, Lightning Lane selections, and of course, where you’ll stay. But even if you lock in what feels like the perfect resort, 2026 is shaping up to throw a wrench into a few plans.
That’s because several popular Disney hotels will be dealing with construction, closures, and refurbishments—some of which might completely change your experience.
Skyliner Goes Down for a Week
If you love the Disney Skyliner (and who doesn’t?), beware of booking a stay at one of the Skyliner resorts in late January. From January 25 to 31, 2026, the entire gondola system will be offline for scheduled maintenance.
That means if you’re at Pop Century, Art of Animation, Caribbean Beach, or Riviera Resort, your dream of soaring into EPCOT or Hollywood Studios will be replaced by—yep—buses. Not exactly magical.
Splash-Free Vacations?
Planning on pool time? Better double-check the refurb schedule.
All-Star Sports’ Surfboard Bay Pool is closing for refurbishment from January to late April. And at Bay Lake Tower, the Bay Cove Pool (plus the spa and splash pad) will be unavailable from January 26 through early May. Sure, you can still swim at the main pools, but that deluxe-level perk might be missing.
Noisy Neighbors at Pop Century
Pop Century will be going through room renovations into mid-February 2026. While Disney staggers its construction work, the risk of hammering and drilling near your room is real. Some guests might get lucky with a fresh room upgrade, but it’s a gamble.
Polynesian Resort Guests, Beware
This one’s a heartbreaker. Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort—known for its peaceful beach atmosphere and stunning views—is undergoing a massive transformation that will last throughout 2026.
The resort isn’t closing, but expect blocked pathways, construction noise, and a whole lot less serenity than usual. If this resort was supposed to be your luxury escape, consider rebooking for 2027.
Port Orleans Riverside Updates
Rooms in Magnolia Bend at Port Orleans Riverside are also being refurbished through February. That means you might end up in the Alligator Bayou section instead. Not a dealbreaker, but still a change—especially if you had your heart set on a certain room type or aesthetic.
