Credit: Paul Beattie, FlickrDisney World has made a difficult announcement, confirming that an expansion has been delayed until 2027.
Disney World Guests Face Major Hotel Construction Delay: What You Need to Know
You walk into Disney’s Port Orleans Resort — Riverside, suitcase in hand, ready for a magical getaway, only to be greeted by the clatter of hammers and the rumble of construction equipment. For guests expecting a serene riverside retreat, the reality may feel more like a construction zone than a vacation paradise. But the disruption isn’t a temporary blip—Disney World’s plans for this beloved resort are stretching far beyond what anyone expected. How long will guests have to contend with the noise and construction?
A Refurbishment That Keeps Growing
Disney’s Port Orleans Resort — Riverside has been under refurbishment since May 2025, focusing initially on the Magnolia Bend section of the hotel. At the time, Disney World’s website indicated that these updates would wrap up by January 2026. That timeline has already shifted, first to February 2026, and now a new notice reveals that construction will continue all the way through August 2027.
The new information indicates that more areas of the resort beyond Magnolia Bend are likely being renovated. Disney’s updated statement reads:
“From early May 2025 through August 2027, Guest rooms at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside will undergo refurbishment throughout different parts of the Resort hotel. During this time, Guests may see or hear construction work in the area.”
This suggests a significant expansion of the original refurbishment plans, impacting guests far longer than anyone initially expected.
What This Means for Your Disney World Stay
For guests planning a stay at Port Orleans — Riverside over the next two years, the news may be disappointing. Construction noise, limited access to certain amenities, and the presence of work crews could affect the tranquil atmosphere Disney resorts are known for. Those seeking a quiet retreat might want to consider alternative Disney accommodations, especially families with young children or travelers looking to relax after long park days.
It’s not just noise—these delays hint at bigger changes behind the scenes. Disney has not released details on what the finished rooms will look like, leaving visitors wondering whether the resort will see major design overhauls, updated amenities, or entirely new experiences once construction concludes.
Disney World’s Widespread Expansion
Port Orleans — Riverside isn’t the only part of Disney World undergoing massive transformation. Across the resort, three of the four theme parks are receiving new lands and attractions, Disney Springs is adding an interactive social experience, and multiple Disney World hotels are seeing updates. This wave of development underscores a broader strategy: Disney is investing heavily in future guest experiences, but it also means visitors may encounter construction in more areas than ever before.
For those planning trips, it’s essential to stay informed. Disney regularly updates its website with refurbishment schedules and construction notices. Keeping tabs on these updates can help guests make more informed lodging choices, ensuring they aren’t surprised by an unexpected jackhammer at sunrise.
Looking Ahead
While the extended timeline may frustrate some visitors, it also highlights Disney’s commitment to improving its resorts. When complete, these refurbishments could mean modernized rooms, upgraded amenities, and refreshed guest experiences. For now, though, patience is required. Guests who love Riverside’s charm but dislike construction may have to wait until August 2027 to experience the resort as Disney envisions it.
Whether you’re a returning guest or planning your first Disney World vacation, the extended Port Orleans — Riverside refurbishments are a reminder of the balancing act Disney faces: delivering new experiences while maintaining magical stays during periods of transformation.