As Walt Disney World prepares to roll out fresh offerings this summer, an important update has surfaced for guests booking a stay near Magic Kingdom—refurbishments at Disney’s Contemporary Resort are now expected to continue through mid-2026.
According to an updated notice on Disney’s official website, work at the Contemporary, including its Bay Lake Tower Disney Vacation Club accommodations, will now stretch from September 2024 through July 2026.
“Please allow for extra travel time. Guests may also see and hear construction during their stay,” Disney notes in its online advisory.
These extended updates will likely impact thousands of visitors staying at the iconic resort, which has been a fan-favorite since it opened on October 1, 1971, the same day as Magic Kingdom Park. With its monorail route through the center and unique A-frame architecture, Disney’s Contemporary Resort stands as a symbol of Walt Disney World history.
Enhancements don’t stop at structural refurbishments. Starting January 26, 2026, through early May 2026, several pool and recreation areas at Bay Lake Tower will temporarily close for maintenance. This includes the Bay Cove Pool, Cove Bar, water play zone, and whirlpool spa.
“The Bay Lake Pool, the feature pool, the water play area and the whirlpool spa at Disney’s Contemporary Resort will remain open for guests to enjoy,” Disney assures.
Guests staying at this deluxe resort can still enjoy its stellar dining options, including the renowned California Grill, where sweeping views of Magic Kingdom and a nightly fireworks display make for a memorable evening. For breakfast and dinner with beloved Disney characters, Chef Mickey’s continues to be a lively and beloved spot.
As one of three monorail-connected resorts near Magic Kingdom—alongside Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa and Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort—the Contemporary offers unparalleled access to the park. That proximity becomes especially valuable this summer, as new nighttime offerings debut at Magic Kingdom.
Beginning July 20, guests can experience Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away, a dazzling new nighttime parade featuring floats inspired by Frozen, Tangled, and the legacy of the Main Street Electrical Parade. The fan-favorite Happily Ever After fireworks show will also shift its start time to 10 p.m., giving visitors a bit more breathing room between attractions and evening shows.
Elsewhere in the Magic Kingdom resort area, Disney continues to invest in guest enhancements. The Grand Floridian is currently updating its lobby space and adding a new adult-centric bar, while the Contemporary Resort is undergoing additional touch-ups across its property—including updates to its DVC accommodations.
Though maintenance can bring temporary disruption, it plays a key role in preserving the high standards guests expect from a Walt Disney World vacation—especially in resorts where nightly rates can climb into the thousands.
As Walt Disney World looks toward the future with new shows, attractions, and resort enhancements, one thing remains constant: the commitment to delivering exceptional experiences for every guest.
For what it’s worth…
We stayed at the Caribbean Beach Resort during it’s big overhaul a few years back and the experience was really wonderful.
The temporary eating tent was quite comfortable and the food didn’t suffer at all. The staff seemed extra appreciative of us staying with them and we actually liked the bar better!!!!
The noise didn’t bother us at all because we were usually out and back late. On our pool day we had a choice of multiple smaller ones that were quiet.
Overall, it was a great experience. And if course, now when we go back, we appreciate the work done at that time!