Disney Dining Disney Dining Tips, News, and Reviews
Staying at a Walt Disney World Resort Hotel is one of my favorite aspects of a Disney vacation. I like to call it my “Disney bubble.” We leave the real world behind when we pass through the gates to Disney Property, and we don’t enter the real world again until our vacation is over. There’s nothing better than immersing yourself in Disney Magic 24/7. However, when things don’t go according to plan, it can be super disappointing. There are a number of Disney World hotel closures that you should be aware of.
Occasionally things happen that are outside of Disney’s control, and these things can’t be helped. Sometimes, though, Disney plans it. Multiple closures around Disney Resorts are currently impacting guest experience, and knowing ahead of time and adjusting expectations is key to keeping the magic going! While it’s easy to get upset about closures, it’s important to keep in mind that these are done for the benefit of all guests. Maintenance and upkeep are what keep the Parks and Resorts looking brand new year after year. If you’re traveling soon, here’s a look at the Disney World hotel closures that could impact your stay:
Port Orleans French Quarter
Credit: Disney
One of our favorite features of Port Orleans French Quarter is the Doubloon Lagoon Pool! The serpent slide is hands down one of the best slides at any Disney Resort. Sadly no one will be swimming at Port Orleans this summer. The feature pool at this resort is closed for refurbishment until April 2024. In the meantime, guests are welcome to head over to Port Orleans Riverside to enjoy Ol’ Man Island, the swimming hole themed feature pool.
Port Orleans Riverside
Credit: Disney Dining
Speaking of Ol’ Man Island, the bridge between Magnolia Manor and Ol’ Man Island will be closed sporadically until July 28. From July 24- July 26, the bridge will be entirely off-limits to guests. On July 27 and 28, the bridge will be closed between the hours of 8:00 am- 5:30 pm. Guests staying in the Magnolia Manor area of the resort will still be able to access the pool, but they will have a much longer walk to get there.
Animal Kingdom Lodge Kidani Village
Credit: Disney Dining
The guest room areas of this resort are undergoing a complete transformation. That is terrific news for future guests! Current guests, however, are likely to have a less-than-ideal experience as construction noise and obstructed views take the place of the usually serene African Savanna. Entire areas of the resort may be closed to guests without notice. Do note, though, that the construction here is limited to guest room areas. Common areas such as the lobby, pool, and dining areas remain unaffected.
Grand Floridian
Credit: Disney Dining
Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa is one of the most opulent places to stay at Walt Disney World (and comes with a price tag to match). That’s why the construction here may be more than a little jarring as work is being done to the lobby. When you’re staying at one of the best hotels in the world, construction isn’t exactly the first sight you want to see. The lobby construction is also affecting parking at the resort.
Additionally, The Grand Floridian Spa will have slightly adjusted operating hours beginning on August 14 and continuing into September. Due to roofing construction, the Soa will open at 12:30 pm Monday-Friday rather than at 9:00 am. This means fewer guests will be able to be accommodated, making reservations a bit harder to come by.
Disney’s BoardWalk Inn
Credit: DVC Rental
This turn-of-the-century seaside-themed resort is one of the most fun resorts in all of Walt Disney World. Part resort, part dining, and shopping complex, this resort has it all! Unfortunately, much of it is undergoing renovation at the moment. Construction walls line the Resorts outdoor boardwalk as the Cake Bake Shop is being built. While this doesn’t directly impact guests, the walls may be unsightly for many. Inside the resort, you’ll find a flurry of renovation as the lobby, lounges, and guest rooms undergo refurbishment.
All-in-all, none of the closures will be deal breakers for most guests because, despite the annoyance they cause, the Resorts will remain mostly functional. However, they could dampen the magic if you weren’t informed beforehand. If you have an upcoming stay and any of the Disney World hotel closures are a deal breaker for you, the good news is as long as there is availability, Disney makes it easy to change resorts. Do keep in mind, though, that per Disney’s policy, you are responsible for the difference in price between your original reservation and your new reservation.
