There are certain Disney resorts that guests return to year after year—not just for convenience, but for the atmosphere. Disney’s Wilderness Lodge is one of those places. Known for its rustic charm, warm fireplaces, and jaw-dropping lobby, it’s the kind of spot where vacations feel a little more magical. But this week, many guests were surprised to learn that a major part of this beloved resort is now closed.
According to reports from WDWNT, Disney has confirmed that a significant portion of Wilderness Lodge is currently shut down due to an ongoing exterior refurbishment project. And the unexpected closures have left some guests scrambling to adjust their plans.
A Big Shake-Up for Wilderness Lodge
The work has been building up for months, but recent updates show just how extensive it’s become. Large sections of the resort’s exterior are covered in scaffolding, and major guest pathways are blocked off. Disney has even closed off the terrace near the lobby, a space many guests use to relax and take in those classic resort views.
This isn’t a short-term project either. Disney first listed a refurbishment advisory for Wilderness Lodge back in 2024, and so far, there’s still no end date in sight.
How It’s Affecting Guests
If you’ve got a stay planned here in the near future, don’t panic—restaurants like Roaring Fork and Artist Point are still open, and transportation to Magic Kingdom hasn’t changed. But guests should prepare for some less-than-picturesque moments.
Instead of serene views of the resort’s woodsy exterior, some rooms now look out onto construction equipment, barriers, and work crews. Daytime noise is also likely, making afternoon breaks or quiet mornings a little less relaxing.
A Bigger Refurbishment Trend
This isn’t an isolated case. Over the past few years, Disney has quietly kicked off major refurbishment projects across several deluxe resorts to keep them looking fresh and modern. It’s all part of a bigger push to make these properties match their premium price tags.
Still, this kind of news catches many visitors off guard—especially those who booked expecting a peaceful, scenic escape.
Looking Ahead
For now, there’s no set reopening timeline. When the work is done, the resort will likely look better than ever, with fresh paint, updated structures, and polished surroundings. But in the meantime, guests may need to bring a little extra patience (and maybe lower their expectations for those iconic photo ops).
Wilderness Lodge remains one of Disney’s most charming resorts. But right now, that charm comes with a little more construction than magic.
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