Disney Hotel Chaos? Every Major Resort Refurbishment and Reopening You Need to Know Before Checking In

Walt Disney World is in a constant state of evolution, and if you are planning a late summer vacation, you need to be prepared for some major shifts. August 2026 is shaping up to be a highly transitional month for Disney Resort hotels. Between massive new construction projects kicking off, beloved dining locations finally reopening, and lobbies getting much-needed face-lifts, there is a lot to keep track of before you check into your room.

Whether you are booked for a relaxing stay at a Moderate resort or splurging on a Deluxe, knowing what to expect is the key to a stress-free trip. If you are packing your bags for August, here is a complete breakdown of the biggest changes hitting Disney World hotels this month, along with a comprehensive guide to ongoing construction across the property.

The Major August Resort Updates

If you are traveling in August, here are the specific resort changes and rolling closures you need to have on your radar to avoid any unexpected hiccups:

Kidani Village Lobby Refurbishment at Animal Kingdom Lodge Guests staying at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge—specifically the Kidani Village section—will notice a major change right as they walk through the doors. Beginning August 3, 2026, the Kidani Village lobby will undergo a significant refurbishment. The project is expected to last through early October 2026. While you will still be able to check in and access amenities, expect temporary walls, rerouted pathways, and the potential for daytime construction noise.

Yachtsman Steakhouse Finally Reopens. There is fantastic news for foodies staying in the EPCOT resort area! The Yachtsman Steakhouse at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort, which closed for a lengthy refurbishment back in May, is officially scheduled to reopen its doors in August 2026. If you are visiting in late August, be sure to secure your advanced dining reservations now, as the newly refreshed restaurant is sure to be in high demand.

Saratoga Springs Resort Dining Shuffle Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa will see a flurry of activity in August due to a multi-phase dining refurbishment. The Turf Club Lounge is finally expected to reopen after its refurbishment in late August. Meanwhile, the Turf Club patio will close from early to mid-August. Finally, The Turf Club Bar & Grill will close its doors from late August through mid-September 2026. Additionally, the resort’s porte cochere and covered walkway will undergo maintenance starting August 10.

Wraparounds for Summer Refurbishments August will also see the completion of a few pesky summer refurbishments across the resort:

• Old Key West Resort: The Sassagoula River Cruise, which transports guests from Old Key West to Disney Springs, has been temporarily unavailable due to a route refurbishment. This boat service is expected to resume in early August.
• Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort: The Donald’s Double Feature merchandise shop has been undergoing a phased refurbishment all summer. The work is expected to finally wrap up by late August, returning the shopping experience to normal.

Ongoing Construction at All Disney World Hotels

Beyond the specific August changes, Walt Disney World is currently undertaking an aggressive schedule of resort-wide maintenance. If you are visiting any time in the latter half of 2026, here is the current state of ongoing hotel construction:

• Disney’s Contemporary Resort: A massive phased refurbishment is underway and will last through late 2027. This includes extensive maintenance on the Main Tower’s atrium and ongoing exterior work over at Bay Lake Tower.
• Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa: Refurbishments continue in select areas, including the covered entrance, through early 2027. Additionally, the Grand Floridian Cafe is temporarily closed for a refresh through October 2026, with brunch moving to Cítricos.
• Disney’s Beach Club & Yacht Club Resorts: Both EPCOT-area resorts are undergoing routine, highly visible exterior maintenance. Beach Club’s work extends through late 2027, while Yacht Club’s current phase wraps up in late 2026.
• Disney’s Wilderness Lodge: Exterior refurbishment is ongoing through late 2026, which may impact views from various guest rooms.
• Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge (Jambo House): Jambo House is currently in the middle of a massive guest room refurbishment that will last through January 2027.
• Disney’s Port Orleans Resort — Riverside: Guest rooms at Riverside are currently undergoing a long-term refurbishment running through August 2027.

Navigating Disney World hotel construction can be tricky, but knowing what is happening before you check in makes all the difference. Be sure to allow for extra travel time and pack your patience as Disney works to update these magical resorts!