When you think about Walt Disney World, it’s almost impossible not to picture cranes, construction walls, and fresh layers of paint. Change is constant across the property, whether it’s an entirely new resort tower, a lobby overhaul, or a simple room refresh. Yet, one resort seems to have been left out of the mix: Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa.
A Long History with Many Phases
Saratoga Springs has always been different. The land dates back to the 1970s when it was part of Disney’s plans for a Lake Buena Vista residential community. After those plans fizzled, the villas found new life as various hotels and programs—from The Village Resort to the Disney Institute. Finally, in 2004, Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa opened under the Disney Vacation Club umbrella. Over the next few years, entire neighborhoods sprouted, capped off in 2009 with the Treehouse Villas along the Sassagoula River. Since then, aside from minor updates to the treehouses, very little has changed.
Overshadowed by Others
What makes Saratoga’s stagnation even more noticeable is the activity happening all around it. The Grand Floridian is knee-deep in renovations, with updated rooms and a stunning Birdcage Bar on the way. Over at the Polynesian, a brand-new Island Tower just opened, with more work planned through 2026. Even value resorts like Pop Century are enjoying phased refurbishments. Against this flurry of updates, Saratoga Springs looks increasingly dated, even though it sits in a prime location right across from Disney Springs.
Why the Delay?
The main issue is size. Saratoga Springs is massive, with sprawling villa-style buildings spread across multiple sections. Refurbishing a resort of this scale isn’t a quick job—it’s a years-long project that would require careful phasing. Disney may be holding off until other big projects wrap up, but the result is that Saratoga feels frozen in time.
Falling Behind Guest Expectations
Modern refurbishments don’t just bring fresh paint—they bring personality. Guests now expect themed décor, updated furnishings, and subtle Disney storytelling woven into the room design. Compared to the princess-inspired rooms at Port Orleans Riverside or the refreshed look of Beach Club, Saratoga’s horse-racing theme is starting to feel more tired than timeless.
Waiting Its Turn
Fans who love Saratoga point to its large villas, peaceful setting, and easy boat ride to Disney Springs. Still, they’re eager for a major refresh to bring it back into the spotlight. Given its size and importance to the Disney Vacation Club lineup, it’s only a matter of time before Disney directs its resources here. When that happens, guests will likely see upgraded interiors, refreshed dining, and maybe even new amenities to keep pace with other resorts. For now, though, Saratoga Springs remains the odd one out—a nearly abandoned corner of Disney’s hotel portfolio waiting for its overdue glow-up.
