When you think about Disney’s Value Resorts, it’s hard not to picture Disney’s Pop Century Resort. For years, this colorful hotel has been a favorite for families who want that full Disney experience without splurging on a deluxe stay. Its over-the-top theming, giant yo-yos, Rubik’s cubes, and larger-than-life icons have given guests something unforgettable the moment they check in. And now, after years of guest chatter and wishlists, Disney has officially given Pop Century the refresh so many people hoped for — and it’s a big one.
A Fresh Look for an Iconic Lobby
The lobby has always been a nostalgic time capsule, but it’s entering a brand-new era. Gone is the single, long check-in counter that stretched across the room. In its place are three colorful stations — each themed to a specific decade. There’s a teal 1960s station with a playful “Neato” sign, a 1970s wall swirling with “Groovy” patterns, and an 80s/90s geometric “Cool” design. It’s bright, bold, and immediately sets a cheerful tone for guests walking through the doors.
Disney also added a communal seating area near Bell Services with lime-green and orange accents, creating a more open and welcoming space. It’s the kind of detail that makes the lobby feel less like a traditional hotel check-in zone and more like a gathering spot.
A Space That Kids Will Love
Pop Century’s upgrades don’t stop at the counters. A brand-new kids’ area now features comfy poufs, a blue geometric carpet, and a TV looping classic Disney films. Even the wall art leans into nostalgia, styled like a row of TV screens playing animated favorites like The Little Mermaid (1989) and Peter Pan (1953). Right next door, a comic book–inspired mural with built-in seating gives families a fun spot to regroup before or after park time.
Nostalgia Meets Modern Magic
A retro mural featuring Minnie and Daisy now brightens one side of the lobby, while other parts are still hidden behind scrims — a sure sign more is on the way. Earlier this year, the Everything POP food court got its own makeover, and the guest rooms have already received modern touches. It’s clear this isn’t a one-and-done update. Disney is steadily evolving the resort, layering in new elements while preserving what fans love most.
A New Era for Pop Century
This upgrade is more than just a facelift. It shows how Disney is reimagining its resort spaces. With mobile check-in becoming the norm, lobbies like Pop Century’s are shifting from crowded counters to places where guests can gather, relax, and soak up the atmosphere. And for a resort built on nostalgia, that’s a big but smart leap forward.
Pop Century is stepping confidently into the future while staying true to its playful past. And judging by the early reaction, this is exactly the kind of upgrade fans have been waiting for.
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