Credit: DisneyWhen you book a Disney vacation, you expect world-class resorts, sparkling pools, and plenty of ways to unwind after long days in the parks. That’s why Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa is such a popular choice among guests—it combines upscale relaxation with convenient access to everything Walt Disney World has to offer. But this fall, one of the resort’s most beloved amenities will be temporarily closing its doors for an extended refurbishment.
A Temporary Pause at the Paddock Pool
Disney has confirmed that the Paddock Pool at Saratoga Springs will shut down beginning October 13, 2025, for routine maintenance. This isn’t just about the main pool itself—the aquatic play area and The Paddock Grill, a favorite spot for quick bites and refreshing drinks, will also be unavailable during this time. The closure is expected to last through early December, meaning holiday travelers in November will still see the area behind construction walls.
While it’s never convenient to lose access to a favorite hangout spot, Disney stresses that this work is part of its ongoing commitment to keeping its resorts fresh and functional. Pools, restaurants, and play spaces see thousands of visitors every week, and periodic refurbishments are necessary to ensure both safety and a high-quality guest experience.
Other Pools Still Open
Guests staying at Saratoga Springs during the closure won’t be left without swimming options. The resort features multiple pools spread across its sprawling property, and Disney has made it clear that the High Rock Spring Pool, along with the leisure pools located in different sections of the resort, will remain open for normal use. High Rock Spring Pool is actually considered the resort’s feature pool, complete with waterfalls, a zero-depth entry, and a slide, so many guests may not feel the pinch of missing out on The Paddock.
Still, the Paddock Pool has built up a loyal following over the years. Families often favor it for its kid-friendly splash pad, while adults enjoy the convenience of The Paddock Grill right next door. Losing both at once will definitely be a noticeable shift for regulars.
Why Maintenance Matters
Refurbishments like this one aren’t just about appearance. Over time, pool systems, slides, and food service areas need upgrades to keep them running efficiently. Water features require constant upkeep to meet health standards, and dining locations benefit from periodic refreshes to maintain their appeal. While Disney hasn’t shared specific details on what work will be done, it’s safe to assume that crews will be addressing everything from surface repairs to behind-the-scenes mechanical systems.
This fall closure also reflects a broader pattern across Walt Disney World. Just this year, several resort pools—including those at Disney’s BoardWalk Inn and other deluxe properties—have been scheduled for refurbishments. Disney seems to be prioritizing resort maintenance alongside the large-scale changes happening in the parks themselves.
Timing the Closure
The scheduled closure window—mid-October through early December—makes sense from a planning perspective. These months fall in between two of Disney’s busiest resort seasons. Summer crowds will have tapered off by October, while the massive influx of holiday travelers doesn’t truly hit until mid-December. By timing refurbishments during this stretch, Disney minimizes disruption while still getting the work completed before Christmas week.
That said, it may still catch some guests off guard. Those booking a Saratoga Springs stay for early November, perhaps to enjoy EPCOT’s International Food & Wine Festival or Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at Magic Kingdom, may be disappointed to learn their favorite pool and grill are unavailable. Disney typically updates its refurbishment calendar in advance, but travelers who book months out sometimes miss the fine print.
What Guests Can Do Instead
If you were planning to spend afternoons lounging by the Paddock Pool, don’t worry—Saratoga Springs still offers plenty of alternatives. The High Rock Spring Pool, located near the Carriage House lobby, is a lively spot with multiple features to keep families entertained. For those seeking a quieter atmosphere, the smaller leisure pools scattered throughout the resort’s neighborhoods are perfect for low-key relaxation.
Dining alternatives are also available. The Artist’s Palette remains open as the main quick-service option, and nearby Disney Springs, accessible by a short boat ride, provides an endless array of food and beverage choices. While losing The Paddock Grill might be inconvenient, guests won’t have any shortage of meals or snacks to choose from.
A Luxury Resort in Transition
Saratoga Springs is one of Walt Disney World’s most unique resorts. Inspired by the historic horse-racing town in upstate New York, the property is known for its Victorian-style architecture, peaceful lakeside setting, and spacious Disney Vacation Club villas. Because of its size, the resort has long relied on multiple pools and dining locations to spread out the crowds. The temporary loss of one of its anchor amenities will surely change the dynamic, but it’s also a reminder that Disney is constantly reinvesting in its properties.
For guests who love the resort, this fall’s refurbishment is a short-term inconvenience for a long-term benefit. When the Paddock Pool and Grill reopen in December, they’ll likely return fresher, cleaner, and possibly with a few subtle updates that enhance the overall experience.
Looking Ahead
Disney hasn’t hinted at any major overhauls for the Paddock Pool area—this is described as routine maintenance, not a complete redesign. Still, guests often speculate whether refurbishments will bring in new touches, from improved lounge seating to updated menus at The Paddock Grill. Even if changes are minor, travelers heading into 2026 can expect the resort to feel rejuvenated.
In the end, while the closure may be disappointing for some, it’s part of the trade-off of staying at a resort that continues to evolve. For many, the anticipation of seeing what’s new when the area reopens will be worth the wait.