A new permit has been filed for Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, and it seems like things may take a while to complete.
Construction Permit Filed for Kidani Village
Disney has recently filed a construction permit for general renovations at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, specifically targeting the Kidani Village section. The permit was filed by Disney Vacation Club (DVC) and is registered with Orange County, citing Barton Marlow as the contractor for the project. The filing is significant, as it indicates a scheduled improvement in accommodations at one of the more popular lodging options within the Walt Disney World Resort.
The permit does not divulge many specifics regarding the nature of the upgrades, but there is speculation that it may involve room updates to enhance guest experiences. Over the years, several DVC resorts, such as the Grand Floridian and Beach Club, have undergone similar refurbishments aimed at modernizing their offerings.
This particular permit is valid until December 31, 2025, suggesting an extensive project duration that aligns with the period reserved for potential renovations.
Ongoing Renovations at Animal Kingdom Lodge
At present, ongoing refurbishments at Animal Kingdom Lodge are already in motion, particularly affecting Kidani Village.
According to updates from the lodge, exterior renovations began in September 2024 and are expected to last until late December 2024.
Guests at the Sanaa restaurant are warned that views of the Sunset Savanna may be obstructed, though animal viewing opportunities will still exist from the Savanna Outlook.
These renovations provide a dual effect by improving the infrastructure while also presenting challenges to guests.
While the updates are essential for modernization, they may temporarily diminish the full experience that many expect from a premium Disney resort, particularly at dining venues. It remains crucial for Disney to communicate these changes clearly to ensure guests can adjust their plans accordingly.
Importance of Staying at Disney Resorts
Choosing to stay at a Disney resort like Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge has several advantages.
Not only do guests enjoy unparalleled proximity to the theme parks, reducing travel time, but they also benefit from a range of exclusive amenities. One such perk is early access to park reservations, allowing hotel guests to enjoy popular attractions before the general public arrives, enabling a more relaxed experience at the parks.
The resort’s unique dining experiences further elevate what guests can expect. Disney hotels often feature exceptional restaurants, such as Sanaa, which is well-known for its African-inspired cuisine and atmosphere.
In addition, recreation opportunities abound, from themed pools to outdoor activities that cater to families and guests of all ages.
Broader Trends in Disney Resort Renovations
Walt Disney World is undergoing several renovations and closures in 2025. Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club Resort will be closed for refurbishment from January to June, affecting the availability of Stormalong Bay and Shipwreck Pool. The Yacht Club side will also undergo room renovations during this time.
Guests staying at the resort during these closures can utilize the Tidal, Admiral, and Dunes Cove leisure pools. However, the pool closures and room renovations may impact guest decisions and availability.
Disney’s Contemporary Resort will also see room refurbishments in 2025, affecting room availability on the Bay Lake side.
Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort will close the Fantasia Pool from January to April 2025, but guests can use the Duck Pond Pool. Disney’s BoardWalk Inn is currently undergoing renovations, with the Cake Bake Shop Restaurant expected to open in late 2024.
Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort will close the Surfboard Bay Pool and kiddie pool from January to late April 2026. Guests can use the Grand Slam Leisure Pool or visit other nearby resorts for swimming options.
Walt Disney World is also expanding Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort with a new DVC tower, which will continue through 2026. This construction may affect views of the theme park and surrounding areas. The new Island Tower is scheduled to open on December 17, 2024.
Walt Disney World seems to be progressing with plans for a new hotel at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort property.
A recent Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) obstruction evaluation case, which assesses how structures may affect navigable airspace, indicates that a mobile crane will be utilized for hotel construction.
The permit’s location aligns with Disney’s earlier announcements regarding the proposed Reflections: A Disney Lakeside Lodge project, which was described as a nature-themed resort featuring Disney Vacation Club villas aimed at the company’s timeshare clientele.
Despite these closures and renovations, Walt Disney World remains a popular destination. Guests planning to visit during this time should be aware of the potential disruptions and consider alternative lodging if necessary.
