Disney and change go hand in hand, and fans have watched the company reinvent its spaces for decades. Most of those updates happen quietly, but every so often, Disney World announces something that signals a much bigger shift. That’s the case now, as the resort prepares for three major shutdowns tied to 2026—each connected not to attractions, but to the resort’s guests’ call home while on vacation.
Why These Changes Matter
While the parks get most of the attention, Disney’s hotels play a massive role in shaping the guest experience. Staying onsite means being surrounded by immersive themes, enjoying quick access to the parks, and getting conveniences guests can’t find off-property.
But when resort amenities go offline, the rhythm of a vacation changes. That’s why Disney is giving travelers early notice about the significant pool and recreation closures arriving in 2026.
Brace for a Major Shutdown
The first confirmed update lands at Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort. The resort’s Surfboard Bay Pool—its main feature pool—along with the kiddie pool beside it, will close from January through late April 2026. For a Value resort that relies heavily on its themed pool areas, this will be a noticeable change for families planning mid-day breaks.
Even so, guests will still have places to cool off. The Grand Slam Leisure Pool at All-Star Sports will remain open throughout the refurbishment. Disney will also allow guests to use select pools at the neighboring All-Star Music and All-Star Movies Resorts. That means access to the Calypso Pool, Piano Pool, and kiddie pool at All-Star Music and the Fantasia Pool, Duck Pond Pool, and kiddie pool at All-Star Movies.
This cross-resort flexibility transforms the All-Star complex into one large shared water playground, offering guests more choices as Surfboard Bay undergoes its upgrade.
A Temporary 2026 Goodbye
The next confirmed shutdown affects Disney Vacation Club Members and guests staying at Bay Lake Tower. The Bay Cove Pool will be closed from January 26 through early May 2026, and the downtime will continue beyond that. The Cove Bar, the adjoining water play area, and the whirlpool spa at Bay Lake Tower will also be unavailable during that same window.
Thankfully, Bay Lake Tower shares amenities with Disney’s Contemporary Resort, so guests will still have multiple open options. The Contemporary’s Bay Lake Pool, its feature pool, the water play area, and the whirlpool spa will all remain operational. It may mean shifting your pool day slightly farther down the path, but the overall experience remains intact.
Another Significant 2026 Disruption
The third closure hasn’t been officially given a start date, but based on Disney’s announcement, it’s clear that downtime is inevitable. Disney shared that the Meadow Swimmin’ Pool area at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground will undergo a substantial expansion. The project features a brand-new zero-entry pool and deck, along with a tennis court and two pickleball courts.
A renovation of that size can’t happen without a full closure of the current pool area. While Disney hasn’t confirmed a schedule, many expect construction could begin sometime in 2026. Guests considering Fort Wilderness should closely monitor Disney’s refurbishment calendar to avoid any surprises later.
Disney World’s Evolving Magic
These shutdowns highlight a bigger truth: Disney World is evolving rapidly. Resort updates, room enhancements, and recreation upgrades are happening across the property, ensuring Disney hotels continue to match the quality and creativity of the parks.
For anyone planning a stay in 2026, the key takeaway is simple: check refurbishment schedules before booking. Conducting a little research now can help you avoid unexpected closures and choose the resort that best fits your plans.
