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Credit: DisneyIf you’ve ever stayed at one of Disney World’s deluxe resorts, you know just how much the setting can elevate your entire trip.
From grand lobbies to rustic details, these hotels aren’t just places to sleep—they’re an experience in themselves. And for many fans, one of the most beloved is Disney’s Wilderness Lodge. But if you’re planning to book a stay there anytime soon, you might want to pay close attention to this one.
According to reports from WDWNT, a major area of this iconic luxury resort has officially closed as part of a large-scale exterior refurbishment project. And while Disney hasn’t announced a completion date just yet, the impact is already noticeable for guests checking in.
A Resort Known for Its Atmosphere
Wilderness Lodge has always had a unique charm. Inspired by the grand lodges of the Pacific Northwest, it’s filled with massive wooden beams, warm fireplaces, and cozy corners that make you feel far away from Florida’s theme park bustle. It’s a favorite for guests who love that “mountain retreat” vibe while still being just a boat ride away from Magic Kingdom.
But with the resort currently undergoing serious construction, the peaceful scenery isn’t quite what guests are used to. Scaffolding now covers large portions of the main building, exterior walkways are blocked off, and signage is directing guests through alternate paths to avoid construction zones.
What’s Closed and Why
This isn’t just a small paint touch-up. The exterior refurbishment project involves repainting wood beams, prepping columns, and updating roof areas. According to the report, the terrace by the main lobby has been completely closed off, with signs stating “Terrace Closed” prominently displayed. Several guest walkways near the water features are also blocked, forcing visitors to detour around the work zones.
Disney originally posted a refurbishment advisory for Wilderness Lodge back in August 2024, but the work has extended well into this fall. And with no listed end date, guests can expect these closures to stick around for a while.
What Guests Can Expect
If you’re booked at Wilderness Lodge soon, don’t panic—Disney has confirmed that all resort amenities will remain available during the refurbishment. That means restaurants like Roaring Fork and Artist Point are still open, and transportation to the parks isn’t affected.
But guests should prepare for obstructed views, noise during the day, and changes to their usual walking routes. It’s not exactly the serene lakeside escape people are used to.
A Reminder of Disney’s Bigger Refresh
This closure is part of a wider wave of updates happening across Walt Disney World’s deluxe resorts. Over the last few years, Disney has focused heavily on refreshing older properties to keep them feeling modern and well-maintained. That means more scaffolding, more construction signs, and yes—more closures like this one.
Looking Ahead
While there’s no set reopening date for the terrace and exterior areas, it’s clear Disney is investing in keeping this resort as stunning as ever. Once the work wraps up, Wilderness Lodge will likely look better than it has in years. But until then, guests should plan ahead and pack a little extra patience.
If you’re hoping for a picture-perfect stay, you might want to consider booking at a different resort—or waiting until the construction wraps. Wilderness Lodge is a true classic, and when it reopens fully, it’s bound to feel as magical as ever.