When most people dream of staying at a Disney World hotel, they picture sweeping lobbies, themed details at every turn, and the kind of service that makes the whole trip feel magical from start to finish. That’s usually the reality, but Disney’s latest announcement about two of its resorts has many fans worried—and for good reason.
Trouble at the Grand Floridian
The Grand Floridian is Disney’s flagship hotel, often called the crown jewel of its resort lineup. Guests shell out premium prices not only for luxurious rooms, but for the elegant lobby and atmosphere that set it apart. Unfortunately, that centerpiece lobby is now hidden behind construction walls. Disney has confirmed that the refurbishment won’t be finished until at least November 2025.
The impact is more than cosmetic. Loud daytime construction, rerouted pathways, and the loss of the beloved Gingerbread House tradition during the holidays have left guests questioning whether the resort still delivers the experience they’re paying for. While Disney has promised that evenings will remain peaceful with construction paused, the reality is that the “grand” feel is temporarily gone.
Fort Wilderness Loses Its Quiet Escape
Fort Wilderness has always been the go-to resort for guests seeking calm after a long park day—complete with crickets, campfires, and tranquility. That peace is now threatened by the construction of the new Lakeshore Lodge across the lake. The project’s cranes and heavy equipment have transformed the serene skyline into a construction zone, and inside the campground, detours and rerouted walkways have further complicated the guest experience.
Why the Statement Stings
Disney refurbishments aren’t new, but the company’s tone this time is different. Instead of quietly making updates, Disney came right out and told guests that their experiences would be disrupted—holiday traditions canceled, noise expected, and views compromised. The honesty is refreshing, but it also underscores just how much these projects will impact vacations.
Should You Still Book?
The resorts aren’t closed. Rooms, pools, and dining remain open at the Grand Floridian, and Fort Wilderness still offers horseback riding, fishing, and Hoop-Dee-Doo. But whether you should stay comes down to priorities. If holiday magic or a peaceful escape are top of your list, you might be better off delaying until 2026.
The good news is that Disney has plenty of other options, from the vibrant Art of Animation Resort to Animal Kingdom Lodge, where giraffes make a more appealing backdrop than construction cranes.
The Bigger Picture
Ultimately, Disney’s “worrisome” hotel warning shows the challenge of balancing progress with preservation. Expansions like Lakeshore Lodge and refurbishments at older resorts are designed to improve the future, but in the meantime, the guest experience can take a hit. Through 2026, some of Disney’s most iconic hotels may not deliver the postcard-perfect stays many expect.
