Disney World guests can finally enjoy a long-time resort offering again after a refurbishment kept it closed for more than six months.
The attraction originally shut down in May, with Disney expecting to welcome visitors back in October. However, that reopening date came and went, leaving guests waiting several more weeks.
Now, the 54-year-old offering has officially returned, bringing several improvements that could make the experience noticeably different for returning visitors.
And after 189 days without guests, Disney is ready to show off the results.
Disney World Confirms Reopening After Six Months
On November 9, 2026, Walt Disney World announced that Disney’s Lake Buena Vista Golf Course had officially reopened following an extensive renovation.
The course closed on May 4, 2026, beginning a 189-day absence that lasted longer than Disney originally anticipated.
Lake Buena Vista Golf Course first welcomed golfers in 1972, making it one of Disney World’s oldest recreational offerings. For more than five decades, visitors have enjoyed the course as an alternative to spending another day inside the theme parks.
Located near Disney Springs and Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa, the course offers a convenient escape for guests looking to enjoy a round of golf during their vacations.
Its return means golfers can once again experience the familiar 18-hole layout, although Disney has made some noticeable changes.
Major Upgrades Made to Historic Experience
Disney confirmed the reopening through its official Walt Disney World Golf Facebook account, encouraging guests to book their next tee time.
The announcement read:
“Disney’s Lake Buena Vista Golf Course is OPEN for play! Featuring 18 new greens and elevated contouring, this is an experience you don’t want to pass up. Book a tee time and see the difference for yourself.”
The improvements extend well beyond a fresh coat of paint or routine landscaping.
Disney renovated all 18 greens, adding new elevations and contours that could change how golfers approach different holes.
Crews also made improvements to greenside bunkers, updated chipping areas, and upgraded portions of the irrigation system.
Additional work included new drainage systems in many bunkers and enhancements to several teeing grounds.
These changes aim to improve playing conditions while giving returning golfers a refreshed experience without completely changing the course they remember.
Disney Missed Its Original October Reopening
Although Lake Buena Vista Golf Course is operating again, Disney initially expected to finish the project several weeks earlier.
Previous reports identified October 23, 2026, as the anticipated reopening date, and guests could begin booking reservations that day.
However, October 23 passed without the course reopening.
Golfers ultimately waited until November 9, extending the original timeline by another 17 days. Disney’s reopening announcement did not provide a detailed explanation for the delay.
Lake Buena Vista isn’t the only Disney golf course to undergo major improvements.
Disney’s Magnolia Golf Course previously received extensive renovations, including redesigned holes and a challenging feature called Grumpy’s Gauntlet.
During Lake Buena Vista’s closure, guests could also consider Magnolia, Palm, and Oak Trail for their golf outings.
However, Palm and Oak Trail began temporary overseeding closures on November 9, meaning all four Disney golf courses are not currently available simultaneously.
What You Should Know Before Booking
Guests interested in visiting Lake Buena Vista Golf Course should plan ahead, particularly when choosing a tee time.
Disney recommends making reservations, though walk-up availability may be available. Golfers can book online or call (407) 939-4653.
Prices depend on the season and selected tee time. Disney currently lists fall Sunset 9 rates between $55 and $65, while standard rounds have different pricing.
Eligible Florida residents can receive 25% discounts on public rates. Qualifying Annual Passholders and Disney Vacation Club members may receive 15% savings.
Golfers must also follow the course’s dress code. Denim jeans and denim shorts are prohibited, and appropriate golf shirts and footwear are required.
Golf carts are included with green fees, while guests can rent clubs and shoes separately. Disney asks golfers to bring their own clubs rather than share equipment.
Guests should arrive at least 30 minutes before their reservation and cancel at least 24 hours in advance to avoid potential charges.
After 189 days, Lake Buena Vista Golf Course is officially back, giving Disney World visitors another way to enjoy the resort beyond its theme parks.
