Disney’s Old Key West Resort has always been a bit of an outlier at Walt Disney World—and that’s exactly why so many guests love it. While newer Disney Vacation Club resorts lean into sleek designs and modern efficiency, Old Key West has stayed rooted in comfort. Big villas. Full kitchens. Quiet walkways. It feels more like a neighborhood than a hotel.
That atmosphere is about to shift, at least a little.
Disney has confirmed that Old Key West is heading into a significant refurbishment starting in 2026, and what’s planned goes well beyond a simple room refresh. For frequent guests, this update could change how the resort feels entirely.
Most resort refurbishments focus on surface-level updates—new carpet, fresh bedding, updated couches, and maybe a new color palette. Old Key West is getting all of that, but it’s also getting something much bigger. Disney plans to replace major portions of the villas, including kitchens, living rooms, and bedrooms.
That alone separates this project from a standard refresh.
Kitchens are one of Old Key West’s strongest selling points, especially for families staying a week or longer. Replacing them suggests Disney is modernizing layouts and finishes, potentially bringing them closer in style to newer DVC resorts. Living spaces are also on the list, meaning furniture configurations and room flow could be redesigned entirely.
One of the biggest unknowns right now is whether Disney will introduce Murphy beds. Many recently renovated Disney resorts now rely on pull-down beds to create more open space during the day. While some guests love the extra room, others prefer the traditional beds Old Key West has always used—especially at a resort known for comfort over trendiness.
Disney hasn’t confirmed whether Murphy beds are coming, which leaves longtime fans unsure what to expect.
Timing adds another layer of uncertainty. Disney has only shared that the refurbishment will begin in 2026, with no confirmed end date or phased schedule. Given the size of Old Key West, construction will almost certainly happen in stages. Guests visiting during that period could experience partial construction depending on where they’re staying.
Transportation changes, however, are not part of the plan. Despite speculation, Disney has confirmed Old Key West will not receive a Skyliner connection. That means buses and boats will remain the primary options—and for many guests, that’s perfectly fine.
Boat service to Disney Springs recently returned after a dock refurbishment, restoring one of the resort’s most relaxing perks.
All of this points to one thing: Disney is investing in Old Key West for the long haul. The goal now will be preserving what makes the resort special while updating it for modern expectations. That balance will determine whether these changes feel exciting—or unsettling—for longtime fans.
